Ladysmith’s former mayor will be recognized by the town for his accomplishments with the inaugural Freedom of the Town honour.
Rob Hutchins served as mayor from 1993 to 2014, which the town says is the longest tenure in the town’s history.
According to a release, Hutchins is being recognized for introducing universal recycling to the area in 1995 and for being the first in Western Canada to implement organics collection in 2005.
Acting mayor Tricia McKay says Hutchins left an outstanding legacy during his term, and it’s time to recognize that.
“Many of the qualities and achievements that Ladysmith takes great pride in today can be traced back to the leadership and vision of Mr. Hutchins,” she says. “It’s a privilege to recognize his contributions with the Freedom of the Town honour.”
He also led several revitalization projects, including replanting 1,000 boulevard trees, and the revitalization of Transfer Beach Park with the Amphitheatre and Spray Park.
Hutchins will be recognized during a special ceremony at the Ladysmith Senior Centre on Dec. 17, after the conclusion of a council meeting which begins at 5:30 p.m.
