It has been a hectic month as Acting Mayor, with the public piano issue dominating the news and much of my time. Media expressed great interest so I did four radio spots, one TV spot and an editorial in the Oak Bay News. But here is a pleasant ending to my month, a picture taken today, July 31, of a group gathered at the Beach Drive and Oliver piano location, playing other instruments and singing. Residents across the street were thrilled and enjoyed free entertainment by this “band.” They sent along this photo with accolades about the piano and today’s performance overlooking stunning McNeill Bay.
Staff were instrumental in providing assistance to me as Acting Mayor this month and especially helped me to stick handle media enquiries and public responses to individual complaints, as well as developing a plan to effectively address issues at two locations. I am grateful for all their help. I also attended a variety of events in Oak Bay and enjoyed representing Council.
I hope your summer is going well and that you are enjoying glorious but hot weather. Safe travels if you going away on holiday, as I am in mid-August. Councillor Kevin Murdoch will be taking up the reins as Acting Mayor on August 1st. I wish him well.