Morden's new mayor and six councillors have officially taken their seats, following the city's inaugural council meeting, marking the beginning of a new four-year term for the community's elected leadership. Ernie Epp, who was elected mayor in the Oct. 28 municipal election, says the inauguration was an opportunity to recognize both the responsibility of serving the community and the work ahead for the new council. Former mayor Ken Wiebe was invited to lead the ceremony and administer the oaths of office. All seven members of council were officially sworn in during the meeting. Epp says it was meaningful to see family members and community residents attend the evening, filling much of the room to witness the occasion and offer congratulations. A new council recognizes its responsibility Epp describes the evening as one that brought a sense of pride, humility, and a shared understanding of the responsibility entrusted to the new council. He says the strong support he received in the municipal election also comes with an obligation to work on behalf of the community. "With that tremendous support, I think comes a significant amount of responsibility too," Epp said. "So our new team has, we know we have a bunch of work to do and we're looking forward to getting going on those things." Epp says council members recognize that residents have placed their trust in them to care for a community that means a great deal to the people who live there. "It was, you know, a bit of pride to be able to sit in those chairs, an acknowledgement of the responsibility that we collectively have, some humility in that, you know, people have entrusted us with the care of their community, which they care so much for," he said. Related stories: Epp elected Mayor of Morden, wastewater project tops priority list Morden All Candidates Forum gives election hopefuls a chance to introduce themselves First council discussions begin next week The inaugural meeting also marks the start of the work involved in getting the new council up to speed on city business. Epp says council members are looking forward to receiving information about ongoing municipal issues and where things currently stand. The new council's first Committee of the Whole meeting is scheduled for next Tuesday, Nov. 10. Epp says that meeting will begin the conversations about the directions and priorities facing the city. One of the major issues expected to remain on the new council's agenda is Morden's wastewater project, which Epp previously identified as a priority because of its importance to future community growth and development. He has emphasized that moving the project forward is critical to creating opportunities for residents and businesses. Deputy mayor and committee appointments confirmed The inaugural meeting also included appointments of council members to external organizations and the selection of a deputy mayor. Epp recommended Sheldon Friesen for the deputy mayor position. Friesen accepted the appointment, which was confirmed by council during the meeting. Epp says the new council is looking forward to getting started, with the coming discussions and information-sharing helping members establish a clearer picture of the work ahead. CITY OF MORDEN COMMITTEES 2026-2027 DEPUTY MAYOR Sheldon Friesen SUB-COMMITTEES MENZIES MEDICAL CENTRE - Councillor Peter Loewen EXPLORE MORDEN WINKLER - Councillor Peter Loewen PEMBINA VALLEY WATER CO-OP - Jason Vanrobaeys Councillor Lee Bassett (alt) AIRPORT STUDY COMMITTEE - Councillor Sheldon Friesen MSTW PLANNING DISTRICT - Councillor Cindy Maddock & Councillor Garry Hiebert COMMUNITY FUTURES - Councillor Cindy Maddock MORDEN-STANLEY FIRE SERVICES - Councillor Cindy Maddock SWAMP COMMITTEE - Mayor Ernie Epp & Councillor Lee Bassett VET DISTRICT BOARD - Councillor Garry Hiebert PEMBINA VALLEY LOCAL IMMIGRATION PARTNERSHIP - Councillor Jason Vanrobaeys MCDC - Councillor Sheldon Friesen PEMBINA VALLEY WATERSHED DISTRICT - Councillor Jason Vanrobaeys SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL LIBRARY - Councillor Lee Bassett Councillor Garry Hiebert (alt) AIRPORT AUTHORITY - Councillor Sheldon Friesen POLICE BOARD - Deputy Mayor & Councillor Peter Loewen For Morden residents, the inaugural meeting marks more than the formal beginning of a new council. It sets the stage for decisions on the city's ongoing infrastructure needs, future growth, and the priorities that will shape the next four years.