Watts takes on new role in Barnwell

Times File Photo

By Heather Cameron
Taber Times
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Barnwell resident Alexander John (Sandy) Watts was recently elected to the position of a councillor as a result of the by-election that the Village of Barnwell held on Sept. 25.

In total, Watts received 54 votes while Sam Fowler received 47 votes and Del Bodnarek received 11 votes and one ballot was spoiled. In total, 113 people turned out to vote.

“I also give thanks to those nearby family members who have supported me in my commitment to this election and to the Barnwell citizens who shared with me their thoughts and hopes for the village,” Watts said. “I would like to thank all of the citizens who came out and cast their vote for the candidate of their choice for councillor.  Voters are the lifeblood of democracies.”

Watts says that he will be assigned his official duties at the official organizational meeting this month, as there is an official Organizational meeting annually in which the Mayor and Deputy Mayor are voted in by the councillors while all council members are assigned to committees for the year.

About ten years ago, Watts says, there was a study done that called upon the citizens to voice their hopes for the future of the village. Watts says that the citizens of Barnwell responded with great zeal and their comments and observations were very informative with them expressing hope for steady development but a wish that the village would keep the “feel” of a village.

“The road ahead will have challenges,” Watts said. “I believe that the challenges we face, and the wishes of the citizens should be addressed collectively with open, responsible, community involvement. To that end, as a citizen and councillor, I will wear both hats always with the village interests in mind.”