Smithers council wished Mayor Gladys Atrill farewell during Tuesday night’s meeting, marking her final appearance at the council table.
“I know a lot of people don’t get to see what goes on behind the scenes with the mayor; all the difficult decisions that have to be made regarding the organization, and sometimes the mayor has to carry that burden alone,” said Deputy Mayor Frank Wray.
He interrupted the meeting during councillor reports to present Atrill with a bouquet of flowers on behalf of the town.
Atrill first took the position in 2020 after then mayor Taylor Bachrach was elected as the member of parliament for Skeena-Bulkley Valley in 2019.
Coun. John Buikema said he was surprised how many mayors knew Atrill while attending the Federation of Canadian Municipalities conference.
“I also just want to say, you’ve been an incredible mayor and I also consider you to be a dear friend,” Buikema said.
Atrill announced in May she was not seeking re-election in this year’s municipal election, calling her time in the seat an honor and pleasure.
“When you walk into a room, you command presence and not through fear. It’s through respect,” said Coun. Sam Raven.
Coun. Genevieve Paterson commended how Atrill handles criticism, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, calling it leadership.
“I appreciate that about you. That you’re kind, considerate, and you actually listen to people whether they are making sense or not,” said Coun. Calvin Elliot.
“Thank you for hanging in there because you have taken a lot of heat in public and I know the six of us have defended you ferociously to some people,” Coun. Laura Leonard said.
Atrill thanked each of the councillors and the staff sitting at the table during the meeting.
The nomination period for the municipal elections opened on September 1 and closes on Friday.
General voting day is October 17.
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