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M.D. ‘embarrassed’
Chris Clegg
South Peace News
An “embarrassed” M.D. of Big Lakes council is trying to come up with ideas to ensure better protocol is followed at events like the Pearl Calahasen anniversary and High Prairie Emergency Services Ball.
“That Pearl thing; that was a disaster,” said Joussard Councillor Guy L’Heureux.
The M.D. accused Town of High Prairie economic development officer Brian Holmberg of giving the M.D.’s appreciation plaque to Calahasen. When Grouard Councillor Fern Welch gave her speech, she had nothing to present the 20-year MLA.
“I agree with Guy,” said Welch. “It was a disaster. It’s a little embarrassing.”
Prairie Echo, Salt Prairie Councillor David Marx was also concerned when he asked about the plaque presentation.
“(Calahasen) got it from that town guy (Holmberg),” said Marx.
Holmberg denies the accusations and says the M.D. council is totally misinformed.
“I never got a plaque,” says Holmberg.
Rather, he says he asked Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Premier Ed Stelmach, the Town of High Prairie and M.D. of Big Lakes for a congratulatory letter. Holmberg adds the idea was to put each letter in matching frames and present them to Calahasen. To complete the presentation, instead of politicians presenting the gifts, two students from local high schools read the letters instead.
Therefore, a plaque was never involved as M.D. councillors believe.
“The idea was to get two honour students to read two letters each,” says Holmberg, who adds the idea was discussed with Reeve Alvin Billings.
Holmberg says he may attend the M.D.’s meeting April 22 to straighten out the matter. He is at a loss to understand why the confusion occurred.
The M.D. council agreed a mere plaque was not enough for all of Calahasen’s years of service. Council decided to let councillors think of more appropriate gifts and present ideas at council’s April 22 or a later meeting.
“Something that represents our area,” said Reeve Alvin Billings.
Marx was also concerned about an incident at the Emergency Service Ball. A silent auction was being held and Marx had no authority to bid on items on behalf of the M.D.
“I was sitting front and centre and I didn’t have the authority,” said Marx. “I think we should have that leeway up to a certain dollar value.”
“I’ve got mixed feelings on this one,” said Reeve Alvin Billings, adding perhaps council could contribute items instead of bid on them.
“You have to realize we’re a funding partner (for the fire department),” he added.
Ideas are welcome not only from councillors but the public.
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