residential development that will contribute to provincial housing targets, further expand the Municipality’s tax base, and provide local housing and commercial options as the Municipality grows in relation to the nearby PowerCo facility. This project has become a major area of focus and priority for Council over the course of the year and will continue to be an ongoing agenda item into 2025 as we carefully consider the opportunities it will bring. Led by our Chief Administrative Officer Carey Herd, who we were honoured to welcome in May, a team of experts is supporting Council in working with the Province to explore the possibility of Central Elgin taking a lead role in the redevelopment of this significant property in our community. While there are still many questions, we know that the site has been a fixture of Central Elgin since the hospital was built in the 1930s, and there is no doubt that it will continue to shape our local landscape whatever its future holds. As we prepare for a new year, a major theme for Council and I will be responsible growth and ensuring that the community’s roots hold firm in light of this period of transformation. A key component of this, and something that has been very important to me as Mayor, is engagement and making sure that current residents have their voices heard. I have enjoyed holding Mayor’s Office Hours throughout 2024 to connect with constituents and get their input on the local issues that impact us all. Additionally, returning the Ward 1, Ward 4, and Ward 5 Town Halls and adding the recent Ward 3 Town Hall provided opportunities to check in with community members, share updates from Council, and receive feedback on how things are going in the second year of the term. I look forward to continuing these events in 2025 and adding more ways for people to join the conversation.
Getting the trees ready. Photo by Sandra Elfman
I would like to sincerely thank all of the community organizations and small businesses whose dedication throughout the years helps to make Port Stanley and Central Elgin such a great place to live and visit. We truly have so much to celebrate during this bicentennial but the heart of it always has been and always will be the people. It is an honour to count myself as a member of this community. All best wishes for a wonderful year ahead.
Celebrate the Spirit of the Season! Merry Christmas!
Calling all knitters
Together we can bring the warmth of the season to our fellow people!
Barnacles Gift Cards make great stocking stuffers.
Best pizza, wings and burgers in town! Open all winter. Take-out available. Great for private functions.
170 Williams Street, Port Stanley (519) 782-7272
The weather is starting to turn, and it is cold outside. Please knit some extra mittens, hats, scarves, blankets, sweaters etc. for those in need. There are many places and people who could use them. If you would like me to pick up your knitting, give me a call at 519-495-7177 or email geoff@villagerpublications. com and I’ll be happy to arrange a pickup. W e are working with Simply Pure Water, so if you would prefer to drop off knitting drop it off with Chris, Jame and the team!
From our family to yours Happy Holidays!
123 Wellington St., St. Thomas 519-637-3306
Self Serve Still Open
oomers B and EYOND B
Hometown St. Thomas
Port Stanley Villager
5680 Sunset Rd (on the way to Port Stanley) www.debackerefarmmarket.ca
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
Port Stanley Villager • December 2024 • Page 7
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