Gilmour Farley

Town of Falher residents have picked a new councillor to represent them on town council. Gilmour Farley was chosen during a bi-election on July 7 by the community as the person they would like to see on town council. With a total of 81 ballots cast, Farley received a majority of 54 votes in his favour over Brenda Stevens. "It is pretty exciting to be starting this new position," says newest town councillor Farley. "I'm excited to have a chance to help the community and to have my thoughts given to council." Farley says the only disappointment is the minimal number of people who went to the polls. Town administrator Gerard Nicolet agrees the turnout was less than stellar. "It was a very poor turnout, but bi-elections don't usually see a lot of voters," says Nicolet. "The time of year doesn't help, with people from town gone on summer vacations." Farley explains that the position will allow him to learn about the town and the surrounding communities. "It will be nice to provide a different outside perspective," he says. "There are lots of policies that are done for a reason, but maybe through reflection I can help to see if there's things that can be done to better them." "A new set of eyes may be the answer to council," he contemplates. "Hopefully I can help the council to see the community foster and grow." Farley moved to Falher four years ago when he accepted a teaching position at Georges P. Vanier high school. This past school year he was a high school science and math teacher. He will be assuming a new role this upcoming school season as Aisi Lead Learner. He explains that this is a position to support teachers in assessment and statistical analysis of test results. Eligible voters includes 18 year old Canadian citizens who have been a resident of Alberta for six consecutive months prior to election and resident of the municipality on the day of election. The councillor position came up after former councillor Germaine Sasseville resigned on May 19 to move to Vegreville. Nominations were taken until June 19 with the election called on July 7.