COMMUNITY NEWS

Our focus needs to be on ensuring local business have the proper supports during this period, finding creative solutions to traffic challenges all while expecting further growth across the County, specifically in St George with the completion of the new waste water plant We need our residents to understand that we are working within strict Provincial directives and many of the community frustrations are shared with members of the Council.

6. We are officially halfway mark through this term of council. Have you accomplished some of your own personal goals and what do you still hope to accomplish before the end of this term?

I feel that I have represented Ward 3 with a strong voice, advocating for the Ward, for Paris and for the County as a whole While there is still a lot of work ahead, I feel I have based my decisions (votes) on the facts provided in each circumstance, weighing available information, staff recommendations and community feedback to determine the right path forward I stand by my decisions with full transparency, holding myself accountable to the Ward 3 constituents as I support decisions in the best interest for our community. While I am a single vote at the Council, I believe all decisions need to consider the unique charm found in the County of Brant, and maintain what aspects we can against decisions made at Queens Park in Toronto and the Parliament Building in Ottawa.

On October 24, 2024, the County of Brant Emergency Operations Centre team participated in its annual emergency training exercise. The simulated incident involved a flood scenario impacting downtown Paris, Glen Morris, and Onondaga. As part of the exercise, a Reception Centre was established at the Brant Sports Complex to assist evacuees, and a Customer Contact Centre and Incident Command Post were also initiated. Watching this exercise was insightful but provided Councillor John Peirce with confidence that our teams have the skills, knowledge and tools required to support our community should a real crisis occur. It was one of his favourite events to attend in 2024.

7. Finally, please share your favourite event you attended this year and why?

My favourite event this year was the Annual Emergency Exercise Day, which simulated a flood situation impacting Glen Morris, downtown Paris and Onondaga. Seeing the fantastic coordination of our staff, our emergency services and other County leaders execute a realistic response scenario was not just insightful but provided me with confidence that our teams have the skills, knowledge and tools required to support our community should a real crisis occur

STEVE HOWES, WARD 2

1. In your opinion, what was the council's biggest accomplishment in 2024?

The County of Brant is obviously experiencing significant growth. With our proximity to the GTA and our beautiful location, this is a desirable place to live Pairing that demand with a Provincial requirement for growth, we have had to deal with a lot of the challenges that come with residential expansion We will also continue to see more development of (Commercial/Industrial) Employment lands which will help build on the momentum of an economically healthy community Fortunately, we have great staff who help guide us through these challenges and Council's recent adoption of the Strategic Plan in 2024 will help guide us forward

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