It was an emotional council meeting Feb. 28 as council honoured Ward 2 resident John Boich with a Civic Recognition Award for his contribution to our community over the years. though he is in poor health, John was able to attend the meeting. His wife Arlene spoke on his behalf.

Before a packed house of John’s friends, who honoured him with a standing ovation, Mayor Rick Goldring presented Boich with the award, noting that John is a “community-minded citizen… who knows what is needed to make Burlington a better place to live, work and play.”

The council agenda reads:

“Council wishes to formally recognize the significant contribution Ward 2 resident John Boich has made to our community, including his leadership of the Rambo Creek Ratepayers Association, his participation in the Burlington Inclusivity Advisory Committee, and his co-chairmanship of the Shape Burlington report on civic engagement that calls on city hall to increase ways for all residents to participate in municipal decision-making.”

I had the honour of nominating my friend for this award, and am pleased he could be with us to accept it.

John combines passion and practice. He not only dreams about making our city of Burlington more inclusive and engaged in civic decision-making, he takes meaningful, practical steps to achieve those goals.

For me personally, John has been a mentor, advocate, cheerleader, role model, comrade and good friend – someone I could always count on for an open door, a warm welcome, vigorous and respectful debate, interesting perspectives and lots of laughs.

We are blessed and much richer as a community because he is among us. His influence will be felt for years to come.