YARMOUTH, N.S. — Steve Berry and his family were beaming with pride as he was sworn in as the newest councillor on Yarmouth Town Council.
The swearing-in ceremony took place Wednesday morning, May 22. Many members of Berry’s family were present for the ceremony and there was applause, hugs and tears. Sitting in the audience were his mom and dad, his Nan, aunts, uncle, friends and others.
Berry spoke after the ceremony.
“The first thing I’d like to say is, ‘nay,’ because I told people I’m not scared to say that at times,” he said, as he also thanked those who came to the swearing-in ceremony and expressed thanks to all who supported him. “This has been a great experience and I’d just to say I really think the best is yet to come for Yarmouth. I’m happy to be at the table. Look forward to working with everybody and let’s get going.”
Four people ran for the seat in a byelection that ended on May 18. The vote count was as follows:
Steve Berry: 1,097
Gil Dares: 604
Daniel MacIsaac: 266
David Tupper: 323
Spoiled ballots: 7
Voter turnout was 44.3 per cent.
Berry – who has referred to himself as a proud southender – replaces the seat left vacant following the death of Councillor Sandy Dennis earlier this year.
There are now two Berrys on town council, although they're not related – Councillor Don Berry, who became the first black councillor on council during the last municipal councillor, and now Steve Berry, the youngest member of council following in those footsteps.
Yarmouth Mayor Pam Mood welcomed Berry to council and got emotional and she thanked his family, friends and co-workers who came out for the swearing in ceremony.
“We’re thrilled to have him at the table,” she told them.
“I’m glad you put your name on that ballot,” Mayor Mood said to Berry. “I’m proud of how you went through that whole process and we’re just really excited. On behalf of council, we are truly excited for what’s ahead. There’s so much we can learn from each other and I am looking forward to that."
"And if Nan’s coming to the meetings and she needs tea instead of coffee, you just let us know.”
