Retirement of René Breton

"After over 36 years at the helm of Verdun's sports, recreational and community activities, René is taking a well-deserved retirement and we wish to express our heartfelt thanks to him for all the years he has devoted to serving Verdunites," stated Borough Manager Gilles Baril. "I wish to take this opportunity to wish him the best of success in his future endeavours," Mr. Baril hastened to add.

Having joined the City of Verdun in 1973 to manage sports activities, Mr. Breton climbed the ranks to become Director of the DCSLDS in 2001. During his career in Verdun, he played an active role in developing many activities and services in the interest of the community.

His many accomplishments include the signing of the first school-municipal agreements, making it possible for the local population to use the gymnasiums located in the schools—these agreements in fact subsequently succeeded in bringing about the joint construction of gymnasiums, the program to pay tribute and give support to local organizations, computerization of the libraries, implementation of the Accès card for the libraries, holding a Volunteers' Day, participation in the development of plans and specifications for the construction of the Centre communautaire Elgar and its three subsequent extensions as well as setting up the Community Gardens and the Orchestre métropolitain's performances in Verdun. He also coordinated the festivities for Verdun's 100th and 125th anniversaries. With regard to playgrounds, he spearheaded the renovations or replacement of many facilities, making them a state-of-the-art pride and joy for all users. More recently, he actively took part in the negotiations to bring the Montreal Juniors hockey club to the Auditorium.

Although his retirement takes effect only on July 31, 2009, Mr. Breton's last day of work will be on January 13, due to accumulated holidays and vacation weeks left to take. His position will soon be filled, in accordance with Ville de Montréal's current standards and procedures.