Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SaskToday.ca
Karen Thompson says supporting wildfire recovery efforts and maintaining open communication with residents will remain her top priorities after being elected mayor of the Northern Village of Denare Beach.
According to official election results released by the Northern Village, Thompson received 120 votes in the Sept. 2 mayoral election. Dale Holmgren received 85 votes, while Jennifer Hysert received 49.
A total of 257 ballots were cast. Election officials reported no rejected ballots, no ballots counted but objected to and one spoiled ballot.
Thompson brings more than two decades of municipal experience to the role, having previously served as a councillor for more than 20 years.
Speaking with SaskToday, Thompson said her focus as mayor will remain largely unchanged from her time on council, with an emphasis on residents and clear communication.
“People first, communication first,” Thompson said. “It’s critical to communicate and let the community know what’s happening.”
The newly elected mayor said residents continue to have questions and concerns as the community recovers from the devastating wildfires that affected the region earlier this year.
“People are anxious and uncertain about the town’s finances. Rebuilding key infrastructure, getting residents back in their homes. These are all things that are on the top of our minds,” Thompson said.
“The support that we’ve received from the province has been great,” she said. “They are assisting us with recovery and we are having monthly team meetings with the province. Overall, we are pleased with the province.”
Rebuilding efforts continue in both Denare Beach and Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, which were heavily affected by the wildfires.
According to Thompson, more than 230 homes were lost between the two communities.
Recovery work is progressing, with more than 30 new homes having arrived in Denare Beach. Thompson said an additional 24 homes have been moved into Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation.
Despite the challenges of the past several months, Thompson said she is proud of how residents, municipal staff and emergency responders have worked together.
“Everyone should be very proud of our community,” she said, adding that residents, town workers and firefighters have supported one another throughout the recovery effort.
Looking ahead, Thompson said ensuring residents remain informed will continue to be a priority for council.
“The better informed people are, the better the transition will be,” she said.
Because Thompson was serving as a councillor before being elected mayor, the Northern Village will now be required to fill her former council seat through a byelection. Details regarding that process have not yet been announced.
