Wellington North's Mayor says despite turbulent times, council and staff still delivered exceptional service and completed major projects in 2021.
Mayor Andy Lennox says there were some significant achievements including the Arthur Downtown Revitalization. The main street saw improvements including curb extension, decorative lighting, benches, outdoor gym, Firehall LED sign in, and supports for accessibility and pedestrian friendliness in partnership with Province and Arthur BIA.
Wellington North issued 364 building permits with a combined construction value of $80 million, which is up from an average of 235 annual building permits with a combined construction value of $30 million in 2020. The Building department staff grew to accommodate the increased need by promoting a Building inspector to Deputy Chief Building Official and hiring a new Building Inspector. There were also 225 development applications or requests processed up from an average of 141 annually.
The municipality also installed 93 new water services and 96 new sanitary services in support of development activities in Wellington North Recreation.
Other highlights included:
• Development Charges Update for 2021/2022 • Volunteer Engagement Program • Website redevelopment launched in 2022 • New Horizons Seniors Supporting Seniors through technology programs • Historical tours (cemetery and downtown Mount Forest) • 5 Industrial Land sales (3 in Mount Forest and 2 in Arthur) Fire • Implementation of new radios and joined the County of Wellington radio system for Fire dispatch • Executed agreement with Guelph Fire Department for full dispatching services • One year pilot with the City of Guelph to provide By-law
"2021 was a year of significant achievement for the Township of Wellington North" said Andrew Lennox, Mayor. "Council and staff look forward to providing responsive and timely service in 2022.”