Taber councillor sanctioned following swearing in

By Kenyon Stronski SOUTHERN ALBERTA NEWSPAPERS on November 17, 2021.

It’s been a rocky start for the newly elected Taber town council, with a member already coming under scrutiny after the Oct. 25 regular meeting of council — which was also the date the councillors are sworn in.
Questions arose about Coun. Jack Brewin’s behaviour during the Oct. 25 meeting after many citizens viewed the livestream and allegations were made that he appeared to be intoxicated.
At the Monday, Nov. 15 special meeting of council, Brewin was sanctioned for a breach in the Code of Conduct that led to the requirement of a written apology to the mayor, council, administration, and the people of Taber by the Nov. 22 regular meeting of council. The motion was passed, with Brewin granted the ability to abstain from the vote.
The discussion took place for around an hour in closed session, a choice that Mayor Andrew Prokop noted was standard practice.
“The reason it was done in closed session was because it dealt with personnel and potential legal involvement. This is the standard practice during any similar circumstance.”
The written apology required by Brewin may also not be enough for some, who believe that it is akin to a slap on the wrist.
“Everyone is entitled to their opinion,” stated Prokop. “But that was what the council decided on during the lengthy deliberation that carried on over the closed session. There is also not much that can be said due to the confidential nature of this matter. But I am trying to be as transparent as I can.”
There is also the question as to whether or not Brewin’s swearing in was legally binding.
“In it’s entirety, the bottom line would be that the lawyer Mr. Mark Baldry is the one taking care of the swearing in portion and as long as that gentlemen is satisfied and signs off on it, it is binding accordingly,” said Prokop.

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