When I first ran for Mayor in 2018, I indicated that my journey in public service would conclude in November 2026. As I prepare to complete my term, I would like to sincerely thank the residents of Southwest Middlesex for the trust, support, and encouragement you have shown me throughout my years of public service. In addition, the interest in SWM by The Middlesex Banner is sincerely appreciated.
With service on the former Village of Glencoe Council, Southwest Middlesex Council, and two terms as Mayor, I have had the privilege of serving this community for more than two decades. It has been an honour to work alongside dedicated residents, volunteers, staff, and elected officials who care deeply about the future of our municipality.
I would like to extend my gratitude to the current and former staff of Southwest Middlesex.
Your professionalism, hard work, and commitment to serving our residents have not gone unnoticed. I also wish to thank our firefighters, public works staff, by-law personnel, administrative staff, and all those who contribute each day to the services that residents rely upon. I am equally grateful to my colleagues and staff at Middlesex County. Southwest Middlesex has benefited greatly from these partnerships. I
Over the past eight years, Council and staff have worked together to advance a number of important initiatives. We have invested in roads, drainage infrastructure, parks, community facilities, accessibility improvements, and municipal services. We have enhanced community amenities, improved safety in key areas, and continued to modernize municipal policies and practices.
Economic development has also been a significant focus. Certified and serviced industrial lands are nearing completion and will support future employment opportunities within our municipality. The investment by Ontario Plants on Parkhouse Road represents a milestone for Southwest Middlesex and demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration between local and county government, private investment, and community support. The Community Improvement Plan that SWM has adopted has created a revenue source for local business to improve their business footprint with financial assistance. Southwest Middlesex is a connected municipality now. Most of our municipality is now on fibre with some hamlets and rural areas yet to be reached, but work is in progress. Space does not permit me to add other accomplishments and visions that have been established. The last eight years have left a legacy of improvements and modernizations.
We have also made meaningful progress in addressing long-standing drainage and stormwater challenges. The flooding event of August 23, 2023, remains one of the most significant weather events in our municipality’s history. While challenges remain, investments made in infrastructure planning and upgrades will help strengthen our community’s resilience for years to come.
Throughout this period, Council and staff navigated many challenges, including a global pandemic, inflation, supply chain disruptions, staffing pressures, ageing infrastructure, landfill closures, and increasingly unpredictable weather events. Despite these challenges, Southwest Middlesex has continued to move forward while maintaining strong municipal services and a stable financial position.
One area where additional work remains is affordable housing. While progress has been made and opportunities continue to emerge, this challenge extends well beyond municipal boundaries. I am confident that future Councils, working with other levels of government, developers, and community partners, will continue pursuing solutions that support housing affordability and availability throughout our region.
None of these accomplishments belong to any one individual. They are the result of the collective efforts of Council, staff, volunteers, community organizations, local businesses, and residents working together toward a common goal.
On a personal note, I would like to thank my wife Linda and our sons, Christopher and Craig. Public service comes with sacrifices, and no one has been more supportive of my community involvement than my family. Through both the successes and challenges, their encouragement, patience, and support have made this journey possible.
After more than sixty years in the workforce and over twenty years in municipal public service, I believe the time has come to pass the torch. While retirement remains an unfamiliar concept to me, I look forward to spending more time with family, friends, and pursuing interests that have often taken a back seat to public responsibilities.
As I leave office, I am optimistic about the future of Southwest Middlesex. The groundwork has been laid for continued growth, investment, and community development. The municipality is well-positioned to build upon the successes of recent years and continue providing excellent service to residents.
A SINCERE THANK-YOU TO SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX
Earlier this year, I was pleased to donate a Ceremonial Chain of Office to the Municipality of Southwest Middlesex. It is my hope that this symbol of leadership and responsibility will remain with the municipality for generations to come. To future Mayors who wear it, I offer this simple advice: wear it with dignity, honesty, ambition, and a commitment to serving the community to the best of your ability.
I encourage those who read this document to consider running for Public Office. If you process the skills of leadership, have a business acumen, and want to contribute to the planning and policy of Southwest Middlesex, a journey may await you in public service.
Thank you once again for giving me the privilege and honour of serving as your Mayor. Titles and positions eventually come to an end, but the opportunity to contribute to your community and make a positive difference is something that remains with you forever.
