East Gwillimbury councillor Marlene Johnston retiring after 30 years on council

Yorkregion.com
August 7, 2018
Simon Martin

It’s the end of an era in East Gwillimbury. For the first time since 1985, Coun. Marlene Johnston is not running for re-election.

She has served as a town councillor for 30 years.

“Over the years, I have been privileged to meet and get to know residents from all across our town.  Their knowledge, talents and skills have amazed me,” she said.

“I will treasure the many friendships I have made as we worked together. It has been an honour to work with the people of East Gwillimbury to help make our community what it is today – a beautiful place to live and raise our families.”

While Johnston appreciated all the work done by citizens and community organization, she also wants to thank town staff for all their work throughout the years. 

Johnston's impact in the community can be seen in many different initiatives. She helped to build and launch the East Gwillimbury Chamber of Commerce, East Gwillimbury’s Farmers Market, the Golden Anchor Seniors, the East Gwillimbury Santa Clause Parade, and the Town’s Environment Committee. 

Johnston has been a passionate champion for improved environmental programs and waste reduction initiatives during her time on council. 

She helped conduct seminars for the auto recycling industry on the benefits of the “switch-out program,” safe handling of mercury from end of life vehicles, and how municipal bylaw enforcement can work with the industry.

“With my retirement, I will now begin a new chapter in my life, explore some of the wonderful artistic paths I have been longing to try and travel to parts unknown with my husband, Alvin. New challenges and experiences are ahead of me,” she said.

As Johnson bids adieu to local politics in October she wants to thank the voters of East Gwillimbury for their continued support throughout the years.

“For giving me the opportunity to crack open those budget books, work on improved environmental programs, help create policies founded on fairness, and be creative on a host of other projects over the years," she said.

"It has been a very moving and rewarding experience.”