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Melancthon Mayor Darren White selected to serve as Dufferin warden for second time in three years

December 21, 2018   ·   0 Comments

By Jasen Obermeyer

Melancthon Mayor Darren White was acclaimed as Dufferin County’s 142nd Warden for 2019, looking to head an almost brand new council.

After the swearing in of the new council last Thursday, Dec. 13, Mono Mayor Laura Ryan nominated Mayor White for the position as warden. After no one else sought the nomination, he was acclaimed. He was previously a warden in 2017. 

“Democracy isn’t easy, it is hard work. It demands your attention, it demands your devotion,” he said in his opening speech to council, staff, and residents in attendance, including past wardens, and Dufferin-Caledon MPP Sylvia Jones. 

He told the Citizen he sought the position because with a majority of council being new, they need someone with experience – “somebody who is able to get everybody, all these new faces and new ideas, working in the same direction.” 

While Mayor White admitted the job as a politician isn’t easy, is a lot of work, and takes you away fro your family and free time, he said “most of all, it can be rewarding.”

He described the current council as a mixture of veterans who bring “wealth and knowledge” and new members who bring “fresh perspectives.” 

He noted the biggest issue is infrastructure, but said it is in “much better shape” and he looks to continue with the economic development strategic plan. 

Mayor White went on by stating we are living in a time of change. “We need flexible towns and villages, flexible people and businesses, and governments that can adapt.”

He said they must tackle the “unprecedented growth” in Shelburne, Orangeville and Grand Valley, which s happening at “a rapid pace.” 

He predicted 2019 will be a busy year. “That’s a good thing. If we get all these great ideas out early we can actually get them finished before the term.”

He wrapped up by saying he is looking forward to the next four years with council. “Together, we can be successful.”

Mayor Ryan was re-elected as chair of the Community Services and Dufferin Oaks Committee. Mono Deputy Mayor John Creelman will lead the General Government Services committee, and Amaranth Mayor Bob Currie was selected as chair of the Infrastructure and Environment committee.

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