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Martin Bishop being sworn in as a member of Meadow Lake City Council. (Submitted/Diana Burton)
Seat filled

Martin Bishop sworn in to Meadow Lake City Council

Apr 27, 2022 | 2:06 PM

Meadow Lake has filled the seats at city council.

Martin Bishop was sworn in as the latest councillor in Meadow Lake during Monday evening’s council meeting. A former auto repair shop owner, Bishop has been retired for five years and was the long resident to file nomination papers prior to April 20.

Mayor Merlin Seymour said Bishop is well-known in the community and shows passion to help improve it.

“I’m really looking forward to working with Marty for the next two years,” Seymour said.

Bishop replaces Richard Levesque on city council, who resigned back in November. At that time, Levesque cited a lack of direction and accountability as driving factors in his decision.

The mayor added that this is very beneficial for the City’s budget. While there’s no democratic showcase of different ideas, there’s also no costs to bear from a by-election.

“The costs are virtually the same as holding a regular election,” Seymour said. “You have to have ballots, polling stations, etc. So, this is good for the taxpayers.”

Bishop told meadowlakeNOW he was not expecting to run unopposed.

“Surprised no one put their hand up to run, but I’m also grateful for the opportunity to serve my city,” he said.

A long-time member of the community, Bishop said he’s remained interested in municipal politics for years, but didn’t know if he could commit to a four-year term. Because this is a midterm, the role gives Bishop an opportunity to see if this works long-term and a chance to bring forward concerns and questions about things like infrastructure.

“Instead of just complaining about it, maybe I’ll get involved and see if I can help,” Bishop said. “There’s other things I’d like to help with as they come.”

Born and raised in Makwa, Bishop has lived Meadow Lake since he was 18. An automotive tech by trade, he co-owned his shop for many years prior to retiring and has run an audio and sound business since.

Joining council on Monday, he noted that it was a warm reception, helped by knowing most of the people there.

“Mayor Seymour took time to stop and explain procedures I wasn’t familiar with at all. So it was nice, everyone was very welcoming and I really enjoyed it,” Bishop said.

Bishop will take part in a number of decisions over the next year, which will eventually include what actions to take on the construction of a new arena.

cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @meadowlakeNOW