Praise for McWilliams at his final council meeting
There were good wishes at City Hall on Monday for Coun. Dan McWilliams, who was attending his last council meeting.
McWilliams is the only member of council not running in the municipal election on Oct. 22; Monday was the last meeting before voting day.
“I was going to sing ‘Oh Danny Boy,’” joked Mayor Daryl Bennett, at the end of the meeting, as councillors were bidding McWilliams farewell.
McWilliams was first elected in 2010 and re-elected in 2014 in Otonabee Ward.
The long-time businessman was known for fiery speeches at City Hall, and he was often the first to ask questions when any city construction project went over-budget.
McWilliams joked that he will be “free at last,” following the last meeting.
He also said he greatly respects his council colleagues and city staff, and that he will continue following municipal politics.
“I will definitely miss you – and hold all your feet to the fire,” he said, smiling.
Coun. Lesley Parnell, his fellow councillor in Otonabee Ward, thanked McWilliams for his work and said she appreciated that she could always reach him easily by phone when she was helping constituents and needed to speak with him.
Coun. Keith Riel said he was pleased to have worked with McWilliams.
“You gave a good eight years to city council, and we’re better for it,” he said.
Coun. Dave Haacke thanked McWilliams for showing him the ropes when he was newly appointed to the police board (McWilliams is a long-time member).
Coun. Dean Pappas thanked him too, as did Coun. Don Vassiliadis, who said he enjoyed the frequent quips and one-liners from McWilliams.
Coun. Andrew Beamer also addressed him: “Thank you for your friendship and everything you’ve done for the community,” he said.
McWilliams smiled as his colleagues wished him well.
“To all of you, farewell,” he said. “Our paths will cross, out there.”