Critical questions asked of council at Sherwood ratepayers meeting

REGINA – There were some heated discussions taking place at the RM of Sherwood’s general rate payers meeting Thursday night.

Residents questioned council on a land deal dispute that resulted in the removal of former reeve Kevin Eberle from his position.

“How can we not question your ability to make moral and ethical decisions on behalf of the ratepayers given what’s happened?” Questioned one resident in attendance.

The province made the move after an investigation into the proposed Wascana Village development revealed Eberle could stand to make around $58 million.

Eberle was in attendance but did not address the crowd and declined an interview with Global News.

Deputy Reeve, Tim Probe told the crowd of around 100 people in attendance at the ROC Church, that he stands by council’s decisions despite the inquiry.

“If you choose not to trust us that is going to be your choice in the next election which I’ll value as a ratepayer,” he added.  “I’ve worked with everyone up here and I’ll continue to stand beside them and vouch for their integrity.”

Another topic that became a heated debate was the Regina bypass, which will be the largest transportation infrastructure project in Saskatchewan history.

Many people took to the microphone to question the presentation about the project presented by Brent Miller with the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure.

Ron Hildeberamdt owns two businesses in the municipality and said he’s concerned about costs and safety.

“I don’t think we should have to pay for it…because we’re not going to benefit from it.”

Many councilors said they recognize the need for the bypass but would have liked to see more consultation and better treatment of landowners impacted by the project.

Miller said he’s aware the issue is on the mind of a lot of citizens.

“It is expected that there is going to be some disruption to landowners and they are going to have come concern about that,” he said.  “With that many entities at the table it’s very difficult for 100 per cent of everybody’s needs to be satisfied but we try and satisfy as many needs as possible.”

Construction on the bypass is anticipated to begin this summer with a completion date slated for 2018.