Dear Editor,
The 2018 city election is now in the books and it produced significant changes, with a couple of veterans being replaced with new councillors. As for me, I enjoyed the campaigning, going door-to-door and talking to hundreds of Richmond voters.
While some of the rhetoric was particularly strong, the voter turnout was also high for a civic election. I join in congratulating those re-elected, newly-elected and all the candidates who put themselves out there. I’m confident that the new council will work hard on Richmond’s behalf.
It’s also appropriate to acknowledge and to thank Ken Johnston and Derek Dang for their years of service to our city. I’ve known both for decades and I’ve known Derek and his family for 45 years. I’ve witnessed both men listen to others while considering difficult issues. In deliberations, they’ve exercised empathy, compassion, intelligence and common sense and made their decisions in good faith to the very best of their substantial abilities.
In my considerable experience, I’ve found Derek to be one of the most honest, trustworthy and sincere people I’ve known. It’s often said that public service is a calling.
I believe that to be true and I know that both Couns. Johnston and Dang believe that, too. They were there for the right reasons, serving others. They have earned our thanks.
Andy Hobbs
RICHMOND
