BONNYVILLE – Town of Bonnyville council unanimously approved Coun. Kayla Blanchette’s request to pursue presidency of the Family and Community Services Association of Alberta, during their Aug. 27 council meeting.
Since November 2022, Blanchett was elected to the FCSSAA board to participate as an elected official on behalf of the Town of Bonnyville, representing the northeast region. She has expressed an interest in also running for the president position of the provincial board, heard council. A motion was required to allow Blanchette to put her name forward.
If successful, Blanchette is expected to serve a minimum of a one-year term.
Administration recommended that council approve Blanchett running for FCSSAA president, and council obliged with words of support and encouragement.
“I sit on FCSS, and Coun. Blanchett has a heart of gold when it comes to that organization,” said Coun. Byron Johnson. “It’s a deep passion of hers. Her knowledge in that organization is huge. Having a local member being the president with that organization would be very big.”
Coun. Brian McEvoy asked for clarification that there would be no cost for the Town of Bonnyville with her presidency position.
Blanchette assured McEvoy that there was no additional cost.
“No, the Town of Bonnyville would be responsible for my time as they already are in my position that I’m already serving. It would be no additional time.”
Johnson commented on the added benefit of having a Bonnyville representative be the one meeting with ministers, the premier, and alike in her presidency role – which could help bring attention to the municipality.
“I have no doubt that she’s very capable of doing that job, so with that I would be happy to make that motion for her,” continued Johnson.
“We're happy to see you represent us. I know you'll represent as well and good luck in your campaign. I know you're going to rock it,” said Mayor Elisa Brosseau.
The current president of FCSSAA board is Murtaza (Morty) Jamaly, a councillor from the Town of Westlock.
