Coalhurst mayor reflects on accomplishments and relationships

By Laura Balanko-Dickson
Sunny South News

Since 2007, Mayor Dennis Cassie’s “major accomplishments” have helped the town of Coalhurst grow in size, as well as improve traffic safety in and around the community. But, for Mayor Cassie, it’s not just about his accomplishments.

Cassie says he is going to “miss engaging with municipal leaders,” and looks forward to “volunteering in some form of community service,” emphasizing “it’s time to make room for younger people to become municipal leaders,” and leave on his own terms.

Cassie acknowledges he made Coalhurst a desirable place to live. “The town grew twice the size during my tenure, as mayor.”

“The Coalhurst Highway 3 intersection was a major accomplishment,” says Cassie, “we worked Sunny South News for many years just engaging the government in this project.”

“It enhanced the safety of the residents, addressing the safety needs of the community,” he added. “I’m going to miss engaging with municipal leaders.”

“No doubt about it.” Cassie points out a lot of municipal leaders work well in the community, and he’s going to miss working with them – that “working relationship.”

Kim Hauta, chief administrative officer (CAO) of Coalhurst says, “I have worked with him for his entire term as mayor,” adding,” Mayor Cassie has always looked for the best interests of the town.”

“It has been a pleasure working administratively alongside Mayor Cassie and I wish him all the best with his free time from council matters.”

Other than planning to “relax and enjoy life,” Cassie says he is planning to do “some form of community service.”

“I’m not quite sure yet. You know I can volunteer for the town of Coalhurst or even volunteer in Lethbridge, as well.”

“We have some excellent young people, very talented, engaging young people who have a tremendous amount of skill,” says Cassie, “I think they need a chance to become leaders.”

“For me, staying as the mayor, I’m in their way, really,” says Cassie, “for me, it’s important to leave on my own terms.”

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