News from council, an update on my service as councillor, and how you can come talk to me - no appointment needed.

More cell towers, getting ready for rain, and an update to some on-going work in our region.

It’s been a busy time since being sworn in as your Councillor about 10 weeks ago:

• everyone seemed to enjoy the “Meet and Greet” and New Year’s drop-in at my home since the election. It was good to see so many people come out and enjoy some social time together;

• the boil water advisory has been lifted on Murray and West Streets in Fenelon;

• I helped ensure sidewalk snow removal for seniors at FAILA;

• in response to residents’ concerns, I have spoken with the detachments commanders and the OPP will be increasing speed limit enforcement in Ward 3 this spring, especially in areas around Hickory Beach, Fenelon, and Long Beach. Watch out!;

• Cambray, some of Cameron (off Hwy 35), and Sandy Point Road in Hickory Beach are being designated “40km areas”;

• the City is providing options to increase pedestrian safety in front of Fenelon Township Public School

• the ballpark in Fenelon now has a season fence to reduce wear and tear on the parking lot;

• I did a “ride along” with the City’s snow plowing here in Ward 3 up in the Glenarm, south Balsam Lake and Killarney Bay areas;

• the City will be video scoping all sewer pipes in Fenelon Falls by this fall to find any inflow or infiltration which can put the system at risk of back up in heavy rains. The Fenelon wastewater treatment plant has plenty of overall capacity; and, most importantly

• I have been helping with everyday concerns – my favourite part of the job – from snow plowing to tree cutting and from speed zones to clearing sewer grates.

Provincially appointed representative David Marshall and newly elected Port Hope Mayor Olena Hankivsky acclaimed to chair and vice-chair posts

Ontario’s 2022 municipal elections saw astoundingly poor turnouts in most centres. In Kawartha Lakes only one in three registered voters chose to cast a ballot last October. In Burlington, Niagara Falls and St. Catharines the turnout was closer to one in four.

At the December regular council meeting, Kawartha Lakes senior staff presented a prioritized listing of capital projects for consideration and debate — including $26 million in road repairs and upgrades.

Councillors Ron Ashmore, Mike Perry tried to defer fee increase decision to new year in failed motion.

Few residents in Ontario spend as much time talking about the cost and quality of their water as do those of Kawartha Lakes. Seldom did a council meeting go by in the last four years when something having to do with the city’s water and wastewater system didn’t appear on the agenda.

November 25 was the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the First Day of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence.

Kawartha Lakes’ newly sworn-in council came together at only their second official meeting to unanimously show their concern and frustration with Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, that is currently before a committee at Queen’s Park chaired by Haliburton – Kawartha Lakes – Brock MPP Laurie Scott.

Kawartha Lakes council voted unanimously to support concerns raised by Association of Municipalities of Ontario regarding Build More Homes Faster Act.

Mike Perry won the Ward 3 seat in the Oct. 24 Kawartha Lakes election with almost 62 per cent of the vote.

A short interview with the newly elected councillor of Ward 3, Mike Perry!

Hosted by the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes, fund will cover costs, including tuition, accommodation, transportation so young people can participate in Institute For Change training programs

Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes past president Mike Perry partners with group he co-founded to provide financial support and encouragement to fellow Fenelon Falls Secondary School graduates

Local MPP Laurie Scott participated in a groundbreaking ceremony for Ontario’s first Seniors’ Play Park, which is about to be built in Fenelon Falls.

Privately operated White Lightning Shopping Bus runs every Tuesday starting April 30th

Power doors recently installed at Fenelon Medical Centre help make getting into the building easier for patients

The Kawartha Lakes Rural Transportation Working Group has announced the trial of a free, public bus to enable local residents to shop and enjoy their communities during the week.

Evening of Excellence recognizes Lindsay’s top local businesses