Photo: Div. 1 councillor John Ireland was selected by his peers as reeve of Lacombe County during the annual organizational meeting Oct. 29. Rural Alberta Report/Submitted

Lacombe County has a new reeve. The holder of the municipality’s gavel was selected by his peers at the organizational council meeting Oct. 29.

Div. 1 Coun. John Ireland was the lone nominee for the position of reeve; Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Tim Timmons called the meeting to order and briefly chaired, but one of the first duties during such an organizational meeting is to select a reeve.

Ireland was the only name nominated for the position and was approved by resolution of council.

Ireland thanked members of his family for attending the meeting, thanked residents of Div. 1 for supporting him and thanked fellow members of council for their trust.

Ireland stated Lacombe County has been blessed in the past with strong leadership, hoping such a tradition guides the current council to help make Lacombe County, “...a place where success grows.”

Before the position of deputy reeve was filled, councillors had a discussion about that position’s term of service. It was noted Lacombe County council some years ago made all appointments two years in length; however, Coun. Brenda Knight observed that with a one-year term for deputy reeve, more councillors could gain experience in that role.

It was noted during the meeting many other municipalities have the deputy reeve position on a one-year, rotating schedule.

Councillors unanimously passed a resolution to change Lacombe County’s deputy reeve appointment to a one-year term.

When nominations were called for the position of deputy reeve, only one name was called: Dwayne West. West’s nomination was accepted by council’s resolution.

The rest of the organizational meeting included acceptance of policies such as council roles and responsibilities, plus committee and board assignments, seating arrangements and other duties.