Past Employee Spotlights

Jeff Walters started at the City in 2022 as a Communications Officer supporting the Development and Emergency Services department before joining the Corporate Communications team in 2023.

It wasn’t long until the Community Communications Committee recognized an alignment with Jeff’s skills in radio, and on Jan. 10, 2024, The Minutes debuted as a City-run podcast hosted by Jeff that recaps what happens at City Council on a weekly basis. 

“My experience as a local radio reporter for 15 years with 12 of those years covering City Council helped me to develop an in-depth understanding of municipal government,” said Jeff. “Knowing who to connect with and what questions to ask, and just overall simplifying the decisions made at Council into a format that the public can more easily understand is something I’m proud to be a part of.”

The Minutes was recently recognized by the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario in its 2024 Transparency Challenge that highlights creative and unique projects that advance open data and government transparency.

Each episode covers Council highlights on a weekly basis, along with an in-depth interview with a member of City administration to speak to the decisions made.

“I learned early on in my journalism career that people care about what’s happening in their communities—they want to know details, and they appreciate when someone makes the effort to share stories that matter to them. I take this same perspective today and apply it in my current job.”

As a previous journalist, Jeff spent considerable time traversing northern Ontario meeting many people who helped him cover stories of all kinds. “I travelled as far as Manitoba to the west, Fort Frances to the south, White River to the east, and Pickle Lake to the north to get the story, and I feel just as committed to sharing information now as I did then. It’s important to keep people informed.”

Sometimes getting the story can be challenging. “I rely on interviews to do my job, which can be difficult at times when it comes to planning in-studio sessions with staff who have competing priorities. But once the interview is complete, I can take it from there and work to edit the video and sync up the audio versions to be accessible online.”

The podcast can be heard on the City’s website, www.thunderbay.ca/theminutes, the City’s YouTube and social media channels, and through numerous podcast providers. Recently, the podcast began airing on Rogers TV, Tbaytel TV and CKSI Radio.

The City has a new Wellness Coordinator! Brigitte Champaigne-Klassen began in late June and has been immersing herself in all things health and wellness, planning new and improved programs and initiatives to promote employee mental health and wellbeing.

Recently, she focused on organizing a full week of employee appreciation events in October, designed to foster connection, fun, and inclusivity across City departments. These events featured a variety of activities, from art to fitness and entertainment.

Looking ahead, Brigitte will collaborate with the Psychological Health and Safety Committee to deliver the City’s Wellness Survey in 2025. The survey, last conducted in 2019, is a vital tool for assessing staff health and wellbeing needs, and helping to shape future benefits, programs, and policies that reflect these needs. She is also excited to organize winter wellness activities for employees to explore.

Before joining the City, Brigitte completed her Master's in Health Sciences at Lakehead University, which deepened her understanding of health as influenced by the complex intersections of community, institutions, and individuals.

"My education and previous roles in supporting mindfulness and self-care for professionals have shaped my human-centric approach, which seeks to bridge the gap between the academic aspects of health and wellness by finding creative solutions that benefit people in tangible ways.”

As the Wellness Coordinator, Brigitte describes her role as a blend of individual and teamwork, focusing on planning and promoting health and wellness programs for City staff as part of the Well at Work program. “As part of the Safety and Wellness team, I am inspired by the broader opportunities ahead to connect all employees as one team supporting our city.”

After three decades in public service, Karen Lewis is conflicted.

She’s ready to retire – and reluctant to leave.

“I’m leaving the best job I ever had,” says Karen. “Working for the City of Thunder Bay has given me an incredibly diverse career with many jobs and opportunities – all with the same employer.”

She started with the City of Thunder Bay in 1994 as Corporate Relations Analyst and went on to create the City’s corporate communications function, which she led for 25 years. After about 10 of those years, she added strategy to her portfolio, eventually becoming Director of Corporate Strategic Services. More recently, she oversaw streamlining development approvals as the General Manager of Development & Emergency Services and then the success of programs and services as General Manager of Corporate Services. 

Karen’s commitment to the City and its people is clear; she’s served on numerous committees such as Clean, Green and Beautiful, two anniversary committees—the 25th and 50th, and was the administrative lead on the creation of the Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC). Karen was also the interim CEO at CEDC for five months in 2013 and has served on the Board as the City Manager’s representative for more than four years. Her leadership has been central to the success of several City-wide projects over the years.

Karen credits her energy and drive to her entrepreneurial family who built a medium-sized stainless steel fabricating company from the ground up in Toronto. She believes her upbringing and experiences in the private and not-for-profit sectors led her to become what is known as an intrapreneur, someone who brings the entrepreneurial spirit and mindset to start ups within an organization.

Karen highlights working with Council and the Senior Leadership Team on five successive strategic plans as transformative to her career.

“I aim to build things that last,” says Karen, citing her relationships and the work she’s done around initiatives as diverse as the City’s response to the Seven Youth Inquest, the creation of the CEDC, the introduction of the Municipal Accommodation Tax, and the City’s ubiquitous Superior by Nature logo as examples of meaningful work that she always takes the long view on.

She emphasizes the importance of working well together and having the tools, resources, and supports in place for employees to effectively do their jobs. “As one of the City’s General Managers, that’s part of my job, to support continuous improvement that ultimately helps to better serve the public.”

She knows she will miss the people who keep the City going – and that she’ll stay involved in the community she loves.

“It’s been an honour to work with such amazing people over the years that I’ve come to know and love and will remember fondly,” says Karen. “Working at the City with people who are committed to making a difference, and having some fun along the way, has been very rewarding.”

Thank you, Karen, for your steadfast commitment and meaningful contributions at the City of Thunder Bay. Best wishes in retirement!

Aneesh James started at the City last fall as a Network Infrastructure Administrator in the Corporate Information Technology (CIT) department. He is passionate about his job, saying it aligns with the interests he’s had since he was a child in India and his uncle introduced him to computers.

Aneesh went on to choose engineering in school, where he enjoyed the programming side of things, but found he was more drawn to exploring the intricacies of hardware networking and how information is processed.

“I find the work exciting; the fact that everyone needs to connect, and I get to help make that happen and ensure that people and departments are safely and securely accessing and sharing information,” says Aneesh.

Whether it’s software, security or troubleshooting, there’s a lot to ensuring network systems continue to run smoothly. Aneesh appreciates the opportunity to gain experience at every stage.

“I didn’t get the same opportunities when I worked in similar roles in the bigger cities. Here, there's a wider scope of projects that I get to be a part of from start to finish. I’m learning a lot and look forward to continuing to help my team succeed.”

While network speed is a good thing at work, Aneesh prefers a more relaxed pace when it comes to where he lives. “I appreciate the slower pace of Thunder Bay and the work-life balance provided at the City, it's a great place to be.”

Every year, the City of Thunder Bay advertises and fills a range of summer student positions that run through August. Through this initiative, Allison Farrish is in her second year as the City’s Student Solid Waste & Recycling Analyst.

Allison is enrolled in Mechanical Engineering and Master of Business Administration programs at Lakehead University. “I was immediately intrigued by this student job posting, as I’m interested in environmental topics,” said Allison. “Over the past two summers, I have learned a lot about the importance of waste management and waste diversion, which has shaped my current interests.”

“My job with Solid Waste & Recycling primarily consists of working on projects to divert waste from the landfill. I work with the Waste Diversion Coordinator to implement programs to increase public recycling, and help keep reusable items out of the landfill. Some of these projects are short-term, like creating a pen recycling program, and others are long term – for example, researching the different ways of dealing with mattresses.”

Allison’s biggest project this season was the recent launch of the new Community Clean-Up Trailer. “The premise is a transportable trailer that can be booked for free for public use to help facilitate litter clean-ups,” said Allison.

Allison has also been essential to the development and recent launch of the City’s new children’s bicycle reuse program, called Second Spin. She has been very busy connecting used bikes in good condition with happy parents and kids.

Looking to the future, Allison is in her final year in student employment with the City. “Learning about waste and recycling in the environmental sector has given me a clearer direction. I have had great mentors here, and I’ve gained new skills that are transferable for my future career.”

“I love being able to contribute to my hometown, and I hope to continue being a part of waste management in Thunder Bay.”

A few months ago, Paula Cunningham saw the posting for her current position, Housing Accelerator Coordinator – Affordable Housing Lead, and felt drawn to apply because it aligned with her values and interests in housing and the building process. She had previously been working closely with the municipal sector in both Sudbury and Thunder Bay and felt she could help others navigate the complexities of obtaining the necessary permits and regulations.

“As a resident looking to add another dwelling to my property, I learned a lot about the requirements and how the process works,” says Paula. “I found it all interesting and jumped at the opportunity to guide others towards building affordable housing.”

With the new Housing Accelerator funding, there are currently incentives available for members of the public looking to build new units in the Strategic Core Areas—North Core, South Core and Westfort. A Housing CIP is in the works for properties outside of these core areas and will be coming soon.

“I love talking to members of the public about the projects they’re considering and how they can take advantage of the funding grants available. Primarily, my role involves assisting non-profits, but I enjoy finding out about innovative, creative building solutions that homeowners are implementing to help tackle the housing crisis.”

The City of Thunder Bay has since been awarded up to $20.7 million from the Government of Canada through the Housing Accelerator Fund to fast-track the development of over 600 new housing units over the next three years, to reach a total of 1,691 new permitted homes by February 2027.

“So many exciting things are happening in housing in Thunder Bay. I’m thrilled to be a part of it, from helping non-profits through our Affordable Rental Housing Funding Program and our Housing Community Improvement Plan coming soon. Let’s build Thunder Bay!”

To learn more about the Housing Accelerator Action Plan initiatives and Program Goals, visit buildthunderbay.ca

 As a self-described introvert who had no sights on becoming a City Manager, Norm Gale retires this June as the longest standing City Manager in Thunder Bay’s history. He took the reins eight years ago in January 2016 after being nudged to apply by people who saw in him the potential to lead the City.

“Once I began to seriously consider it, I found the position appealed to me in many ways—so I applied—and the outcome changed my life forever,” says Norm.

Having held previous leadership positions in public service and taking a personal interest in leadership, strategy, business and politics, Norm called upon his experience and interests to lead with a style that brought out the strengths of his teams.

“It’s about collaboration. I’m interested in everyone’s viewpoint, and I will change my mind when presented with new information,” says Norm. “I count on my team day in and day out. Their professionalism even when we have differing views is really something I’ve come to value and respect.”

Norm brought to the role an organized and efficient style that saw meetings start on time and to the minute. This, along with his commanding presence, proved effective in many ways but notably during emergencies where he led his teams during First Nations evacuations, several near-strikes and an unprecedented global pandemic. There were a lot of trying situations on Norm’s watch and yet he made it look easy.

“It’s important to be decisive and the best way to do that is to be informed,” he says. “In an evermore unstable world, it’s imperative to have a baseline on what’s happening with the economy, business, and geopolitical affairs because all of these things have implications on a municipality.”

Norm reads voraciously. Every day he starts with the local news, followed by the major dailies in Toronto and onto international affairs. He reads several books at a time— currently all non-fiction except one he’s reading now that’s been on his list for years: Once an Eagle by Anton Myrer.

Prior to the pandemic, Norm read extensively about pandemics and the disruptions they have on society, the economy, supply chains and the labour market, so when one happened, he was able to call upon that knowledge. In fact, he keeps a library at work (and at home) that he references often for a myriad of topics.

In talking one-on-one with Norm, he’s surprisingly more reserved, with a quieter voice and thoughtful insights—and a rich sense of humour. He attributes his more subdued nature to being an introvert, which is often met with disbelief.

He points to a book in his office library, Quiet, it’s called, by Susan Cain: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. The book discusses the power and potential of the quiet ones who largely avoid the spotlight but have much to offer. (It’s worth noting that there’s a difference between being shy and being an introvert. Norm isn’t shy.)

“I make a point to ask the quiet ones in the room what their thoughts are on the issues at hand,” says Norm. “I love working with a diversity of people overall who help get the job done and who enjoy doing it.”

Norm feels lucky to have worked with such great people over his 33 years with the City, and the feeling is mutual. On behalf of everyone at the City, and on City Council, thank you, Norm, for your dedicated service.

Karen Kerk joined the City in 2023 to lead innovative collaborations between post-secondary students and the City as the Coordinator of a three-year pilot program known as CityStudio.

“CityStudio explores ways for the City to leverage student and faculty resources on a variety of innovative, community-driven projects in areas such as healthcare, marketing and even GIS mapping,” explains Karen.

She says her job has been likened to a matchmaker of sorts where she looks to match the needs of City projects with post-secondary capabilities.

“I network with a lot of people to sort of shop around ideas and find a fit for a project, which at times can be challenging, especially when it comes to ensuring projects and plans align with academic calendars.”

One thing Karen would like to do more of is connect with City staff on ways that CityStudio can support some of the projects that employees are working on.

“I welcome employee input and ideas and plan to meet with more City staff in the weeks ahead to provide brief training sessions that explain the benefits of CityStudio and how it can be applied towards advancing strategic and operational plans, while also supporting real-world experience for students and employment opportunities throughout the community.” 

After a successful year that saw more than 100 students from Lakehead University, Confederation College and NOSM University participate in 24 different project collaborations, Karen looks forward to continuing to make community connections that make a difference.

“The most rewarding part of my job is sharing in the enthusiasm that new ideas can generate and exploring the potential to improve Thunder Bay for the betterment of all.”

To learn more, visit www.thunderbay.ca/CityStudio or contact Karen at 807-631-4997, karen.kerk@thunderbay.ca  

Jeff Coull began working at the City in 2006 as a student in Parks. From there, he went on to the Water Pollution Control Plant as an Operator, where he remained until finding his way back to Parks as a Supervisor of Marina Park Operations in 2022.

Water continues to be an ever-present theme for Jeff as he recently decided to enter the popular fundraiser, Polar Bear Plunge, to help kids in our community access sports and recreational activities through PRO Kids.

“I look at the lake everyday and I’ve contemplated participating in the Polar Bear Plunge before, so this year I decided it’s time,” said Jeff, who has since recruited coworkers, Jason Corbett, Supervisor - Parks Operations North, and Brock Bodnar, Field Supervisor – Operations, to join him. 

Calling themselves New Kids in the Park, the team of newbies to the Polar Bear Plunge aren’t doing anything special to prepare for the ice-cold dip into Lake Superior on April 6. “Jason is in Cuba right now, so I wouldn’t call that preparing,” laughs Jeff. “Other than that, I’m just hoping it’s not -40 out!”

The event will be one more way that Jeff contributes to the community in addition to his job where he balances the cruise ship terminal, boater services and overseeing maintenance and operations of Marina Park.

“Really, what’s not to love about the Marina, it’s the most beautiful place in the city with so much happening,” said Jeff. “One moment we’re servicing the ice rink, and next, looking to accommodate 250 boats that want in the water; it’s very fast paced.”  

Jeff notes a unique factor about his work at the Marina is that he works with all the various municipal departments at some point. “We work with Arenas, Facilities, Roads, Sewer and Water, Recreation & Culture, Fire, Police and more. Teamwork is key at the Marina and keeps things interesting for sure.”

Hafi Sayed joined the City as a Community Anti-Racism & Equity Coordinator Intern in December 2023. His focus is on supporting the Anti-Racism and Equity  Advisory Committee’s awareness initiatives including helping with communications and event planning. He is also helping with the 2024 respect awards, which coincide with the annual United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21. 

Previously, Hafi held a variety of community-minded positions in Thunder Bay, such as being a youth ambassador promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, and serving on the Friends of the Conservatory Board. All this, while also pursuing a master’s degree in business administration at Lakehead University.

“I enjoy keeping busy and staying engaged on what’s happening locally,” says Hafi, who acknowledges his schedule is hectic. “Being a part of helping citizens learn about and get involved in important programs and services is something I find motivating.”

Hafi recognizes when it comes to addressing racism and promoting greater diversity and inclusion, there are many shared objectives with various agencies and organizations, and he looks forward to collaborating more with the broader community to help shape change in our city.

“My work is very much team-oriented with many people involved in making decisions,” says Hafi. “It’s very rewarding working with a committed group of people who have a passion for making our community stronger.”

Samantha Stovel began working at the City as a Volunteer Program Coordinator with Recreation and Culture in April 2021. 

“The City is a fun place to work with a lot of great opportunities to collaborate with amazing people and learn and grow along the way,” says Samantha.

She and her colleague Tessa Hettrick, Program Volunteer Coordinator, are collaborating as Co-Chairs of the volunteer committee for the Ontario Winter Games happening Feb. 16 –26.

“Initially, we had a goal of recruiting 800 volunteers—and we were confident we could reach that, but then we got to a place where we had to close applications early because we had 1000 volunteers sign-up—a good problem to have,” laughs Samantha. “I think it speaks to the excitement of residents—that our city is hosting such a huge sporting event; people want to be a part of this unique opportunity in our community.”

