Bruce McDonald’s years of service to the community, both as a resident, volunteer and civic politician was recognized and celebrated on Nov. 18.
The 50-plus-year North Delta resident was named 2022’s Citizen of the Year at the Delta Chamber of Commerce’s 71st Annual Hats Off to Excellence Awards Gala.
“When our nominations committee received Bruce’s name, back in September, highlighting the accomplishments he has accrued and the number of ways in which he has served throughout Delta, the committee members recognized Bruce was an excellent choice for this award,” said Chamber Executive Director Jill McKnight.
In a video shared with attendees at the event, Mayor George Harvie described the recently retired nine-term councillor as having enjoyed a “phenomenal political career” and that McDonald is “well known for his common-sense approach to everything” and of “working hard to achieve what is best for the City of Delta” in addition to his active volunteerism in Delta’s sports community as a football referee.
Coun. Dylan Kruger described McDonald as “capable, compassionate, and a real leader,” and his legacy as one which includes several decades of good governance, voting in support of Delta residents and community service groups, and of “really having that compassion for people in need in our society.”
Recently retired from public service herself, after five terms as a Delta school board trustee, Laura Dixon described McDonald’s longtime commitment to supporting children, youth and families throughout Delta.
She spoke of meeting him while they were advocating for the North Delta Family Resource Centre and that said that “what was most evident was Bruce’s caring for people in the community,” nothing that “Bruce’s impact on the community will be long-lasting.”
McDonald and his wife Barbara raised their three children in the community.
In addition to his years of public service, he worked in air traffic control for 41 years as both an operational controller and senior manager.
“Our children are all here and I’d say that they are the most important people in my life except for my grandchildren. I have quickly learned that grandchildren are the most important people in the world,” said McDonald when he accepted the award. “I have had an opportunity that very few people have over many years. I really appreciate the fact that the people in Delta opted to keep me on board and not let me retire.”
He said a few challenges this year made his decision to not seek re-election for a 10th term on council.
“As much as I would have loved to be a part of Mayor Harvie’s team, it wasn’t possible for the next four years,” he added. “When we first came here I said Delta is the best part of the best part of the best part of the world. I have grown to know and really appreciate so many people who give to this community and I’m sure that will go on. Thank you very much. Good luck to the new council and if you want any advice…you can give me a call.”
