JASON SETNYK
Michael Fawthrop, Cornwall’s General Manager of Infrastructure and Municipal Works, was honoured at the start of Monday night’s council meeting, his last before stepping into his new role as CAO of the Township of North Glengarry.
Councillors, Mayor Justin Towndale, and CAO Tim Mills took time to acknowledge Fawthrop’s nearly 12 years of service to the city, applauding his technical expertise, calm leadership, and lasting impact on municipal infrastructure.
Fawthrop officially began his new role February 2, succeeding interim CAO Tim Simpson.
Mills recognized Fawthrop’s deep portfolio, which included oversight of transit, environmental services, and infrastructure. “He’s been instrumental in advancing some of our most critical infrastructure and sustainability initiatives,” said Mills. “His contributions have left a lasting impact on the community.”
Fawthrop responded modestly, thanking council, senior administration, and staff. “It’s been a true privilege and honour,” he said. “We’ve advanced a number of great initiatives and projects and really moved the city forward in a positive direction.”
He praised the Infrastructure and Municipal Works team, saying he was “leaving the city in excellent hands.”
Mayor Justin Towndale called Fawthrop’s move a “natural progression” and said his fingerprints were everywhere in the city. “You’ve undertaken and overseen some massive, massive infrastructure projects… that have changed the face of our city,” said Towndale. “North Glengarry’s gain is our loss.”
Every member of council took a turn to wish Fawthrop well.
Councillor Claude McIntosh likened Cornwall to the former Montreal Expos, a team known for developing talent.
“We got such great talent, somebody robs you,” he joked. “You’re a man of few words, but a man of action.” Councillor Dean Hollingsworth lauded Fawthrop’s work on Queen Street, calling it “outstanding,” while Councillor Maurice Dupelle said, “North Glengarry is lucky to have you.”
Councillor Sarah Good observed the appointment is “not good for us, but it’s really great for them-and really great for you.” She thanked Fawthrop for his professionalism and responsiveness, especially to the “most random” inquiries.
Councillor Carilyne Hébert said, “Of course, you’re ready for more. Of course, you’re at the CAO level,” and praised his legacy on climate work, including Cornwall’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plans. “Those may not be a bridge or a building, but they will leave even bigger impacts,” she said.
Councillor Todd Bennett emphasized that Fawthrop’s attention to detail and willingness to communicate made the job of council much easier. “Your detailed responses have made my life so much easier,” he said. “This is a guy that has worked hard for a leadership role like that.”
Councillor Denis Sabourin echoed that sentiment, noting how Fawthrop’s briefings made him “sound like I knew what I was talking about” when addressing residents. “You’ll be able to reflect on your training here and say, ‘I managed big projects in big cities-now I’m managing big projects in small cities.'”
Councillor Elaine MacDonald highlighted Fawthrop’s respectful and data-driven approach in the face of pushback, whether from council or community petitions. “You never seem to lose sight of what the touchstone should be when making a decision,” she said. She also credited him for promoting women in engineering and public works. “Thanks for showcasing women in your department.”
Councillor Fred Ngoundjo concluded the roundtable by describing Fawthrop as a man of “integrity.” “I’m not surprised you’re becoming a CAO-you deserve it.” Fawthrop’s extensive contributions will leave a lasting mark on Cornwall. Though he may now face a longer commute, Fawthrop made it clear he intends to stay connected to the community.
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