Managing communication with so many volunteers requires a separate email address that sees an average of 50 emails a day from volunteers asking questions and offering ways to help. Samantha and Tessa find themselves juggling competing priorities between the Games and their regular day-to-day duties.

“February is a very busy month in general for our section with Winter FunDays and SnowDay. Our team is always planning and preparing for the next event, and we couldn’t do it without the amazing volunteers of Thunder Bay!” adds Samantha. 

Keri Greaves - City Treasurer

After spending most of his career in the public sector as a finance manager, Keri Greaves felt it was time for a new challenge, so he applied and was hired as the new City Treasurer in September 2023.

His office is responsible for handling financial affairs of the municipality, ensuring compliance with statutory obligations, maintaining accurate records and accounts, and providing information as required or requested by City Council.

Right away Keri recognized the strengths of his team saying they are truly experts in their field as he observed their ability to juggle competing priorities with pride.

“My team and I oversee an effective system of internal controls and essentially ensure corporate assets are protected,” says Keri.

It’s that level of cross-functional collaboration within his team and the City overall that Keri appreciates. 

“We’re here to provide expertise and advice, whether that be financial services, planning, or supply management, to help other areas of the Corporation to be successful.”

Cory Auger, Coordinator of Park Services, began at the City in the Parks Division in 1998 after obtaining his diploma in Recreational Leadership at Confederation College.

He sees his job duties as comparable to those he follows as a football coach.

“With 32 years coaching football, I’ve learned a lot of skills that help me on the job,” explains Cory, “Being prompt and organized at work is equal to creating a practice plan or scheming offensive plays on the football field.”

Whether it’s the design and installation of a new playground at Trowbridge Falls Park or the construction of Thunder Bay’s first batting cage at the Chapples Cricket Field, Cory knows the importance of communicating with community groups including sports organizations, park volunteers and contractors.

“There’s a lot of moving parts. From coordinating schedules to overseeing maintenance duties and capital projects, the importance of teamwork is key to a project’s success.”

Upon each project’s completion, Cory feels a sense of accomplishment. “I am proud to be a part of a team that works hard to provide citizens and community groups with fun and safe park amenities.”

Shane Rinne knew he wanted to pursue a career working with water since his postsecondary years. After gaining experience checking bridges and culverts in his previous employment, he applied to the City as a seasonal employee for Water and Sewer North. Here, his strengths in the field advanced, and he became a full-time member of the team in January 2023.

“Every day is different; a new day presents new challenges that require different solutions—it keeps the job interesting,” says Shane.

He credits his diploma and degree in forestry for providing him with a solid starting point to support his career. “The work is so specialized with things changing all the time that there’s a lot to learn both in theory and in practice.”

After the City’s water leaves Bare Point Water Treatment Plant, Shane and his coworkers are responsible for what happens to it on its way to users. If there’s a watermain break or a service leak, they’ll be the ones to fix it. They perform regular water quality checks that includes flushing hydrants and ensuring the water remains safe for residents.

Shane credits his team for sharing their collective knowledge of policies and procedures from their experience on the job. “They’ve been integral to my understanding of how Thunder Bay’s specific water system works and how to keep our City’s water safe and flowing, which is so rewarding.”

Fletcher Anderson has worked for the City the last two summers as a Student Labourer, beginning in May 2022. In earlier years he gained experience working for a residential grass-cutting business where he learned how to drive with a trailer, use grass-cutting equipment and weed whackers, and lay sod. “It’s been handy that I already had some experience in these areas,” said Fletcher.

In his daily work, Fletcher and the crew he works with is given a weekly list of City parks and tasks that need to be completed. The crew manages their time throughout the week to complete the tasks. “The work varies,” said Fletcher. “We’re not always mowing grass. Sometimes we’ll be laying sod, sometimes raking ball diamonds, or even collecting litter and taking it to the landfill site.”

One aspect of the job that Fletcher enjoys is its hours: “It’s regular work with regular hours, 8 to 4:30 every weekday. And it’s outdoors – no sitting at a desk.” Summer parks workers do their jobs in crews of two or three.

Fletcher appreciates that his work makes a difference for City residents and visitors. “You’re doing a City service job, and you want to do the best job possible.”

“When we visit parks, for instance, we might not only be mowing grass, but also checking playground equipment to make sure it’s in good repair and safe,” said Fletcher.

“The work is definitely team oriented, and the people I work with are awesome.”

Karen Bonazzo began her career with the City in May 2015 as a summer student, in the Human Resources & Corporate Safety (HRCS) Division. After she finished school, she was hired as a Human Resources Assistant and then as the Staffing & Development Consultant. For her final role in HRCS, she stepped in to cover a parental leave as the City’s Health & Wellness Coordinator.
The most recent move for Karen was into the City’s Community Services Department, where she is celebrating her first anniversary as Special Events Developer in the Recreation & Culture Division. In this position, Karen is responsible for 13 large-scale City events through the year.

“I think I was born an event planner,” said Karen. “While working in Human Resources I planned the yearly 25-year Service and Retirees Banquet as well as many employee appreciation events. I’ve also been known to plan weddings in my spare time!”

“Now I am in my element at work. Who else gets to plan events like SnowDay on the Waterfront, Quest: Tech & Gaming, and Kite Festival? Right now in Rec & Culture I’ve just finished Canada Day on the Waterfront, and the next events are Teddy Bears Picnic on July 11, and the Live on the Waterfront series that starts July 19. There is always something exciting happening!”

Spring and summer is the busiest time for Karen, since many events are scheduled close together to take advantage of the good weather. Organizing a successful event usually involves collaboration with many individuals and groups. “All of my events are quite large and require support from many different areas within the City as well as food vendors, community groups and other agencies,” said Karen.

“I am very lucky to be supported by amazing coworkers throughout the City to make these events happen. I am also thankful for my team, who comes together to help support me during the events. Our Volunteer Coordinator always ensures we are supported by trained volunteers. Our Cultural Development and Public Art Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator connect with a range of community organizations to help promote arts opportunities connected with our events. Similarly, our Community Program Developer helps organize the community groups that apply to participate. Our team supervisor plays a huge part in our stage performances, especially with Live on the Waterfront, and our Assistant Coordinator of Festivals and Events was instrumental in helping to coordinate Kite Festival with the Canadian Forces Snowbirds this spring.”

Asked if there is a calmer time of year for her, Karen said, “Normally the fall is my ‘quiet season,’ when I start to prepare everything for the next year. However, this year I’m chairing the Special Events Committee for the 2024 Ontario Winter Games, to take place in Thunder Bay next February - so my quiet season won’t be very quiet.”

“I’ve learned a lot this past year, especially with bringing back our full event season after the pandemic. It is a privilege to offer free events to city residents and visitors. In my job, every day brings something different, something new to learn and new people to meet. I am very thankful for all of the support I receive from the various divisions throughout the City. I couldn’t do this work without them! I am excited about the future of City events, and am always looking for ways to improve them. For all these reasons, I really feel I have the best job!”

Sustainability is always a passion for Amy Coomes. “It’s great to meet and collaborate with so many amazing colleagues across the entire City organization and in other municipalities,” said Amy. “And, I love that I am working towards a strategy that will help to make Thunder Bay more sustainable.”

Thunder Bay, along with all cities in Ontario, is required to make a long-term, comprehensive plan to manage, renew and finance its assets including roads, sewers, water systems, parks equipment, vehicles, buildings, wetlands, trees and many more categories. “Not all assets are managed the same way,” said Amy. “There is a lot of learning to understand the condition of assets, their expected life, risk of failure, rehabilitation options and costs, and how the data about the assets is stored. The lifecycle of each asset needs to be managed, sustainably.”

In 2022, Amy began a new role for the City’s Infrastructure & Operations Dept. as the Project Manager responsible for the City-wide Asset Management Program. She began her career with the City in January 2018, when she was hired as the Climate Adaptation Coordinator – and later that year became the City’s Sustainability Coordinator. “My earlier work with City of Calgary Parks as their Environmental Program Coordinator helped prepare me for both of these former roles,” said Amy.

“So far in my career I’ve done a wide range of program and project management, and have gained experience working with the public and multiple stakeholder groups, and with other municipalities. Coming from a sustainability background has also been helpful with my current work in asset management. The best asset management practices are those that include social, environmental, and economic considerations.”

“As Project Manager, I am responsible for the development and continual improvement of the City’s asset management program to make sure we are in compliance with Ontario Reg. 588/17. I bring data about all City assets together and prepare reports for staff and Council. I also collaborate with City departments to ensure all asset-specific information, such as technical and engineering data, is reflected in the plan, in plain language.”

In this challenging position, Amy has help from her colleagues both within and outside the City. “I work with teams of City colleagues, and also with the Asset Management Steering Committee, to gather information. I also have amazing co-workers who help review asset registers, condition reports, graphs, maps and surveys. This helps me compile the most accurate data for reports, and for public engagement. I also connect with asset management staff from other municipalities - we share best practices and experiences.”

Jillian Fazio began her work for the City of Thunder Bay in 2017, and is a Planner II in the Development Services Department. Land use planners protect the public interest over the long-term by guiding land use and development within the community.

“As a municipal planner I evaluate private development applications like zoning changes, site plan approvals, subdivisions, and severances. I prepare reports, present planning recommendations to City Council and the Committee of Adjustment, represent the City’s Planning Division at committees and public consultation events, and participate in policy development and process improvement for my Division,” said Jillian.

After graduating from the Environmental Design program at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, she took a job as a retail manager in Thunder Bay while she looked for a local job in land use planning.

“My education and work within my field gave me knowledge and technical skills that I needed, but working in retail gave me a crash course in customer service, managing issues, and having difficult conversations. These are skills I use all the time as a public servant.”

“Sometimes there are conflicting interests and perspectives among developers and nearby property owners. Finding a balance can be tough, but that’s an important part of the job,” she noted.

While much of Jillian’s work is independent, she is part of a team in Development Services who support each other’s tasks and initiatives, and provide input. “In planning there is not one singular correct answer to every question or one solution to every problem,” Jillian said. “We consider a wide range of perspectives and options to formulate a professional opinion. So, we rely on one another to present opposing ideas and talk things through.”

The City’s Development Services Dept. recently launched a new Building & Planning Portal that streamlines Building Permits and Planning Applications. Jillian played a key role in the Portal’s development. “I was the ‘subject matter expert’ who collaborated with the City’s Corporate Information Technology Department and consultants to digitize our existing application process.”

“Our previous process was a mixture of digital and analog tasks, so there was some duplication of effort for staff, and extra steps for applicants. The new online Portal provides an end-to-end digital process. Applying, evaluating, processing, and record-keeping are now digitized, which should improve and simplify the application process for both customers and staff.”

Asked what she likes best about her job, Jillian gave a shout out to the members of her team in Development Services. “My kind and hard-working teammates help keep my passion for city planning going.”

Ally Drombolis started her career in 2016 as an intern student with PRO Kids, a City program that helps children and youth access sports programs when their families can’t afford the fees.

“I knew I wanted to get into the not-for-profit realm, and community work,” said Ally. “When the internship came up, it looked like a perfect fit.” Ally had just completed a Bachelor of Commerce at Lakehead University, with a Marketing major.

The internship turned into ongoing contract work PRO Kids, and two years ago Ally was hired as the Customer Services & Marketing Coordinator for the City’s Community Services Dept.

“Half of my role is still supporting PRO Kids fundraising and marketing,” said Ally. “I work with PRO Kids Coordinator Laura Daniele, and I’ve absorbed a wealth of knowledge over the years, learning about the City as an organization, and City fundraising events like the Mayor’s Mulligan. My PRO Kids experience connected me with many City departments and divisions, and introduced me to fundraising.”

The other half of Ally’s current position supports the City’s Sport & Community Development team under supervisor Paul Burke. “Arranging sponsorships is a large part of my position, and Paul has been a mentor concerning sponsorships and marketing initiatives,” said Ally, who is also now serving as Chair of the Sponsorship Committee for the Ontario Winter Games, to take place in Thunder Bay in February 2024.

Ally reports that her job is very dynamic, and every day is different. “Part of my job is supervising the Fort William Gardens box office, which gives me contact with lots of exciting community sports events. I also work with promoters of shows there. I’m always meeting new people.” Ally also supports her team with grant applications, and does advertising for the satellite arenas.

Asked about challenges in her job, Ally described the moving parts in the work she does. “I support many different teams and operations, so it can be a challenge to stay on top of things. I might go straight from a meeting about a summer golf tournament to one about the Winter Games. It keeps me on my toes!”

“With the Ontario Winter Games, it’s my first time working on such a large-scale sports tournament, and it’s truly inspiring to see organizations and businesses of every shape and size be so onboard with a community initiative.”

Ally reports that she likes the people she works with. What could be better? “I am surrounded by people who motivate me to be at my best.”

“It’s nice to look forward to going into work. You should enjoy what you do!”

Pictured is Ally Drombolis with colleagues Laura Daniele, Kelly Robertson and Paul Burke

Courtney Gallant has worked her entire career in municipal government. She started “fresh out of university” in the Township of Gillies, and then moved on to the Municipality of Oliver Paipoonge before becoming the City of Thunder Bay’s Executive Assistant (EA) to the Mayor in 2019.

“I’ve been a lifer in municipal government,” Courtney said with humour. “Each placement has allowed me to serve the public, though when I started with my current job as the Mayor’s EA, my position became a more supportive role. With this type of administrative support, the Mayor is able to focus on the issues and concerns that require attention.” 

The job of Executive Assistant to the Mayor is distinctive because it involves both the administrative and political facets of local government. “It’s fascinating to watch the two parts work together to arrive at decisions for the City. Because the business of the Mayor’s office has a political context, I feel it’s important that I’m sensitive to the differing perspectives and attentive to their implications, whether we are dealing with routine or challenging matters,” said Courtney.  

Courtney’s days on the job involve providing administrative support to the Mayor by maintaining schedules and communications. Aside from keeping a calendar, much of her work involves fielding calls from the public. Courtney connects with many different City departments and other groups.

“Every day I meet new and fascinating people. I hear about their experiences in the City and with the City, and help to make important connections for them. Making these connections with others is one of the things I love most about this job.”

 “I work with some pretty amazing people in both the Mayor’s office and in the City Manager’s office, all very supportive and compassionate, celebrating each other’s successes and happy to help when needed.”

PRO Kids Coordinator Laura Daniele started her career with the City early, working through her youth at Chippewa Park, Summer Camps and playgrounds. “Working for the City is ingrained in my blood!” Laura said with a smile as we began our interview.

As a young adult Laura graduated from the Recreation program at Confederation College, and when her children became school-age, she once again investigated working in children’s programming for the City. Her aim was to coordinate part-time work hours with her children’s school schedule. “I’ve always loved kids,” said Laura. “Working with kids is who I am as a person.”

And so, 25 years ago, Laura spearheaded the City’s brand new program: PRO Kids, which helps low-income families access recreation activities for their children.

“I’ve always liked starting things from scratch. I like ‘lighting fires’. And, I like things that are new, that change, are versatile, and move from one thing to another. Everything this position offered – and has offered and required of me for 25 years – has been right up my alley,” Laura said.

Laura greatly values networking and enjoys collaborating with members of the PRO Kids Board and Fundraising Committee. “PRO Kids has 200+ partner agencies and I think we’ve developed trust in each other. Working alongside Ally Drombolis since 2016 has helped bring PRO Kids to a whole new level.”

Laura describes her role as “largely leisure counselling for families, in that parents don’t always know what to apply for - what will fit in terms of the type of activity for their child, the location, etc. It’s great to be helping parents work through things.”

“When you can assist a parent with making good things happen for their child, it takes pressure off of them. And for me, I've grown and learned so much just by helping people on the phone - when to speak, when to listen, how best to help.”

The 25th Anniversary of PRO Kids was announced on Jan. 31, 2023. Reflecting on this milestone, Laura noted, “I have three sons, and PRO Kids is my fourth child. I really feel that when you spend seven hours a day at a job, it becomes a part of you. I want to stress that PRO Kids is about community coming together. For me, sharing in all those connections is a privilege. It's been an honour.”

~ Photo: PRO Kids Partner Faye Stockwell, PRO Kids Board Member Melanie Tibishkogijig, PRO Kids Coordinator Laura Daniele 

John Fisher is an Equipment Operator III on the Roads South team for the City of Thunder Bay. Before working for Roads, he worked from 2006-2013 in Solid Waste & Recycling. Over the years John developed his skills as a heavy equipment operator on the job, and today can run an array of machines. “Now I’m able to pretty well run everything we have, from loaders, graders and backhoes, to street sweepers and dump trucks,” said John.

John’s duties vary, depending on the season, or even the day. In the winter, his job is usually focused on snow removal. If it has recently snowed, John is out in a loader-plow clearing roads overnight while many of us are in our cozy beds. During the days, he works with other roads clearing crews to move snow and make it easier for drivers and pedestrians to get around.

