Middlesex County Council Meeting Highlights – February 13, 2024
Council Highlights is an informal summary of selected actions taken by Middlesex County Council or Committee of the Whole at business meetings. The Council Highlights are not an official record of County Council proceedings. To view official agendas and minutes, please visit Council Meetings and Minutes.
Middlesex County 2024 Financial Outlook
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Bill Rayburn, presented a comprehensive financial overview to Council, highlighting the County’s positive fiscal health, specifically pertaining to tax rates, reserves, and prudent debt management. CAO Rayburn underscored the efficacy of governance in implementing forward-thinking policies and efficient management practices, including strategic partnerships, an experienced team, and a lean organizational structure. An emphasis on the importance of innovative budgetary strategies was made to address increasing demands driven by population growth and demographic shifts, particularly in essential services such as Middlesex London Paramedic Service, Infrastructure, Long Term Care, Licensed Child Care Spaces, and Inter-Community Transit. Middlesex County’s core philosophy is a commitment to responsible fiscal stewardship and legislated and people-oriented services. The County remains committed to advancing its initiatives, investing in communities, and addressing the challenges of growing service demands.
Approval of the 2023 Joint Annual Accessibility Status Report
The Committee of the Whole approved the 2023 Joint Annual Accessibility Status Report. As mandated by the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR), Middlesex County and its local municipal partners collaborate to produce an annual report on accessibility progress. This joint effort offers a comprehensive view of accessibility initiatives across the region. The report outlines strides made in identifying, removing, and preventing barriers for persons with disabilities. Key achievements in 2023 include enhancements to infrastructure, such as sidewalk extensions and the implementation of accessible features in public facilities. Additionally, comprehensive training initiatives and policy revisions demonstrate a proactive approach to ensuring accessibility compliance. Moving forward, Middlesex County and its partners remain committed to advancing accessibility through continued collaboration, strategic planning, and ongoing initiatives. For more information, refer to the 2023 Joint Annual Accessibility Status Report.
Procedural By-Law Update
The Committee of the Whole approved a recommendation for staff to bring forward a procedural by-law for Council consideration.
Additional information relating to the proposed Procedural By-law is available by reviewing the February 13, 2024 Procedural By-law Report.
Middlesex County to receive additional provincial funding through the Community Transportation Grant Program
Middlesex County Council received correspondence from the Ministry of Transportation that announced that Middlesex County's request for additional funding, amounting to $280,000.00 through the Community Transportation Grant Program, has been approved. These funds will be utilized to launch a new Middlesex County Connect route.
Recommendations made by the Committee of the Whole at the February 13, 2024 meeting will be considered by County Council at its next regular meeting on March 12, 2024. The Legislative Services Department maintains the official record for all County government proceedings.