It’s been a good news 2017 and there’s more to come in 2018. So said the mayor of Quinte West today (Monday) at the annual New Years Levee.
“When I look back on 2017, what stands out for me is how the city, and the Quinte region, has pulled together, worked together, to get important things done,” said the mayor.
Mayor Harrison said 2017 had been a year of accomplishment in the City of Quinte West, citing record building values. The city issued building permits worth $121 million in 2017, including permits for 259 new residential units.
“Believe me, things are going on in the background, and I’m looking forward to giving you good news regarding new commercial/industrial development in the city this year.”
Among the other projects completed are the Trent Port Marina, bringing the much talked about health hub to a location close to Trenton Memorial Hospital, a number of successful community events, and the building of a big Consolidated Operations Centre in Trenton’s industrial park.
“A new fire headquarters is ready to roll when construction season starts, and it will be done by the end of the year as well,” Mayor Harrison added.
In 2018 some priorities include expanding the waterfront trail in Trenton, starting an active transportation network for cyclists, walkers and others, upgrades to Trenton’s Buster Alyea Park, and getting started on a new OPP headquarters.
Mayor Harrison singled out healthcare as being a continuing challenge, saying that a recently formed doctor recruitment committee is making more progress toward bringing more family doctors to the community.
On that note, Sharon Urquhart of the citizens advocacy group OurTMH was introduced. To applause, she announced that the organization’s goal of reaching 20,000 members had been reached with a few to spare.
Ms. Urquhart singled out MP Neil Ellis, who was in the audience. “We hope the federal government will approve a new Centre for Excellence for Veterans Care in 2018. After all, 8 Wing Trenton is the largest air base in the country.”
Mayor Harrison also had high praise for the base, saying the military did great work. “I’m mesmerized by what you people can accomplish in the skies!”
8 Wing Base Commander Colonel Mark Goulden returned the thanks saying his members couldn’t complete the many missions they undertake without the ongoing support of the local community.
Meanwhile, the head of the Trenton Salvation Army, Captain Rob Hardy, followed the mayor’s lead by also stressing the “working together” theme.
“My wife and I have served in a number of communities, and we’ve only been here for 18 months, but I’ve never seen one that’s worked so hard and so cooperatively to get things done”.
The Air Force City Pipe Band entertained at the levee.