Kenora City Councillor Rory McMillan says he plans to step away from public service ahead of the 2022 Municipal Election in Kenora, as he looks ahead to his second retirement.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity,” said McMillan, in his comments to councillors on June 21.
“I’ve had the good fortune to work with many great women and men who have served our city as councillors and mayors over the years. It’s been quite an honour. I want to thank the people of Kenora for placing their trust in me and voting for me over the past 28 years.”
McMillan is a lifelong Kenora resident who has served the community for just shy of 28 years now as a town and city councillor. In his professional career, Rory worked as a program administrator with the Ministry of Community and Social Services.
“In the last three decades, I’ve seen our city grow and evolve. Economic diversification, infrastructure improvements, addressing climate change and reconciliation are just a few important issues that have impacted our community. Having been part of these discussions has been a very humbling and singling honour that I will always cherish.”
In his youth, Rory graduated from Beaver Brae Secondary School before graduating from Lakehead University with an Honours Bachelor of Social Work, and later achieved his Masters of Social Work – Administration from the University of Manitoba.
“I’ve enjoyed my time here. This community, I believe, is the best place to live, work and play in all of Canada. We have a great organization managing our city. I especially want to thank all of our city staff for their dedication, commitment and hard work in making this city a great place to live,” he adds.
McMillan says he plans to spend his retirement with his wife Glenda, who he’s been married to for over 50 years. He also plans to spend some time cruising around the community in his new white Corvette.
“You’ve certainly done the City of Kenora a good service,” said Councillor and Acting Mayor Sharon Smith.
“And Keewatin,” quickly added McMillan.
“Wait a minute. The jury’s still out on that one,” wryly replied Smith, with a smile.
“As a new councillor when I came on, the value of having councillors that have been around for a very long time cannot be understated on a council,” she notes.
“You were always so welcoming, so encouraging all the time. To have someone like you help the new ones, give them that confidence to move forward. I cannot understate the value of that in communities and on councils. I personally thank you for being so gracious and helpful. I’m going to miss you,” added a teary-eyed Smith.
McMillan later took time to encourage more Kenora residents to put their names forward and apply to lead the community as city councillors, ahead of the municipal election on October 24.
As it stands, three residents have put their names forward. Lindsay Koch, Kelsie Van Belleghem and incumbent councillor Graham Chaze have all filed their papers, and Mayor Dan Reynard has said he plans to run for re-election.
The final day to file a nomination form is August 19 at 2 p.m.