the broken typewriter

Fort St. John city council honoured two long-time employees with Long Service Awards at the first council meeting of 2025 on Monday.

Paola Banks has been behind many of the city-wide events and initiatives, including the at-home fun events during the pandemic, mental health workshops with Trobak Counselling, and many special events such as Canada Day and the New Year’s Eve fireworks.

She was recognized for her 13 years of service in the city’s Recreation Department.

Banks is currently taking a break from her role as Recreation Programmer, working instead as an Administrative Assistant in the Recreation Department.

Naomi Gallant began her career with the city in the Recreation Department in December 2004 as a part-time Aquatics Supervisor at the North Peace Leisure Pool, and by March 2005 was a full-time aquatics supervisor. Two years later, Gallant moved into the Finance Department where she became an Accounting Clerk 1, advancing to Accounting Clerk 3 by 2009.

In 2013, Gallant returned to the Community Services Department as a Recreation Programmer, and in 2018 became the city’s full-time Community Development Coordinator.

Over the past twenty years, Gallant has made significant contributions to the city and her move this year into the Economic Development Department highlights her commitment to the city and her adaptability in taking on new roles.

Mayor Lilia Hansen said the city thanks both of these outstanding employees for their commitment to the citizens of Fort St. John.