During the Lacombe County organizational meeting on Oct. 24, councillors unanimously re-elected Division 3 Councillor Barb Shepherd as Lacombe County Reeve for a fourth one-year term.
This reappointment highlights the council's continued confidence in Shepherd’s leadership and dedication to Lacombe County, noted a release.
The Oath of Office was administered by County Manager Tim Timmons, marking the beginning of Shepherd’s new term.
"Reeve Shepherd’s steadfast commitment and leadership continue to inspire confidence in the County’s future," said Timmons. "Her ability to navigate complex issues with a clear vision and an open mind – putting the community’s needs first – has earned the continued trust of council and staff alike. We are confident that under her leadership, Lacombe County will continue to thrive, and we look forward to another year of collaboration and progress with her at the helm."
Shepherd, who has served as reeve since 2021, expressed her gratitude for the ongoing trust placed in her by her fellow councillors.
"It remains a true honour to serve as reeve of Lacombe County," said Shepherd. "I am grateful for the support, mutual respect and confidence of my colleagues and for the opportunity to continue working for the people of Lacombe County."
Looking back over the past year, Shepherd reflected on some of the accomplishments at the county, especially with regards to attracting new businesses and interest to the area.
In the spring, 30 international ambassadors visited Lacombe County, allowing it to showcase the community and the innovative businesses that are leading the
way for the future of sustainability here, such as Doef’s Greenhouse, Enhance Energy and NOVA Chemicals, continued the release.
“The tour included the new Dairy Innovation West (DIW) facility, a $75 million milk concentration facility, the first of its kind in Canada,” said Shepherd. “Seeing it open its doors next spring will definitely be another highlight for me as reeve for Lacombe County.”
Division 1 Councillor John Ireland will also continue in his role as deputy reeve, entering the second year of his two-year term.
Originally from a ranch in southwestern Saskatchewan, Shepherd moved to Central Alberta in 1984 to pursue a banking career. She was first elected to Lacombe County Council in 2013, following nearly four decades in the banking industry.
