Municipality of Kincardine pays tribute to dedicated public servant, councillor Doug Kennedy

It is with deep sadness that the Municipality of Kincardine remembers the service of the late councillor Doug Kennedy (above), a dedicated public servant who spent decades serving the community as a councillor, committee chairman, coach, community organizer, neighbour, friend and, most importantly, family member.

“Doug Kennedy was more than just a member of council, he was the heartbeat of sports, recreation, and health care in our community,” said mayor Kenneth Craig. “His passion for local sports was unmatched. His legacy of tournaments and health-care fund-raising events fostered a love of sports and a sense of community spirit that will endure for generations.”

A well-known and beloved figure, Kennedy served as a municipal councillor for nearly six years. First elected to council in 2018, he served on the Kincardine Community Fund, Community Safety Committee, the Striking Committee, and the Physician Recruitment and Retention Committee.

During the current term of council, he served on the Bruce Area Solid Waste and Recycling Association and the Saugeen Mobility and Regional Transit boards, and was a member of the Community Investment Grant review committee.

Highlighting his deep commitment to this community was his unwavering advocacy to such issues as health care and recreation. He participated in Kraft Hockeyville, the Kincardine Bulldogs Beach Dance and volleyball tournaments, the annual Rock With Your Docs event, and the Recreation Revitalization Committee. He has undeniably left an indelible mark on the Municipality of Kincardine.

Chief administrative officer Jillene Bellchamber-Glazier reflected on Kennedy’s integrity and influence which were evident in every decision made at the council table.

“He always prioritized the needs of his community,” she said. “On behalf of the council, municipal staff, and the residents of Kincardine, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. The municipality will lower all municipal flags in his honour, acknowledging his years of service and dedication to our community.”

The municipality will hold a Jersey Day, Wednesday, Aug. 28, and invites everyone to wear a sports jersey in memory of Kennedy.

“We’ll have our first meeting without Doug, Aug. 28, though we know he’ll be with us in spirit,” said Craig. “In tribute to his remarkable life and commitment to our community, we can think of no better way to salute him than to wear jerseys in his honour.”

A digital memory board and memory cards are available throughout the municipality for anyone wanting to leave their condolences. For details on their locations, visit www.kincardine.ca/DougKennedy.