"This is going to be a tough one."
Those were the words of Coun. Dawn Luhning as she fought back tears while paying tribute to former long-time city employee and director of financial services Brian Acker.
Luhning honoured Acker, who passed away on Aug. 30, just days after retiring from his position, and offered condolences to his family on behalf of the mayor and city council during Monday night's council meeting. A moment of silence was also held in his memory.
Acker joined the City of Moose Jaw in January 1991 as deputy comptroller. He became city comptroller in June 1994 and acting director of financial services in March 2004.
He officially assumed the role of director of financial services in May 2005 and was widely recognized for his fiscal discipline and deep knowledge of city operations.
"Mr. Acker was a rock at city hall," Luhning said. "He oozed knowledge of the financial systems at the city and could provide us with financial numbers requested almost immediately."
The city confirmed Acker’s plans to retire in February. Following the appointment of his successor, Jaime Ansell, he remained in a supporting role until his retirement on Aug. 22.
"He was a trusted source around this table. Wise, smart, and always dedicated to the well-being of Moose Jaw," Luhning said.
"I believe we were all looking forward to him mentoring his successor and passing his financial knowledge to her and to us for some time to come, even though he'd be leaving the building upon his retirement."