Mayor Helen Posti will be celebrating her 26th year as Mayor of Eckville this fall.
In honour of her achievement, Posti was gifted a handmade quilt from her council and a scroll from MLA Jason Nixon during the Canada Day celebrations on July 1.
“Helen is a legend among rural mayors in Alberta,” said Nixon.
Posti was first elected as Mayor in 1991, before that she served on town council, adding up to a remarkable 31 year in public service.
“I’ve been honoured to work with Helen for the past eight years on council, and her friend as well,” said Coun. Sandra Hallgren before she presented Posti with a handmade quilt.
The presentation was made all the more memorable as she celebrated her 70th birthday only the day before.
The gathered crowd, along with Lacombe Councillor Dana Kreil sang Happy Birthday for the Mayor.
“I think the most memorable part was Dana singing Happy Birthday to me as Marilyn Monroe,” said Posti.
Nixon spoke about Posti’s commitment to public service and to her community.
He said she is a role model for many in municipal government.
“I was honoured to have Jason [Nixon] do the presentation and speak about my service and commitment to my community,” Posti said, adding she didn’t think he was coming to the Canada Day event.
During the presentation, Posti confirmed she plans to run for reelection in the fall.
If reelected she would be making her way toward 30 years as Mayor of Eckville and 35 years in local government.
“If I win I win, but I won’t know if I can unless I try,” said Posti. “I may just go until I lose.”
Being honoured by her staff and the provincial government was a little overwhelming for Posti, who held back tears while saying her thank yous.
She described the experience as emotional.
“I’ve been lucky to work with a great council in my time as mayor. I’m just honoured to serve my town,” said Posti.