Sorensen back for third term

Banff town council was given a huge vote of confidence Monday evening, with residents electing Karen Sorensen for a third term as Banff’s mayor, along with all five incumbent councillors.
Prominent conservationist and businessman Peter Poole was also elected in the Oct. 16 municipal election, joining top vote-getter Corrie DiManno, Grant Canning, Ted Christensen, Chip Olver and Brian Standish at the council table.
Sorensen, who was enjoying a victory celebration at Banff’s Rose & Crown after defeating challenger Hugh Pettigrew 1,223 to 958 votes, said she was absolutely thrilled to be reelected.
“I was very hopeful I would be able to serve a third term and I am happy to see past incumbents have been elected as well,” she said.
“I think it’s a good sign that we’re heading in the direction that a majority of the population is happy with.”
Mayor Sorensen also welcomed newcomer Peter Poole to the council table. Poole secured 873 votes as the sixth councillor elected behind the incumbents.
“I think Mr. Poole will bring a lot of expertise to the table and we’re happy to welcome him to council,” she said.
DiManno, the youngest on council, secured 1,324 votes. She was followed by Christensen (1,036), Canning (1,023), Standish (991), Olver (920) and Poole (873).
Sorensen thanked Pettigrew for running.
“I appreciate the fact that we had an election and I congratulate him on his efforts and for stepping up,” she said.
Also in Banff, the plebiscite on pay parking was again carried by the No vote, with 54 per cent of those eligible voting against pay parking. Tallied, the votes were 1,107 against and 959 for in response to the question 'Is there ever a time the Town of Banff should implement user pay parking?'
The above results are unofficial until noon on Friday (Oct. 20).
 
 
 
Banff residents also voted against paid parking, with 1,107 saying no and 959 saying yes.