“In the winter, we are steadily dealing with snow – either the sanders are out or we are using equipment to move snow and make more room for future weather,” explained John. “In the summer I’m usually grading gravel roads in the rural part of Thunder Bay. But I could also be doing a culvert job with a backhoe or driving a dump truck hauling gravel or debris, or street sweeping with the big sweepers.”

When asked about the challenges he and his coworkers face that might surprise people, John explained that they sometimes deal with drivers who cut them off or don’t make room for the machines. “It gets frustrating sometimes, because we are just trying to do our jobs.” Most northerners are familiar with the feeling of dread that comes with seeing a plow about to spread a new windrow across the end of their driveway. “Sometimes people will come right out beside the machine and stop us. On the other hand some people bring out gifts, a box of chocolates, a Tim’s card or a basket of buns or cookies they just made because they are so grateful for what we are doing.”

Equipment operators such as John usually work in teams. “When the graders go out to plow the main routes, they’re teamed up, usually two per run, but I’m usually separate in the loader-plow. When we do snow removal in back lanes, I’m in a loader, other operators are in trucks, and another one watches traffic.”

With over 16 years with the City, John is now a veteran employee and often finds himself looked to by newer staff to answer questions and provide experience, knowledge and advice. “It’s been really impactful for me, that as I get older, other operators are coming to me and I can share the experience I have.” 

Monika Tomar has a very dynamic job – but her days begin with a relatively simple routine. “My typical work day starts with checking the corporate training registration database, posting and organizing new learning sessions, and supporting e-learning logistics and requirements.”

Monika, the City’s new Learning & Development Consultant, started work in this position in July of this year. She had previously been employed by the City as part of the Talent Acquisition team, and she has also had interesting jobs in many countries and workplace settings including manufacturing, banking and consulting. Much of her work over the past 10 years has focussed on human resources, including analytics, workforce management, and overseeing employee learning & development programs.

“My keen ability to connect with others, building strong and lasting relationships, has been paramount to my success throughout my career,” said Monika. “My experiences and education all together have prepared me for what I am doing today.”

There is a lot more to being a Learning and Development Consultant than developing training programs and making sure employees and supervisors are aware of training opportunities. “My strong focus is to streamline the various learning processes and identify the opportunity for learning system enhancement,” said Monika.

“Apart from simply promoting corporate training opportunities, my main responsibilities include providing day-to day consultation to all levels of City staff, performing regular training audits, interacting closely with the leadership team to create training strategies for their work areas, and supporting departments to ensure all learning activities are delivered to the required standard. I also coordinate the recognition program for our annual retirees, and the long-service employees’ virtual banquet.”

“The best part of my job,” said Monika, “is working with diverse groups of employees with different personalities and talents. I am a strong believer in life-long learning. I strive to do what it takes to make things happen, to acknowledge people and help them grow. I am truly enjoying working in a team where everyone is super-supportive and takes an extra step to make you feel important.”

And for fun? “Outside of my work I love to travel and explore new places.”

Dave Flank started his career with the City in 2016, as the Backflow Prevention Officer. Employees in this position have the very important duty of inspecting the installation of backflow prevention devices to ensure that water delivered to the customer cannot flow back into the City’s drinking water system, potentially carrying contaminants.

“Many property owners don’t realize that backflow can happen,” said Dave. “In certain circumstances, water can flow backwards through an open valve or improperly installed fixture or appliance from a private water system – say, in a multi-residential or commercial building - into the City’s drinking water distribution system. As the Backflow Prevention Officer, I inspected commercial, industrial, institutional and multi-residential plumbing installations to ensure appropriate backflow prevention devices had been installed and backflow contamination could not occur.”

In his current position as a Plumbing and Mechanical Inspector, Dave inspects a greater range of plumbing system components. “It’s interesting to be an Inspector, as I spent the earlier years of my plumbing career installing plumbing systems - and now instead of building them, I inspect them. I’m one of three Plumbing and Mechanical Inspectors with the City. We inspect all plumbing components from the drainage and venting, to water piping, heating and fire suppression systems. We inspect plumbing in new builds and renovations, in both residential and commercial buildings. In everything but new builds, dated infrastructure can be an issue, and the plumbing has to be brought up to Code.”

By Code, Dave means Ontario’s Building Code regulations, which are frequently updated by the Province.

“All decisions are based on the Building Code,” said Dave. “One of the challenges of my job is sometimes having to convey the bad news to a homeowner or builder that changes must be made to an installation so that it will fulfill the requirements of the Code. But most people understand – especially if I explain the applicable part of the Code, and why it is important for a functional and safe plumbing system.”

“One fulfilling part of my job, actually, is seeing how people appreciate information that explains my decisions as an Inspector. Of course I understand that these necessary decisions can be associated with unexpected work and expenses, but achieving the minimum requirements of the Ontario Building Code is crucial in helping a project go forward with a safe and proper functioning plumbing and mechanical system.

Dave added, “Plumbing and Mechanical Inspectors get an inside view of projects from homes to hotels, from the start of construction to the finish. That really adds to the interest of the job.”

In his spare time, Dave indulges his love of music composition and performance. “I’ve been playing for 20 years, and I’ve found I also really like songwriting,” he said. “I play guitar and sing in a band, for the pure enjoyment of it. We play everything from campfire acoustic tunes to heavy rock and metal – even numbers from 80s ‘hair’ bands, if you remember those!”

So, if you hear music on the air – it just might be Dave. 

Krista Power began her career with the City of Thunder Bay as a teenager, as an employee with the Summer Playgrounds Program. It was a positive first experience working for the City. “I spent eight summers working in our beautiful parks with the kids,” said Krista. “It was awesome!”

Following University, Krista spent ten years as Events Manager at Fort William Historical Park, and then returned to working at the City in 2010 in various capacities, becoming Deputy City Clerk in 2015 and City Clerk in 2019.

“The role of a City Clerk is one of the oldest roles in all government,” explained Krista. “A City’s Council cannot have a meeting without the attendance of the Clerk to properly record and disclose their information to the public.”

Krista explained that her job is to safeguard and protect the decisions of City Council, both by accurately recording them and by authorizing By-laws passed by Council. The City Clerk also advises Council on legislation, governance and procedure, and is the City’s lead on records and privacy. And, as many citizens know, the City Clerk’s Office authorizes the purchase of marriage and lottery licences.

What is a typical day for Krista? “There is little routine in the City Clerk’s Office, which employs 21 staff,” said Krista. “Priorities can change quickly, especially if a legislative compliance issue crops up.”

On the Mondays when a Council meeting is scheduled, the job of the City Clerk is especially busy. “I routinely work 12-16 hours on a ‘Council Monday’,” said Krista. “The record was one Monday in August 2020, when I began my work day at 8:30 am and ended it after that night’s Council meeting, at almost 3:30 am, with many items deferred.”

However, a City Clerk’s days are even more dynamic at election time. In the Municipal Elections Act, the City Clerk is designated as the Returning Officer for the Municipal Election, and as such is responsible for all aspects of the election, the nomination process, certification of candidates, coordinating voting and calculating results, and certifying the results - as well as post-election work such as certifying financial statements.

“The decisions of the Returning Officer are final as it relates to the Municipal Election,” said Krista. “City Council has no authority over the process or the roll-out of the election, as this is governed by the Act.”

Asked about her favourite part of the job, Krista replied in several parts. “I have the privilege of being a part of the history of our city every time I sit to clerk a meeting of City Council, she said. “I have the opportunity to engage with the public and provide access to their elected officials via deputations or committees, or to release records to the public via the Freedom of Information process.”

“Our team in the Office of the City Clerk (including our cohort at the Harry Kirk Archives Department) are amazing, talented, bright and hard-working colleagues who are dedicated to their work, and I am grateful to work with every single one of them. Watch for our hashtags: #ClerksRule and #ArchivesareAwesome.”

Shaun Naroski has a long history as an employee at the City’s swimming pools. Starting in the 1980s, Shaun worked at Churchill Pool as an Instructor/Guard. That job led to his next position in full-time pool maintenance at Volunteer Pool, which he did until 1994.

Shaun’s employment changed course at that point as he went into a career in teaching – first as a Music teacher with the Lakehead Public School Board, and then on to a job with the Ministry of Education.

Now a retired educator, Shaun has his pick of part-time jobs – and he has chosen the City’s pools once again! He now works as a Relief Operator for the City’s Aquatic Operations.

“We are responsible for the operation of the Canada Games Complex, Volunteer Pool, Churchill Pool, Heath Pool, Widnall Pool and the Marina Park Splash Pad,” Shaun said. “We also have occasional tasks at Boulevard Lake Park and Chippewa Park. The primary responsibilities involve water chemistry, pool filtration, chemical feeders, monitoring mechanical systems, and record keeping.”

The focus for the City’s Aquatic Operations staff comes down to this: keeping facilities open for public use. “Sometimes our services are required at multiple pools at the same time, and that can be a challenge,” said Shaun.

Shaun and many other staff at the City’s pools are seasoned swimmers themselves. “The Canada Games Complex is my pool of choice,” said Shaun. “The water is ideal and the facility has new starting blocks – the same kind used at international competitions. Having weight and cardio rooms in the same facility is a luxury. I bring my grandkids here all the time and they love it!”

“I was a Thunderbolt back in 1972 and still compete fifty years later. I returned from the 2022 Canadian Masters Swimming Championships in Quebec City with two silver and three bronze medals. I should also mention that my four daughters had jobs as Instructor/Guards at the Canada Games Complex once upon a time.”

It is easy to see why Shaun enjoys his work in Aquatic Operations. And, he had this to add: “I enjoy seeing all the patrons using the various aquatic facilities, whether it be learning how to swim or just having fun in the water. And knowing that I am part of a larger team that makes those opportunities possible is very satisfying.”

James Wilkinson - Indigenous Relations Liaison

James Wilkinson, Indigenous Relations Liaison, is the newest staff member in the City of Thunder Bay’s Indigenous Relations Office. He started in this role in February of this year.

James was reintroduced to his heritage in 1996 at Garden River First Nation. “It was at that time I began walking the Red Road of Native spirituality. In the process, I learned a great deal about the many struggles and difficulties Indigenous people face in Northern Ontario, including Thunder Bay.”

Over the past decade, James’s work has included helping Confederation College’s Broadcast Program to showcase Indigenous artists in the community. He also ran a talk show - Mino Bimaadiziwin (The Good Life Show) – covering Indigenous issues. Following his graduation with honours from the College in 2012, James became a facilitator for the Walk-a-Mile program, followed by working as an internal Indigenous Awareness trainer with the City – a job that continued right up to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also started a project to help Indigenous people remember that despite their dark, shared history in Canada, they are still here - and that is positive. The project was called “We’re Still Here – Project Hope and Unity.”

Regarding his interview for his current position with the City, James recalled, “I commented to an Elder/Knowledge Keeper I spend time with that I answered the interview questions from the perspective of who I am as a person and the path I walk. It was the first interview where I shared part of my life’s journey.”

As Indigenous Relations Liaison, James facilitates positive relationships in the community. In his words, “This role is ground zero – for positive change, systemic shifting, building new relationships and improving existing relationships.”

Asked about the special focuses of his work, James offered three. “First, there’s the task of expanding the understanding of how communication happens within Indigenous culture. Building relationships with Indigenous people, communities and organizations is worth the time it takes - and it does take time. It’s all about honouring relationships, and not so much about urgency to get things done. The second focus is working with the community to facilitate better channels for positive change, including addressing racism in the community. I believe it is the responsibility of the Indigenous Relations Office to assist in a change of community perspective, and promote constructive avenues for change. And third, I am focussed on creating a larger footprint for the Indigenous Relations Office in our community, so that people know what kind of work we do and positive impacts we are achieving. Each member of our small team brings a valuable skill-set to the table, and we’ve taken significant steps towards establishing a more prominent and positive presence in Thunder Bay. The re-imaging of Canada Day celebrations, the Maamawe Summer Festival and Showcase are just a few things our Office is proud to have spearheaded.”

The challenges of the work also bring rewards. “The best part of my job,” James said, “is helping bring this community together in a good way and helping all of us work collectively towards healing and developing better relationships. My personal healing journey brought me here and the community embraced me – the recovery community, the education community, the Indigenous community, the business community, the arts and entertainment community and the mainstream community. Thunder Bay is now my home.”

“In its own way, my role as Indigenous Relations Liaison is my way of giving back to a community that gave to me. What more could you ask for in a career?”

Saumya Nair - Facility Attendant, Water Garden Pavilion

Saumya Nair describes herself as an extravert – and it is working for her! 

 “I came to Canada from India, where I was a Dentist, in 2018,” said Saumya. “I completed the Health Professional course at Confederation College, and when the pandemic hit, I decided to stay in Thunder Bay.”

Getting established with housing and a job in Thunder Bay was challenging - especially finding suitable work. “I had been seeking a job in a health-care setting, but I found that many such offices were stressful work environments. However, when I got the job at the Complex, everything changed. My co-workers congratulated me, supervisors were kind and accommodating, and I thought, is this a dream?”

First employed by the City as a Screener and Fitness Attendant at the Canada Games Complex during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Saumya found her work fun and fulfilling right from the start.

 “Identity crisis is the biggest source of depression, but I certainly don’t suffer from that at work. The people I work with recognize my importance and give me good feedback and support.”

Saumya had been told that as a Screener, she might have to deal with the frustration of clients entering the Canada Games Complex. “I never encountered a truly angry customer,” said Saumya.  “I started my job right after a new lockdown began, and people stopped and chatted, and even brought small treats for the staff at Christmas. It was so nice to see!”

Saumya also teaches Zumba and Bollywood fitness classes at the Complex – dance workouts that combine dynamic choreography with upbeat music from around the world. “I always absorb lots of positivity from the clients.”

 “I don’t remember a day that I’ve been grouchy or sad,” said Saumya. “In my job with the City, people welcome me, appreciate me, and want me there. I love my job!”

Having received CPR certification, Saumya now also works as a Facility Attendant at the Water Garden Pavilion. If you see her there, make sure to say hello!

Ian Spoljarich - Manager of Roads

Ian Spoljarich, Manager of Roads, began his career with the City in September 2018, as Supervisor of Waste Collection. In 2021 he became Supervisor of Roads South (for the southern portion of Thunder Bay), and quickly moved on to become Manager of Roads.

Asked for a description of a typical day on the job, Ian replied that no day or week is typical! Each week brings new challenges, and Ian makes sure to connect with other supervisors regularly. Often there are meetings throughout the day, including talks with City Councillors on roads issues and speaking with residents about their concerns.

Ian also makes it a priority to observe conditions on the city’s roads first-hand. If there is a pause in the meetings, he gets out to check on pavement issues and street lighting. Often, the day’s prospective schedule can change with the weather – an oncoming storm will mean preparation for wet or snowy conditions.

Getting information about the condition of the city’s roads out to the public is also a priority for Ian. “We’ve been putting more detailed information out in media releases and on social media, especially when there is a weather event that affects the roads,” said Ian. “That way, people aren’t left with questions about whether they can get around the city.”  

“It was a very busy winter for the City’s Roads employees, and an even busier spring – but our staff took it in stride. They are dedicated, and take pride in their work. Just when we saw a break in the snow, in came the spring, with melting and flooding – and staff were out again to make the roadways safe for motorists.”

Asked about the weekly Wednesday storms we experienced in March-April, Ian said, “Our staff responded well for the amount of snow we had. But every Wednesday, there would be 30-40 cm of new snow, and in between we would get small snowfalls, so there was not a lot of time to work on equipment and prepare for the next storm – we were constantly out on the roads.”

“I and our Roads staff feel that we helped people get to work and school safely - but I am hoping this is the worst winter I will ever see, and that it gets better from here!”

When Ian isn’t watching the weather for the next storm, he takes time for fun and family. “Life is busy. We have a 5-year-old son and a 3-year-old son and a new lab puppy! I love to spend my free time with family, and if I can sneak away, I enjoy a round of golf.”

Dennis Brescacin - Division Chief of Administration - Thunder Bay Fire Rescue

Dennis Brescacin began his career with the City in 1991, when he was hired as a Firefighter by Thunder Bay Fire Rescue (TBFR).

“My first 17 years with TBFR was in our Suppression Division, and I qualified as a Captain prior to being promoted to Division Chief of Administration in 2008,” said Dennis. “I have been in that role ever since.”

Dennis’ duties are wide ranging. Aside from overseeing the maintenance and repair of TBFR’s eight fire stations and its training centre, he also procures Fire Rescue’s station and medical supplies, and personal protective equipment. He is also responsible for the portable radio equipment of both TBFR and Thunder Bay Police Service. “If a radio unit is lost or stolen,” Dennis said, “I can de-activate it instantly using a computer application.”

