End of Summer Report

As we approach fall leaves and crisper temperatures, it’s a good time to reflect on the summer that was.

While I spent part of the time sidelined with a gift from a nasty tick bite, it was mercifully short. It did cause me to miss a council meeting, the Long Lake Cottagers Association meeting, as well as Canada Day in Sharbot Lake, but I was grateful that I had a chance to attend other functions and get back to what passes for normal for me. I can only say that it’s a good idea to check for tick bites and go to the doctor if you get one. Lyme Disease is not pleasant, but can be treated effectively if you catch it early.

I did get out to the Eagle Lake AGM, as well as for the Cole Lake Association (of which I am a member). I am always struck by the passion and commitment of cottagers and seasonal residents to our township. I like to think that they get the kind of sense of community here that you can’t find in a big urban centre. People who would be hard pressed to name the people in the condo next door can tell you the names of every person on their lake, as well as their children and grandchildren. The city might be their home, but Central Frontenac is the place that ‘feels like home.’

The Parham Fair was, once again, a perfect weekend and a great celebration of rural life. The Demolition Derby certainly filled the stands, and as far as my son Ethan was concerned, well worth it. For me, though, the highlight was the attendance of Bill Lee, so soon after his unfortunate injuries. It was good to see him, as determined as ever, at an event he has given so generously to over the years. Sincerest congratulations to Wendy Parliament and the entire Fair Board for a job well done!

The Frontenac 150th Anniversary celebrations were also in August, and would not have been the success they were without the support of an army of volunteers. Folks from Hinchinbrooke District, like Jan and Don Crone, and Adam and Sue Peters, stepped up to the plate. It was also great to have former Hinchinbrooke Reeve and County Warden Don Lee there for the opening, and an honour to be included with him in the official ‘class photo.’

It wasn’t all parades and parties, though. The work of the township must go on. Some of those highlights include:

1. Getting Raymo Road fixed after the culvert collapse. The road closure was particularly difficult on residents who had to make an enormously long detour, and their patience and understanding is greatly appreciated;

2. The beginning of construction for the new Parham Fire Hall. This is a project long overdue, and getting our firefighters into a suitable building will be a reality this fall.

3. A planned revitalization of the playground at the Parham Fairgrounds, due in no small way to the hard work of Bob and Christine Teal and the entire Hinchinbrooke Recreation Committee.

4. The final work on the Sharbot Lake Overpass replacement.

5. Working to get the Community Improvement Plan (CIP) expanded beyond Sharbot Lake to include support of worthy projects throughout the Township. Deputy Mayor Riddell has shown leadership on this, and I am proud to lend my support.

6. Fighting to get the Kingston Frontenac Library Board to continue its support for the Parham branch. We committed to providing the branch a new home, and I hope the Library Board will meet us halfway in using that space as it was intended.

7. Ongoing brushing, gravelling, grading and repairs throughout Hinchinbrooke District and the Township.

As much as has been done, more remains. More road work, more attention to our infrastructure priorities, and to preserving local services – like the Parham Library…and yes, Piccadilly Hall!

I am grateful for the kindness and patience of the people of Hinchinbrooke District. Sometimes things take a little longer to resolve than hoped, and the degree of understanding you show is kind and generous.

It was a huge honour and privilege to receive your support last October, and my job – first and foremost – is to justify that confidence in my time on your Council.