Chris Saumure was recognized as the 55th Annual Smiths Falls Citizen of the Year on Monday, June 3rd at a ceremony hosted by the Smiths Falls Kinsmen Club at the Smiths Falls Golf & Country Club. The Smiths Falls "Citizen of the Year" was initiated in 1969 by Mayor T.O. Ashwell, M.D. and has been held annually since then. This annual award recognizes a citizen who has made a contribution to the Town through volunteer efforts which have a positive effect on his/her fellow citizens and the community.

Described as a man of action and a passionate supporter of the Town of Smiths Falls, his philosophy centers on finding solutions and making things happen, rather than merely questioning possibilities. This proactive approach has been instrumental in driving numerous projects and initiatives.

Throughout the years, Saumure has been a part of projects involving the former SFDCI High School, the Community bandstand at Town Hall, as well as building over 200 apartments and partnering on affordable housing projects throughout the Town of Smiths Falls.

“President of the Saumure Group of Companies, Chris has made unparalleled contributions to the Town of Smiths Falls. Through his unwavering commitment to community, business acumen, and family values, Chris has left a lasting mark on our Town, where he has spent the majority of his life”, noted Mayor Shawn Pankow.