York Region Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch announces intention to retire at end of current term

Currently the longest-serving Chairman in the Region's history

TORONTO, Sept. 20, 2012 /CNW/ - York Region Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch today informed members of Regional Council his intention to retire from public service following the current term of office, effective November 2014.

Chairman Fisch is currently the longest-serving Chairman in the Region's history, and will complete a 17-year tenure upon his retirement and 26 years of public service.

"My decision to retire is based on the right reason; my family," said Chairman Fisch. "By the end of this term, I will be almost 66 years old and it is time to devote my energy to my wife, Tova, my children and three grandchildren."

"It is no cliché when I say I have enjoyed the best job I could ever imagine, surrounded by great people on Regional Council, and skilled and dedicated Regional staff," added Chairman Fisch. "We have enjoyed many accomplishments together, and this Region, which is my home, will enjoy many more."

First elected to the then Town of Markham as a local Councillor in 1988 and a Markham Regional Councillor in 1994, Chairman Fisch became the Region's fifth Chairman in 1997, when he was elected by members of Regional Council to succeed Eldred King. He was subsequently acclaimed by Regional Council following the next four municipal elections.

In his capacity as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of York Region, Chairman Fisch is an ex-officio member of all Regional Committees. Known as a results-oriented leader, Chairman Fisch is well-regarded for his vast political experience and ability to give all opinions equal consideration.

"I often describe York Region as a confederation of nine vibrant communities, and each possess unique attributes that make us a destination of choice," said Chairman Fisch. "It has been an honour to serve Council and the residents of this great Region, and I will continue to serve in the same fashion for the balance of this term."

Chairman Fisch has served as a Board member for a number of organizations, including York Regional Police Services Board, Association of Municipalities of Ontario, Toronto and Regional Conservation Authority, York Central Hospital, Metrolinx, GO Transit Board and has been Chair and CEO of the Rapid Transit Board since 2002.

A leader in the community and volunteer efforts, Chairman Fisch has directed fundraising efforts to the United Way York Region, Ontario Special Olympics, Children's Safety Village of York Region and the Chairman Dinner for the Arts to showcase new artists.

A graduate of Queen's University with a Bachelor of Commerce, Chairman Fisch holds a Juris Doctor degree from Osgoode Hall Law School and was a practicing lawyer for 21 years.

The Regional Municipality of York provides services to 1.1 million residents and 41,000 businesses that employ 516,000 people

SOURCE: Regional Municipality of York

Media Contact: Patrick Casey, Director, Corporate Communications, The Regional Municipality of York
905-830-4444 or 1-877-464-9675, ext. 1235 Cell: 905-715-8211 [email protected]