(CHAT News)

By Eli J. Ridder | @EliRidder

Medicine Hat city council insists it continues to operate after sanctioning mayor, acknowledges questions

Mar 22, 2024 | 4:06 PM

Medicine Hat council insisted Friday the city’s governing body will continue to operate without interruption after stripping Mayor Linnsie Clark of her powers and cutting her salary by half.

READ MORE: Experts weigh in, reaction continues after Medicine Hat mayor sanctioned

“We acknowledge that these sanctions have raised questions and concerns within our community,” council said in a late afternoon statement.

“Our foremost priority today is to reassure the residents of Medicine Hat that the business of Council will proceed smoothly and efficiently, without any disruption.”

Clark’s ability to operate as mayor has been severely restricted after council voted unanimously to sanction her on Thursday.

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Councillors say Clark broke council’s code of conduct after a tense exchange between the mayor and City Manager Ann Mitchell at an August 2023 meeting.

“To successfully address the challenges in our community, trust and respect must exist between City Council and Administration,” the council statement added.

“City of Medicine Hat employees are critical to the vitality and success of our community. We rely on staff to bring forward recommendations based on their expertise, knowledge, and insights, and it is imperative that we foster an environment where administration feels safe and respected when interacting with City Council.”