Dennis’s duties do not end there. Under the Ontario Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, (EMCPA), he fills the mandated role of Community Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Thunder Bay. This role links with his work as the Chair of the City’s Emergency Management Program Committee, and as the coordinator of the Municipal Emergency Control Group (MECG).

MECG is a group comprised of members from City of Thunder Bay administration, Fire Rescue, Police Service and Superior North EMS, with input from many community organizations such as Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU). The Group is integral to Thunder Bay’s response to community emergencies, including health and environmental crises, and has been continuously active over the past 25 months.

“During the pandemic, I have been responsible for coordinating MECG meetings. As the City’s contact with the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (POEC), I liaise with Emergency Management Ontario Field Officers and other Provincial Ministry Emergency Management Coordinators, and also participate in the Vulnerable Populations COVID-19 Planning Table and Isolation Shelter Command. I assisted with procurement of government funding for isolation shelters in Thunder Bay, and coordinated assistance from the NGO Alliance of Ontario, specifically Team Rubicon and Samaritan’s Purse, when ‘boots on the ground’ supports were needed,” said Dennis. “I and members of all groups pitched in wherever we could. When not at meetings, I assisted at the isolation hotels.”

We asked Dennis if he had seen any “silver linings” about the pandemic during his work. 

“What stands out for me is how we were able to coordinate quickly with the PEOC and Ministries during the Corrections and District Jail outbreaks. The quick action of all our partners helped to contain the spread of the virus in early 2021. Working with the TBDHU, St. Joseph’s Care Group, Thunder Bay District Social Services Administration Board, the shelters and City of Thunder Bay’s Manager of Community Strategies, Cynthia Olsen, was key to limiting the spread of the virus in the vulnerable population. It was - and still is - a pleasure to work with everyone.”

Connecting with neighbours near and far is also an important part of Dennis’s job. “I feel great satisfaction when the City steps up as a host community when others need assistance for emergency evacuations. In addition, I have had the privilege of connecting and working with First Nation leadership and building relationships and trust.”  

Dennis even devotes some of his leisure time to his vocation as firefighter. As President of the Thunder Bay Professional Firefighters Association since 2013, he is currently working on a Health, Safety & Wellness program for firefighters in Thunder Bay.

Dennis sums up his work: “I have always enjoyed helping people. I learn something new every day, and really enjoy what I do.”

Tessa Hettrick - Volunteer Coordinator

Tessa Hettrick, a self-described people person, began her work with the City in September of 2015 as Program Volunteer Coordinator with the Older Adult Unit at the Thunder Bay 55 Plus Centre. It’s a position she still holds and enjoys today.

“I’ve built a career here, working with the volunteers,” said Tessa. “The community of staff and volunteers at 55 Plus is like a small family, and runs like a well-oiled machine.” The volunteers at 55 Plus are seniors themselves. “55 Plus is one of the few places that’s ‘all seniors’, both volunteers and participants.”

As with many City jobs, Tessa’s work life and duties were altered fundamentally during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Services and programs offered to seniors at 55 Plus were cancelled, or (when possible) delivered online. During the closures, Tessa was redeployed twice: first to Jasper Place as a screener; and then back to 55 Plus to coordinate the income tax program and meals on wheels.

The changes from open to closed, back and forth, were hard on the 55 Plus Centre’s clients, volunteers and staff. “For many of the volunteers, their tasks at 55 Plus are a big part of their life,” said Tessa. “Closures at the Centre left them without their usual connections, isolated with nowhere to go. It was hard on their social, physical and mental well-being. With our gradual re-opening in fall of 2021, not all returned – and some had aged, from stress. It was also very difficult dealing with partial reopenings, where some but not all services could be offered, and some but not all people served.”

When asked if there has been any silver lining to the pandemic, Tessa was quick to point out 55 Plus’s income tax services, which were delivered in a new way during COVID-19. “Many seniors were worried about whether the income tax service would be offered during the pandemic,” said Tessa. “Our volunteers were able to shift to virtual and drop-off service, sometimes involving phone interviews. Many seniors made donations in appreciation of this, which benefitted the 55 Plus Centre directly.” In 2022, the income tax service is back to in-person, but drop-off and telephone options remain available.

“The pandemic has been hard on everybody,’ said Tessa. “However, witnessing how people have come together to rise above what has been happening – it’s been very inspiring. Volunteers and clients are passionate about the work we do at 55 Plus. We’re so glad people stuck it out with us!”

“Now that we’re coming out of it, there are a lot of good things in the future.”

Crystal Wilson - School Crossing Guard

When Crystal Wilson was hired 39 years ago as a School Crossing Guard, it wasn’t by the City of Thunder Bay.

“Back in those days, crossing guards were handled by Thunder Bay Police,” said Crystal. “I was originally hired by Constable McEwan.”

Crystal has spent most of her 39 years on duty guarding the safety of students crossing Redwood Avenue in front of St. Francis School. “I had a couple of other temporary stints at the beginning, at nearby schools,” she said. “I was at St. Vincent School, and at Agnew H. Johnson School for a while.” Agnew H. Johnson Public School closed permanently in 2020.

Asked about the challenges of being a School Crossing Guard during the pandemic, Crystal said the hardest part was simply not seeing the children, and missing celebrations like Hallowe’en, Christmas and – her favourite celebration – Valentine’s Day.

“The kids are the best part of the job. They are why I am here, to see them all every day. I’ve gotten to know whole families, and have seen many kids grow up. The parents are great, too, and have been understanding about pandemic difficulties.”

Crystal is very glad to be back on the job now that schools have reopened, although things are not entirely back to normal yet. “Now that we are back, there are still some restrictions – for instance, Crossing Guards can’t come into the school.”

She added, “No matter what, the safety of the children comes first.”

Lauren Halsey - Associate Archivist

As an Associate Archivist with the City of Thunder Bay, Lauren Halsey’s workplace has usually been the Harry Kirk Archives & Records Centre on Vickers Street. However, that changed suddenly with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic and the proposal that she be temporarily redeployed just a few days after she began work-from-home in March, 2020. Her destination was Jasper Place, a City-operated residence for older adults. Lauren was to work at Jasper Place for five months.

“I was a screener,” said Lauren, “but I took on other tasks as well – any little thing that would help take some of the pressure off the staff so they could focus on their work, and make life a bit easier for the tenants. It was early in the pandemic, and everyone was scrambling to make sense of the constantly changing information and best practices. It was a frustrating, confusing, and frightening time for many people. Despite that, it was extraordinary to witness the amount of work and dedication the support staff put in every day to take care of the tenants.”

“At Jasper Place I was doing a job that hadn’t existed before, in a setting in which I had virtually no experience. But every day I went home feeling like I had really done something useful, including just chatting with the tenants who would stop by the screening desk to say hello.”

Lauren is back to fulfilling her duties as Associate Archivist now, which comprise a multitude of tasks such as helping to manage the City’s records management program, advising on information privacy measures, training City staff in records management, processing Freedom of Information requests, tackling research questions, and preserving over 130 years of historical municipal records. In addition, Lauren promotes fascinating archival material to City staff and the public. Attention to detail is vital to her job.

“Researching archival records can be a bit of a treasure hunt sometimes,” said Lauren. Some requests are for very old materials, and there can be uncertainty at times over whether requested records even exist. Often, other interesting records are found along the way. During the closure of the Archives to the public due to the pandemic, Lauren has been called upon to perform a greater number of physical searches for materials, rather than assisting researchers who come to the site. “It’s a great feeling when I’m able to find exactly what someone is looking for.”

Lauren has also helped City staff understand and manage new challenges the pandemic has brought to records management and information privacy/security. For instance, when working from home, staff must take special care that both digital and physical records, and anything with personal or sensitive information, cannot be accessed by anyone else in the house. Virtual meetings have presented similar challenges, especially for staff with small children at home. “Archives staff are always happy to help with any privacy concerns or questions,” said Lauren.

Looking to the future, Lauren’s journey through the COVID-19 pandemic at work has influenced her plans in a positive way: “I’m hoping to spend some time volunteering at Jasper Place in future, when pandemic restrictions allow.”

Ian Morgan - Chief Chemist

Dr. Ian Morgan joined the City as Chief Chemist about six months before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Having lived and worked away from Thunder Bay for more than 10 years, Ian received a call for the interview for his current position on the same day he intended to finalize a house purchase in Alberta. “My wife and I ended up ‘passing’ on the house we had searched for 12 months to find - and well, it paid off!” said Ian.

Ian uses his comprehensive background in the sciences as he collaborates with the various sections of the City’s Environment Division including the Water Pollution Control Plant (wastewater) and the Water Treatment Plant (drinking water). He also works closely with other divisions within the City’s Infrastructure and Operations Department, and various City of Thunder Bay offices. Occasionally he attends Council meetings to report scientific information.

In addition, Ian regularly fields communications from residents comprising everything from drinking water queries to spill reports. “The best part of my job is that every day is different, with varying problems or issues to address,” says Ian. “One day I’ll be needed at the Solid Waste & Recycling Facility to assist with a leachate treatment pilot project, the next I’ll be responding to citizen inquiries, and on another I’ll be working with Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.”

The COVID-19 pandemic led to another way Ian could use his scientific background, when he was asked to work with the University of Windsor, Thunder Bay District Health Unit and the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks on Ontario’s Wastewater Surveillance Initiative. “Through analysing wastewater, we have been able to monitor the concentration of COVID-19 in the raw sewage arriving at the Water Pollution Control Plant,” said Ian. He notes that the water is not infectious – it merely contains tiny components of the virus. “Throughout this project, we and other cities have seen correlated trends in the decrease and increase of COVID-19 cases compared with the same city’s concentration of the virus in the sampled raw wastewater. This is just one of the exciting projects I am part of, collaborating with various academic institutions, agencies and departments.”

When away from science and technology, Ian enjoys all things recreational - from snowboarding the tops of the Rocky Mountains to riding 1980s engine-powered surfboards that he repairs, and just about everything in between. He is also very proud to have become a father in June of 2021.

Alain Joseph, Policy Analyst

Alain Joseph joined the City during the pandemic in March 2021 as a Policy Analyst with the Indigenous Relations office. He describes his role as one of a specialized translator who reviews complex documents and amends them into easily understandable policies and proposals.

“Starting a new job in the midst of a pandemic has its challenges because I haven’t spent any time physically at City Hall where our office is based, and I have only met a few colleagues in person,” says Alain. “I try to focus on the positive, however, like how I can sing out loud to my favourite songs, which might not fly in the office.”

Alain works closely with nearly every department in the City, which is a unique aspect to the job that he enjoys. He cites work he’s done with Parks, Planning, various advisory committees and Events Planning, to name a few. And while much of what he does involves desk work, he often has opportunities to get out in the public. Most recently, he spent considerable time organizing a ceremonial tree planting for Truth and Reconciliation Day, along with sourcing cedar seedlings to give to residents to show their support for those impacted by residential schools.

Despite much of Alain’s work being virtual, he still manages to interact with many colleagues and feels accepted as part of the team. He appreciates the leadership across the board that help to support the plans and strategic vision of Indigenous Relations and the City overall.

“I enjoy working in an environment that has set goals and a clear vision on how to move the City forward,” says Alain. “And I like being a civil servant; it’s important to me to do meaningful work for my neighbours, friends and fellow citizens, especially in these difficult times.”     

Vicki Kuz, Human Resources Assistant

Vicki Kuz is one of three Human Resources Assistants in the Human Resources and Corporate Safety Division. She started working for the City in 1994 and after six years of working in

various unionized positions, accepted a position with the Recruitment & Support Services section in Human Resources and has remained there for the past twenty-one years.

Vicki’s main responsibilities are the recruitment tasks for Infrastructure & Operations, Community Services, the City Manager’s Office, and Thunder Bay Fire Rescue. She prepares job postings and closings, extends unionized job offers and ensures conditions of employment are met. She then closes off files and verifies staff notification change forms for Payroll to process. When not working on recruitment, Vicki schedules meetings and prepares clearances, keeps databases up to date, answers day-to-day questions from supervisors and employees and helps with any administrative tasks that need to be completed. 

The Human Resources Assistant position works in a fast-paced environment with constantly changing priorities and is very deadline-driven. Luckily for Vicki, she enjoys being very detail-orientated and organized. She is known for her in-depth knowledge of the various collective agreements that exist within the Corporation and is always willing to share that knowledge.

In 2021 alone, the HR Assistants have created approximately 345 job postings and Vicki has extended approximately 285 job offers. Getting to call candidates and offer them a job is the highlight of Vicki’s day. Hearing the excitement in someone’s voice and knowing she has made their day is always rewarding.  

Vicki has been working from home since March 2020 and has experienced challenges along the way. When in the office, the HR Assistants use a paper filing system and conditions are met by having candidates bring their paperwork into the HR office. With COVID, they have had to change their system to electronic forms and filing and have been accepting documentation through email. Working through a global pandemic has required the team to adapt to rapid changes.  There have been a few vacancies on her team and Vicki has had to adjust to the use of technology (MS Teams) and embrace training new employees virtually. Working from home has also been a challenge for Vicki because she misses the daily interaction with co-workers. If you know Vicki, you know that she is a ‘people person’, so she’s looking forward to returning to the office and feeling that energy again.

Vicki would like to thank all of the employees who stepped up and were redeployed to areas that needed help during the pandemic. She also acknowledges that all employees have had to deal with different struggles and challenges throughout the pandemic, and she is proud of the way that everyone has worked together to keep the city running. It has been very inspiring to her. 

Kevin Paradis, Advanced Care Paramedic 

With 30 years in the field, Advanced Care Paramedic Kevin Paradis serves as one of the longest standing paramedics in Thunder Bay. In his role with Superior 
North EMS (SNEMS), he provides what’s known in the field as pre-hospital care where patients are treated at home wherever possible. 

“Generally the work of paramedics continues to evolve to encompass preventative care services above and beyond responding to emergency calls,” says Kevin. “The pandemic highlighted the need to protect our healthcare system from becoming overrun, so it made sense for paramedics, who are equipped with life-saving devices and trained to treat injuries and ailments, to become the buffer between patients and hospital.”

As a result of the pandemic, Kevin was seconded to the COVID-19 Task Force to help with testing and vaccinations once they became available. Kevin and his colleagues provided frontline support with swabbing and getting tests to the lab quickly. No easy feat given SNEMS is one of the busiest ambulance services by call volume in Ontario.

Kevin attributes the resiliency of frontline workers and those behind the scenes as part of what motivated him to keep going.

“Hats off to my colleagues and all frontline workers including those staff who dealt with an outbreak in a local long-term care home. They inspired me to postpone my vacation to stay and help on the frontlines,” says Kevin. “I also want to recognize one of the unsung heroes of the pandemic—those processing Covid tests at the Public Health Ontario lab. They worked extremely long hours under high pressure to get results as quickly as possible. They played an integral role in seeing our community through this.”

Lee Mesic, Administrator

When Lee Mesic set out to work as a Registered Nurse, she never imagined she would end up working in the long-term care sector. Yet once there, she knew it was for her. 

“As a nurse starting out in acute care, moving to long-term care was a major career change that turned out to be the right decision. It did not take long before I grew a love and passion for the work and especially for the people we serve,” says Lee. “It involves a whole new level of care and intimacy that makes for strong connections with residents, staff and families alike.”

Today, as the Administrator of Pioneer Ridge under Corporate Services and Long Term Care, Lee Mesic oversees and directs 24-hour care and services provided in Pioneer Ridge, as well as supporting the auxiliary services managed by Jasper Place; Meals on Wheels, a Supportive Housing program, and a small city Homemaking program.

It’s a high-intensity role, and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, long-term care homes became the epicentre of the virus. The threat and immense fear of an outbreak created many challenges that tested the endurance of all staff.

“The pandemic meant employees had to adapt to constant change and stringent safety measures, while maintaining the compassionate, quality care we are known for,” says Lee. “Our Residents, staff and families' social and emotional well-being has been greatly impacted by this virus.

"Like they have in all challenging situations, our staff have stepped up to the plate, and that’s what has sustained us through to this stage. Every day, as I observe the commitment and care provided by staff doing their part, I am inspired, and this in turn has been my fuel to keep going.”

New infection control requirements were implemented throughout all operations, and employees found many innovative solutions to meet resident needs and connect families with loved ones when they couldn’t be together in person. Depending on the level of emergency the pandemic took, virtual, window and outdoor visits were utilized, as well as a mail campaign to send cards to residents. Also, lights were strewn on the grounds to brighten spirits over the holidays.

“It has been challenging, particularly trying to remain communicative with multiple stakeholders in an ever-changing environment,” says Lee. “In spite of that, our team shone and always prioritized safety for the residents and each other. I’m proud of them and know their efforts served as a catalyst to the transformational change that will impact our entire sector for years to come.”

