Four newly-elected members of Clearview council and five returning members took the oath of office in front of a tightly packed audience Monday.
Members of the 2014-2018 term of council were sworn in at the Clearview Township Administration Centre in Stayner.
One by one, elected officials were called to the podium where they gave the oath of office before signing it.
“I thank you for taking upon your shoulders and hearts the oath of public service. I pray you strength to carry its tasks of good governance forward with passion,” said Rev. Tony Rennett in his blessing. “…There is one piece that without, there is no good governance. It is the citizen taking the oath upon him or herself for the wellbeing of the whole community.”
Chris Vanderkruys was presented the chain of office and the gavel, inscribed with his name, to use during his term as mayor.
Members were then called to their council seats to address family, friends, staff, supporters, media and other community members.
“I am grateful to all of those who voted for me and helped to elevate me to this place realizing that my greatest service is not to them alone, but to every individual within Clearview,” said Vanderkruys in his inaugural address as mayor. “The citizens of Clearview are why we are here and it is my desire to ensure that every one of them, every one of you, is treated with the utmost respect and that every request receives a response.”
He said voters have made a clear decision; they want better fiscal management, more communication and to appear open for business.
“Our residents ask for many different things throughout Clearview as each ward is distinct in nature so it will take collaborative councillors to think outside the box to ensure we can meet the expectations of all the residents over the next four years,” said Vanderkruys.
“Clearview is one township made up of smaller communities through amalgamation many years ago and it is time for us to work together in addressing problems that are common to us all. One Clearview means one clear view for all.”
Deputy Mayor Barry Burton also spoke of teamwork.
“I feel so privileged to be a member of the team that will guide Clearview Township through the next four years,” he said.
“Let me be the first to use the title in congratulating his worship Mayor Vanderkruys. We all look forward to his leadership. I want to also congratulate all the members of council on their success on being elected to represent their wards and I look forward to working with them in creating the future of Clearview.”
Burton said this is a time for growth, harmonization, new ideas and vision.
Shawn Davidson thanked his family for the sacrifices they make that allow him to sit on council adding, he looks forward to serving on council as it continues to build upon greatness.
Like Davidson, Robert Walker is embarking on his fourth term of council.
“We are a team that will represent the township as a team. We will go forward with the direction of this township,” said Walker.
Doug Measures said he looks forward to working with the new leaders.
“I hope our council recognizes that we are here to support all of the community,” he said.
Deb Bronée thanked family who travelled from outside the community to attend the inauguration and the volunteers that work within the municipality.
“We may all seem very different but in the end we all want the same thing and that is some growth, economic development and to preserve our rural roots,” she said.
Thom Paterson acknowledged members of past council, especially those not returning.
“As with any new term of council, there are adjustments to be made as the new council forms and reshapes itself to reflect the wishes of the people of Clearview Township,” he said.
“I believe we have a real opportunity during this term to be more than a business as usual municipality. We have an exciting mix of experience and new energy in both senior staff and council. Working together, we can challenge ourselves to find new ways to provide and improve efficient service delivery and plan our long term development and financial outlook within an ability to pay fiscal framework for the benefit of all sectors of our local economies.”
Council newcomers Connie Leishman and Kevin Elwood both thanked supporters and those who encouraged them to run in the election.
“They know my passion for this township and it runs very deep,” said Leishman.
Elwood specifically thanked outgoing councillor Orville Brown for his encouragement.
“I look forward to representing the residents and addressing their concerns while keeping the interests of the community, and the township as a whole, at heart,” said Elwood.
Most council members took the opportunity Monday evening to thank their spouses and family members for their support.