Iain Angus is stepping aside as chairman of the Thunder Bay District Social Service Administrative Board.
Angus, who did not reoffer his name Thursday during annual DSSAB board elections, said it was time for new blood at the helm.
“We were at a high point. We’ve got a new building that’s opening next month. We’ve restructured the organization and there’s a higher degree of focus on the clients that we serve. We’ve got a housing strategic plan that’s being rolled out, with help from provincial dollars - $4.5 million – that is out for expression of interest right now,” Angus said.
“We’ve got a new CEO and it’s a high point and it’s a good time to move on.”
Angus, who took over the role about five years ago from former Thunder Bay mayor Lynn Peterson, will remain on the board of directors for the next three years.
He said he’ll continue to contribute, just not in the head position.
“I thought it was time for others to take on the leadership roles in the organization.”
Taking over from Angus is Bob Katajamaki, who represents territories without municipal organizations on the board.
Thunder Bay’s Aldo Ruberto takes over as vice-chairman and Greenstone’s Armand Giguere is the new secretary-treasurer.
Angus said he's most proud of the aforementioned housing strategic plan, which will lay the foundation to provide decent accomodation for a larger number of people.
"The other is the change in focus to be fully client-centred. Instead of an individual coming in and having to repeat their story three times, maybe four or five, depending on what they were asking for, they can do it once," Angus said. "That means a lot to the dignity of these individuals and it means we can do it in a much more efficient way, saving over the long-term money for the taxpayers."
His one regret is not being able to do more to increase welfare rates across the board.
"The province has been stubborn on not moving foward other than some token inflation increases," he said. "The amount that the province provides to individuals on social assistance is disgusting. It is not anywhere near what they need to have a healthy lifestyle and (the province) should be ashamed of themselves for not moving foward."
