Statement from CAO George Vadeboncoeur - Sept. 2, 2022

“On behalf of the town, I thank Mike McWilliam for his efforts as our director of emergency services and fire chief. Mike served the department for a total of 33 years. Mike served as chief for 15 years and brought the department a long way under his leadership.

“Some of his accomplishments include overseeing construction of the new Station 1, increasing the ranks of our fire service, and procuring important new vehicles and equipment so that the department can safely respond to fires and other emergencies. Prior to his role as chief, Mike served as deputy chief and as a firefighter.

“I’m saddened that Chief McWilliam is retiring under these circumstances. The comments his family and him have endured from some over the last four weeks, since CTV Barrie News chose to air a one sided story, have been despicable. 

“We wish him the very best in his retirement.”