In a moving speech at Saugeen Shores Council meeting on Monday (Aug. 23), Southampton Ward Councillor, John Rich announced that he is leaving Council effective September 7th.
In a prior notice, Rich said that he will be relocating to Waterloo to be with extended family. “This has been a very difficult decision to make in order to support my family but family always comes first.”
“I have always tried my best to represent my community with balance and fairness. Being on Council has enlightened me, inspired me and taught me that we can disagree to agree.”
Rich said that he has always tried to live up to three pieces of advice given to him by his mother:
- The world does not owe you a living
- Being kind does not cost a single cent
- Do not fall in love with the sound of your own voice
Rich received many accolades from his peers on Council. Deputy Mayor Don Matheson congratulated Rich on his seven years of service. “Your dedication, caring and compassion has helped to make Council a more functioning group … and you have kept me in line on many occasions.”
Vice Deputy Mayor, Mike Myatt, said that he admired Rich’s sincerity and professionalism. “You’ve always been a great listener.”
Councilor Jamie Smith said she remembered their many conversations in the arena at hockey tournaments, where both are ‘hockey’ parents. “You made me want to run for Council.”
Councilor Kristan Schrider said that she was honoured that they had often reached out to each other. “As a former member of staff, I know that John was always in staff’s corner.”
Southampton Ward Councilor Cheryl Grace said that it has been a pleasure to work with Rich. “You have lived up to your mothers’ advice.”
Mayor Luke Charbonneau thanked Rich for his service to the community and to Council. “You have been open, compassionate and always looking for compromise. You have made the community a better place and we are pleased that you will still maintain a home here in Saugeen Shores and we wish you all the best in the future.”
