Courage resigns from council; byelection in October

By Rob Vogt, Local Press Writer
The tumultuous tenure of a town councillor has come to an end.
On Monday morning, Aug. 13, Donna Courage resigned from Claresholm town council, visiting the town office to deliver her letter of resignation to Marian Carlson, the town’s chief administrative officer. A similar letter also appeared in the mail boxes of the residents of Claresholm who do not have a “no junkmail” order. (please see page seven for a version of the letter).
Courage said she found it untenable to continue as a member of council.
“It tried my best, I gave my all,” she said, adding she worked in the best interests of the people. “I’m not in it for money or glory.
“I just wanted the town to prosper.
“To grow.”
Instead, she said she was unable to speak her mind and ask questions.
“I tried to do my best,” she said. “Being silent, I can’t do that.”
Mayor Doug MacPherson and council were also notified, and MacPherson made the announcement public at town council on Monday night.
“Councillor Donna Courage has resigned from council,” he said at the opening of council.
“It is unfortunate she chose to resign,” he continued, noting he won’t address the situation too much.
“We’ll just carry on,” he later said. “I’m at a loss for words.”
Later in the day, MacPherson issued an official statement.
“The remaining members of council are disappointed that Donna has chosen to resign,” he said. “Since election day on Oct. 16, 2017, council has continually expressed their desire to work as a cohesive unit in the best interest of our community. Although council is disappointed by Donna’s choice, we respect her decision.
“On behalf of council, I would like to thank Donna for her service to the citizens of Claresholm.
“As we proceed, council will continue to work together to support the community as a whole and move the community into the successful future that we all know Claresholm deserves.”
A byelection has been set for Monday, Oct. 15, with an advanced poll on Oct. 11.
Nomination day, which is the only day nomination papers can be filed, is Sept. 17.