Alex Chiu Pool named after Markham's longest standing Council Member
Mayor Frank Scarpitti and Members of Council officially unveiled the Alex Chiu Pool sign at the Milliken Mills Community Centre & Library on Saturday, April 27 to celebrate the lasting legacy of Markham's longest standing Council member.
Members of the public were invited to stay and enjoy a free swim, in honour of Alex's love for the sport!
"I have always said that Alex is a man of few words, but big action," says Mayor Frank Scarpitti. "He always gets things done! His love for this community is unwavering. He always went to bat for his constituents. He has dedicated his life to public service with the support of his wife, Alicia, and their family. I hope this pool will serve as a permanent reminder of all that Alex has achieved and all that he has contributed to the success of our community."
In 1985, Alex Chiu made the decision to enter politics and won a seat on Markham Council for the newly created Ward 8. He served as a Markham councillor for 33 years, playing an instrumental role in the City's growth and development.
Throughout his tenure, Alex welcomed and supported many businesses in Markham and sat on several committees including his role as Co-Chair of the Canada Day Committee, bringing the largest annual celebration to life year after year. He fundraised for various non-profit organizations including York Region's Police Community Safety Village, all three hospitals in York Region and Markham's YMCA.
Alex Chiu is a champion for diversity and strengthening Markham's international partnerships, and was instrumental in forging friendship agreements with Huadu District, Foshan and Nanhai in China. In addition, Alex was an advocate for adults with disabilities, empowering youth, community youth and senior groups and ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a cause very close to his heart.
Alex Chiu championed the building of the Milliken Mills Community Centre & Library and was the first person to swim in the pool when the facility was completed in 1989.
In 2001, the former councillor committed to swimming 100 laps non-stop each day for five days at the Milliken Mills Community Centre & Library pool, to raise money for the City of Markham's United Way Campaign. He managed to raise nearly $20,000 and "Alex's Swim" became an annual event in support of the United Way.
“I first entered politics after the coaxing of some good friends in the community,” says Alex Chiu. “I stayed because I realized I had a real ability to help others and make change for the betterment of Ward 8 and the City of Markham. Having the pool at the Milliken Mills Community Centre & Library named in my honour is very humbling, and I am grateful for this distinct privilege.”