Town councillor Marni Fedeyko has signed a petition that is calling for an inspection of the Town of Cochrane by Alberta Municipal Affairs.

Those supporting the need for an inspection have until tomorrow (Dec. 9) to sign the petition, being spearheaded by Todd Simmer.

"It's important that people know that this petition that we put out is for all Cochranites, and it's for a full investigation of the municipality," says Simmer. "Small town municipalities are run like a corporation and every corporation should welcome an inspection because that's where you find efficiencies, deficiencies, all that kind of stuff."

Simmer, his company, and his family have been in a battle with the town that's nearing its first anniversary over a property on Railway St. that was home to his Yokel Local Market and Big Sky Landscaping. He claims it has destroyed his family financially, was unjustified, and was done in contradiction to the Municipal Government Act.

A public hearing on implementing a new direct control zoning for the property is scheduled for Dec. 11.

Today, Councillor Fedeyko publically announced she will be adding her name to the petition.

"My reasoning for this is multifaceted, and not in connection with a group of an individual," she stated. "When trust is lost, it is lost."

She believes she's not the only councillor who will be signing the petition.

"The only way out, in my opinion, is to seek  non-biased third-party review, and I will stand by that."

While several people have been circulating the petition, it's also available for signing at Cochrane Sign & Design, 204A River Ave., today until 5 p.m. On Saturday, Dec. 9, it will be available for signing from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 365 Railway St. W.

You must be a resident of the Town of Cochrane, be a Canadian Citizen, and 18 years of age or over.

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