Lee believes that a silver lining to the pandemic involves the greater focus and attention it has brought to the long-term care sector. It also highly demonstrated the success and achievements of municipally run Senior Services. “We learn from challenges, and in this case, it became clear the need to establish a new path forward that emphasizes the importance of seniors having the opportunity to age with dignity and respect.” 

Elaine Vidas, Registered Early Childhood Educator & Assistant Supervisor

For almost 29 years, Elaine Vidas has shaped children’s lives as a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE), and Assistant Supervisor at the City. As an RECE and certified member of the  Association of Early Childhood Educators of Ontario, she provides a nurturing environment that supports children’s overall well-being, while also ensuring policies and procedures are followed. 

Elaine spent 19 years at Ogden Child Care Centre before moving to Grace Remus where she currently works. But she wouldn’t call it work, because everyday she gets to be around the cutest kids who smile and laugh so readily.

“I truly love my job and am inspired each day by these young individuals who are curious about the world around them,” says Elaine. “It’s very rewarding watching them grow and knowing I’m supporting their development and life skills along the way.”

Something unique about her job is the connection Grace Remus shares with Pioneer Ridge Long Term Care Facility. Pre-Covid, the children would visit with the seniors twice each week. The residents would treat the children like celebrities, and it was a special bond they all miss. Still, staff try to keep the visits up through a connecting window where the children run up and greet residents.

“I believe we are the only childcare facility in Thunder Bay that is housed in a long term care home, providing programming that links seniors and little ones, and it has been a great success,” says Elaine. “We just have to stay safe, and we will come out stronger once we get through this.”

The pandemic also impacts the connections of Early Childhood Educators and parents. It’s not easy to engage with parents virtually when many of whom visited before Covid-19.

“It’s been a learning curve for everybody to find ways to stay connected, but we are finding our way through this,” says Elaine.

Talia Strickland, Pandemic Support Worker

As Head Lifeguard at the Canada Games Complex, Talia knows a thing or two about saving lives. So when COVID-19 struck and pools had to close, it made sense for her to move into another role, joining the ranks of Pandemic Support Workers. Having lent a hand to Pioneer Ridge in 2020, Talia was recently redeployed again to the vaccine clinic at the Coliseum under a secondment agreement with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit.

“The fact that I am working for the City but for another organization feels a little like a cooperative placement for school,” Talia explains. “It’s refreshing to gain valuable work experience while meeting new people and running into old friends in the process.”

Pandemic Support Workers based at the Coliseum are helping citizens throughout the vaccination process. There are workers handling the initial screening questions while confirming appointments, and others directing patrons down the lines where they complete consent forms before heading to one of the 15 nurses’ stations. Once vaccinated, there’s a short waiting period to ensure people are feeling well enough to proceed to the checkout counter to obtain proof of vaccination and to book a second appointment, if needed.

Currently the clinic serves about 700 people a day, and many of those people are sharing their appreciation for the seamless process through letters to the editor and thank-you cards.

“It’s inspiring to see renewed hope in people as they get vaccinated. With each person we serve, we are that much closer to getting through this together,” says Talia.

The clinic runs from Monday to Friday with appointments between 9 am and 4:30 pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. For those with different schedules, the clinic is open later from 11:30 am to 7 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. To book an appointment or get on a waiting list, visit is covid-19.ontario.ca/book-vaccine/ or call 1-833-943-3900.

 Todd Little, Specialized Transit Operator

With 32 years on the job, Todd Little, Specialized Transit Operator at LIFT+, has come to expect certain questions about what he does and how LIFT+ works in the community.

“People tend to not know about us, until they need us, and then we’re there,” he explains. “It’s understandable because life happens. It could be someone who broke their leg and suddenly needs a lift to physiotherapy, and that’s where we come in—we get them where they need to go.”  

People with disabilities utilize the door-to-door service to attend appointments or run errands. Service is by appointment and runs Monday-Saturday from 6 am – 12 am and Sundays from 8 am to 11 pm.

Todd says that his passengers are the main reason he likes his job so much.

“You get to know most of your riders, and it’s so much fun to connect with them on a regular basis and see how they’re doing,” he says. “We have good relationships, and share a lot of laughs, which is very rewarding.”

But like most workplaces, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about many changes. Todd misses those faces he sees a lot less of now that there’s a lockdown. And he’s had to adapt to new safety measures that make for less riders per trip, along with barriers resulting from physical distancing, mask-wearing and Plexiglas.

Still, he’s glad there are such stringent requirements to keep drivers and riders safe. And despite the recent challenges, the service remains flexible insomuch as it can accommodate a cancelled appointment, for example, and return the rider without having to wait for a new bus.  

 “I love what I do and feel lucky to be able to do it for so long. The quality of life I have here is so much better than I had in previous jobs. I look back and think if someone would’ve told me in high school that I would have a job I love, I wouldn’t have believed it.”

Team Shout-Out

“I can’t say enough about my supervisor Pascal Gauvreau and his efforts to support our team who are a great group of people to work with. And I’d like to especially thank our co-worker, Tricia Quinton, who went above and beyond when she made masks for us before PPE was mandatory.”

Jamie Fulkerson, Corporate Safety Specialist

Jamie Fulkerson has been with the City’s Corporate Safety Division for ten years. She is one of two Corporate Safety Specialists, and works with City departments as a resource for all things safety. This includes assisting departments, supervisors, and Joint Health and Safety Committees with their required safety training, investigation of critical and major incidents, ensuring compliance with safety legislation and the City’s Safety Management System, and developing corporate safety procedures and safety talks.

One thing Jamie likes most about her job is the dynamic and constantly changing environment that she responds to. Corporate Safety Specialists at the City never know what their days are going to be like, and even before the onset of COVID-19, there is never a boring day! While others in this profession often only have to focus on one type of business, Jamie is a resource for a diverse group of operations. She needs to know the legislation and safety processes, and have an understanding of the operations in Long Term Care, Recreation, Transit, Fleet, building maintenance, and administrative areas.

Since the pandemic set in, Jamie and the team at Corporate Safety have additional focus on educating themselves with information from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, Ontario Public Health, Health Canada, etc. to create a long list of COVID Temporary Procedures, Safety Talks, and other COVID related documents. They have been assisting the departments, both those that have continued to be operational during the pandemic, and those that have had to create reopening plans. After being closed for a period of time, city facilities and departments must have new COVID precautions to implement; plans required for physical distancing when possible; masking, proper hand hygiene, and active screening processes; updated COVID specific signage, etc. Plus, the regular day to day events in the workplace still happen and need their attention.

Jamie has been fortunate to see a silver lining emerge, during this difficult time in her career, seeing City staff working together in ways they may not have to under normal circumstances. As she assists Pioneer Ridge and Jasper Place, the continued dedication of staff to the residents and tenants has been amazing to see. Both from those staff who are permanently employed in these areas, to the stories heard from staff who have been redeployed during the pandemic, Jamie believes that they definitely embody Thunder Bay’s giant heart.

In closing, Jamie expresses her appreciation for the rest of the Safety team, including all of Human Resources and Corporate Safety for helping to support the work that the Safety Specialists do, and for assisting in answering the many COVID related questions that have come up in the past 11 months. In addition, she would like to thank all the City management and staff for their ongoing ability to adapt to the crisis and for continuing to doing their part so that we can go back to doing more normal things sooner rather than later.

Alexa Fares, Program Supervisor - Customer Services and Programs, Recreation & Culture

In this position, there is an array of things that need Alexa’s attention daily, and her area of responsibility is comprehensive, requiring her to constantly adapt and deal with a wide range of people and personalities. She moves from supervision of the childcare room at the Complex (which provides care for children aged four months and up); to children’s programs in the Academy neighbourhood, bringing kids to the facility for swimming; to setting up the Complex’s squash program. Her job has her interacting with patrons of the Canada Games Complex, and neighbourhood families as well as all the staff who develop and deliver these programs.

One of the best things about Alexa’s job would be the people. She sees her team as fantastic people who are fun, and love their jobs. She is proud of them as go-getters and enjoys seeing them grow through the programming they deliver. From a public perspective, she loves the people she serves, especially the faces that have been there forever.

Alexa's job has changed tremendously due to the pandemic. In the beginning, as most could agree, there was a lot of uncertainty. Her team developed a variety of virtual programming to stay connected with kids, and spent a lot of time trying to figure out camps and programs for summer, and define what they would look like. At times their offerings and services would need to change, based on updated health directives. As they worked through how to re-invent summer programming, efforts shifted to reopening of the Canada Games Complex, and adapting their staffing and services appropriately, on top of trying to interpret and apply new provincial announcements. Alexa sees this as a very interesting period in her career as everyone worked through figuring out what was best for their members and their staff, what would work and what wouldn't, as the Thunder Bay District moved through the provincial colour-coded system. In a facility like the Complex, when it was restricted to 50 people in attendance, there was a lot of trust in staff as the guidelines were especially strict with recreation facilities. Alexa and her team worked through their new duties and training all the while managing what was best for their members.

Alexa sees adaptability as the silver lining to the pandemic. It has taught her to be proactive and creative, and think ahead a lot more, to anticipate scenarios in order to apply changes to upcoming events.

Overall, Alexa is proud of how everyone has stepped up and found ways to “make it work”. All of their programming is different now, and staff has adapted. Families and kids have been so appreciative of having some type of programming, and patrons have been so excited to return to the Canada Games Complex while adjusting to things like instructors behind glass, and the drastic change in the manner that swimming lessons are delivered. When they were reopening in the fall and the doors of the Complex opened, it was clear to Alexa how much people depend on these programs for their wellness.

Linda Pauluik, Pioneer Ridge Supervisor of Financial Services

Since starting her career at the City as a Food and Nutrition Services Supervisor at Pioneer Ridge in 2005, Linda Pauluik has worked in a variety of roles including spending time at the 55 Plus Centre and Community Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) before returning to Pioneer Ridge as Supervisor of Financial Services almost two years ago.

Having come full circle, Linda loves being back at Pioneer Ridge where she takes initiative to improve the quality of life for residents and staff alike. 

“I love my job and having the chance to interact with residents, especially one-on-one, nothing beats that,” she says. 

In a pandemic year, Linda was feeling the stress and anxiety among staff, so she organized a variety of safe holiday activities to help alleviate some of the pressure. She collected prizes, and when staff were unexpectedly restricted to stay on their floor due to additional precautions being put in place, she found a way for everyone to safely participate. 

Her contests succeeded at boosting morale and good cheer in trying times and as a result, co-workers wanted to share how appreciative they were of all she does. 

As a result of COVID-19, Linda saw her workload increase. “In a normal year, there are a lot of reports to do, but with COVID-19, it’s unbelievable the increase of overall paperwork. But it keeps things running here at Pioneer Ridge and through our community services such as Meals on Wheels and LIFT+ specialized transit, we are able to continue helping those in need throughout the pandemic.” 

When visitor restrictions began taking effect, Linda took on the responsibility of developing processes and procedures for implementing safety screening protocols, which required flexibility as things changed quickly. She also joined an internal committee to exchange coordinated information regarding COVID-19, which helped get some of the good news stories from Pioneer Ridge out to the public. 

Team shout-out 

“When you can’t be there to hold their hand, we do. Our staff have really stepped up to the plate to help fill social gaps for residents. Through virtual visits, or coordinating donations to ‘Light Up the Ridge’, our team continues to go the distance in this pandemic, and I’m very proud of them.”

Maria Pepe, Acting Secretary-Treasurer, Committee of Adjustment

Originally hired as a Planning Technician in July 2019, Maria Pepe recently accepted a role as Acting Secretary-Treasurer for the Committee of Adjustment in the Planning Services Division. Comprised of a group of Council-appointed individuals from the general public, the Committee of Adjustment (COA) considers changes to the City’s Zoning By-law that are minor in nature. Some examples would be to decrease the required side yards of a property, or increase the maximum height of a structure permitted on a property.

Maria works closely with the property owners (applicants) assisting them with their applications and confirming that all requirements of the Zoning By-law have been captured. Her responsibilities center around processing the applications and ensuring procedures and policies are followed as outlined in the provincial Planning Act. The process is quite extensive as there are a number of internal divisions and other agencies who are involved in the review of the applications. As well, a circulation is mailed around the applicant’s neighbourhood to give the community an opportunity to weigh in and express their support or concerns. 

Once all the comments are received and compiled, Maria forwards the full application package to each member of the Committee. The Committee of Adjustment meet once a month in Council Chambers to review up to 13 applications at one Hearing.

Maria enjoys working with the Planning Team, which consists of a group of professional Planners and Planning Technicians. As part of a professional organization, she has the opportunity to participate in a number of interesting webinars around Planning and COA issues. She enjoys this part of her job the most as she is continuously learning something new.

“The workload has definitely increased this year, partly around restrictions to public meetings. More time is spent educating both applicants and the public on how to participate in virtual meetings, especially with individuals who are not as familiar with computers or technology. And it’s a process that is repeated each month with a new group of applicants,” explains Maria.

As far as a silver lining with all the added work, she sees more people willing to use the City’s website. “With our offices being closed to the public, people have been quite receptive when I explain to them how easy it is to navigate our website and showing them the mapping features, which many are quite impressed with.”  Find information on The Planning Act, Provincial Policy Statement, the Official Plan and more by visiting www.thunderbay.ca/buildingandplanningservices

Team Shout-Out

“I would like to thank my colleagues who continuously give their time in helping me do my job better. I am inspired by my colleagues’ wealth of knowledge, and thank them for sharing it with me.”

Jessica Steele, Council Support Clerk

Imagine arriving at work and finding out that you are needed to stand-in as the maid of honour at a wedding happening right then and there.

Jessica Steele does that and more with a smile from the main floor in City Hall. Employed within the Clerks’ department for three years, she assumed her new job of Council Support Clerk a year ago. In this role, she handles the frontlines as the person the public turns to for a myriad of requests, including asking her to join their wedding party in Council Chambers.

“The whole wedding process is a lot of fun and not as complicated as people might think,” she says. “It’s a cool part of the job and sometimes I even get to issue marriage licenses to my friends.”

Since COVID-19 began, Jessica has been there, helping people with their ever-changing inquiries. She enjoys the challenge of helping people find the information they need, which she says pushes her to be very resourceful. Yet the days do look different with safety requirements in place. “The pandemic has definitely changed things. We had to adapt to a different way of working including taking more appointments and answering more phone calls overall.”

Given the increased demands of her job, she finds that the public are mostly patient and understanding. They recognize that many things are taking a bit longer now to complete, and they seem thankful that Clerks are still there for them and have been since the start of the pandemic.

Team shout-out

“This year has been a challenge and one that makes me realize the things in life that are most important, and that includes my work family. We’ve all helped each other stay happy and optimistic, and I’m thankful for that.”

Brandon Smith, Fire Prevention Officer

Before becoming a Fire Prevention Officer with the City one year ago, Brandon Smith proved himself as a first responder. He worked extensively on the frontlines, spending four years as a firefighter in the field, and before that, 12 years at Superior North Emergency Medical Service (SNEMS) as a paramedic.

As a Fire Prevention Officer, Brandon focuses on public education and fire prevention, as well as doing regular building inspections of residential and commercial buildings. Safety is the number one priority, and it might surprise some to know that Brandon and his colleagues will offer public education opportunities upon request. It’s not unheard of for him to organize demonstrations, real or simulated, on how to use a fire extinguisher, for example.

Much of the public outreach Brandon does happens in the schools, but with the COVID-19 pandemic, some of this programming needed to be adjusted. Fire drills are still very important and continue to run, but the firefighters on the scene will often forgo entering the building to minimize potential risk to students.

“The pandemic saw the requirements of my job change pretty drastically,” said Brandon. “In February, we were starting to prepare for the inevitable, and when COVID-19 did hit Thunder Bay, we implemented our Incident Management System. I was appointed to the position of Liaison for that group, and I also became a member of the Planning section. All of this required a lot of work—from March to April, I was the busiest I’d ever been since becoming a Fire Prevention Officer.”

Brandon attributes the excellent work of his colleagues in these unprecedented circumstances to their professionalism and resilience. He notes they have had to adapt to new ways of operating in terms of screening and personal protective equipment, which adds another layer of challenges to some of the more difficult calls.

“My hats off to all our firefighters and staff, especially to those working on the frontlines, including paramedics and police. We’ve all had to work together, and I feel like everyone has stepped up to show our commitment to this city and the people we serve.”

Thanks to Shane Muir and Community Testing Team

Brandon also wishes to acknowledge Shane Muir and his team at SNEMS for their amazing work handling an immense volume of COVID-19 tests to help keep our city safe.

Andrew Leschuk, Swim Instructor and Lifeguard

What is your official job title?

Swim Instructor and Lifeguard at Churchill Pool

How long have you been employed at the City of Thunder Bay?

Just over two years.

What do you like most about your job?

