“At first I thought Al (Winarski, Chief Administrative Officer) was playing a trick,” was the response from reeve-elect Denny Garratt, minutes after learning he was the successful candidate in the M.D. of Lesser Slave River’s municipal election Monday night. Garratt earned the support of 393 electors, 113 more than his only competitor Pat Monteith.
Garratt will be joined by Division 1 incumbent Tim Walmsley who was the hands down favourite rising to the top of four candidates there, earning 191 votes, 20 more than his nearest competitor, Brenda DeGrace. Murray Kerik claimed 152 votes, landing him in third spot, mere inches ahead of Darren Fulmore who missed the cut with just 145 votes.
In Division 2, Brian Rosche was the clear winner 186 votes, with former councillor Ken Olson sliding into second place with 163.
It took two recounts for returning officers to hand third spot to Darcie Acton after the extra counts revealed she’d beaten Lorne Larson by just two votes at 148 and 146 respectively. Grant Gramiak was low man on the totem pole with just 120 votes.
“I was very surprised, and thrilled to think that people got out and voted on a day like this was - that made it doubly nice.. If I hadn’t been running, I don’t think I’d have gone out to vote,” he admitted.
Earning the support he did from the other side of the municipality was also a rewarding feeling for the new reeve-elect.
“I was quite shocked that that end got out and voted so strongly.I’m really pleased with that support.It shows that a good number weren’t scared of having a reeve from this end and I appreciate that.”
While he was quick to thank all those who supported him, the reeve-elect added he felt sorry for those who won’t be serving on council this term. He also quietly applauded his wife Lynn for her support, and for having the confidence that prompted her to buy a bottle of champagne to help celebrate her husband’s win.

Copyright © 2000 The Lakeside Leader. All Rights Reserved.
No part may be reproduced without written permission.

View our Privacy Statement.
Send website suggestions to the Webmaster