As he sat for one of the last times in his familiar seat at Monday’s council meeting, retiring city manager George Murray was hailed for his work and leadership over the past five years.
Mayor Henry Braun called Murray “one of my most-trusted advisors” and saluted his work ethic and leadership skills in the city’s top non-political job.
Murray, who suffered a heart attack last April, announced in January he had decided to step down after he helped council find a replacement. In light of last year’s health scare, Murray said he and his family decided they needed to spend more time together.
On Monday, Braun cited Murray’s mix of business and government acumen and said he “has been a driving force in moving our city forward these last five years.”
“You truly have been a force and the difference you have made will be long-lasting,” Braun said. “Council and I can bear testimony that you are the definition of a committed public servant, using your talents and expertise to improve the community around you.”
Braun said Monday’s slate of council meetings would be Murray’s last. A replacement has not yet been named, but an announcement is likely soon.
Murray had previously held top jobs at the school district and the Fraser Valley Regional District. He was hired in 2013, just eight days after his predecessor, Frank Pizzuto, resigned.
The five years since Murray assumed the role of city manager has seen significant change across Abbotsford, and at city hall. In 2016, the city adopted a new official community plan, and proceeded to embark on its Plan200k process which is seeing the creation, or revision, of more than a dozen policies and plans. He also oversaw the city end its ill-fated deal with the Abbotsford Heat.
Since 2013, the city’s financial position has strengthened significantly, with capital reserves growing by more than $150 million. Braun has credited Murray, a certified general accountant, with much of that improvement.
On Monday, Coun. Dave Loewen said Murray has helped make council more efficient, been vital in explaining the powers of the city, and helped lead with integrity, accountability and transparency. He also said Murray had an “ability to recognize situations, for lack of a better word, where the city was taken advantage of … and you were able to negotiate something better for the city.
And Coun. Patricia Ross hailed him for his previous work with the Fraser Valley Regional District.
“I can’t underline the word integrity enough.”
@ty_olsen
tolsen@abbynews.com
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