Image: Screenshot, chilliwack.com / Councillor Sue Knott bids an emotional farewell to Mayor Ken Popove and her councillor colleagues during her final council meeting after 14 years as an elected official in Chilliwack.
City Council

Councillor Sue Knott says goodbye in an emotional farewell to City Hall after 14 years of service to Chilliwack

Oct 19, 2022 | 1:58 PM

CHILLIWACK — Councillor Sue Knott bid an emotional farewell to her colleagues and city staff during her final council meeting Tuesday, as she leaves municipal office following 14 years of public service.

One by one, her council colleagues who were present acknowledged her years of service before Knott graciously thanked city staff and recalled the many accomplishments brought about by current and former mayors and council members.

“So, today is my last city council meeting, and what a wonderful experience the last 14 years has been,” Knott said. “I have been honoured to have a say in the future. We as a team of mayors and councils have accomplished some really amazing things during that time.”

Knott touted the Chilliwack Cultural Centre, the Sardis Library, and the revitalization of the downtown core, including District 1881, which is now a destination for Chilliwack residents and patrons alike.

Referring to the downtown transformation, Knott said, “That was a long uphill battle, but the Algra Brothers have brought our dreams into our reality.”

During her tenure in office, Knott said the city has dealt with floods, atmospheric rivers, the opioid crisis, homelessness, mental health issues, rising crime rates, a housing crisis, and what she called “one very scandalous councillor.” She did not name the “scandalous councillor.”

At one point or another, Knott said she had chaired or vice-chaired almost every committee at City Hall, comparing it to a labour of love.

Pausing to gather her emotions at times, Knott said, “I have loved it all because I’ve had the tireless team of city staff doing all…the hard work behind the scenes. Honestly, I don’t think they get enough recognition for the amazing job they do.”

Knott, the only female councillor, will be replaced by Nicole Huitema Read. All five incumbent councillors were re-elected in Saturday’s municipal election, as was Mayor Ken Popove.

Knott said she had the privilege to meet and interact with so many exceptional individuals and organizations along the way.

“I will miss my life at City Hall more than you can possibly know,” Knott said. “But what a great team you’ve elected. I’m absolutely thrilled. I love them all. Democracy is shining bright in Chilliwack. In closing, I want to add one thing so you won’t forget me. Every time you drive around the Evans roundabout, remember that I brought you the much loved and much hated flowers.”