Historic ending
Parrsboro town council holds final meeting
Parrsboro town council has closed their books
The extension of a retirement contract, appointment of auditors and consideration of a paving quote.
“It’s been quite a ride, 19 years for me,” said Mayor Lois Smith. “That’s it, folks.” These were the final acts of business for Parrsboro town council, which wrapped up 126 years of history with its final meeting on Tuesday.
The town will officially dissolve and become a part of the Municipality of Cumberland County on Nov. 1.
The mayor thanked all other councillors and mayors of the town, past and present, then choked up when thanking town staff members for their loyal service.
“I knew I’d do this,” said Smith, wiping tears. “No matter what we asked, they would do it.”
Taking part in the meeting with Mayor Smith, were councillors David Harrison, Norman Rafuse and Ron Shaw, as well as CAO Ray Hickey and secretary Kevin Yorke. Deputy mayor Lisa Ward was not present.
Smith congratulated Rafuse on his successful election to represent Parrsboro on Cumberland County council.
He will be sworn in with the rest of county council at its Nov. 2 meeting.
Employee Betty Anne Paris was one of only three people in the audience for the meeting. Another was Parrsboro and District Board of Trade President David Beattie, who offered his thanks on behalf of the board to all current and previous mayors and councillors for their efforts.
“We don’t always agree but ultimately I think this town has been managed quite well over the years, and I just want to acknowledge it’s been a lot of hard effort by many people to make that happen,” said Beattie.
“I also appreciate your leadership over the past year. It’s been difficult and stressful for many of you, going through this process of dissolution of the town, and it shows strong leadership in doing so.”