Mundare Town Councillor Receives Prestigious AUMA Service Award

Mundare Town Councillor Receives Prestigious AUMA Service Award

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Mundare Town Councillor Irene Talaga was presented with her AUMA Distinguished Service Award on October 6 by Mayor Mike Saric.

Every year the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association, (AUMA) recognizes elected officials in urban municipalities throughout Alberta who have served 20 years or more. Talaga has served the community in her capacity as councillor for 22 years.

She has also served her community in a variety of different ways sitting on numerous volunteer boards including the curling club, ag. society, minor hockey and minor ball, recreation centre, centennial committee as well as the Royal Purple and the Roman Catholic Women’s League.

Previously, she sat as a school board trustee with Lamont County, serving two terms of office. That was prior to regionalization. “At that time, we had a high school, so it was exciting time.”

Talaga said that receiving the award, “It was definitely a big honour for me, and I’m very pleased to receive it.”

Laughing, Irene said, “It does not seem that long that I have served the community.” She began serving on council back in 1986. I ran at that time for 15 years, and then I took a break, and I guess deep down it’s just in my heart. I’ve always been interested in our town and hoping to see it prosper, and so I thought I could contribute towards it, so I went back on council.”

Irene said she has had the pleasure of working with great mayors and good council members. “I would definitely say we’ve always had a good relationship, and I think we had good teamwork, and I think this is what makes your town prosper.”

What has been most rewarding is meeting people and developing friendships. “We all come from different walks of life and so forth. For sure, the respect we have towards each other. That a big part. It’s fun to be part of a team when you definitely have the respect for each other.”

At one-time, government money and grants were readily available so at that time we were able to build a new admin building, rec. centre, fire hall, and we developed Ukraina Park because the money and programs were there for us.”

One of the highlights was chairing the Spray Water Park Committee. “I had a very hardworking committee. We paid that off in no time. I can really say the ones that sat on that board they have to be tired when they heard my voice because what can we do for a fundraise? We had everything from bingos to dinners and comedy nights to Halloween dances. But we did get that paid for, and it’s awesome, and well used today.”

As to what sticks out in her mind? “You know politics in a small town is different than big city. Very much so. You can come uptown and you will definitely have somebody ask you about a town matter. Which in Edmonton or whatever large city you probably don’t get that. But you always have someone comment about something or ask a question which I’m very fine with.”

Overall, “It’s been really rewarding. I hope I made an impact in my position serving the community. It’s been awesome.” As to how long she plans to continue serving? “At this time, I really don’t know. I’m thinking retirement and then I’m thinking…It definitely gets in your blood. I don’t know.”

Mundare Town Councillor Irene Talaga with her AUMA Service Award. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)