By Andru McCracken
The Village of McBride has been working without Mayor Gene Runtz since some time in August due to a health-related leave, and since that time the acting mayor position fell to councillor Lucille Green, but her term will end soon.
“At some point in the new year the next councillor in line will assume those duties,” said councillor Rosemary Hruby. She’s next on the list.
Hruby said that the terms of the acting mayor were determined at the inaugural meeting.
“Each councilor takes a year in alphabetical order,” she said.
Hruby said councillor Alan Frederick has already served his year and that Lucille Green will continue until early in the new year.
Councillor Diane Smith would take on the job if Runtz is not able to return to his post for this council’s final year.
“Gene is, unfortunately, dealing with some health issues. The Council is definitely concerned for his well-being and are supporting him with the time he needs to recover,” said Hruby.
“He will be back to his duties as soon as his physician has declared he is well enough to do so.”
We reached out to Mayor Runtz for comment, but didn’t hear back by press time.
