International Plowing Match is a once in a generation event

by Ron AshmoreThe 2024 International Plowing Match (IPM) and Rural Expo are getting closer, and it will be a "once in a generation" event for Kawartha Lakes. As Co-Chair of the Special Events and Special Features Committees, I look forward to welcoming you to this International Event from October 1st to 5th, 2024 at the Lindsay Exhibition Grounds. We are asking the public for volunteers as well as potential sponsors. Please visit my web site and also the IPM web site at www.plowingmatch.org/ipm2024 for more information.

I attended the Connecting GTA conference in Ajax this spring on behalf of Council. It was an excellent conference with many elected officials and business leaders from Durham Region and GTA attending. It is important Kawartha Lakes partner and works with Durham Region for economic development.

Transit is a vital part of our society, and I am a strong advocate for GO Transit's arrival in Lindsay. The public's backing is crucial for the successful inclusion of Kawartha Lakes into the Metrolinks GO Expansion program in the near future.

Following my attendance at Queens Park in April, a pivotal vote was cast at Council. With a 7-2 majority, Council endorsed the Bobcaygeon Enbridge Gas Expansion. This decision will offer residents and businesses the option for natural gas, a significant development. Construction has resumed, and the infrastructure will be installed very soon.

I have been appointed to the newly formed Council Roads Task Force. Our first inaugural meeting with four Councillors and staff will be in August, and we will examine more efficient ways of repairing and maintaining our road network in future capital budgets.

Council recently approved the Rural Rezoning By-law, replacing 14 existing Rural Zoning By-Laws in effect since the 2001 amalgamation of the City of Kawartha Lakes. Some of these By-laws date as far back as the 1970's. There will be another public meeting in Omemee regarding the proposed Splash Pad. A date will be set soon, and I will make everyone aware of it immediately. I am working hard with local community leaders to make this Splash Pad a reality for the Omemee community.