
October 22, 2018 · 0 Comments
By Jasen Obermeyer
With the Oct. 22 municipal election right around the corner, that not only means a change for the municipal politics, but for Dufferin County’s council.
At the final county council meeting for this term held last Thursday (Oct.11), Mulmur Mayor and Warden Paul Mills took the time to reflect on the past four years.
“It has been my absolute honour to serve as Dufferin County’s 141st Warden,” he told council and staff. “Regardless of the issue, we have always been able to rise above and work together to advance the interests of Dufferin County.”
Warden Mills said he was personally honoured to take part in the volunteer appreciation event and the county’s scholarship program. “I’ve enjoyed working with all three standing committees of county council, and forging stronger working relationships,” he said, describing the committees as “where most of the heavy lifting is done at the county level.”
He commented on taking steps to create more accountability in meeting attendance, convention of reporting, and council spending. “We always have to remember we are here to work for our constituents and the money we are spending is not our own.”
He said he is happy to see the economic development plan “taking shape,” and looks forward to seeing the results in the near future.
Warden Mills added he is confident they are “heading in the right direction” on the Provincial Offences Act (POA) court issue, and “getting closer to a solution that makes sense for Dufferin County.”
He thanked staff for their hard work and loyalty, and to council for preparing the county for “an even greater future.”
At least five faces will not be at the council table: Mono Deputy Mayor Ken McGhee, Orangeville Deputy Mayor Warren Maycock, Shelburne Mayor Ken Bennington, Shelburne Deputy Mayor Geoff Dunlop and Amaranth Deputy Mayor Jane Aultman are all not seeking re-election.
With the exception of Mayor Bennington, who was not in attendance, they all reflected on their political careers.
Deputy Mayor Aultman said she has learned and enjoyed working on this council. “I wish you all the best in your electoral ventures in the next few weeks. For those that are retiring, enjoy your retirement.”
Deputy Mayor Dunlop simply stated, “I’ve enjoyed my time here,” especially on working and solving problems with community partners.
“I know that I will miss being at the county council table, but I will cherish the memories,” said Deputy Mayor McGhee, and thanked family, staff and fellow councillors, both past and present.
“I look around the council table, I was here before anyone,” noted Deputy Mayor Maycock.
He added it was an honour to have served as warden on two separate occasions. “I look forward to the days ahead when I’m not doing this,” he said, which invoked laughter and smiles from those in the room.