COLUMN: Order of Vaughan recognizes influential city-builders

yorkregion.com
April 25, 2017
By Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua

The residents of Vaughan represent the best of Canadian citizenship. The successes we proudly enjoy today are the result of many people who work together for the greater good of our community and our country. These are special individuals who, every day and in every way, make a meaningful contribution to society. Thanks to their efforts, the spirit of generosity is alive and well in our city.

The Order of Vaughan was introduced last year for the city’s 25th anniversary to celebrate people who have been influential in city-building. It is our highest civic honour and recognizes outstanding achievement and dedication to the community. I believe that exemplary citizenship must be acknowledged in a meaningful way.

Do you know someone who is deserving of the Order of Vaughan? I encourage you to nominate him or her for this prestigious award by June 15. To be eligible, a nominee must be a current or former resident of the City of Vaughan. Current employees, elected officials and public appointees at the federal, provincial or municipal level will not be considered. Nomination forms are available on our website, at Vaughan City Hall, or any of our community centres and public libraries. Supporting documents must be included at the time of submission and should speak to the character and accomplishments of the individual.

This is an exciting year for Vaughan as many major projects are being realized. New developments that will change the landscape of our city are now underway in our downtown core, the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre. The Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital, our state-of-the-art health-care facility, is now under construction, and by the end of this year, you will be able to ride the subway from right here in Vaughan. All of this is only possible because of our single greatest asset - you - the people who contribute to our success.

Every day I am inspired by the citizens of Vaughan. Our vision for the future is becoming a reality because we are blessed to have residents who dedicate their time to giving back and support our mission of moving Vaughan forward. Our journey has been impressive and, as a result of our collective efforts, together we will continue to achieve greatness. Our commitment to this city is derived from the knowledge and belief that we all play an important role in shaping its future. Together, we will continue to take Vaughan to the next level.