WHITEWATER REGION (Cobden) — The township released and discussed the first quarter administration report for 2019 on Wednesday last week.
“This report covers the first quarter of 2019 which marked the beginning of a new term of Council, the adoption of the 2019 budget, and snow (and more snow),” said Robert Tremblay, Chief Administrative Officer for the Township of Whitewater Region.
Contents of the report range from development and planning, to environmental services and protective services. The township gives details of what was accomplished, what problems were encountered and how they were overcome.
“The Township has been dealing with historic flooding on the Ottawa River since April 2019,” said Mr. Tremblay. “It has been a team effort with support from all staff, the fire department, Council, the County, Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry, Canadian Armed Forces, even the Coast Guard.”
Mr. Tremblay proceeded to publicly thank the Westmeath & District Recreation Association (WDRA) for leading relief efforts by hosting and feeding military personnel and affected residents, which was echoed by the entire Council.
Their commitment to the Township was commended greatly and shown appreciation. Mr. Tremblay stated the focus would now turn to recovery efforts.
The emergency response to the flood this year was led by Jonathan Wilker, Fire Chief/CEMC. Janet Collins, Director of Public Works, will be leading the recovery efforts.
“The Township also supports WDRA’s Flood Recovery Resource Committee that will work with the community on behalf of the Township to identify needs, coordinate and prioritize resources, including outside agencies such as Team Rubicon and Mennonite Disaster Services,” said Mr. Tremblay.
The general government section includes financial and legislative services. These are under the leadership of Sean Crozier, Treasurer and Carmen Miller, Clerk. The Office of the CAO provides overall administrative management of the organization.
“We have been in full flood mode and we tend to forget the first quarter actually happened,” said Mr. Tremblay. He thanked the roads team for all of the overtime work they put in during the winter months and also thanked Ivan Burton. Mr. Burton is the new Planner and Economic Development Officer for the Township and comes from Renfrew.
The 2019 First Quarter Administrative Report is available on the Township of Whitewater Region’s website. Hard copies are available by request.