I enjoy keeping people safe as they enjoy the use of the facility. Being an avid swimmer myself, I appreciate having a city pool available, and I know that as a lifeguard, I am helping to provide the best experience possible. My job provides me with great opportunities and a wonderful work atmosphere. I am working hard to hopefully become a headguard in the future.

What is it like being a Lifeguard during this time?

I know that all the lifeguards at Churchill Pool are working hard to accommodate everyone that wants to use the facility. We have consistent protocols in place for booking swim times, enforcing rules, disinfecting points of contact, and ensuring that patrons are entering and exiting the facility at the correct time. I have certainly answered many phone calls during this time, which highlights the community demand for the facility.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Yes! A plexiglass screen has been installed on the front desk of Churchill Pool to act as a barrier between the staff and patrons. We’ve also been provided with personal reusable masks, as well as guard chairs on the pool deck to distance ourselves from patrons. Booking swim times is another new protocol to keep everyone safe. People can book one-hour time slots and are allowed in only 10-15 minutes before their swim time to ensure that the new capacity is always followed.

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

I have noticed an increase in the amount of work when in the office, specifically answering the phone and booking swim times, as well as answering questions about the new protocols.

What should residents do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?

Everyone is asked to wear masks in the lobby area and change rooms, and a hand sanitizing station has been set up at the door for public use. Remembering to give the lifeguards space while on the pool deck, as well as refraining from placing personal items on the lifeguard chairs, can also help keep myself and colleagues safe.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

Many people have expressed their excitement of having a pool reopen. Having been at Churchill Pool right from the beginning of the reopening in July, I have seen many people come in for aquatic fitness and fun. It’s been nice to see my coworkers again after the abrupt closure in March.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

I have seen the swim clubs start practicing again, and patrons get back into swimming routines. It highlights how we can work together as a community to create a new normal at Churchill Pool.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Please have patience with the staff at Churchill Pool while everyone gets used to the new normal. You can call the pool or check the website if you have any questions about current pool operations.

Cindy Woodbeck, Clerk Dispatcher

What is your official job title?

Clerk Dispatcher with Infrastructure and Operations

How long have you been employed at the City of Thunder Bay?

22 years

What do you like most about your job?

I really enjoy the social interaction, and I love customer service.

What is it like being a Clerk-Dispatcher during this time?

It’s a 50-50 situation. There can be difficult questions, but we are the information highway. It is great to be in a position to help residents. With the COVID-19 situation continuing, at times people are becoming frustrated with the uneasy situation overall. As a result, sometimes we have to handle people’s emotions as well as their questions.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Definitely. The City has been working hard to keep things safe for the employees in our department, from safety markings on the floors and entranceways, to masks, hand sanitizers, and handwashing protocols. In our workplace, everyone is taking care of everyone. There are new challenges every day, but the City has been very diligent and we know they care.

Are you noticing an increase in the amount of work?

Yes, and of course, it’s not a surprise. There are so many new protocols and ways of dealing with things. In many situations, there may be three steps instead of one. Calls to the City Dispatchers have naturally increased, as residents have many questions.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

Because we’re busier with an increased number of calls, my day goes by very fast! And it feels good being able to help.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working in the community during this time?

People are very glad that someone—a human being, answers their call. It’s very touching how we are appreciated just for being here at this time.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Humour is the best medicine. If you can laugh, and help people see the lighter side, it alleviates tension. Although many calls involve serious issues and questions, lightheartedness is very valuable. And one more thing to add:  there are no stupid questions!

 Steve Kondreska, Traffic Tech I

What is your official job title?

Traffic Tech I within the Traffic Control & Street Lighting section of Roads 

How long have you been employed at the City of Thunder Bay?

Just under 15 years

What do you like most about your job?

The fact that most of the things I do at work benefit the public. It’s very gratifying to be doing something that helps the public, especially with safety.

What is it like being a Traffic Tech I during this time?

It’s been very strange! At first, during COVID, it felt like we were the only people outside – eerie!

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Yes, many. Our department has done a good job with putting safety measures in place, such as limiting who can access buildings – right now we can’t have contractors coming through the doors. Also, we usually have just one person per vehicle; if more must be in the vehicle, masks are worn. The City has done a great job making sure we had all the safety equipment we need, right from the start.  

Are you noticing an increase in the amount of work?

Absolutely, yes. Essential workers have had more work to do, and now there is additional catch-up on tasks that had to be delayed.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

Yes - I didn’t have time to sit around at home worrying! Going to your familiar job every day – at least it’s one normal thing.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

People who have been staying home are often out in their yards or properties, and they notice more of what we do.  People seem to appreciate it more.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I’d just like to reiterate that in our department they did everything they could to look after our well-being, right from the beginning.

 April Johnson - Archivist Assistant

What is your official job title?

Archivist Assistant at the Harry Kirk Archives & Records Centre

How long have you been employed at the City of Thunder Bay?

20 years

What do you like most about your job?

I participate in the corporate records management program and the operation of the City Archives and enjoy both components equally. They are an important part of the CTB and knowing that I play a role in preserving the City’s corporate history is awesome. Also working with such a great Archives team, makes it even more enjoyable.

What is it like being an Archivist Assistant during this time?

Working from home has created some issues as part of my job can only be done in the building and not from home, so those projects are on hold. With the office being closed and no courier service, it has been a challenge in getting records to the divisions. In addition some services such as record box transfers are not being accepted until we re-open. This will create a backlog for us and for departments.  We are fortunate that people are very understanding and patient with our new schedule. Sanitizing and social distancing are now always a priority when doing my job.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

The City Archives & Records Centre has been closed to the public since late March. Our staff are working from home and limiting the number of visits we make to our building. We also notify each other when entering and leaving the building; if it happens we overlap our visit, we social distance and wear masks. Sanitizing is routine when we enter the office area. 

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

When the office first closed to the public and we began working from home, my co-worker was redeployed which meant I would be taking on a portion of his work as well, so it was very busy. I monitor the Archive e-mail accounts and was designated the person to go into the office for all record requests, retrievals, scheduled pick-up of records and look after public inquiries. My co-worker has recently returned to his position and work remains steady.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

It has been amazing to see how our City workers from all divisions have come together so we can continue quality service for the community.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

There have been many inspiring stories in our community that have proven “we are in this together”. For example a local business donated 200 face masks to evacuees, and so many homes having signage on their windows with encouraging messages and thanking the community.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I would like to give a shout out to my manager who has done an outstanding job on checking in on his staff to make sure everything was O.K. while working from home. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic he has always kept us informed and sends emails to keep in touch during these difficult times. Thanks Matt!

Janelle Darosa - Property Agent

Janelle Darosa is a Property Agent with Realty Services Division at the City of Thunder Bay.

How long have you been employed at the City of Thunder Bay?

I’ve been with the City for about a year.

What do you like most about your job?

I love the work environment that I share with friendly and professional colleagues. I also have a new level of appreciation of how public processes work. It can be very rewarding to see changes in the community that I was able to contribute to.

What is it like being a Property Agent during this time?

I’m currently working from home and have been for five months. It’s been a bit of an adjustment, but the work hasn’t changed so it can be done effectively.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

We follow standard protocol with regular Safety Talks and when we have in-person meetings, we ensure we are physically distancing, sanitizing and wearing masks indoors.

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

The amount of work started at a standard rate but once the reopening plans began, there was definitely an increase. We also worked on Covid-related tasks such as the patio project to assist restaurants and retailers with creative ways to establish outdoor patios during the pandemic. We also worked on rent relief programming for our commercial tenants. The City went out of its way to help businesses that were affected by the pandemic.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

Yes. As much as these times are difficult, people are resilient and proving that they can adapt to changing environments and face the unknown together.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

I’ve witnessed many selfless acts. It’s been so nice to see many people stepping up to volunteer and provide essential work on the frontlines, as well as support local businesses during these times.  

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Thank you to all our frontline workers. I’m glad to be from a community where everyone supports each other.

 Suzanne Sabaz - Support Services Assistant

Suzanne Sabaz is a Support Services Assistant with Thunder Bay 55+ Centre, Recreation & Culture Division. She has been employed at the City for 29 years.  

What do you like most about your job?

I love connecting with older adults in the City. I’ve worked with seniors since I was in high school. Over the years, I’ve volunteered and worked with many different local agencies and seniors' groups in Thunder Bay. I’ve also completed a post-secondary gerontology program. I’ve always gravitated towards working with seniors.

What is it like being a Support Services Assistant during this time?

Our programs for seniors have continued mostly over the phone. Our in-person Friendly Visiting and Walk-A-Bit programs have been put on hold for now. Most of these volunteers have transferred to our Telephone Assurance Program, in which our volunteers call our senior clients for a friendly chat and a check-in, usually weekly. If a volunteer suspects our client is in need of community services they are not currently accessing, we make those referrals for them. We are lucky to have a lot of really great new volunteers in this program since the start of the pandemic.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Right now I am able to work from home and I feel very fortunate to be able to do so. I’ve been very safe working in that respect.

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

We are with the Telephone Assurance Program for seniors in the community. We normally have 40 to 50 referrals a year, and over the last few months we’ve had over 100 referrals. This tells us seniors are more disconnected and lonesome in COVID-19 circumstances. Their family and friends cannot be with them; they’re missing that interaction. This program has almost tripled in size since the start of the pandemic. This also shows how much people need human interaction.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

It’s not an easy time for seniors in the community, or anyone at any age. The silver lining I see is that even though our volunteers are going through a hard time themselves, they are still taking the time to help others. That is really inspiring.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

I see a lot of people in the Thunder Bay community that are willing to get out and help people who are struggling. Whether it’s through food banks, food box programs, or in less formal ways. For example, in my neighbourhood, I see people regularly checking in on their neighbours to see if they’re ok and being taken care of. It is really heartwarming.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I’m very proud of the way Thunder Bay has handled COVID 19, also with keeping people informed and keeping people’s spirits up. I think this shows in our low numbers.

 Tammy Mastalerz - Supervisor

Tammy Mastalerz is the Supervisor, Supply Management (Inventory & Courier) and she has been with the City for a year.

What do you like most about your job?

I am fortunate to be part of a really great team who has worked so hard these last few months. There is always something keeping me on my toes. It is very rewarding to be providing support to frontline staff. 

What is it like being the Supervisor, Supply Management during this time?

It is very busy, with heavy focus on trying to source, store, and distribute Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). At the beginning, it was very hectic as none of the equipment we needed could be found anywhere. Literally all of us were on the phone trying to locate PPE. Now, hand sanitizer is bought in bulk. It comes in liquid form, in 20-litre pails and needs to be decanted, meaning we had to source spray bottles which there wasn’t a great supply of locally. There is also a need for us to make PPE kits for staff. For example, Lifeguards are issued bags with a face shield, mask, gown, and sanitizer. 

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job? Mainly social distancing, handwashing, sanitizing, and regular cleaning of touch surfaces like counters and doorknobs. The counters at our City Stores also have Plexiglas barriers. When accepting deliveries, we screen, and continue with physical distancing and proper handwashing after deliveries. Suppliers are not requiring signatures on deliveries, so we don’t have to handle paperwork. We also do more regular cleaning of our courier vehicles. 

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

Absolutely. In addition to the regular ongoing procurement needs across City departments, there is more work associated with the pandemic. Suppliers have to be contacted regularly to check availability, and we are working directly with City departments to source the PPE that they need. The items we are sourcing aren’t normally stocked, and we are ordering in huge volumes. 

What should people do to help keep you and your colleagues safe? With any deliveries to us, or from our couriers, please maintain physical distancing. The same is true of City staff coming to pickup PPE. And we appreciate as much notice as possible for PPE requirements. 

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

The pandemic has definitely shown that Thunder Bay is a resilient community, and we have pulled together to help each other out. We have demonstrated our ability to help flatten the curve, particularly when you look at the numbers for Thunder Bay. 

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time? Seeing everyone working together is inspiring. When the pandemic first hit, we were receiving donations of gloves, masks, and other PPE from dentist offices, and places like tbaytel and Resolute. It is fantastic to see support for our frontline workers. It is inspiring when reading the news to see that this is still happening. Free masks and sanitizers are being donated from big business to small business. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Thank you to all the frontline workers, including those behind the scenes such as mechanics, city courier, and storekeepers. 

 Jordyn Howie - Program Coordinator

Jordyn is a Program Coordinator for the Recreation & Culture Division’s Children & Youth programs and has worked at the City for eight years.

What do you like most about your job?

I love my job because I get to meet new people who share the same passions as me, and I have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people. 

What is it like being a Program Coordinator during this time?

Being a Program Coordinator during this time has been different as there are several new changes and accommodations that we’ve had to make to the program in order for it to be safe for children and staff. However, my team and I have worked together to make this summer happen and are happy we get to provide programming for children who have been away from their normal routine for so long. 

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

There are several protocols in place to keep us safe on the job. We have smaller groups, we practice social distancing, we have advanced cleaning protocols, we have modified activities to avoid coming into close contact with one another, and we have additional Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). 

Are you noticing an increase or change in amount of work?

Yes, there has been an increase as we need to implement and train staff members on new health and safety policies. We also need to be more creative in planning activities to ensure they are following these new policies. 

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

We are bringing back some normalcy to children’s lives and providing them with the opportunity to play with others again. 

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

I’ve seen program staff rise to the challenge of adapting to these new changes and finding a way to make programming enjoyable for the children while maintaining safety as a top priority. 

 Karen Nadeau - Leadhand/Curator

Karen Nadeau is a Leadhand/Curator – Conservatory, Parks & Open Spaces Section since 1988.

How long have you been employed at the City of Thunder Bay?

Since 1988 

What do you like most about your job?

Surprisingly, I like to go out and weed—it's very relaxing! I also really enjoy working with my co-workers. We are an upbeat, tightknit group. We love when the planting season starts each year. 

What is it like being the Conservatory Leadhand/Curator during this time?

Right now, it'svery busy! It's always hectic during planting season. However, with COVID-19, work had to start a month late and proceed as quickly as possible.  

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Yes. Our trucks now have plexiglass installed. We wear masks, and we try to keep our distance when working on flowerbeds. Since we are outdoors, physical distancing is easier for us than for some employees. 

Are you noticing an increase in the amount of work?

Absolutely. We are running behind our usual schedule due to COVID-19. Right now we are hurrying to get the LID (Low Impact Development for stormwater management) beds in. The total planting area for Parks is 5,200 square metres. This year, we will be preparing beds at the Marina, in addition to our usual areas. 

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

Everyone is in this together, at work and at home. I've found that I have become more patient. At home, my family has grown closer—we've turned off the TV and taken the next steps together. 

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

So many things have happened during this season! For instance, last week a woman lost her wallet at one of the parks where we were working. A resident found it and turned it in to Thunder Bay Police. The woman returned to look for it and learned that it was turned in. Later she came back with orange juice for the workers. People appreciate our work more during these times and are enjoying our parks more often.

 Leanne Lavoie - Committee Coordinator

Leanne Lavoie is a Committee Coordinator with the Office of the City Clerk and has worked at the City for four years.

What do you like most about your job?

I always describe the Office of the City Clerk as the nucleus of the Corporation. We work closely with City Council and Administration from every Department. I get to play a supporting role in the good work they do. I love being in the room for Council meetings. I have a front row seat to all the action, and I think that’s pretty cool.  

What is it like being a Committee Coordinator during this time? How has the job changed?

To reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, we were given very clear direction: If we are able to work from home, we must. The City’s IT experts have set the Clerks staff up well with access to everything we need to build agendas, write minutes, communicate with colleagues and attend meetings remotely, via our laptops. I spend about 75% of my workdays working from home. I go into the office only for City Council meetings or to print and organize agendas.  

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

City Hall is still closed to the public. We limit the number of people in our office to a maximum of five. Regularly touched surfaces, such as door knobs and the photocopier, are wiped down frequently. We are careful to keep our distance from each other, and we wash our hands or use hand sanitizer several times each day. 

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

Our workload has definitely increased. Some of the Committee Coordinators were reassigned to support the Emergency Response Team and others took on additional Council meetings. Switching to virtual City Council meetings has also created a great deal of extra work for our office. We are resilient, though, and have been supporting each other throughout the State of Emergency. 

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

I think COVID-19 has forced us all to slow down and remember what is truly important: Our health, our families, and taking care of each other in our community.  

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

I’ve been impressed by the way local small businesses and other organizations have adapted their services and events, like car-hop service at Bay Village Coffee, drive-by drag during Pride Month, and our City’s reimagining of Live on the Waterfront as Virtual Live. Thunder Bay is full of passionate, positive people with creative ideas to make our City better for everyone, even during a pandemic.  

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I want everyone to know how supportive our senior management team is. The City Manager sends weekly emails to all staff, keeping us up to date, thanking us for our dedication and reminding us to take care of ourselves. My direct supervisor, the City Clerk, as well as the Deputy Clerk, consistently check-in to offer support and make sure we’re doing ok. It has been a strange time, working away from my Clerks’ family, but I have never felt alone. 

