Recently Gordon Barnhart was elected Mayor of Saltcoats and was contacted about his thoughts and plans for the town and council while he was taking the leading role.
“I first want to say that I am honoured to be chosen mayor by the people of Saltcoats, my home town. As you are aware, the Mayor has only one voice and one vote,” commented Barnhart. With four of the new council having only one term in office, and the two remaining council members being new to council responsibilities, Barnhart’s first priority is to “build a strong team of Councillors … They come from diverse backgrounds and work experience but are united in wanting to make our town even better.”Running a small town has its challenges, challenges that Barnhart is ready to take in stride, “The first big challenge for Council will be the installation of a new water treatment plant. The present plant is approximately 60 years old and is in need of replacement. We are required by law to remove the ammonia from the water and this will be done with the new water treatment plant.”The newly appointed mayor explained, “The greatest challenge facing the Council is the shortage of funds compared to the cost of the necessary public works projects. Saskatchewan people are used to managing on tight budgets and this Council will do that.”
Within three days of being elected the council met, were sworn into office and started figuring out what committee each member would sit on to fill up their portfolio. Within eight days of being elected the Public Works Committee held its first meeting, showing the enthusiasm the council has to make their town a better place for the residents.
In parting, Barnhart had these final thoughts to share about his hometown and council, “The future for Saltcoats is bright and I am confident that this new Council will work as a team to ensure that our town is a good place to live, work and look after our families.”
