Edmonton’s new City Council was officially sworn into office this afternoon at City Hall. Following the ceremony, they held what will undoubtedly be the quickest meeting of the term, to approve council chamber seating arrangements, standing committee membership, and the meeting schedule for the next year. Nearly 400 people attended, including many of the Mayor’s and Councillors’ friends, family, and supporters.
Organized by Communications & the City Clerk, the event had a very nice printed program!
Staff Sergeant Langford Bawn piped council members into the City Room, accompanied by members of the Edmonton Police Service, Fire Rescue, and Alberta Paramedics Guards of Honour.
Council members smiled and waved as they entered. Lynda Steele served as the Master of Ceremonies. Matt Day played the piano, and Amanda Clark led the singing of O Canada.
The Honourable Don Manderscheid, Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench, administered the oath to the Mayor and Councillors.
After Mayor Mandel was sworn in, he received the Chain of Office from City Manager Simon Farbrother. After all the Councillors were sworn in, Mayor Mandel spoke about the work ahead.
Students from the City Hall School lined the second floor of the City Room, while friends and family filled the seats below.
Council Chambers was packed for the inaugural meeting! By the time everyone had piled in, the meeting was finished! A reception was held following the meeting.
2010-2013 Edmonton Mayor & City Council
You can see the rest of my photos from the event here.
UPDATE: Courtesy of Dave, here are some photos from the 2007 swearing-in ceremony.
MasterMaq's Blog 
Thanks for taking these photos, Mack! I was there in 2007 but wasn’t able to make it out today. I wish the new Council good luck! Let’s move this city forward!
Added a link to your 2007 post, thanks! I agree, let’s keep moving forward!