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Vol. 9 No. 1
The Voice of North Grenville
January 13, 2021
Don Cameron: a founding figure of North Grenville
by David Shanahan It was a shock when we heard that Don Cameron had died on Sunday, January 4. He was such a presence in this community, even years after he left public life. Most days, before the pandemic, Don could be found at his seat in Tim Hortons in the Kemptville Mall, chatting with the regulars, having a warm greeting and a few words for the many who stopped to say hello. I think that, for the many new comers to North Grenville over the past decade and more, the part Don played in, literally, making North Grenville was unknown. But for those who knew and
remembered his contribution to this community, his part will always be remembered and valued. There is so much to say about what he accomplished in his 80 years, and long before his political career in Oxford-on-Rideau Township, he had been a public servant and a businessman, someone who enjoyed his football, baseball, curling, antique cars, and, most of all, his family. He was a warm and caring man, who showed an interest in all those he met, no matter what their status or position. But the role he played in establishing North Grenville is one that this community will remember. Don had been
a member of Council, and then Reeve in Oxford-onRideau, and had served as Warden of the United Counties of Leeds & Grenville. Then, in 1995, the Ontario government announced its intention of pushing through the amalgamation of many municipalities around the province. There would be no choice in the matter. Don was an important player in the talks that ultimately led to the creation of the Township of North Grenville in January, 1998. It would not be called the Municipality until 2003. The negotiations were not easy, and much heat was generated among the mayors, reeves
and councillors of Oxfords, South Gower, and Town of Kemptville. The fact that Don was chosen as the first Mayor of the new North Grenville was a testament to the respect and admiration he won from his fellow politicians and residents. Immediately, however, Don was faced with an enormous challenge. On the day the first North Grenville Council met, the great Ice Storm of 1998 hit and everything was thrown into chaos. But, with Don Cameron leading the way, this community came together and performed heroics until power was restored weeks later. It was a real baptism of fire. But even before North Grenville came to be, Don Cameron had secured for its people one of the great assets we enjoy still: the Ferguson Forest Centre. Another of the Mike Harris Government’s initiatives, aside from amalgamation, was their decision to close the Ferguson Forest Station. The story is told elsewhere in this issue of the Times, and Don’s vital role in saving the FFC is described there. What can be said here is that, without Don Cameron’s leadership at the time, ably supported by Owen Fitz’Gerald and others, the FFC would have been destroyed, the land sold and built on, and a precious and valuable asset, not just for
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