LAURIE WEIR
Perth Mayor Judy Brown shared her top accomplishments of 2024 and outlined the challenges she looks forward to tackling in 2025.
Top five highlights of 2024:
1. Bringing in a budget with a six per cent increase despite rising post-COVID costs and the need to repair aging infrastructure.
2. Progress on the golf course development, (CAIVAN) which promises significant expansion for the town. Although the proposal differs from some of the town’s priorities, staff are working to achieve a compromise.
3. Hiring a new clerk following the retirement of the previous one.
4. Producing excellent promotional videos through the economic development and tourism department to position Perth as a destination and attract younger residents.
5. Reaching an agreement at the Ontario Land Tribunal to allow the final phase of the Perthmore subdivision to proceed.
Looking ahead to 2025:
1. Analyzing the Asset Management Plan to prioritize critical needs and secure funding. For example, the town will soon need a new fire truck and another water tower.
2. Collaborating with Caivan on the build-out of the golf course subdivision.
3. Upgrading Craig Street, a project that will cost $5.3 million. The Town plans to borrow part of the funds and apply for grants.
4. Hiring a new treasurer to replace the outgoing one.