​New Huron-Kinloss mayor says township has strong team to deal with difficult times ahead

The new mayor of Huron-Kinloss Township says there will be trying times over the next four years, but the strong team elected to council can deal with anything.

Don Murray (right) was sworn-in as mayor, Tuesday night (Nov. 15) during the inaugural meeting, as were deputy mayor Jim Hanna, and councillors Larry Allison, Shari Flett, Scott Gibson, Ed McGugan and Carl Sloetjes, in front of a good crowd of family and friends.

The ceremony began with the singing of “O Canada,” by the mayor’s granddaughter, Quinn Smith, with help from another granddaughter, Stella Smith.

Murray then took the oath of office, as did the rest of council.

In his inaugural address, Murray thanked his family for supporting him throughout his campaign, and he thanked the electorate for voting this group of people to council to serve for the next term.

“I believe we can work together and work with staff, to keep this municipality moving in the right direction,” he said. “I want to start something new in the new year, Breakfast with the Mayor, in all the communities throughout Huron-Kinloss. One thing we don’t do is communicate enough, and I want to hear from the people about their concerns and the issues in their community.”

Murray said there are lots of things to talk about, including changes to planning at the municipal level, inflation and increased interest rates and how they impact the agricultural community, affordable housing, and the budget.

“We have difficult times ahead,” he said, “but if we work together, we can get through them.”

Hanna said if council is doing its job, its goal is to set up the next council for success.

“The reason we’re in such good shape is because previous councils did their job,” he said. “There are going to be disagreements at the council table. We are facing some tough times but if we work together, and temper our discussions, we will be fine.”

Flett said she looks forward to working with council, and she thanked all members of council for their professionalism throughout the election campaign.

“I expect all of you will inspire and challenge me,” she said, “and I hope we can implement some of the ideas that were brought forward during the campaign.”

Allison said he is pleased to join township council. “I’m happy to be here and I appreciate being part of the team that will be managing the municipality.”

Gibson also said he was glad to be part of the new council. “I want to help make Huron-Kinloss a great place to live, and a safe place place to live.”

McGugan, who was re-elected to council, welcomed the new councillors and said he looks forward to working with them. He also congratulated Murray as the new mayor, and Hanna as the new deputy mayor.

Sloetjes, who is also returning to council, congratulated Murray and Hanna, and said the township has great leadership and a good council to work with. “It’s important to voice your opinion and debate the issues. Everyone should be heard and respected.”

The final order of business was to appoint Jennifer White the new clerk of Huron-Kinloss.

The next council meeting will be held Dec. 5, at 7 p.m., at the township hall in Ripley.



Quinn Smith (left) sings "O Canada" at the Huron-Kinloss inaugural meeting, Tuesday night, with help from Stella Quinn, and their grandpa, the new mayor, Don Murray



The new  Huron-Kinloss council includes, in back, councillors Larry Allison (left), Scott Gibson, Carl Sloetjes and Shari Flett; and in front, councillor Ed McGugan (left), mayor Don Murray and deputy mayor Jim Hanna