I learned yesterday of the passing of John Counsell – former Mayor of Guelph from 1986-1994. I did not know him well, yet I recall shaking his hand once in passing at some point, and I called him once to ask about the city having a skate park built because my friends dared me to “call the Mayor”. He answered the phone gladly and spoke with me at length about the issue. Judging by this nice piece written about him in the Guelph Mercury, he seemed like a great leader and wonderful man. 

Today was my first day back after the weekend as I took some time to be with my kids during March break. We had a meeting this afternoon to discuss how to respond. We’re  honouring the request of a donation and on behalf of the Corporation of the City of Guelph and the Mayor and Council, we are donating to the Guelph Humane Society. I will also be attending the service to celebrate his life on Friday on behalf of the city.

Our city immediately decided yesterday to put our flags at city hall at half mast as well which was a wonderful gesture.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.

Thank you,

Cam