Georgian Bluffs council inaugural meeting from 2022-26 term was held on Nov. 16, 2022. (image from live stream)
The new mayor of Georgian Bluffs made an opening address to mark the start of the next term of council at the inaugural meeting yesterday.
Georgian Bluffs Mayor Sue Carleton, who served as deputy mayor in the 2018-22 term and defeated Dwight Burley in last month’s election, congratulated her colleagues for receiving a “huge vote of confidence” from constituents to be able to represent them at the council table over the next four years.
“Being chosen to represent our family, friends and neighbours is both an honour and a massive responsibility,” Carleton says. “We are being asked to bring our ideas forward to ensure positive, forward growth for our township. We are being asked to agree and disagree on many different topics. Some will be very controversial, some will be easy.”
Carleton identified water systems, the biodigester, short-term accommodations, the implementation of the township’s recreation and trails master plan and climate change as some of the concerns expressed by residents during the municipal election campaign.
“Together with staff, neighbours and other levels of government, we need to work towards solutions for these and many more issues that will come forward,” Carleton says. “I believe we can do it. I believe in the strengths and knowledge each one of you bring forward. And I believe the future is bright for Georgian Bluffs.”
Carleton, acclaimed deputy mayor Grant Pringle, and councillors Tobin Day, Cathy Moore Coburn, Ryan Thompson and Rick Winters all took their oaths of office during Wednesday’s inaugural meeting.
There is one vacant seat on council to start the term. Mike Smith was elected but resigned his seat due to health concerns. Township council will be discussing a plan to fill the vacancy next week.