A selection committee composed of Mayor Jim Watson, Councillor Mathieu Fleury and Councillor Jeff Leiper reviewed the applications of approximately 75 candidates who responded to the public call-out for Board members in May 2017. Candidates were assessed on the basis of their leadership skills, business experience and community awareness.
The Board, which has been tasked with developing a renewed vision and mandate for the markets, will be led by the three-member Executive Committee, appointed for a three-year term:
- Peter Hume, Chair
- Dennis Jackson, Vice-Chair
- Chantal Gingras, Treasurer
Six additional board members were appointed after consideration and approval by City Council. The following three members were selected for a two-year term:
- Ian Fraser
- Suneeta Millington
- Lauren Kennedy
A further three members were chosen to serve for a period of one year:
- Catherine Frechette
- Greg Skotnicki
- Kathleen Macmillan
The terms of all members of the Board will begin on the date of incorporation of the Municipal Services Corporation, which is expected to take place later this month. Once incorporated, the Board will administer its own processes, including recruitment and nomination of future members. Nominations will be subject to approval by City Council.
The next steps in the process of establishing the new management of the ByWard and Parkdale Markets will take place over the coming months, including the incorporation of the Municipal Services Corporation, a formal orientation for Board members by City staff, and the hiring of the Executive Director. The transition process will be reviewed by Council in the fall, in advance of the transfer of management on January 1, 2018.
Quotes
“I’m pleased that the recruitment of this Board inspired such widespread interest among residents, who showed an inspiring level of support for the markets revitalization project. The inaugural members of the Board have impressive credentials and show exemplary levels of community involvement. Together, they embody the collective qualities needed to develop a clear, innovative vision and launch a successful new management model for the ByWard and Parkdale Markets.”
Mayor Jim Watson
“The establishment of the Municipal Services Corporation is a tremendous opportunity for renewal and innovation. The experience, diversity and skills reflected in this inaugural Board will be an asset in transitioning from City operations to an entrepreneurial approach that will help build vibrant, unique and successful markets.”
Councillor Mathieu Fleury, Rideau-Vanier Ward
“My thanks go to the dozens of residents who applied to be responsible for launching the Municipal Services Corporation: the level of interest in the long-term sustainability of our markets was gratifying to see. I’m confident that the members selected represent a balance of skills and perspectives that will serve the markets well.”
Councillor Jeff Leiper, Kitchissippi Ward
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A bio of the new board members can be found here.