LAURIE WEIR
Tay Valley Township Reeve Rob Rainer is reflecting on a productive 2024, marked by municipal milestones and personal achievements, while setting his sights on ambitious goals for 2025.
2024: A Year of Achievements
- Tay Valley Township saw a relatively smooth year in municipal governance and operations, highlighted by notable progress and community engagement.
- One of the year’s standout accomplishments was the significantly expanded use of the Maberly Community Hall. Recognized by the Province as a Seniors Active Living Centre, the hall hosted a diverse range of public programs, becoming a vibrant hub for the community.
- Another key milestone was the substantial update to the township’s Official Plan, approved by the county. This update lays the groundwork for future development while addressing current needs.
- Progress was also made toward completing the long-envisioned Maberly Pines subdivision. Dating back to the 1970s and ’80s, only nine of its 56 lots have been developed, but 2024 saw meaningful steps forward, creating optimism for its eventual completion.
- Additionally, the township undertook its first employee pay equity and compensation review since 2008. The review resulted in pay equity compliance and brought compensation in line with comparable nearby municipalities, strengthening Tay Valley’s ability to attract and retain talent.
Personal highlights
On a personal level, Rainer said he explored new horizons and deepened his community connections. He and his wife, Mary Lou Carroll, traveled to southwest Saskatchewan, “reveling in its breathtaking landscapes.”
A separate adventure saw Rainer and his eldest daughter, Robin, touring the national and state parks of Utah.
Rainer’s passion for music also flourished in 2024. He performed at benefits for The Table Community Food Centre and the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust, while regularly entertaining residents at Lanark Lodge.
In September, he took on a new challenge, being nominated as the Ontario Liberal candidate for Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston, setting the stage for a potential provincial election run in 2025.
Looking ahead to 2025
Rainer is gearing up for another busy year, both professionally and personally.
In municipal governance, he anticipates community priorities including:
- Kicked off with the Perth Polar Bear Plunge on Jan. 1, raising nearly $4,000 for the Hospice Hub. “As of this writing (Dec. 29) I’m in second place with the fundraising, with $3,695 raised of the total of $45,958 which has surpassed the Hub’s goal of $40,000! Taking the plunge and raising money for this cause is a great way to begin the new year! I hope to top $4,000.
- Continued progress on the Maberly Pines subdivision, with plans to upgrade subdivision roads by 2026.
- Potential construction of a pickleball court and the replacement of the Maberly Outdoor Rink—both projects dependent on securing grant funding.
- Hopeful for the start of a county-wide natural heritage systems plan, which could have far-reaching implications for environmental protection and sustainable development.
Personally speaking
Rainer said he has plans to maintain his active lifestyle, focusing on health and fitness. His musical pursuits will continue with performances alongside the Tay Valley and Westport community choirs and the River Resonance vocal ensemble.
He and his wife also aim to revisit New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, reconnecting with places that hold special meaning from his nearly two decades living in the region.
Additionally, he plans to start writing his memoir.
“With a provincial election likely in 2025, I’m competing to win the Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston seat,” Rainer said. “I aim to bring a progressive voice to Queen’s Park, tackling provincial-level challenges and opportunities while representing our riding.”
