Member for colonel lay country. Thank you, mr speaker. Today I have the privilege of rising to recognize the service of an outstanding member of my community. After dedicating over 30 years to local government mayor james baker has announced his intended retirement as his tenure ends. James leaves a strong legacy of public service and collaboration that will be deeply missed.

James is a community leader in the truest sense, since moving to lake country in 1976, with his wife anita, he has been an avid volunteer and community member. He began his career in municipal government as director in the central okanagan regional district board. He then supported the incorporation of lake country as a district municipality as a councillor and later became mayor in 2005 serving in this role for 17 years.

What stands out most about james accomplishment is his unwavering dedication of service. His firm belief in effective and timely services has been the hallmark of his leadership, in addition to a strong advocacy for reconciliation.

This has allowed a strong sense of community and trust to thrive in the lake country, local council. Mr speaker, I am grateful to have worked with james during his time of service and share lake country's gratitude to james for his lifelong dedication to our community.

James is leaving big shoes to fill, but I know that his invaluable impact will continue to be felt throughout the community. On a personal note, james is the only mayor. I've worked with throughout my full 13 years as a provincial representative for lake country, he's a person of character, charm, loyalty and someone. I will be calling friend long after his retirement. Please join me in congratulating james baker for his remarkable service and wishing him well in his retirement.