Outgoing Mayor Denise O'Connor shared the following message:
As I end my term as Mayor and pass on my responsibilities to incoming Mayor Jennifer Thoss, I want to express my sincere appreciation for the trust that residents and property owners of the Village of Lytton placed in me. It has been an honour and a privilege to be your Mayor over the past four years.
I want to thank my fellow members of Council for their dedication and service, and for committing to another term in office. Together, we made difficult decisions and faced many challenges. I am truly grateful to have worked alongside you.
I am incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished. Together, we helped move the Village from a State of Local Emergency to what we see today, with many homes rebuilt and commercial buildings under construction on Main Street, including the grocery store.
The work of rebuilding Lytton is far from complete. Jennifer Thoss will now lead Council as Mayor as recovery efforts continue. While I am disappointed not to see this work through myself, I trust that good governance and good decision-making at the Council table will keep Lytton moving forward not only for people living here today, but also for future generations.
I want to recognize Chief Administrative Officer Diane Mombourquette. Over the past three years, she has built an exceptional team of employees and contractors. Our Village Office and Public Works staff have provided stability and commitment throughout an incredibly challenging period, while our recovery team has brought expertise, dedication, and professionalism to the rebuilding effort. I am deeply appreciative of everything you have contributed to Lytton.
Over the past four years, my learning curve has been steep. I am especially grateful for the many people who became mentors along the way, including the mayors of neighbouring communities who I could call for advice at any time, my colleagues on the Union of BC Municipalities Board, and many others.
Finally, thank you to the people of Lytton for your support and encouragement throughout my time as Mayor. Although I am leaving Council, I am not leaving Lytton. Volunteering has always been important to me, and I look forward to continuing to support our community in new ways. Lytton is a truly special place, and it will always be home.