When Todd Labbie resigned his position as councilman for Division 5 of the RM of Laurier Council, Bev Pirio decided to let her name stand. She would become the first woman to join the RM of Laurier Council.
“I’d been thinking about it (running for council) for a couple of years. I’ve always been interested in politics,” stated Pirio when asked why she decided to run for office. “I want to make sure that the people in Division 5 have a voice.”
“I had been thinking about running this fall, but when Todd stepped down and the spot was vacant, it was time to step up.”
When asked what she saw as a challenge facing the RM, Bev replied, “With the increase in oil activity and population it is important that our RM grow and prosper with it.”
Although being a RM Councilor is new to Pirio, being involved within her community is not. She has served on the School Board, was secretary of Minor Hockey for four or five years, and worked as assistant to both Brenda Bakken and Doreen Eagles in Radville and Weyburn respectively. Virio also volunteers her time on numerous community groups.
Pirio is stepping into what has been to now, a male-dominated playing field. “I was nervous, but I know all the guys that are there. Aaron Fettes and Dale Colby have taken me under their wing, helping me to get up to speed on how things work. “
And Bev is a learner, looking forward to taking workshops that are provided to help speed up her learning curve, making her more comfortable in her new role of Division 5 Councilor.
Communication with the folks in her division is extremely important to her and she encourages them to be in contact with any questions of comments they may have. “Without communication,” states Pirio, “I will not be able to do the job I have been elected to do.”
Congratulations to Bev Pirio on becoming the first woman Councilperson for the RM of Laurier No.38!
