THUNDER BAY – After 35 years of dedicated service to the communities and residents of the District of Thunder Bay, Mary Lucas, Chief Administrative Officer of The District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB), has announced her retirement. TBDSSAB is responsible for the delivery of provincially mandated social services in the District of Thunder Bay.
Mrs. Lucas, who began her career with the City of Thunder Bay in 1975 moved from her position as Community Development Officer into the Social Services Department as a Social Worker in 1982, and progressed by promotion to become the Manager of the Ontario Works Division.
With the enactment of the District Social Services Administration Board Act and the formation of TBDSSAB in April 1999, Mrs. Lucas also served as Project Coordinator reporting to the Board of Directors where she was instrumental in guiding the establishment of the TBDSSAB and the transition to the service delivery model mandated by the Ministry of Community and Social Services. Ontario Works was the first service transitioned to the new service delivery model. In 2000, the Childcare responsibilities were transferred from the Province followed by Social Housing in 2001 and 2002. Mrs. Lucas successfully managed the challenges presented by these transfers. With these transitions completed, Mrs. Lucas’ responsibilities as the General Manager for the District of Thunder Bay Social Services Department included Ontario Works, Children’s Services, and Social Housing.
In 2008, the TBDSSAB made the decision to become the direct employer of staff from the four municipalities providing the mandated social services to Thunder Bay and District citizens. Mrs. Lucas added to her professional accomplishments when she facilitated the transition of staff and resources into a single organizational structure. Since January 2009, with this objective obtained, Mary Lucas has continued to serve as Chief Administrative Officer, reporting to the TBDSSAB Board of Directors.
She has provided her knowledge and expertise in the growth of the TBDSSAB from a fledgling Board to the organization of today which provides dedicated service to the citizens of the District of Thunder Bay.
In the near future TBDSSAB will build a permanent head office and consolidate the Thunder Bay catchment area staff into one building. Mrs. Lucas has added to her career highlights by leading the head office design team into the building construction stage.
Over the course of her career Mrs. Lucas has also been a valued participant on various committees and working groups associated with social services.
“Mary Lucas has been an incredible asset to the Thunder Bay DSSAB,” said Board Chair Iain Angus. “Her compassion and professionalism, as well as her leadership and support to the Board of Directors, has helped to ensure that the services to the people of this District, as well as the organization as a whole, are at their best. She will be missed by all!”
An executive search firm will be retained to assist with securing Mrs. Lucas’ replacement.