The most intense conversation I ever had with Hazel McCallion was in a hot tub in Winnipeg.

It was early morning, we were both attending an FCM conference, and we both liked to warm and loosen up our stiff and tired joints. It was just the two of us. She had always been friendly to me, and we quickly settled into a robust conversation about municipal affairs.

Hazel was a feisty one, everyone knows that. She became a terror for provincial and federal politicians because her base in Mississauga was so secure that she could say or get away with pretty much anything. She had deep convictions of the power and opportunity for municipal governments. She was intolerant of wishy-washy politicians and wimpy policies.

Hurray.

In moments of crises, she stood firm. She offered strong leadership when the community needed it.

She led Mississauga through a time of enormous growth and expansion. Developers were pouring money into the city, and those development fees were used to balance the city's budget and invest in many worthwhile civic amenities.

Some people, and I would be among those, thought there was too much concrete and not enough green space built during those times. Most civic planners today would quietly agree. Choices were made; Hazel had the power to impose her agenda. That being said, the city did lots of the right things, and today is Canada's 6^th largest city.

Hazel may have been the last of her breed. It is extremely unlikely that another politician will have the kind of electoral support and longevity that she enjoyed. Many of her elections were 90% approval, and she reigned for more than 30 years. Both were remarkable accomplishments.

Her management style was an iron fist in an iron glove. She was not inclined to welcome opposition to her agenda. On the other hand, contrast that with too many cities today, where endless consultations' take over the timeline and 'public input' delays decisions for way too long.

Hazel was decisive, right or wrong. More mayors and councillors should think about their own style of public management.

Hazel's legacy is secure. She kicked opened doors for female politicians at a time when some doors were not very open. She pushed a strong municipal agenda when too many local leaders were scared to challenge a provincial or federal policy. She was utterly dedicated to her city. And the residents loved her.

Thank you, Hazel. Rest in peace.