INAUGURAL ADDRESS - MAYOR KEN BERRY
November 1, 2022, 7pm; Broughton Hall
Hello, my name is Ken Berry, and I am honored to welcome you to this inaugural event. It means a great deal to me to be standing before you today in the capacity of Mayor of Lions Bay.
· I want to thank all voters for their passionate commitment to our magnificent home, and for exercising your democratic right to vote.
· I would also like to thank Judge Harris presiding over this event this evening
On behalf of the residents, I extend our thanks to outgoing Mayor Ron McLaughlin (who couldn’t be here this evening) and Councilors Fred Bain and Jamie Cunliffe.
· If you would please step forward, we would like to offer these gifts in appreciation of the many years of service you have given to our community. These beautiful carved bowls were provided from our very own resident Jim Cannal.
Most importantly, I would like to welcome my fellow council members who put their names forward to serve this community: Neville Abbott, Norm Barmeier, Michael Broughton, and Marcus Reuter.
· Congratulations on your success, and I look forward to working with you.
· On that note, let me assure you that I intend to represent all the residents of Lions Bay to the fullest extent of my abilities; not just those who voted for me; and not just those who agree with me.
· I was raised as a young boy as one of 4 brothers on our ‘home’ team, and later, played on many sports teams as just one of 20 players.
· Team play is my strength and has been my approach to successfully operating in both my life as a professional athlete and as a CEO.
· I’m a straightforward person who has approached every challenge in a culture of transparency.
· I believe in confronting and resolving issues before they fester, with a healthy regard for harmony and respect for all involved.
· I work best with others; I am not afraid to call the play when required; and get things done.
As for where we find ourselves today, to quote Bob Dylan,
· the “Times They are A-Changing”, although…in view of the fact that he wrote that song in 1964, I guess we can consider that ‘change' is the rule rather than the exception.
In the course of door-knocking and listening to the tenor of our community, I heard many long-time residents tell me that this is the most engaged they have seen our community in over 45 years.
That statement suggests two things to me:
· First…. that this is a particular moment in time where people need each other again; to check in, to share, and to de-isolate themselves from the polarization and uncertainty of our recent times.
· And second… that people need to know their interests are being prudently and transparently represented here;
· that the management and operation of the Village is administered in respect of our most significant financial investment, … our homes;
· and always with the highest regard for Lions Bay residents, both individually and in community.
As for the job at hand, the good news is that the majority of council are aligned in our goals to make a measurable difference during the next four years in office. Our Council is committed to getting to work as soon as possible.
· In this regard, I will be calling a “Special Meeting” later this week to discuss and prioritize the “key issues” that will serve as the foundation of open, responsible, and accountable governance.. and operational activity.
Lastly, we have also received an overwhelming response from individuals offering to volunteer for our committees.
I know I’m not alone, when I say, a major regret for me personally is that we do not have any women sitting on our council.
· From conversations with many, I am confident that women will assume a strong presence in our committees.
All residents can make a difference in Lions Bay, and I would encourage you to get involved when you want, for as short or long as you can.
· Lions Bay’s spirit and culture is derived from the sense of community brought about by valued volunteers.
· If anyone has an interest in joining our committees, please forward a brief note and bio to the Village office.
No single Mayor, City Council member, staffer, resident or volunteer can realize the future of this Village alone.
We need to work together to implement our shared vision for the community of Lions Bay. I invite everyone to come together to invest in our community, and our long-term future within it.
Let’s all leave a legacy of activity, engagement, and accomplishment that our children and grandchildren can point to and feel proud of.
I look forward to being your Mayor and serving the Village of Lions Bay.
Thank you.