Sault Ste. Marie CAO Joe Fratesi has been awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his years of service to the city.
Fratesi has overseen the day-to-day operations of the city for 17 years.
“Throughout his years of service, one thing has remained constant: Joe loves his community,” said Mayor Debbie Amaroso in a news release.
“He’s a true Saultite and very deserving of this award. Joe has contributed and, at times, initiated efforts that have positively impacted our community. He’s a recognized municipal leader and works tirelessly with provincial and federal representatives, along with regional partners and the private sector, for the betterment of Sault Ste. Marie.”
A lawyer by trade, Fratesi entered municipal politics in 1976 as a councillor, following which he served as mayor for 11 years. In his role as CAO, he is responsible for co-ordinating the work of all municipal departments and administrative interaction with various operating agencies.