Frank Dale not running for another term as Chair

March 14, 2018 · 0 Comments

By Bill Rea
Peel Region residents will be breaking in a new Regional Chair later this year.
Current Chair Frank Dale opened last Thursday’s Regional council meeting by announcing he will not be seeking a second term. Dale, a long-time Mississauga councillor, was elected Chair in December 2014, replacing Emil Kolb, who had retired after 23 years on the job.
“I will be retiring at the end of this term,” Dale told his colleagues last week, as he thanked them for their support. “I am proud of the decisions we have made over the years that have contributed to the growth of this region.”
He also praised the work of Regional staff over the years, commenting it had been a privilege to work with such talented and dedicated public servants.
He added he plans to spend more time with his wife Terri, his family and grandchildren.
Dale was given a stranding ovation at the conclusion of his remarks.
“I think that’s the first time in my life I’ve received a standing ovation,” he joked.
Caledon Mayor Allan Thompson expressed appreciation to Dale for putting himself forward to serve the community for 30 years, calling it a “huge accomplishment.”
“On behalf of Caledon, I want to thank you for the fine work you’ve done,” Thompson added. “Caledon is better for it.”
“You’ve always been a fair man,” Caledon Councillor Annette Groves told Dale, reminding him she had been supporting him for chair from the first ballot in 2014. “We certainly appreciate your support and your advocacy for us little folks in Caledon.”
“What a career of distinction!” Mississauga Councillor Nando Iannicca said, commenting he couldn’t recall ever hearing so much as a suggestion of anything untoward regarding Dale over the years.
“There’s still time,” Dale joked.
“I’m happy for Terri,” Iannicca added. “She deserves a little bit more of you.”
“I know Terri’s happy for the moment,” Dale replied.
Dale had been re-elected to his City Council Ward 4 seat a couple of weeks before his election as Chair. Councillor John Kovac won the by-election to fill that council seat, and he thanked Dale for his guidance over the last couple of years.
“I’ve appreciated your mentorship,” he remarked.
“You’ve given a lot back to the community,” Mississauga Councillor Ron Starr told Dale.
“You’re living proof that good guys can finish first,” Mississauga Councillor George Carlson commented. “We need more decent people in politics. You’re one.”
“You’re just a nice person,” Brampton Councillor Elaine Moore told Dale. “You must be, because I didn’t vote for you as chair, and you’ve continued to be nice to me.”
Dale and all previous Regional Chairs have been elected by Regional councillors early in the new term. New Provincial legislation, however, now calls for Chairs to be elected at large by residents.