A Tribute To The Late Rob Ford

Photo above: Then Toronto Mayor Rob Ford appears in front of the media in Toronto, on Friday, January 25, 2013, after learning that he has successfully appealed a decision to remove him from office, following a conflict of interest hearing. Photo credit: The Canadian Press/Chris Young.

By Rupert Johnson
PRIDE Columnist

It is indeed with a great deal of sadness that we mourn the loss of our erstwhile mayor, Rob Ford, who passed away on March 22, 2016 at the relatively young age of 46.

Yes, he was a controversial figure—hated and derided by some, and loved and embraced by many. But no one can question his total commitment to public service.

No one can truly say that he entered the political arena for financial gain. On the contrary, he did not gouge the public purse by accepting enormous expense accounts. Instead of taking he gave with open arms. Rob’s generosity was boundless.

He was undoubtedly a breath of fresh air in his mayoral campaign in 2010, when he castigated city councillors for their extravagance in wasting taxpayers’ money. His “gravy train” slogan certainly resonated with the electorate who became increasingly disenchanted with the shenanigans of their elected officials.

As soon as Rob was elected mayor of Toronto, one of the highlights of his many achievements was the abolition of the infamous automobile registration fee. This was indeed a punitive tax imposed on all automobile owners. And who can forget his fight to abolish the ill- advised transfer tax.

When it comes to transit in Metro Toronto, Rob Ford was a man of vision. He never wavered in his relentless call for an up-to-date network of subways in Toronto.

On a personal level, Rob Ford was perhaps the most approachable, reliable, and people-friendly mayor and politician that Toronto has ever had. It is reported that he always responded to everybody’s telephone call. He always treated everyone with respect and courtesy.

In spite of his personal indiscretions and shortcomings, I salute Rob Ford for his generosity and total commitment to public service.

I also extend condolences to his wife, children and entire family circle, and may his soul rest in peace.

Rupert Johnson can be reached at: r.b.johnson@sympatico.ca