A Gibbons councillor has resigned amid sexual misconduct allegations.
On May 19, Darren McCann met with the town's chief administrative officer to bring forward a resignation letter. The letter stated his resignation was effective immediately.
McCann was accused of misconduct in two incidents.
Councillor Rebecca Balanko of Morinville issued a statement on May 13 detailing her experience with McCann.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on October 28, 2021, when a regional council orientation took place between multiple municipalities. Balanko claims that as she exited her vehicle, she was hollered at by McCann. He then approached her and hugged her without invitation or consent.
Allegedly, McCann then made comments about Balankos weight loss and then inappropriately touched her back and then her buttocks.
In February, McCann was also issued a letter of reprimand from the mayor of Gibbons for breaching the council code of conduct bylaw in a separate incident. At this time, McCann had made inappropriate comments to another female councillor at a town hall.
The Town of Gibbons plans to hold a by-election on Sept. 12 to fill McCann's position. According to the administration, a fall by-election will allow people ample time for a nomination period.
The full statement and letter of reprimand can be found on the Town of Gibbons' website.