Ken Boshcoff
“CHARLES J CARTER LIFETIME BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT” AWARD
Ken Boshcoff is almost as much of a fixture in our city as the Sleeping Giant.
Ken’s public service spans five decades, starting in 1979 with his election to Thunder Bay City Council where he served for 18 years before being elected as Mayor in 1997. During this timeframe, he also served as the President of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, and the Ontario Good Roads Association and was a key voice in successful advocacy campaigns that created the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine.
From 2004 – 2008, Ken served as the Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Rainy River where he championed regional issues including Canadian Content for Public Transport, and a National Forestry Strategy. He also chaired the Rural Caucus and the National Sub-Committee of Persons with Disabilities. Ken returned to his roots at City Council in 2010 and was elected to his current position as Mayor in 2022.
Ken’s involvement in community service is deeply intertwined with his affinity for people. He sees the potential for positive change when individuals come together. His commitment to community betterment is well-known, having contributed significantly to various causes including the CNIB, St. John Ambulance Operation Red Nose, Lakehead Rotary Club, Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Northern Cancer Fund, Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, Thunder Bay Blues Festival, Royal Canadian Legion, the Staal Foundation Open, Thunder Bay International Airports Authority, and the Chamber of Commerce.
Ken also played a pivotal role in the founding of many local initiatives including Leadership Thunder Bay, PRO Kids, Fast Forward Thunder Bay, and the Thunder Bay Martial Arts Council.
Ken’s legacy of service, advocacy, and collaboration has shaped the landscape of our community making him a worthy recipient of the Charles J Carter Lifetime Business Achievement Award.