Mayor Ian Hamilton wrapped up his first term as North Battleford mayor Monday.
It was the last regular scheduled meeting of the current mayor and council before the municipal election Oct. 24. While it isn't yet known who will comprise the next council, Hamilton is assured of a second term after being re-elected by acclamation.
Hamilton thanked council for their work over the past three years and also thanked outgoing Councillor Brad Pattinson for his years of service to the City.
Pattinson, who served 16 years on council, will continue his involvement in municipal politics as mayor of the Resort Village of Cochin.
Following the meeting, Hamilton expressed pride to reporters in reflecting on the term just ended.
"We have accomplished one heck of a lot in advancing the status of North Battleford," he said.
"The development of businesses, the development of services, over the last three years has been exponential. I'm proud of this council for making a lot of things happen."
He pointed in particular to council's "will and commitment" to get the CUPlex completed, as well as such things as the expanded transit system, expansion of the police force, establishment of programs such as the HUB program directed at public safety and others. Hamilton noted efforts by council during the term to put in place a six-point, five-year strategic plan for the City.
"That was a defining moment for this council - they came out and worked very hard to set a path for the future development of the City of North Battleford," said Hamilton.
As for the coming term, the mayor says safety will be one issue that will be a priority, as will downtown revitalization.
"Those initiatives have commenced and are being worked on as we speak," said Hamilton.
The third major concern, said Hamilton, is addressing infrastructure, with the mayor indicating the City will continue to push for assistance from other levels of government with regard to those projects.
