KITCHENER - Kitchener city council honoured two of its own Monday night, paying tribute to Coun. John Smola and Coun. Christina Weylie, who have both represented citizens around the local horseshoe for more than 25 years.

''This is quite an accomplishment, and a strong statement to the contribution you've made to the community on behalf of your constituents,'' Mayor Carl Zehr told both councillors during the meeting. ''Public service is a unique experience; and your hard work and dedication are examples for the rest of us to follow.''

Weylie, who represents the city's West-Victoria Park ward (Ward 6) on council, was first elected on Feb. 4, 1984. She has since been re-elected to her role eight consecutive times.

Over the past 25 years since her first election, Weylie has enjoyed watching Kitchener grow by more than 75,000 residents, as well as significant local events including the construction of the new city hall in 1993.

She has worked with 23 different colleagues around the council horseshoe -- including three different mayors: Dom Cardillo, Richard Christy and current Mayor Carl Zehr.

''It has been a privilege to serve the residents of both the West ward and then West-Victoria Park ward, for the past 25 years, during which many milestones were achieved by the City of Kitchener,'' Weylie said. ''I recall one in particular. In the mid to late 1980s, I brought forth a suggestion that has changed the way we communicate¿that the City of Kitchener create its own website -- www.kitchener.ca. We were one of the first municipalities in Canada to have one, and it has proven to be an effective tool in communicating events, corporate projects, departmental information and so much more.''

Smola, who represents the city's Bridgeport-Centre ward (Ward 1) on council, was a familiar face around city hall before he became a city councillor.

Born and raised in the city's centre, he was a City of Kitchener employee prior to serving on council.

Having a keen interest in local issues, Smola was elected to council on April 30, 1984, following the death of former councillor Bob Hopf -- a position he has been re-elected to eight consecutive times.

Smola's ward has grown and evolved significantly; and he has played a key role in the ongoing changes to the downtown area, the growth in the Shirley Avenue business park, and the designation of several heritage properties throughout his ward.

''It has been an honour to serve my community for the past 25 years," Smola said. "Most importantly I would like to thank my constituents for their ongoing support. It has been an absolute pleasure to be able to help so many people throughout the years and to help build a better community.''

Bravery honoured
In the same meeting, council also presented city employee Chrys Greenwood with the Governor General's Certificate of Commendation.

In July 2008, Greenwood demonstrated great bravery when he waded through rushing waters, caused by flash flooding, in the Doon Village Road area and rescued an 11-year-old boy who'd been swept away while riding his bike along the nearby roadway.