Warden Dennis Lever took pleasure in turning over the opening remarks portion of the Feb. 22 Wellington County council meeting to one of Canada’s newest Senators.
Ward 5 councillor Rob Black, of Centre Wellington resigned, as required, his position on county council after learning he had been appointed to the Senate on Feb. 15.
“It is with very mixed emotions I leave this chamber and the position as Centre Wellington ward councillor,” said Black. “I do sincerely regret that I am unable to complete my first term in office representing the residents of Ward 5 and this council.
“I’ve learned very much and absolutely enjoyed my time on council and the role of the chair of the information, heritage and seniors committee, the chair of the Wellington County library board, committee member on social services and the warden’s advisory committee. I’m pleased with what we’ve accomplished over the last short time frame, working together, and the opportunities we’ve had,” Black added, noting he is pleased to have been a part of such county endeavours as the reopening of renovated libraries in Aboyne, Fergus and Palmerston, the groundbreaking for a new Hillsburgh library and the opening of the Webster Place affordable housing project in Fergus.
“And together we’ve had the opportunity to showcase Wellington County to Ontario, Canada and the world at the International Plowing Match in Minto.”
Black noted he has also enjoyed updating Centre Wellington Township council on county activities.
“In all cases I hope I’ve been able to convey the great work that’s being done by this Wellington County team, around this horseshoe, in this building and in work spaces around the county. Together we really do good work and we need to recognize that,” he stated.
Black told council he attended his first orientation session in Ottawa the previous day, had an opportunity to meet with his temporary staff and was able to select an office “on the first floor of the historic East Block on Parliament Hill.
“My questions are many, my anxiety and emotions are up and down and my excitement grows by the minute,” he stated.
On behalf of the county, Lever presented Black with an Ottawa Senators t-shirt.
“Something we expect you to wear while you’re there and maybe change when you come back to these parts,” Lever quipped.
Councillor Shawn Watters expressed confidence Black would be a strong representative of the local community.
“We’re very proud of him in Centre Wellington and he’ll do a great job for our community and he’ll do a great job for the county as well. So, he’ll be missed,” Watters stated.
The county has initiated a process to replace Black’s spot on council and is currently seeking applicants for the position. Lever said candidates will be interviewed by the warden’s advisory committee and the committee’s recommendation will be presented to council for approval.
