Earlier this week, the Township of Severn recognized council members who won’t be returning for another term.
During an event Nov. 14, Mayor Mike Burkett presented Ward 4 Coun. Ron Stevens with the key to the township in recognition of the councillor’s decades of service.
Stevens also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Steve Clark, minister of municipal affairs and housing.
Burkett noted Stevens has put in 43 years of municipal service, starting in 1978 as a councillor in Orillia Township, followed by 16 years as deputy reeve.
In 1994, when the Township of Severn was formed, Stevens became its first mayor. After six years, he went on to serve as Orillia’s mayor from 2000 to 2010.
Stevens had a homecoming, of sorts, when he was elected to Severn council in 2010.
“It has been a privilege to represent the citizens of Severn and Orillia, and I would encourage other members of the community to consider a seat on council,” Stevens said in a news release.
“It has been a very rewarding experience that has added significance to my career and given me a great sense of accomplishment," Stevens added.
Burkett also recognized Jane Dunlop, who was not re-elected as deputy mayor.
Dunlop spent 12 years on Severn council, and the township “has been transformed by her beautification efforts and community art initiatives,” the release stated.
“It’s been an incredible honour to be part of a council that has achieved so much, and as we are gathered today, it is important to reflect and acknowledge the tremendous success that we have had in the face of a very challenging term,” said Burkett.
“With council’s direction and leadership, we were able to reach many of our goals, and that would not have been possible without the contributions of those we are here to recognize today — Deputy Mayor Jane Dunlop and Coun. Ron Stevens.”