Dona-Lee Robinson - Animal Services Law Enforcement Officer

Dona-Lee Robinson is an Animal Services Law Enforcement Officer and has worked at the City for just over one year. 

What do you like most about your job?

I enjoy helping lost, abandoned or injured animals and ensuring they are safe and that they see justice when they are harmed. 

What is it like being an Animal Services Officer during this time?

It’s a bit different with work requirements that are outside of what we normally do. For example, if we see people out in the community, in a place that is off limits due to COVID-19, we take the time to stop and educate them on the rules and how they can be safer. 

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Yes, we adhere to strict safety protocols including wearing masks, using sanitizer, limiting our vehicles to one driver and keeping our vehicles clean as well. We also have screening questions in place in the event someone needs to enter the building to claim a lost animal, for example. 

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

Yes, more people are at home now so they are noticing animals that need help more often so we are seeing an increase in calls. 

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

Throughout the community, people are taking greater safety precautions which helps everyone. 

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

I’ve noticed that people are nicer. If they see us in uniform in this hot weather waiting in line somewhere, they let us go ahead of them which is much appreciated.

Louisa Costanzo - Cultural Development & Events Supervisor with the Recreation & Culture Division

Louisa Costanzo is the Cultural Development & Events Supervisor with the Recreation & Culture Division and has worked at the City for one year.

What do you like most about your job?

There are so many things I like about my job; it is hard to name one, but I will try! I enjoy all of the people I get to work with, from other City employees to community partners and stakeholders. I have met some fantastic people during the last year.

What is it like being a Cultural Development & Events Supervisor during this time?

It is different. Typically we would be gearing up for a busy event season. Since we cannot gather in large groups, we changed programming from in-person to virtual for the safety of our community. The event days will be very different.   

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

I am very fortunate to be working from home so the majority of my work right now is done over the phone through emails and virtual meetings. If I need to do media interviews or make pick-ups related to events, I practice physical distancing, wash my hands often and wear a mask.  

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

The work is different. Switching from in-person programming to virtual was quite a shift; it was a whole new world. As with in-person events there is a lot of coordination, in the virtual world there is even more.  One of the biggest challenges working in the virtual world is technology, something as simple as uploading a video can take nearly 24 hours, so you have to plan around that. 

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

I am a firm believer that there is always a silver lining! I have learned so much from video editing, online marketing and much more. I had to adapt and find innovative ways to present events. While these times are challenging, I am appreciative of having the opportunity to learn new skills.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

There are so many inspiring things happening in our community. A few weeks ago, a fantastic Recreation & Culture team member who was redeployed at Pioneer Ridge arranged for a Pride awareness event complete with a parade for residents.. These kinds of initiatives make me so proud to be part of the Recreation and Culture division with the City of Thunder Bay.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Check out our virtual Canada Day Celebrations at thunderbay.ca/canadaday. There are so many fun activities planned, a little something for everyone – all from the safety of your own home. The activities start on Monday, June 29 at 11 am and go until July 1.

Eric Kwisses - Acting Lead Hand and Mechanic, Fleet Services section

Eric Kwisses is the acting lead hand and mechanic at the Mountdale Shop in the Fleet Services section within the City of Thunder Bay. Fleet Services maintains City owned vehicles and equipment, from street sweepers, to loaders and graders, to trucks and Zambonis. Eric coordinates this mechanical work to make sure essential services continue to run smoothly and safely during the pandemic.

What do you like most about your job?

For me, everyday is different. I’m doing different things, and there are new challenges every day. There’s definitely no routine, that’s for sure. Most of the time I work inside the Shop, but sometimes I get to work outside in nice weather when there are service calls. I really like all my colleagues, too.

What is it like being a leadhand and mechanic during this time?

During the pandemic, we’re doing the same work we’ve always done, but we’ve added safety measures. For example, physical distancing measures have been put in place between myself, my colleagues, and our vendors. We also do more sanitizing.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Yes – like I said, physical distancing measures definitely. And we keep equipment and tools clean and sanitized. When a vehicle or piece of equipment that needs servicing comes in, we wipe it down, and wipe it down again when it goes back out. We also have to trust that our colleagues are taking self-protective measures outside of work, because we work in the same building and we need to give each other a hand sometimes. That’s the nature of our job. We’ve also installed Lexan barriers in some City vehicles to keep City staff safe.

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

Our work level has stayed about the same. It’s always high, and it’s no different now. There is always work for us to do. Installing the Lexan barriers in City vehicles was time sensitive, so it was a bit busier during that time.

What should residents or colleagues do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?

Our vendors have been really good with sanitizing anything we’ve sent out and received from them. Staff rely on each other to be safe and to take protective measures in the workplace. So, I would say, please keep doing what you’re doing.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?

Well, being a mechanic, I come home and put my clothes in the washer and have a hot shower. This is not much different than what I’ve always done given the nature of my work. We limit grocery shopping to when we have to and stay home.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

Spending more time with family. At work, it’s stayed pretty much the same as we are an internal-facing operation.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

It’s good to see how our colleagues have come together and have taken the pandemic seriously. And it was good to see all the safety measures the City took to help with the pandemic too.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

The pandemic will change the way things are done at work and at home – the way we travel, shop, school our kids, etc. Just that, and stay safe!

Tony DaSilva - Hardware/Datacentre Administrator, Corporate Information Technology Division 

Tony DaSilva is a hardware/datacentre administrator in the Corporate Information Technology (CIT) Division within the City of Thunder Bay. He has been employed with the City for almost 14 years. In his role, Tony maintains, deploys, and repairs Corporate computing equipment including servers, storage devices, and personal computing equipment.

What do you like most about your job?

I’m lucky to be in a position where I get out of the office to see people, and to help them, which is in my nature. I like that the work I do is measurable. At the end of the day, I can see my successes. My job calls for ongoing learning so I am learning new things all the time.

What is it like being a member of the CIT team during this time?

Over the years, I’ve worked closely with the team on Corporate IT projects, as well as on projects for other departments, like EMS and Pioneer Ridge. In the first 6-8 weeks of our Corporate efforts to prevent the spread of COVID19, CIT was responsible for getting employees set up to work from home. Things were happening incredibly fast as there were urgent equipment needs on top of the regular day-to-day work. Things are a little lonely now, with everyone else working from home.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Yes, all tech equipment coming in is sanitized before I start working on it. I have appropriate PPE both in my vehicle and in my work toolkit so that I can be prepared since priorities change while I am on the move. I also sanitize all equipment before it is returned.

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

Yes! Especially with all the extra cleaning and prep work that needs to be done. Many office spaces and facilities that I can normally access are closed, so it takes extra time to access the City offices and buildings that I need to. I need to make sure I have everything I think I might possibly need for a job before going onsite because it’s not as easy to get back into areas if I have to leave.

What should other city staff do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?

Please make sure you keep your tech equipment clean, and respect physical distancing. Please understand and be patient that the turnaround time may not be as quick as usual due to the extra work involved with working in a location safely.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?

I wash my hands as soon as I get in the house, and then I go downstairs to change clothes right away.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

People seem to appreciate IT a little bit more than usual. They understand that even working from home requires critical IT involvement. As a result, most people are a little more understanding, and friendlier than normal, and are more engaged when I do site visits. It’s true that you don’t know what you’ve got till you’ve lost it, and I am so fortunate to get along with everyone in my office that I really miss them. I have come to appreciate those relationships more, even the bad joke of the day.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working during this time?

Seeing people working with a smile on their face, despite the challenges in their workplace, is inspiring. People are dressed in PPE but still optimistic and cheerful, in what could otherwise be negative situations. City management should be proud of the work their teams are doing and their positive attitudes.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Many people are keen to come back to work and are mindful of physical boundaries. I am confident that when the doors of CIT, other City offices, and life in general open again, we will hit the ground running. I am proud of the work ethic, the positivity, and the dedication that our teams have.

 Kristy Sunderland - Clerk Stenographer III, Central Support Division

Kristy Sunderland is a Clerk Stenographer III in the Central Support Division in the Infrastructure and Operations Department. She provides customer service to members of the public for things like City construction projects, garbage tags, and also issues permits for driveway construction and heavy and over-sized vehicle loads. On top of this, she also provides administrative support to her Division.

What do you like most about your job?

I really enjoy interacting with the public and being able to help people with questions they have about things going on in the City. I like being able to bike to work every day, and I also like all the people I work with. 

What is it like being a Clerk Stenographer III during this time?

It is definitely different. People think that it’s business as usual, but things are definitely going at a slower pace. It takes a little longer to get people the answers they need. Normally, I could walk to a co-worker’s office to get information on the spot, but now an extra step is added as I have to contact them at their home. We’ve also had to issue permits by mail, which takes longer.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Victoriaville and the Civic Centre are closed down to the public. We mostly communicate to members of the public through mail, email, and over the phone during this time, versus in person. Members of the public can’t come to our counter to get permits, so I walk them through how to do it step by step over the phone.

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

Yes. There are not as many people in the office, and things need to still happen on a daily basis to keep the office running. My job has been expanded and my workload has definitely increased. For example, now that I issue garbage tags, I am fielding at least 10 extra phone calls per day. I don’t mind helping out during this time, but it has definitely added to the workload.

What should residents do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?

Know that the Victoriaville Civic Centre is closed and you can’t access the building. To get answers to your questions, it’s easier to phone and email us during this time.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?

I wash my hands and completely change out of my clothes. My clothes go in the wash right away, and everything that I took to work gets sanitized. And when you bike to work, that’s a lot of extra clothes and a lot of extra laundry!

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

I have found that everyone is a lot more patient and are more appreciative of the work we are doing. I believe the pandemic has really brought the community closer, even though we are more physically separated. Another silver lining is getting the chance to talk to some of the senior residents who call us. You can tell some of them are lonelier during this time and want to chat more than usual.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

To be honest, the most inspiring thing is hearing from our frontline workers in the community. For example, people who work at EMS, Pioneer Ridge, St. Joe’s, or the hospital. They are going in to work every day regardless of the situation and that’s the best thing we can hope for.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Continue to practice physical distancing and stay safe, everyone! 

 Summer Lavallee - Youth Navigator, Youth Inclusion Program

Summer Lavallee is a Youth Navigator with the Youth Inclusion Program in the Recreation & Culture Division. The Youth Inclusion Program, which is youth-centred and youth-led, typically provides neighbourhood based programming created to fit the needs of youth ages 12 to 24 and provides a safe and positive environment for youth to reach out for extra support when needed.

What do you like most about your job?
Working with youth is incredibly rewarding. As a Navigator, I have the opportunity to work with youth one-on-one and build trusting relationships. I help them to identify their strengths and support their skill building and personal development. Despite the disadvantages youth face, they are incredibly resilient and resourceful and I learn so much from them.

What is it like being a Youth Inclusion Program Navigator during this time?
It is incredibly challenging not being able to support my clients in the same capacity anymore. I am used to seeing my clients everyday and spending time with them to build and maintain our relationship. Fortunately, I have been able to keep in touch with clients virtually and support them where I can.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?
Most of my job is conducted virtually now and when I do go out I wear a mask and have screening questions for any clients that I may see. I bring sanitizer and disinfectant to regularly sanitize my hands and wipe down high-contact surfaces such as our work van. We ensure we follow any new protocols that come up.

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work, or a change in the type of work right now?
My colleagues and I have been working from home throughout the duration of the COVID-19 Pandemic. I stay in touch with my clients virtually (which means I spend a lot of time on social media as it is the best way to communicate with youth). Our program has continued supporting some of our youth and families by delivering emergency groceries and supplies and helping them access income security like the Canada Emergency Response Benefit.

What should residents do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?
Follow the recommendations and guidelines set forth by the government. Stay informed with updates from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit. Access and learn about supports for you and your family by calling 2-1-1.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?
I immediately wash my hands and sanitize any items and surfaces that may have been contaminated such as my cell phones, keys, wallet, door handles, etc.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?
Although this has been an extremely difficult time for many, it is quite remarkable to witness how some of the youth in our program have been spending their surplus of time. They have begun to reignite old passions and return to activities and hobbies that they did not have time for in their busy lives.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?
During any crisis you can always find helpers. There are so many people out there who are selfless in doing what they can to support their community. A local example is the Roots to Harvest Family Food Packages. I have been helping this program by delivering food packages to under-served and high risk neighbourhoods on a weekly basis.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?
SELF-CARE. You are not only at risk of getting sick and your physical health right now, but you are at risk for all of your other well-beings: mental health, emotional health and spiritual health. Take care of yourself – do something positive for each of your well-beings every day. Check on family and friends to stay connected and reach out if you are struggling.

For more information on the City’s Youth Inclusion Program, visit: www.thunderbay.ca/yip 

Special thanks to Summer for sharing her views on what it is like being a Youth Navigator during this time.

Redeployed Employees Working at Jasper Place, Pioneer Ridge and Meals on Wheels

For this week’s Employee Spotlight, we reached out to employees currently redeployed to Jasper Place, Pioneer Ridge and Meals on Wheels. While we were limited to five redeployed employees for this interview, we wish to thank all redeployed staff for their dedication and can-do attitude towards upholding the highest standards of care on the City’s frontlines.

We asked Lisa Etienne, Senior Box Office Ticketing Agent, “what she likes most about her redeployed position at Jasper Place?” 
In my regular position, I am used to sitting at a desk and working solo. Here at Jasper, I enjoy getting to interact more with others, while keeping active and busy running around all day.

Since March 30, Trish Malmborg, an Administrative Clerk from the City Manager’s Office, has been redeployed to Pioneer Ridge. We asked Trish “what special protocols are in place to keep you safe?”
For sure, the long term care homes have specific directions from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Labour to keep everyone safe. This includes (among other protocols) working on one home area only, limiting access between floors, wearing face masks at all times, having our temperature taken at the start and end of each shift, answering screening questions upon arrival, and having extra PPE on hand should protocols change. Hand washing/use of hand sanitizer is a constant, and social distancing at all times is a given.

Rehabilitation Consultant Steve Stankevicus from Human Resources & Corporate Safety has been redeployed to Wheels on Wheels since March 30. We asked Steve, “is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?”
It has given me a new appreciation for humanity to see people come together in order to provide much-needed services (especially for the most vulnerable). Doing Meals on Wheels is such a small part of my day, but I know it is a vital service for our seniors. It has given me more of an appreciation for all the people that are doing frontline service everyday to keep essential services going while putting themselves and family at risk during these times.

We asked Canada Games Complex Facility Operator Kyla Strickland “have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?”
It has been very inspiring and uplifting to see that members of the community have not forgotten those who are at Pioneer Ridge. Schools and other volunteers have written “Caring Cards” addressed to their “Grand-friends” that are being shared with all the residents. This has left me with a lasting positive impression that I will always cherish. Way to go Thunder Bay for coming together in a time of need! I am so proud to say that I am a part of this amazing community.

We asked Daniel Miller, Facility Attendant at the Water Garden Pavillion at Prince Arthur’s Landing, “is there anything you would like to add to our interview?”
I have gained a high appreciation of City healthcare workers at Pioneer Ridge during my time at Pioneer Ridge.

Laura Chard - Support Service Worker at Jasper Place

Laura Chard is a Support Service Worker at Jasper Place and has been employed with the City of Thunder Bay for 21 years.

What do you like most about your job?
I really enjoy being able to help our tenants and knowing that I am making their day a little bit better and brighter.

What is it like being a Support Service Worker during this time? 
Working during this time is both emotional and yet very rewarding. We are our tenants’ everything right now as they cannot see family or friends outside of those who live and work here. We have become their family and their support system.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?
Yes, there are many protocols in place to help keep us and our tenants safe. Safety protocols include wearing the proper PPE, going through a screening desk when entering the building, the tenants have no outside visitors, and their groceries get delivered directly to the home, among many other protocols.

What should residents do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?
I think the best thing residents can do is to do their part to stay home if possible! And we will continue to do our part to help provide support to our tenants during this difficult time.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?
As soon as I get home I change my clothes, wash up and then clean my lunch containers.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?
The silver lining would be being there for our tenants during this difficult time. Their world has changed drastically and it feels good to know that I am there to support them through it.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?
Yes, we have signs with hearts posted on all of our tenants’ doors where we exchange words of encouragement – it is really inspiring. There have also been many words of thanks and many shared tears from our tenants’ family and friends knowing we are making our tenants feel safe.

Special thanks to Laura for sharing her views on what it is like being a Support Service Worker during this time.

Danny Bois - Waste Collection Operator 

Danny Bois is a Waste Collection Operator and has been employed with the City of Thunder Bay's Solid Waste & Recycling Services Section for 3 years. 

What do you like most about your job? 
For me, the highlights of my job are that I get to be outside and active with changing scenery and a good group of guys that help make work fun.

