Sarnia City and Lambton County Councillor Bill Dennis wants Don Cherry to be appointed to the Order of Canada.
Dennis has filed a notice of motion for consideration at Monday's meeting, asking city council to write a letter to the federal government, and opposition parties, and that it also be distributed to the provincial government and other municipalities for support.
Dennis told Sarnia News Today the motion was prompted by discussions with citizens in advance of Remembrance Day ceremonies.
"Don Cherry is 89 years old, so he's getting up there in age and who knows how much longer he's going to be around, and they felt that he wasn't treated fairly with him being cancelled," said Dennis. "He's obviously had some strong opinions over the years, but no one can deny his level of service. He is a strong Canadian patriot."
Sportsnet announced on November 11, 2019 that Cherry would be leaving his role with Hockey Night In Canada after he singled out new immigrants on-air for not wearing poppies to honour Canadian veterans and soldiers.
Dennis admits Cherry is a "polarizing figure to some."
"I know a little bit about that myself. He's not for everybody, but the thing is, no one can deny his love for the country," Dennis said.
In his motion, Dennis highlighted community and charitable work done by Cherry.
Dennis understands some people question why he's making the pitch at city hall, to which he said he has received many resolutions for consideration from various councils that have nothing to do with municipal politics.
"But, it has to do with what we are as a country and a community and, in my opinion, I believe the man should be honoured. He's a great Canadian and I've seen people that have been honoured with the Order of Canada who, in my opinion, didn't deserve it or at least, haven't done near what Don Cherry has done to get into the Order of Canada," Dennis said.
The motion was posted publicly for discussion on the Sarnia-Lambton Politics and Governance Group Facebook Page, and prompted a response from former longtime city councillor Mike Kelch.
"My request to all of our council members... please work on issues that are local within your authority," Kelch wrote. "You'll avoid many needless minefields and be more effective in the role you were elected to fill."
Dennis, like Cherry, is no stranger to controversy.
Most recently, he apologized to council on October 27 for an outburst he made during a meeting on October 16.
Sarnia council meets in regular session at 1 p.m. Monday, November 20.