Sparwood Mayor Hadden Kelloway has promised to build on work already underway while focusing the municipality’s next four years on affordability, recreation and value for taxpayers.
Kelloway delivered his inaugural address Nov. 3 after taking his oath of office alongside councillors Sherry Benko, Jeremy Catsirelis, Joshua Frère, Steve Kallies and Cayle Pasiechnyk.
Councillor Dorene Sheets was unable to attend and is expected to take her oath of office at a later date.
Kelloway thanked the outgoing mayor and councillors for their service before telling residents the change in leadership would not bring existing municipal work to a halt.
“A change in council does not mean a cancellation of progress,” Kelloway said. “Our intention is not to reinvent the wheel, but to build upon the foundations already laid.”
He said the new council intends to complete important projects already underway so earlier investments of municipal time and tax dollars produce results for the community.
“We will take the torch, maintain our momentum and work diligently to bring these vital initiatives across the finish line for the benefit of all Sparwood families,” Kelloway said.
Kelloway said finishing existing work would account for only part of council’s mandate. He identified affordability, support for local businesses and community groups and a more resilient municipality among the priorities for the term.
“We want to ensure that Sparwood remains a place where young families can afford to build their lives and where our seniors can comfortably age in place,” he said.
Recreation and leisure opportunities for children and families will also receive council’s attention, according to the mayor.
Kelloway said the municipality would prioritize maintaining and upgrading its existing facilities rather than allowing those assets to deteriorate.
“I’m a firm believer that every child in our community deserves the opportunity to live a healthy lifestyle, stay engaged and be active,” he said.
Kelloway also said residents expect value for their property-tax dollars. He committed council to pursuing grants and regional partnerships that could reduce pressure on residential taxpayers.
The mayor asked residents to bring forward their ideas and knowledge during the coming term and promised to remain available to the public.
“My promise to you is to be a highly accessible listening mayor,” Kelloway said. “You will see me out in the community and my office door will be open.”
The new council’s term runs until October 2030. Council completed its internal and external appointments following Kelloway’s address before moving into its first regular meeting.