COMMUNITY NEWS

The projected cost of the new library is $37,770,000 and $13,489,000 was supposed to be in the 2024 Capital Budget Last spring, council approved the proposed architectural design created by DPAI Architecture. They are now working on the final design plans for the building. Tender results should be presented to County of Brant Council in late spring 2024

While he hopes to see this project unfold in 2024, it’s also a project he predicts could be a huge hurdle for council

“I don’t look forward to the division in council I think this (project) has the ability to split my council,” said Bailey.

At the beginning of his second term, one of Bailey’s campaign promises was to continue to lead a united council, and despite some controversial discussions around council table, the temperature in council chambers has remained relatively cool, he said. That’s a promise he plans to keep in 2024, despite the uncertainty and fiscal restraints facing council in the months ahead.

“I love that council is united and it’s very unique for council and staff to be running so smoothly alongside one another.”

Another campaign platform that he’s delivering on is enhancing communication and public education.

“I take great pride in being transparent I think the education part is why I came into politics - so people could understand policies and procedures to learn about why and how we make the decisions we make ”

Looking back at 2023, one project Bailey was proud to see come to life was the implementation of public washrooms in downtown Paris – something that’s been in demand for close to two decades It was unfortunate to find out it was vandalized and set on fire, which was completely unbelievable and disheartening, said Bailey, but “even though it was defeating, what do you do? You fix it up and open it up again. You cannot let them win.”

He's also very proud of the outcome of the new sustainably designed TF Warren Cainsville Community Centre and looks forwarding to welcoming a similar project in Glen Morris very soon.

Bailey closed out 2023 ushering in one of his favourite events of the calendar year – Jingle Bell Night. It was by far his most memorable public appearance, he said “At Jingle Bell Night you saw the true essence of Paris and the county. There were hundreds of people there and all you felt was love and peace and joy. When you went into the stores you felt the holidays It’s just such a festive time of year ”

(Bailey pictured above at Jingle Bell Night November 2023)

Looking ahead to 2024, Bailey said there will be more development on the horizon with expansion slated in other towns in the county –St. George is next.

While Paris’ rapid development is starting to catch up with infrastructure and traffic woes, Bailey said council has learned a few lessons, which they hope will translate to a smoother development in St. George.

“We have nothing but fields to be developed so we can put in extra roads, not putting all the pressure on one road We can expand the village into something more manageable,” said Bailey.

Growth is unavoidable, and it comes with plenty of growing pains, but Bailey looks forward to the positivity it brings, especially the diversity within the community

“I am happy with the diversity here. If you can turn the clock ahead 10 years…. it is going to be amazing.”