Saskatchewan mayor stepping down now that 'Queen of Canada' cult is gone
The mayor of Richmound, Saskatchewan, is resigning after a difficult three-year term marked by the presence of a controversial cult. The village faced significant challenges, including property disputes and threats, after the 'Kingdom of Canada' group occupied a local school.
Why it matters
It highlights the impact of extremist groups on small, vulnerable communities and the personal toll on local government officials.
After three years and many sleepless nights, the cult is finally gone.
Miller says he's stepping down on Oct. 15 in hopes that the village can start a new chapter. He is about halfway through a four-year term that was set to end in November 2028.
"We fought a lot of battles and wars, and I think it's just time," he said. "Somebody else can step up and take the reins, and maybe turn a new leaf."
Miller was elected as Richmound's mayor seven years ago. The village of 118 people is roughly 60 kilometres northwest of Maple Creek, near the Alberta border.
"Running for mayor in a small village or town should be a fairly easy thing," he joked.
But for Miller, it was anything but easy. He said he's also dealt with property fraud, disputes over the seniors centre and navigating the financial impact of the pandemic.
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