Wetaskiwin residents raise concerns as mayor remains barred from city hall

Residents in Wetaskiwin, a city south of Edmonton, say frustration is growing over a lack of information surrounding restrictions placed on Mayor Joe Branco that have kept him out of city hall for more than two months.

Branco has been attending council meetings virtually since mid-January. The city has said the decision relates to “confidential personnel matters,” but has not provided further details, citing privacy obligations.

According to statements made during recent council discussions, the lack of public information has contributed to speculation in the community. Resident Maggie Toles said rumours have been circulating in the absence of confirmed details.

City councillors are now considering hiring a third-party contractor to support council operations and improve internal working relationships. The move is also aimed at addressing public concerns about governance and transparency.

It is not clear when a final decision will be made regarding the mayor’s status or whether additional information will be released. Connect Newsroom contacted the City of Wetaskiwin for comment. No response by publication time.