Community building takes centre stage at final Kawartha Lakes Council meeting of the term

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Mayor Doug Elmslie marked the end of 20 years in municipal politics, as Kawartha Lakes Council wrapped up its 2022-2026 term, reflecting on four years of major investments, community challenges, and accomplishments.

The November 3rd gathering recognized the contributions of outgoing councillors, municipal staff and volunteers, while highlighting achievements in public service, technology and community development.

Chief Administrative Officer, Ron Taylor praised the outgoing council's ability to work together, despite differing opinions and competing priorities.

"You are all community builders, and this doesn't happen overnight," Mr. Taylor explained. "It's an accumulation of investments in our neighbourhoods, our towns, our hamlets, our wards, and our people, and it's all for the greater community good."

Longtime community volunteer, Chris Appleton also thanked elected officials and municipal employees for their contributions, while councillors acknowledged the residents, volunteers, and staff who supported them throughout the term.

Reflecting on his final four years as mayor, Mayor Elmslie pointed to major infrastructure investments, local health-care initiatives, unprecedented growth, and the community's response to severe weather emergencies as defining moments.

“I will tell you, this has been the most interesting and rewarding thing I have ever done, outside of marriage and children,” Mayor Elmslie said. “I will treasure it and the memories for my lifetime. To the Council of 2022-26, thank you for your civility, respect, and advice. I could not have survived without you.”

He urged the incoming Council to maintain respectful relationships with one another and municipal staff, while remembering the residents they represent.

“Together, you can accomplish tremendous things. Lastly, respect your constituents. You're here because of them and for them,” he added.

The evening also recognized several municipal employees and departments for their contributions.

Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service Superintendent, Autumn Campbell and Jordan Kaiser received the Governor General's Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal, at an October 1st ceremony, in Niagara Falls. The honour recognizes more than 20 years of dedication to emergency medical care.

The municipality also earned its first Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, from the Government Finance Officers Association, for its 2026 budget. The recognition reflects efforts to make municipal spending easier for residents to understand.

The City's municiPal AI search tool, introduced during the 2025 website redevelopment, received a 2026 International Data Corporation Chief Information Officer Award of Canada. The tool helps residents find information about municipal services, programs, and permits using everyday language. The City reported, it provides answers with 97 percent accuracy and resolves nine out of 10 inquiries, through a single search.

Community Services employee, Ryan Smith received the Ontario Parks Association's Parks Champion recognition, for his work improving local parks, accessibility, environmental stewardship, and public spaces. The City's Customer Experience team also received an honourable mention, from Municipal Service Delivery Officials, for developing a corporate customer service strategy and standards.

The municipality's 25th anniversary was another highlight of 2026, as community celebrations, historical displays, and public art brought residents, volunteers, and organizations together to recognize the area's history and distinct communities. An anniversary book, documenting Kawartha Lakes' history, is also in development.

The newly elected Council will officially begin its term at the inaugural meeting, on Monday, November 16th, at 1 p.m.

For Mayor Elmslie, the transition closes a 20-year chapter at the Council table, leaving the incoming representatives with a reminder, municipal government is ultimately about the people it serves.