George Hickes, speaking in his capacity as MLA for Iqaluit-Tasiluk, used his statement in the legislative assembly on Oct. 22 to applaud outgoing Mayor Madeleine Redfern and Iqaluit city council for their accomplishments during their time in office.
Hickes cited the municipal government鈥檚 ability to bring the city out of its historical deficit and debt remaining from the dump fire as a major achievement. He also mentioned that mayor and council managed to attract $60 million in funding from the federal and territorial governments for municipal infrastructure, hired a new chief administrative officer who was promoted from within city staff and supported the Uquutaq Men鈥檚 Shelter in obtaining financing and acquiring two buildings for a men鈥檚 emergency shelter and transition housing. This latter project will aid up to 60 men with programming, shelter, and transitional housing.
鈥淢ayor Redfern and council have initiated and delivered many solid initiatives for the City of Iqaluit, and it鈥檚 important to keep up the good work. That鈥檚 why I encourage all Iqalummiut to vote in the upcoming municipal election on Oct. 28,鈥� Hickes said, noting that Redfern is not seeking re-election after serving as municipal leader since 2010.
