It was a sombre gathering at Humboldt City Council as Mayor Rob Muench opened the regular City Council meeting on Monday, September 23 with an acknowledgement of the tragic accident involving city worker Ian Irwin. Mayor Muench confirmed that Irwin tragically lost his life in an incident involving trenching that was being done along Third Avenue in the city’s southwest industrial area. Pending the results of an ongoing investigation into the accident, the City of Humboldt will not be providing further details.

Muench recounted that Irwin began working in the water and wastewater area of the city’s public works department in 2014. 

Muench stated, “Ian would be recognized as the face of the department. He fixed water main breaks or wastewater issues throughout our community. Over the last five years, he contributed to many of the repairs, upgrades, and refurbishments in the city water system.”

Muench continued noting that Irwin was always willing to help whether it be city staff, contractors or citizens to ensure that everyone’s needs were met. He was critical in stormwater event response and in planning for the future needs of the city and its systems.

Muench concluded, “On behalf of the city council, staff, and the entire community of Humboldt, we offer condolences to Ian’s wife, Kristen and his children, family, and friends.”

A public service will be held on Saturday, September 28 at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall in Humboldt at 3 p.m.