Merritt’s new Mayor and council sworn in

(Image credit: Zachary Stewart/Q101)

Nov 2, 2022 | 6:24 AM Vern Strecheniuk

MERRITT – The City of Merritt officially have a new Mayor and council.

Last night (November 1), in front of over 70 residents and dignitaries, the seven members of council were sworn in.

Mayor Mike Goetz was the first to get sworn into the position while holding his granddaughters hand.

“You will notice that I took the oath with my granddaughters hand in my hand, and the reason I did that was because when I swear my oath holding onto her hand, it means that I would never want to disappoint her, ever, so I take the oath holding onto her hand. She inspires me,” said Mayor Mike Goetz.

Afterwards it was the new council members turn to be inaugurated into office. The first member was Wendy Charney followed by Dana Egan, incumbent Adam Etchart, Claire Newman, Manuel Olguin, and Paul Petroczi.

Once every member was sworn in, Mayor Goetz gave his first official speech as Mayor.

“A lot of us have gone through lots, the times were tough for us the last 18 months, we had a lot of things to deal with. We are resilient people and we have showed that. This council is exciting, I’m excited for every council member that is here. If you look at all of us and our backgrounds, we cover all of the aspects in the spectrum of what this city is looking for. Myself, this mayors chair, and the office is always open, anytime you need to talk to me, you can talk to me and same with council and we will gather together if we need to get anything straight. If you can’t get to me, I will get to you. I will be spending most of my time in the community walking, talking, getting things done. I am here to work for you and so is council and we are excited to get going. We have a lot of things coming but understand that the oath I made tonight with my granddaughter, so I will always work as hard as I can for you and I’m proud to be your mayor.”