What is it like being a Waste Collection Operator during this time?
It’s definitely different—we are taking more precautions from simple to complex measures. We are ensuring physical distancing with residents and changing our daily routines to be safer.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?
Yes, we are equipped with more PPE and we have Plexiglas partitions in the cab of our two-man trucks that help protect us when physical distancing isn’t feasible. Also, our morning routine has changed. Instead of gathering with all employees on-site for the daily instructions, we are doing this individually in a staggered approach.

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?
Yes, this time of year is usually busier and with many people staying home we are seeing an increased amount of waste.

What should residents do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?
The most important thing residents can do to help us is to ensure they properly bag and seal all their household waste. We often come across open garbage with tissue paper and other potentially hazardous waste in open cans or bags, so we ask that residents work to avoid this for everyone’s safety. Also, we are happy to answer questions but ask residents to respect physical distancing and stand at least two metres away from us.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?
At the end of the work day, I sanitize my stuff and shower at work before changing into my regular clothes, which I then change again once home.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?
One silver lining is that there is less traffic for us to contend with. And ultimately with everyone doing their part to stay safe, I would hope this will end sooner than later so we can go back to normalcy. 

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?
We are seeing a lot of heightened appreciation from the community with signs and many gestures of gratitude, which is really nice.

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 
I’d just like to reiterate for residents to make a conscious effort to please ensure they bag their garbage and seal it tightly.

Special thanks to Danny for sharing his views on what it is like being a Waste Collection Operator during this time.

Jeffrey Duce - Building Inspector 

Jeffrey Duce is a Building Inspector and has been employed at the City of Thunder Bay for 12 years.

What do you like most about your job?

I’d say what I like most are the technical challenges that come up in the field. Things that force you to problem solve, think outside the box, and collaborate with colleagues to find acceptable solutions.

What is it like being a Building Inspector during this time?

It’s weird. Everyone I talk to in the field is feeling the same way. Contractors are putting measures in place on the job sites such as screening questions, changing work schedules to limit the amount of people in an area at a time, many staff wear masks, and hand washing stations have been added.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Absolutely. The City has been quite proactive and is keeping our wellbeing a priority. Many of us have offices set up in our homes and have a specific time frame for when we can access the office to limit the social interactions between employees. Like I said it is weird, but I do appreciate it. A procedure was also created and is continuously updated for screening and entering private residences. We are also equipped with hand sanitizer and masks.

Are you noticing an increase or change in amount of work?

At first the work was limited, but as things progress and as the Government slowly lightens the limitations in the Emergency Order, more and more projects are being allowed to open back up and proceed. Based on how things are progressing, I have my fingers crossed that the construction season will be back full tilt before we know it.

What should residents do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?

Stay at home. I drive across the city from job site to job site and I have to say, the city is quieter than it normally would be. However, I still see people out and about in groups not respecting the importance of social distancing. I know it is very hard and challenging for society in many ways but, we still have to respect each other and follow the rules. For those who are respecting social distancing and doing their part, I appreciate the efforts!

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?

My wife wipes my keys and wallet off when I walk in the door and escorts me directly to the sink to wash up, and my boots stay outside.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

I don’t know, maybe it’s as simple as seeing how our community can proactively work together and respect the severity of this situation. There is a chance that this pandemic could possibly change how we view our everyday lives and operations for the better.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working in the community during this time?

Well come on – the Snow Birds! That was an awesome display for uplifting our emotions while staying locked away in our homes. My wife told me about the look on our kid’s faces when they flew over our house and I heard all about it when I got home.

I feel very grateful to be providing an essential service and to still be working during these times. Thank you to everyone who is still working to provide care and services that we all rely on. And thank you, and hang in there, to those who are not working and are at home doing their part.

Special thanks to Jeffrey for sharing his views on what it is like being a Building Inspector during this time.

Erika Cunningham - Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) at Algoma Child Care Centre

Erika Cunningham is a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) who has been employed at the City of Thunder Bay for 5 years. Erika is working at the Algoma Child Care Centre to help provide emergency child care for children of front line essential workers.

What do you like most about your job?

Of course the children are always number one, helping them to develop their social skills in a safe and caring environment. You’re greeted with a hug and smile going into work every day. Giving parents peace of mind knowing their children are well cared for in their absence is an amazing feeling.

What is it like being an emergency child care worker during this time?

It’s the same but not, you’re still there for the children and families every day, but there’s a lot more cleaning and protocols put in place. Social distancing with children is a struggle, and they have a hard time understanding why they can’t hug their friends or share certain toys.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) every day, physical distancing from coworkers and families, and screening each child and family entering the centre. We wash the children’s hands when entering the building and make sure everything goes home to be washed for the next day.

Are you noticing an increase or change in amount of work?

My role has changed, which is something new and different from what I’m used to. Being a screener I do a lot of cleaning of the centre and toys, as well as being the face to greet the families and children when they enter. The work amount is still there just with some added safety precautions along with it.

What should residents do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?

Social distancing and washing hands a lot are the main actions to help keep families and workers safe. There’s been an amazing amount of families being aware of the symptoms of covid and being so active in watching out for them in themselves and their children.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?

Sanitizing and washing hands when leaving work, changing my clothes when I get home as well as washing any lunch containers I’ve used for the day. Lastly showering and then I am able to enjoy time with my family.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

During this time it’s been an honour to be able to help out the front line workers and their families. The gratitude we see from these families has been overwhelming, and it really puts into perspective how important our job is.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working in the community during this time?
The dedication of everybody. It’s scary and it’s hard to explain to your children why they just can’t do certain things right now. It’s been inspiring to see grocery staff so helpful and friendly during all of this on top of all the extra safety and cleaning they have to do. Secondly, it’s amazing to see companies in town changing aspects of their business to make safety supplies like masks and hand sanitizer.

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

I just want to add how proud I am of my coworkers and supervisors for spending the time and energy to get the emergency care up and running, you’re all amazing!

Special thanks to Erika for what it's like being a Registered Early Childhood Educator during this time. 

Shane Muir - Community Paramedicine Coordinator (Acting) at Superior North EMS

Shane Muir is a Community Paramedicine Coordinator (Acting), the Incident Management System Liaison Officer, and the COVID-19 Task Force Manager, at Superior North EMS, and has been employed at the City of Thunder Bay for 13 years.

We discussed with Shane what it is like working during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

What do you like most about your job?

Being able to find ways to give back to the community using new and innovative ways to provide front-line health care, and support other health care organizations, health care workers and front-line Paramedics.

What is it like being a Community Paramedicine Coordinator during this time?

The Pandemic is making work really busy and time seems to pass by really quickly. There is an increased anxiety amongst the public and pressure on the health care system and emergency medical services sectors to provide a rapid and effective community pandemic response. There has been a high level of demand for services, which we continue to be ready to provide. However, constantly being in a state of high alert and being ready to respond, can cause an inability to relax or switch off at the end of the day. I personally have the tendency to be constantly thinking of the next day’s operations or what an appropriate initiative might be and am finding it very difficult to switch off.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Oh yes, we have an abundance of protocols in place to keep us all safe on the job. For one we wear full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and do advanced infection protection and control measure training, especially for those on the Task Force who are conducting tests for COVID-19. We also have protocols in place for deep cleaning, and making sure specimens and infectious materials are well handled appropriately and kept safe at the right temperatures. In addition, when you enter the door way to our building we are initially screened when coming in and we are constantly and actively monitoring ourselves for any symptoms throughout the day. There are protocols in place everywhere you look around here.

Are you noticing an increase in the amount of work?

Absolutely. There has been a massive increase in the amount of work. In particular, the Paramedics are really stepping up to fill those roles and putting themselves forward to provide the community with the best possible response they can. I can’t say enough good things about what they are doing out there! It’s really amazing to see how they’ve gone outside of their normal roles to provide the community with the services they need. We have taken on testing for COVID-19, are helping out with public health, and starting new initiatives – which is all new territory for us. Things are working extremely well and it just goes to show that Paramedics are a great value to the health care system. Gaps have been recognized and Paramedics have been able to step up to fill those gaps by being flexible and adaptable to this situation.

What can residents do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?

They should follow the public health guidelines and recommendations and keep isolated when possible. They should also maintain physical distancing when out and wash their hands as much as possible. It is important to protect themselves and their families by staying indoors when possible and not being in close contact with people outside of their household. By doing all of these measures, it will significantly help those working out in the community.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?

I follow a lot of the similar protocols at home that I do at work. In my household, we do a lot of extra handwashing. We are making sure all of our surfaces are disinfected and clean. When possible, we are trying to make sure we only have in-person contact with the people in our household. When we are outside of our home, we are maintaining physical distancing and following the general public health guidelines as much as possible. We are reiterating these messages with our kids every day and trying to teach them how to be safe and not to get sick.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

Yes there is – I think it is really bringing to light the important work that Paramedics do for our community. It is showing that they are more valuable than just being on the ambulance, transporting patients and providing immediate care. They have had the opportunity to really come into the health care system and show how efficient and productive they can be. I think that is a huge silver lining to our profession as a whole.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

Yes I have. We have had amazing feedback come back from the community. We have done a lot of in-home testing for COVID-19. At first those getting tested and their families are very anxious, but the Paramedics are doing an amazing job to help decrease their anxiety, explain everything in detail, and make sure people feel at ease. We have had an amazing amount of feedback through emails and phone calls saying how great our Paramedics have been throughout this all, how appreciative they are, and that they can’t thank us enough for the support we are providing.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I’d like to say thank you to all of the Paramedics out there working on the front lines and doing the COVID-19 testing. They have really stepped up to provide necessary services for our community. We see how much the Paramedics really do care – they are really special people and true professionals. It’s amazing to see them work with other health care organizations as well as provide cross-service support to help whenever they can. 

Special thanks to Shane for sharing his views on what it is like being a Community Paramedicine Coordinator during this time.

Amanda Suttie - Water Distribution/Wastewater Collection Operator

Amanda Suttie is a Water Distribution/Wastewater Collection Operator and has been employed at the City of Thunder Bay for 1.5 years.

We discussed with Amanda what it is like working on the front line during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

What do you like most about your job?

I like the variety of jobs that we get to do, it is different everyday. There are so many different things that we do and I really enjoy the challenge. We often have to work under pressure and go pedal to the metal in order to fix an issue.

What is it like being a Water Distribution/Wastewater Collection Operator during this time?

At first I was a little nervous working during this difficult time, but I have gotten used to it over time. Our shifts have changed in order to accommodate the workload and we have been set up with the proper safety equipment so I feel a lot better.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

Yes – there are a lot of protocols in place. The first protocol is the screening questions. 
When residents call in to request in-home service, they are asked a series of screening questions in order to help prepare us for entering the home. The screening questions help us determine what Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) we wear in the home.

Are you noticing an increase in amount of work?

Not currently as we are only responding to emergency requests that are hazardous to the public including water main breaks, service leaks that impact resident’s drinking water or sewer related issues. Currently I am working on the Sewer Truck and it’s been quite busy due to the time of year, as we do get more sewer backups during the spring.

What should residents do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?

Firstly if a resident is requesting in-home service for an issue such as a sewer backup or water entering the basement, they should answer all of the screening questions truthfully. It will help better prepare myself and my colleagues, give us a better idea of what to expect and allow us to wear the proper PPE. Secondly, don’t flush wipes down the toilet because it clogs the sewer lines. I have had to go into many people’s houses during this pandemic because people choose to flush wipes or paper towel down the drain. These items do not break down properly and end up clogging the sewer system. Lastly, be respectful of City workers during this pandemic because working during this time can be very stressful and we are doing the best we can.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?

Because I wear a Tyvek suit while I am at work and can dispose of it when I am done, I feel a lot safer when I get home. As soon as I get home I wash my hands and my clothes and try not to touch my face. I also disinfect my vehicle every day.

Special thanks to Amanda for sharing her views on what it is like being a Water Distribution/Wastewater Collection Operator during this time.

Terra DeCorte - Support Service Worker at Jasper Place

Terra DeCorte is a Support Service Worker at Jasper Place and has been employed at the City of Thunder Bay for 14 years.

We discussed with Terra what it is like working on the front line during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

What do you like most about your job?

I really like being able to be part of other people’s lives. The tenants are not my direct family, but at the same time they make up my extended family. 

What is it like being a Support Service Worker during this time?

It’s definitely a little challenging. On top of having to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) all the time, we are supporting our tenant’s mental health now more than we ever have before. Now essentially, we are our tenants’ family as we are the only ones they can have in-person contact with. So it’s really important for us to be there for them as much as we can be. 

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?

For sure there are. All of the Support Service Workers are getting their temperature taken twice a day. Plus we are mandated to wear masks and gloves all day when we are in the building. Hand washing seems more abundant than ever. Plus there are a lot of things we get our tenants to partake in including practicing physical distancing when possible and getting them to wash their hands more frequently. If our tenants need to leave the building for any reason, they are being screened as they re-enter the building. 

Are you noticing an increase in the amount of work?

Yes - we are doing a lot of deliveries as people are dropping off groceries or prescriptions to our tenants, but are unable to enter the building. Normally, we would not have to do those types of things because they’d be delivered directly to the apartment. Lastly, we are noticing that our tenants are feeling a little more down than usual, so we are spending more time in their apartments having one-on-one conversations with them.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?

My family knows that when I get home, they cannot touch me. The first thing I do is take my shoes off at the door and take them outside to spray them with disinfectant spray. Then I take the containers from my lunch bag put them in the sink to sanitize them and then I sanitize my lunch bag. I take my uniform off and put it directly into the washing machine. And finally I have a quick shower. After I am done all of these things, I finally feel safe and can be close to my family!

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?

Definitely, I believe the silver lining is that we have an amazing group of coworkers that have banded together and are all supporting one another as we continue to do our jobs. As well, I think our tenants now have a better knowledge of what we do and appreciate that we are doing all that we can to keep them safe during these uncertain times. 

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?

Oh for sure! There are some really nice signs that our tenant’s families have made and placed in the yard so all can see them. There have also been beautiful chalk writings on the sidewalks and window paintings that say things such as “Stay Strong” and “Thank You”. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I’d like to thank the City for having such a great Pandemic Plan. Here at Jasper Place, everything was shut down before it was shut down everywhere else. We had to pick a place to work immediately, wear PPE, and screeners were at the door from the beginning. As a Support Service Worker (Personal Support Worker) today, we are really thankful for what we have here at Jasper Place and at Pioneer Ridge. 

Special thanks to Terra for sharing her views on what it is like being a Support Service Worker during this time. 

 Andy Parr - Thunder Bay Transit Driver

Andy Parr is a Driver with Thunder Bay Transit and has been employed at the City of Thunder Bay for 22 years.

We sat down with Andy to discuss what it is like working on the front line to provide this essential service to the community during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

What do you like most about your job?
I like interacting with the regular passengers that you get to know on their daily commute to work. I've built a good relationship with them and we've become part of each others daily lives, which is really nice.

What is it like being a Transit Driver during this time?
Work is different – it’s not what it used to be. We do not get to interact with passengers like we used to. All the passengers sit in the back and we don’t get a lot of people coming up to talk to us.

Are there any special protocols in place to keep you safe on the job?
Yes, people use the rear of the bus to enter and exit the bus. There is no fare or contact, so passengers are not required to show a pass, transfer, punch card or student card. They have roped off an area that is approximately 3 metres to help protect the Driver. Drivers are also to enter and exit from the front of the bus.

Are you noticing an increase in the number of residents using Transit?
Generally no, however; Thunder Bay Transit has reduced its frequencies from every 15 and 30 minutes, to every 45 minutes. This makes some routes busier than others during peak travel times. During these busy times, we have had to increase the number of busses on the road to carry the overflow of passengers.

What should residents do to help keep you and your colleagues safe?
Refrain from using the bus for frivolous reasons. Please try and use the bus for only essential trips. This includes trips to work, going to the hospital or medical appointments, or trips to the grocery store.

What do you do when you get home to keep you and your household safe?
I wash my hands as soon as I get home. I take my uniform off and shower and then put on clean clothes.

Is there any silver lining to working during this difficult time?
It is a lot less stressful driving! There are a lot less people on the road and I am not getting cut off as often as I usually do.

Have you witnessed or heard of anything inspiring while working out in the community during this time?
A couple Saturdays ago while driving by the mall near the airport, an older couple pulled up next to my bus. The gentleman came towards the driver’s side window and he asked me if I’d like a fresh Persian. I declined the offer for Persian, but then they began to thank me for continuing to work and said to stay safe. I thought this was very thoughtful and I was really touched by this gesture.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I’d just like to stress to not ride the bus unless you need to. Use the bus only for essential services, not for fun or to go visit friends and family.
While out in the community, be sure to give Andy and the other Transit Drivers a wave of appreciation when you see them passing by!

Special thanks to Andy for sharing his views and what it is like being a Transit Driver during this time.