Derick Lehmann is Orillia’s 2023 Citizen of the Year, as named at a special presentation during the Council meeting on Feb. 12, 2024.
“On behalf of Orillia City Council and the Citizen of the Year selection panel, I’d like to congratulate Derick Lehmann on being named the 2023 Citizen of the Year,” said Mayor Don McIsaac. “Derick’s efforts in supporting community organizations have significantly benefitted the residents of Orillia. His ability to rally citizens through various events, generating donations that go back into supporting the community, highlight his contributions in 2023.”
Lehmann was described by his nominators as generous of his time, contributing his knowledge and skills to the betterment of the community. Nominators also pointed to Lehmann’s continued dedication throughout the year with organizing multiple events such as the Back to the 90s Video Dance Parties, Trunk or Treat, and an Ugly Christmas Sweater Bowling Party. His generosity has supported The Sharing Place Food Centre and local Christmas toy drives.
“Derick is truly community and family-minded, selflessly giving of his time and talents to benefit the Orillia community,” said nominator Josephine Martensson-Hemsted.
The 2023 Citizen of the Year selection panel included former winners Cam Davidson, Marci Csumrik, Fred Larsen, and Stan Mathewson, as well as OrilliaMatters editor Dave Dawson, Pure Country 106 morning host Carey Moran, and Orillia Chamber of Commerce Past President Nathan Housser. Nominations for the 2023 Citizen of the Year Award were accepted between Dec. 13, 2023, and Jan. 3, 2024, with nominators encouraged to provide letters of support highlighting the nominees’ accomplishments from the past year.