FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Middlesex County Reflects on a Year of Achievements and Service at the 2023 Warden’s Banquet
MIDDLESEX COUNTY (November 20, 2023): Middlesex County gathered at the 2023 Warden's Banquet last Saturday, marking an opportunity to reflect on the past year. Warden Cathy Burghardt-Jesson highlighted the accomplishments and challenges in Middlesex County along with honouring Tom McLaughlin and The Nicholas Smith Foundation to the 2023 Warden’s Honour Roll for their tremendous contributions to the community.
Warden Burghardt Jesson covered three notable highlights, showcasing the County's commitment to truth and reconciliation, diversity, and community engagement.
Building Relationships with Indigenous Communities
The County has taken steps in acknowledging its relationship with Indigenous Communities. In September, the County hosted Brian Hill, President of the N’Ameriand Centre in London, who shared personal stories and professional knowledge related to Indigenous Initiatives, Anti-Racism, Accessibility, and Equity. The Planning Department has taken steps to build a duty to consult framework with First Nations to ensure that both the needs of the County as well as those of First Nations’ communities are considered.
Drag Storytime Programs
The Warden addressed the attention drawn to the Library's Drag Storytime, recognizing the program's importance in promoting diversity and inclusion. Despite challenges, Middlesex County remained committed to ensuring that libraries continue to be inclusive spaces for all. Warden Cathy specifically acknowledged Lindsay Brock, Director of Library Services/CEO for her leadership during this period.
Advocacy for Middlesex Accommodation Program
Warden Cathy Burhardt-Jesson highlighted the success of the Middlesex Accommodation Program, emphasizing its impact on housing and community support. The extension of funding for this program, spearheaded by Cindy Howard, General Manager, Finance and Community Services showcased the County's commitment to addressing critical housing issues.
Warden Burghardt-Jesson also acknowledged and expressed gratitude to Middlesex County and Lucan Biddulph staff and council for all their hard-work and efforts to the community, alongside the support from her family and friends.
QUOTE:
“ Personally, I have learned, that I really do love the work of service to community. I have been humbled by your confidence in me. As much as the work of government can be debated, locally we have done great things and I know that great things will continue. I believe in Middlesex. I have every optimism that the future is bright for our community.
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve it as I have.” - Warden Cathy Burghardt-Jesson
Middlesex County is an innovative, well-run organization offering high-value programs and services to the best community in which to live, visit, and do business in Southwestern Ontario. The County serves a vibrant, growing community of 78,000 people and offers a great place to call home, offering exceptional lifestyle, a wide variety of local attractions, and wonderful sense of community.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Middlesex County Media Relations Legislative Services Division @email
