Yetman officially resigns as mayor of Bay Roberts

By Olivia Bradbury / Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Bay Roberts Mayor Walter Yetman has formally resigned from council.
The construction company owner took a leave of absence in January after getting the PC Party nomination for the District of Harbour Grace-Port de Grave when most political watchers expected a provincial election to be called any day. However, the surprise resignation of then Premier Andrew Furey and the subsequent Liberal Party leadership contest to replace him, delayed the drop of the writ, which is now expected to come soon after Labour Day.
At the August 12 meeting of Bay Roberts council meeting, Chief Administrative Officer Dave Tibbo announced Yetman has now officially resigned as mayor.
The Town received Yetman’s resignation letter earlier that day.
In the letter, Yetman thanked council, staff, and volunteers for the work they had done together over the years.
“I cherish the friendships I’ve made through the work and the people I’ve met along the way,” wrote Yetman. “It’s been a team effort, and we have accomplished a lot for our community.”
Yetman also thanked the town’s residents for putting their faith in him four years ago when he was acclaimed as mayor, and expressed gratitude to Deputy Mayor Geoff Seymour, who has filled the role of acting mayor since his departure.
Yetman also acknowledged the wildfire problem in the province, thanking volunteer fire departments for their work. Yetman once served on the Bay Roberts Fire Brigade, and supported the department during his time on council. He thanked the brigade for keeping the community safe.
Finally, Yetman wished the Town of Bay Roberts the best in the future and thanked those who will be on the ballot in the fall municipal election.
After the letter was read, Seymour thanked Yetman for his 20 years of service to the Town of Bay Roberts. “I know during that time he worked very hard to make the town a better place,” said Seymour. He congratulated Yetman on his next chapter and wished him all the best on behalf of council.