Joseph Kushner, a longstanding figure in St. Catharines, Ontario, has garnered several nicknames over his nearly 50-year tenure on the council. Referred to as “Doctor No,” “Professor Negative,” “Frosty the No-man,” and “No Joe Kushner,” he proudly defended his frugality with taxpayers’ money, likening his approach to managing public funds to that of his own finances.

At 85 years old, Kushner has announced his retirement from the council and his role as an economics professor at Brock University to care for his wife, Yvette, and address personal health concerns following brain tumor surgery. Councilor Matt Harris commended Kushner’s fiscal conservatism and community contributions as his enduring legacy, emphasizing his reluctance to support extravagant projects without due consideration.

In honor of Kushner’s retirement, a second edition of his biography, titled “Canada’s longest-serving councillor,” has recently been released. Co-author Wesley Turner, a historian and former colleague of Kushner at Brock University, highlighted the significance of documenting Kushner’s record-setting tenure, which began on December 6, 1976.

The biography, “Canada’s Longest Serving Councillor,” delves into Kushner’s career spanning seven different mayoral administrations. While co-authors Turner and Kushner initially disagreed on including photos in the biography, they ultimately compromised by featuring illustrations in an appendix, including a snapshot of a young Kushner playing the accordion to train his German Shepherds to sing.

Beyond his public service, Kushner’s passion for animals, antique telephones, and cabbage rolls shines through. Known for his dedication to animal welfare, Kushner’s involvement with “The Kushner Cat Corner” at the Humane Society of Greater Niagara reflects his commitment as a longtime volunteer board director. Additionally, his affinity for Flemish giant rabbits, antique telephones, and Ukrainian cuisine, particularly his mother’s cabbage rolls, showcases his diverse interests and heritage.

For those interested in delving deeper into Kushner’s remarkable journey, copies of his biography are available for purchase at the Humane Society of Greater Niagara for $20, with proceeds supporting the animal shelter’s initiatives.