Grey County Warden Brian Milne delivered his final address, reflecting on key accomplishments from the past year.
Speaking at the final council meeting before Tuesday’s inaugural session to elect the 2025 warden, Milne thanked council members and staff for their dedication.
“As we reflect on the accomplishments of this past year, we must also look forward with optimism and a shared determination to tackle the uncertainties ahead,” Milne said. “Grey County has always risen to challenges through resilience and collaboration.”
Milne, who also served as Warden in 2014, described it as an honor to lead the council through a year marked by significant milestones.
"Serving as your Warden continues to be one of the greatest privileges of my life, and I deeply and I'm deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me," Milne told council. "No two years are ever the same, and this one was no exception. While we faced our share of challenges."
These included initiating construction on the new Rockwood Terrace long-term care home.
"This year, in the winter, we issued the tender for the construction of the new Rockwood Terrace," he added. "In the spring, we awarded it, and it was over $500,000 marking the largest capital project in the history of this county. Since then, ground has been broken, foundation's are poured, and the walls are going up."
He added council advanced plans for a new paramedic base in Durham.
"Collaborating with West Grey and building in tandem with their new police station," he continued. "This year, we invested millions of dollars to maintain our roadways, making them safer for the residents, businesses and visitors who travel them every day."
Milne also helped celebrate the opening of the Sydenham Campus and Grey Roots Museum’s 20th anniversary.
Efforts to address homelessness and addiction were also highlighted, including the county’s purchase of a motel to provide emergency shelter and the expansion of the Supportive Outreach Services program.
“Although we’ve made many strides, we know there is still much work to be done on these critical issues,” Milne said, emphasizing the importance of continuing efforts to support vulnerable community members.
Milne also underscored the need for meaningful engagement with local First Nations communities, calling for ongoing “reconcili-action.”
“Building meaningful relationships with First Nations communities is not only the right thing to do — it’s the foundation for mutual understanding and progress,” he said.
As he steps down, Milne expressed confidence in the council’s ability to navigate future challenges, urging members to remain engaged.
“Let us continue to embrace diverse perspectives, listen, and act with purpose to build an even stronger, more connected community,” he said. “Because in all that we do, one thing remains true: we are stronger together.”
Grey County Council elects a new Warden Tuesday evening.