The County of Renfrew has a new warden.
Reeve of the Township of Laurentian Valley Debbie Robinson took the oath of office in a ceremony earlier this week. Robinson defeated councillor Tom Peckett of McNab/Braeside for the position. The Warden was nominated by Councillor Michael Donohue.
Warden Robinson outlined some of her goals at the meeting, such as moving forward on the Highway 417 expansion, completing the Algonquin trail and increased active transportation projects. She also aims to find new forms of funding for the county. Robinson said the county will press forward with initiatives in relation to community housing, child care and Ontario Works. She said that the community’s most vulnerable should be given the services and supports that they deserve and require. She also said the county will move forward in the adoption of the Butterfly Model for Bonnechere Manor and Miramichi Lodge.
Warden Robinson has served in municipal government for the past 13 years, getting her start by sitting on boards across the county. Robinson replaces Warden Jennifer Murphy, who had served 3 years previously in the role.