KAWARTHA LAKES-The 7th term of the City of Kawartha Lakes Council was sworn in on Tuesday at council chambers in Lindsay.
The proceedings were officiated by the Superior Court Justice, Honourable Drew S. Gunsolus with a procession accompanied by Town Crier Athol Hart and Musician Martin Neuland. Musical performances were provided by the ReUnion Choir out of Fenelon Falls.
In his inaugural speech, Mayor Doug Elmslie commented, “These eight individuals and I are the electors’ choice to be the Municipal Leaders for the next four years. We are mothers, fathers, grandparents, business owners, community volunteers, educators, activists and above all else, we are passionate champions of this beautiful place we call home. It is a responsibility we do not take lightly.” said Elmslie “It is only by challenging the way we have always done things we can improve. Whether we are new (councillors) or returning we all agree that we chose to be in public service because it means we want to make a difference. The decisions we make are often difficult. One of the first orders of business will be the budget. It’s the most important thing we do as its supports all other expenditures.”
Elmslie outlined some of the priorities going forward  including the need to continue investing in roads and infrastructure, tackling affordable housing with other levels of government, ensuring community growth is healthy and supported and looking after the environment.
Councillor Tracy Richardson was acclaimed as Deputy Mayor for another one-year term. She held the position during the 2022 year and said “I want to take this time to thank everyone around this table. It’s an honour and privilege being around this table with all of you. As the new Deputy Mayor I believe communication is important. I think we’ve built a lot of momentum over the last term and we need to continue with that. I’m really excited to see what four years looks like from now. I think we are going to be bigger and stronger than we are now.”
To watch a recording of the meeting, visit the City’s YouTube channel.
The next Council meeting is November 22 at 1pm.
