Perth East Mayor Rhonda Ehgoetz has been re-elected to her second term as Perth County Warden.
Ehgoetz served as Warden over the last year and will remain in that seat following a swearing-in ceremony on the morning of December 7. Ehgoetz says she's humbled by the job.
"It is an honour and humbling to be the Warden for 2024. To my colleagues, I can't thank you enough for putting your trust in me again. As we grow as a county, staff and council will do their best to keep operations running smoothly. We're very lucky to have such great staff. We all work very well together. Our infrastructure is getting bigger and causing more demands on the resources that we have, but we are very resourceful at keeping them, and keeping things moving ahead," Ehgoetz stated.
With rising costs, housing issues and of course infrastructure and service upkeep, 2024 will bring its challenges, but Ehgoetz assures that the council will continue working hard for residents countywide.
"Our budget is going to be a challenge as things become more costly. But we will do our best to keep our services we have, and continue to run the county as efficiently as possible. As Warden, I look forward to the relationships growing with the City of Stratford, as well as the Town of St. Marys. I can't thank them and their staff enough for all that they do, and how well we all work together. We do share common interests and are trying to make our municipalities the best they can be for all of our residents," Ehgoetz enthused.
Ehgoetz says despite ongoing budget challenges heading into 2024, she's excited about a number of projects in the county.
"I look forward to the new facility that's being renovated and built right now at the County of Perth. The elevator was just completed at the courthouse, which will make it so much more accessible for the public. 2024 will have its challenges, and I am confident this council will meet those challenges head-on. From rising costs, affordable and attainable housing, to finishing the Official Plan, and we will get that done. I can't thank all of you enough, thank you for your support for my term. It is greatly appreciated," concluded Ehgoetz.