Merritt City Councillor Killed
(Photo courtesy of the City of Merritt).
Jul 5, 2023 | 12:32 PM
Vern Strecheniuk
The City of Merritt is saddened to announce the death of Councillor Claire Newman on July 5, 2023. Claire was travelling yesterday to see family and was struck and killed by a vehicle outside of Valemount.
“To lose a light like Claire Newman in such a tragic way has left a giant hole in my heart and the heart of everyone who came into contact with her,” says Mayor Michael Goetz. “Claire was the cheerleader of this Council and a driving force that you rarely come across. Getting to know Claire over the past six months has been a great pleasure and I am a better person for having known her. To her family and friends, I offer my deepest sympathies. Claire you will be missed.”
Newman was elected to Merritt City Council in October of 2022 after moving to the area from Logan Lake where she also served on City Council.
“I have loved working with Claire,” says Merritt CAO Sean Smith. “She was vibrant, curious, and had a passion for people that was contagious. Saying goodbye to friends is hard. I will miss her. And on behalf of all City staff, our sincere condolences go out to her family.”
The City is lowering its flags to half-mast in mourning of Claire’s passing.
The City will be cancelling its regular council meeting for July 11, 2023.
City Hall will be accepting flowers for anyone wishing to honour her memory.
Further information will be released when available.
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