The accolades were flowing at Steinbach city council Tuesday night as councillors paid tribute to Mayor Chris Goertzen who is stepping down after 16 years on council, 12 of them as mayor. Councillor Michael Zwaagstra led the way saying Goertzen has held true to his promises when first elected mayor in 2006, which were: Planning for our long term growth, Building on our foundation and Engaging the vitality of Steinbach's youth. He also praised Goertzen for his leadership.

"One thing that is sort of underestimated in terms of how challenging this job is, is that sometimes it's assumed well, you're the mayor, just get it done, just do things. And it's not so simple. The mayor has one vote, the mayor has the power of influence, the mayor has to bring people together. And when I consider your strengths Mr. Mayor, one of your greatest strengths is the ability to lead by consensus and the ability to lead effective meetings, giving everyone a proper say, those things that are so essential."

Councillor John Fehr says there are certain words that come to mind when he thinks about Goertzen.

"I think of a calm, I think of calculated, thoughtful, considerate, balanced, a good leader and confident. I appreciate your sensible and quiet responses when things might well have had the potential to escalate to something significant. You are a great mediator and kept things at council meetings on track and sometimes exercised grace when it was appropriate."

Councillor Susan Penner says Goertzen has exhibited true leadership.

"While council may not have agreed on everything, we were always able to respect each other as people and that starts at the top with our leader, Mayor Chris Goertzen. In fact, it goes further than just the council chambers. At any and every event that I have attended with the mayor, he has always been gracious, kind and patient with everyone who wants to talk to him. He has been an excellent example of how to treat people. In fact, he is an example of true tolerance, that in spite of differences, we could get along and work together."

Councillor Earl Funk says Mayor Chris Goertzen has been a true mentor when it comes to leadership.

"All these times, you've been so fair. There have been times when we disagreed and you never took it personally. We could sit down in the next few days and we could sit in your office and we could hash it out."

Councillor Jac Siemens notes the city has made some huge advancements during Goertzen's time in office

"The population has grown by over 7,000 since you were first elected, our budget has more than doubled since 2002 and we've added 2,700-plus acres through annexation. But more than that, we've added 3,000 households in your watch Mr. Mayor. And you managed a group of councillors that each has their own agenda and you've done so well. You've led by consensus and you've done a great job of keeping everyone in line, well mostly, but it has been well done."

And, councillor Cari Penner lauded Goertzen as a leader with special talents.

"As a public leader, you have continually demonstrated your ability to represent our city with integrity, humility and diplomacy and I appreciate that. You set high standards for the office of mayor and you sought innovative and creative ways to achieve those objectives."

Councillors unanimously passed a motion, thanking Goertzen for his service to the city and to them.