Mayor Sharon Gaetz was surprised in council chambers Tuesday with a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal, presented by Coun. Chuck Stam, for her "exemplary efforts" to make Chilliwack a "great place" to live.
Stam read out a letter from Karen Leibovici, a city councillor for City of Edmonton, on behalf of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, explaining it was Gaetz' contributions to the community of Chilliwack — and to all of Canada that spurred the nomination.
"Your peers in local government across the country admire your accomplishments as a community leader, and congratulate you on earning this prestigious award," the letter read.
"FCM chose you to receive this distinction for your exemplary efforts to make your community a great place to live.
"It recognizes the important role municipalities – and their elected leaders – play in ensuring our prosperity and high quality of life.
"We sincerely appreciate your municipality’s affiliation with FCM, and its support of strong communities and good government. In partnership with other local leaders, and with federal, provincial and territorial governments, your municipality is helping to build a safer, stronger and more prosperous future for your community and all Canadians.
"On behalf of FCM and all of our members across Canada, thank you for your continued contribution to your community, your province and your country," Leibovici concluded.
Mayor Gaetz was presented with a beautiful bouquet of flowers along with the medal, and she humbly offered her appreciation of others in her acceptance.
"I accept this on behalf of council who work so hard, and also those in our community who are the unsung heroes," she said. "Thank you very much."
jfeinberg@theprogress.com
Twitter.com/chwkjourno