Pickering Mayor “disappointed” in Land Over Landings’ no-show at Civic Awards ceremony

The decision by Land Over Landings to decline its Environmental Award at Monday evening’s Pickering Civic Awards over what they called “outrageous untruths” from Mayor Kevin Ashe over the airport issue was met with “disappointment” but without any rancour from Ashe.

“While the issue of the airport has been a very polarizing one, everyone can agree that Land Over Landings is a very deserving recipient of the 2022 Civic Award for the Environment,” he said.

Nineteen Civic Awards in all were awarded at the ceremony in the Pickering Council Chambers Monday, with awards honouring bravery, the arts, youth volunteer work and Senior of the Year, among others.

“Last night was a wonderful evening where we recognized and feted our community’s finest leaders, volunteers, and businesses. As such, I am disappointed that Land Over Landings chose not to attend and accept its award,” Ashe said. “I hope we can collectively move forward and have positive discussions on the economic and cultural revitalization of the federal lands in north Pickering.”