Al Lunney

Lanark County Council elected Perth Mayor John Fenik to its top political post for 2010 during the inaugural meeting held Tuesday morning in Perth.

“I have an open door policy,” Mr. Fenik said as he thanked councillors for their support. “I will rely on everyone for input and help. I sincerely look forward to working with each and every one of you.”

Mr. Fenik was nominated by Drummond/North Elmsley Reeve Aubrey Churchill and Perth Deputy Mayor John Gemmell. He has served on Perth council for 12 years, entering his fourth year as mayor, and six years on county council. He has served on several county committees. He works for the Upper Canada District School Board, has a Bachelor of Social Work and has worked with children in addition to volunteering with several community organizations

He highlighted a number of priorities for council for the coming year, including finalizing a fire dispatch system, completing the Transportation Master Plan and associated development charges study, deciding on an official plan or integrated community sustainability plan, defining local municipal roles and responsibilities, expanding broadband internet service, undertaking a comprehensive evaluation of some county facilities, introducing a Character Always initiative for council consideration and working closely with the Town of Smiths Falls on areas of mutual concern.

“The agenda is ambitious but as I have come to know all members of county council and staff it is clear to me there is a level of skill, professionalism and experience here that is unsurpassed,” he said. “Working together I know the right decisions will be made, always keeping in mind the remarkable people we serve and this incredible place we call Lanark County.”

Mr. Churchill said he was honoured to nominate Mr. Fenik. “He has the experience needed for warden….He shows great leadership and team qualities, along with compassion and a desire for fairness.” He added Mr. Fenik has “boundless energy and enthusiasm” and handles situations with ease and professionalism. “With this kind of resume the county can be assured of good representation.”

Mr. Gemmell described Mr. Fenik as open and a consensus builder. “Diplomacy is his guiding light when making decisions.”

Tay Valley Reeve Keith Kerr was also nominated for the position by Tay Valley Township Deputy Reeve Susan Freeman and Mr. Dulmage. He has been on county council for the past six years, as well as serving before amalgamation.

Mr. Kerr noted he was recently afforded the time needed to pursue this position. “I enjoy the county and know the people.”

Following addresses by the nominators and candidates, councillors made their choice by secret ballot.

As he relinquished the chain of office, Mr. Dulmage described his year as warden as being an extreme learning curve. “I have been really blessed with the support of council and staff. I don’t think I have worked with a better staff.” One of his key accomplishments, he said, was passing the budget in principle during the fiscal year. “That is what I am most proud of.”

Several special guests attended the meeting, including past wardens, municipal staff, friends, family and supporters of the candidates.

Committee chairpersons were acclaimed at the meeting: Paul Dulmage (Carleton Place) for corporate services; Sharon Mousseau (Beckwith) for community services; Brenda Hurrle (Mississippi Mills) for community development; and Bruce Horlin (Lanark Highlands) for public works.

Mr. Fenik named a striking committee, which appoints members to various committees and boards. Council reconvenes Wednesday at 7 p.m. for its regular meeting.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, December 15th, 2009 at 3:42 pm and is filed under County. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.