Clearview Township councillor Robert Walker was paid a special tribute at the Dec. 12 council meeting recognizing 25 years of service to the municipality.
Walker, better known as Moose, was applauded for his loyalty, caring nature and dedication to the youth of Clearview.
Walker’s family and friends were in attendance for the presentation, video tribute and reception.
Deputy clerk Brenda Falls outlined Walker’s long history in municipal politics.
Walker served his first term of council from 1983 to 1985. Falls said his first motion as councillor for the Town of Stayner was on Jan. 3, 1983 to approve the sanitation and bylaw account in the amount of $31.
Walker remained on council for the Town of Stayner for three more terms until amalgamation (when Stayner and Creemore joined with the townships of Nottawasaga and Sunnidale in 1993). He served one more term as councillor for the newly appointed Township of Clearview.
His first motion with the newly formed municipality, said Falls, was to appoint a municipal treasurer on Jan. 5, 1994.
Walker took a break from politics until he was elected Ward 5 councillor for three terms beginning in 2004.
He served along with mayors Bruce Parton, Bill Maynard, Carol Currie, Fran Sainsbury, Ken Ferguson and currently with Mayor Christopher Vanderkruys.
“As a councillor for the former Town of Stayner and Township of Clearview, Robert, through his responsible decision-making, dedication and commitment, has made many significant contributions to this community, said Falls.
“From all of us, congratulations on 25 years and we wish you many more.”
Outside of council chambers Walker has volunteered with the Stayner Lions Club, Clearview Community Theatre group, Stayner Minor Hockey, the Stayner Granite Club and the Stayner and Clearview fire departments.
Walker’s wife Judy was in attendance, along with their three daughters, eight grandchildren and his brother, Terry.
“Family is my life,” said Walker. “They have always been there and have supported me in my ventures. They even tried to push me up the ladder but I told them I am happy sitting where I am.”
He thanked staff for their knowledge and professionalism and said he is grateful for the support of staff and council through the years.