Newmarket council reflected on the bright spots of a term wracked by COVID-19 as it held its final meeting of the council term Nov. 7.
Mayor John Taylor spoke to the council about town achievements over his first four years in the role, ranging from recreation to inclusivity to events. Other council members also addressed the successes and difficulties of the past term.
Taylor said the impact of COVID-19 was felt throughout, but the town was still able to progress on several initiatives.
“It was, and hopefully will be, a term like no other in the sense of the impact of COVID,” Taylor said.
Every council member will return next term, having either been acclaimed or re-elected. They are due to be sworn in for the new term next week.
The mayor highlighted a series of efforts done over the past four years. That included work on the Mulock Park project, the development agreement on Shining Hill, and the response to the pandemic itself.
“This is a staff team that reinvented some of the stuff the municipality does in operations,” Taylor said. “Your contributions going above and beyond through what was a unique and incredible time where our community needed us more than ever.”
The presentation also spotlighted the town’s initiatives on diversity and inclusion, such as the support of York Pride, the anti-Black racism task force, as well as work on truth and reconciliation.
“There’s so much going on to just make sure we’re being inclusive,” he said. “We’re engaged in diversity within our community.”
Council members expressed appreciation for the presentation and echoed its sentiments.
“There were hiccups along the way but we still managed to fit some very heavy projects,” Councillor Bob Kwapis said. “I do appreciate everyone’s support in order to make that happen.”
“I can certainly say, most residents are pretty pleased with the council,” Councillor Kelly Broome said, reflecting on her time on the campaign trail. “Oftentimes, some of those accomplishments, at the doors, they don’t even know about. I’m looking forward to the next term.”
With all of council returning, Taylor said it was a unique circumstance. Noting historically low voter turnouts, he gave thanks to everyone who ran for office.
But he said he was happy to be working with everyone again and said the current council worked well together.
“I don’t think I’ve witnessed a moment of someone grandstanding,” he said. “I did witness a lot of great questions, a lot of good discussion and debate.
“There will be lots to keep us busy,” he said of the term ahead. “Hopefully, we’ll have a more normal term, but I don’t think there’s any such thing as a normal term.”
