Much-loved clerk retiring
Long-time city clerk Stephen Fleming, who will retire at the end of March, was praised and thanked for his 21 years of service to the municipality at the end of Monday’s council meeting.
Kelowna councillors said Fleming had provided invaluable advice on correct procedures and rules, while also maintaining an approachable and friendly demeanour said to be rare among city clerks.
“It could be one of the most officious positions if you want it to be, but that’s not how Stephen operates,” Coun. Rick Webber said. “Anybody who’s looking for help will come and find a very human person giving very human advice.”
“He’s always been that steady Eddie to give us sound advice from a legal point of view, and very balanced, never political, and always with the best intentions for the citizens of Kelowna,” said Coun. Loyal Wooldridge.
City manager Doug Gilchrist said Fleming had attended 610 Monday meetings and 313 public hearings. Fleming was a mentor, leader, and friend to many in the civic organization, Gilchrist said.
“He practices his craft with professionalism, strong ethics, compassion, and a level of practicality that is actually quite rare for a city clerk,” Gilchrist said.
Among many other duties, a city clerk ensures meetings are conducted in compliance with relevant laws, provides advice on procedures, is responsible for the storage of city records, fields Freedom of Information inquiries, prepares agendas, and oversees municipal elections.
“For me, you’ve always been one of the pillars of the city, and I mean that literally,” said Coun. Luke Stack, the longest-serving council member. “We lean upon you, you hold us up, and you keep us from making terrible mistakes.”
Stack said he was wearing a tie with several tumbling dice on it to make a point, saying it was the antithetical to the way Fleming conducted himself as city clerk.
“He would would always come completely prepared, look at every option, and give us all the potential outcomes,” Stack said. “Stephen, you’re just a fine human being, and it’s been a pleasure to serve with you.”
Deputy city clerk Laura Bentley has been promoted to city clerk.