The longest serving Chairman in York Region's history is going to step aside.

Bill Fisch announced that he was going to retire from public service, when his term ends in 2014.

The York Region Chairman and CEO will complete his 17 year tenure upon his retirement, and end 26 years of public service.

"My decision to retire is based on the right reason; my family," said Chairman Fisch. "By the end of this term, I will be almost 66 years old and it is time to devote my energy to my wife, Tova, my children and three grandchildren."

First elected to the then Town of Markham as a local Councillor in 1988 and a Markham Regional Councillor in 1994, Chairman Fisch became the Region's fifth Chairman in 1997, when he was elected by members of Regional Council to succeed Eldred King. He was subsequently acclaimed by Regional Council following the next four municipal elections.