County councillors offer heartfelt goodbyes, introduce replacements

GUELPH – Oct. 29 marked the final county council meeting for four Wellington County councillors. 

During the meeting, Warden Chris White offered those leaving the opportunity to say a few words and introduce the next in line.

 “It’s a bittersweet day,” White said. “Some folks are returning and some folks are changing out positions.”

Current Wellington North Mayor and county councillor Andy Lennox was the first to speak.

“I look at all of you and all who have been elected as the chosen champions of your communities,” he said. “It’s been a true honour for me to have been the champion for Wellington North.”

Lennox served as mayor for 12 years and on township council for 16. He noted the experience was “rewarding” and one he will “dearly” miss.

Lennox introduced Steve McCabe, who has been a township councillor for almost 12 years, as the newly elected mayor of Wellington North. 

County councillor Shawn Watters was elected Centre Wellington mayor in 2022 and has served various local and county councils over the past 25 years.

“We are in very tough times right now [and] I hate to say this, but it’s only going to get worse,” he said. “But we are much stronger when we work together.”

Watters introduced current Centre Wellington councillor Bronwynne Wilton as the new township mayor, stating, “She is a very capable person.”

“She will represent our community very well and will be a huge asset,” he added.

Current Erin Mayor Michael Dehn, who was first elected mayor in 2022, was emotional during his speech.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude for the support, guidance and camaraderie you have shared with me throughout my term,” Dehn said.

He also thanked county staff for “your tireless professionalism, expertise and patience.”

“Wellington County is in remarkably capable hands,” Dehn added, before introducing Dusty Scott, who was recently elected Erin mayor, as a “true Erinite.”

Ward 3 county councillor Campbell Cork was the last to say farewell.

“I came to understand over these eight years the true meaning of why staff are certainly the county’s most treasured asset,” he said. 

Cork has been a councillor since 2018 and has “truly loved every minute of it.” 

“I’m looking forward to some new adventures in my life after politics,” he added, before welcoming Dan Yake, councillor-elect for Ward 3.

“He’s a true Mount Forester ... and comes with years of experience on local council. I know he’ll do a good job here for the county,” Cork said. 

All councillors also took the opportunity to thank White for his time as warden.