For more than a quarter century Bruce Lennon has served Westlock either as a school division trustee, town councillor, and for the last nine years as mayor — the last two terms of which he ran unopposed.
Let that sink in for a moment.
Twenty eight years folks. By anyone’s definition that’s more than a generation.
But now that long string of political service will come to an end this October following Lennon’s Friday announcement that he will not seek a fourth term as mayor. On behalf of the residents of Westlock, we offer a heartfelt thank you.
Granted not everyone will break out an “I Love Bruce” button or T-shirt, but even the most jaded needs to respect and admire the years of service this man has given to our community.
The Spirit Centre and Westlock Place — the affordable housing apartment complex — are two of the more polarizing projects conceived and brought to fruition during his tenure as mayor.
You will find detractors and supporters for both and ultimately they, as well as the massive water project, will be linked to his legacy.
“I’m going to be 64 in September. I want to think about slowing down and that’s my plan, but I’m obviously not going to leave town or anything,” said Lennon.
No Bruce, we don’t expect you’ll be going anywhere anytime soon. We still expect to see you at the curling rink during the winter, or maybe on the links during the summer, and of course, practising law and manning the defence table weekly in court.
Looking back on his service we’ve always admired Lennon’s low-key, understated and level-headed approach to leading the community. He’s always conducted himself with dignity and has represented the town honourably.
Speaking to him you never came away with the sense that he became mayor to stroke his ego or because he liked the idea of being “The Man.”
No, what seems to have fuelled his incredible run of service is simple — a love of Westlock and a willingness to give back to his community.
Bruce, you will be missed.
