KAMLOOPS — Today marks longtime city councillor Pat Wallace’s last regular meeting at Kamloops City Hall.
Wallace announced in January she would not let her name stand in the 2018 municipal election, retiring after 31 years on council.
Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Peter Milobar, who sat on Kamloops council with Wallace for nearly 15 years, paid tribute to the venerable councillor during statements in the B.C. Legislature today.
“Pat has always been known to speak her mind. Unwavering in her convictions, you always knew where you stood. But, as witnessed by the longness of associations she worked with, Pat is always looking for ways to improve people’s lives,” Milobar told the assembly.
“I was fortunate to know Pat as a family friend and, when I first sought elected office, Pat was generous with her time, giving me advice and background on issues important to Kamloops. Her ability to recall the history of issues and projects would provide much-needed depth and context to many council debates.”
“There is no doubt that Kamloops is the community it is today, (thanks) in large part to the contributions of Pat Wallace. I’m honoured and proud to not only have worked with Pat, but to stand here today and call her a friend,” Milobar continued.
“I’ll end today with a piece of advice Pat shared with me years ago, but I always remember, and I think it would serve all members of this house well some days. Early in my career, Pat looked at me and said, ‘Just remember, Peter, all fish die by the mouth.’”
Wallace was first elected to Kamloops council in 1980, served until 1986, and then was re-elected in 1993, serving eight consecutive terms.
Today also marks the last regular meeting for veteran councillor Tina Lange, who decided against running after serving four consecutive terms.
