In memory of former mayor chief of staff and urban planner Alan Slobodsky, the Vaughan Council presented the Ward 4 Civic Hero Award posthumously to his family in honour of his work in the local community.

Rochelle Slobodsky accepted the award on behalf of her late husband, who was recognized for generating positive relationships between developers and the community, according to an announcement.

Vaughan’s Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua recognized Slobodsky, who also served as a member of the Preserve Thornhill Woods Ratepayers Association’s board of directors, for his strong collaboration efforts.  

“Alan Slobodsky is remembered for the lasting impact he had to his neighbourhood,” Bevilacqua said in the announcement. “He was a respected urban planner who knew the value of collaboration and co-operation. He understood that to find consensus one must work together and bring about resolution which enhances the public good.”

“His commitment to family and community and his determination to make a positive contribution to this world, has without a doubt strengthened the social and cultural fibre in the City of Vaughan,” Bevilacqua said.

Sandra Yeung Racco, Ward 4 councillor, reiterated Slobodsky’s achievements in bringing people together for the benefit of the community.

“Alan Slobodsky was someone who could bring people together, find consensus and develop a solution," Racco said. “I am grateful for the positive impact he has left on our city.”