Sutherland Shire Council’s general manager John Rayner attended his last council meeting last night after 33 years of service to the shire community and 50 years in local government.
Mayor Kent Johns officially thanks Mr Rayner for his outstanding service and dedication to the council and the community.
‘‘He leaves a legacy that few, if any, could aspire to and fewer still could emulate,’’ Cr Johns said.
The shire’s longest-serving councillors had plenty of praise to add.
Cr Kevin Schreiber said Mr Rayner will be missed by the many community groups of the shire he has helped over the years.
‘‘The groups that will miss you the most are the four Bate Bay surf clubs,’’ Cr Schreiber said.
‘‘I am sure you are going to be missed more by the community than you could ever understand.’’
Cr Phil Blight said Mr Rayner has always put the shire first.
‘‘John loves the shire. All his decisions have always been for the best of the residents. It is always what is best for the shire,’’ he said.
Cr Steve Simpson praised Mr Rayner’s foresight in supporting the Rural Fire Service which helped it rebuild after major bushfires in 2002 and 2005.
‘‘We as a council could not have survived without his diligence, friendship and companionship.
‘‘He has been an absolute man of the times and it’s always been a good time.’’
Mr Rayner praised the sound judgment of the councillors.
‘‘The decisions taken by councillors always put residents first. Not many councils have the pensioner rebate, don’t charge for parking and don’t charge for people using sporting fields.
‘‘I take a few things with me that I value; the reputation of this organisation, the fact the council is financially sound.
‘‘I hope I have contributed something to this community.’’
Mr Rayner officially retires on Friday, September 18. He will be replaced by Scott Phillips, who is general manger of Hornsby Shire Council.
Read more in Thursday’s Leader.
