spot_img
Thursday, August 21, 2025
spot_img

Milestones and ambitions: Tay Valley Township’s year in review

spot_img
LAURIE WEIR

Tay Valley Township Reeve Rob Rainer is reflecting on a productive 2024, marked by municipal milestones and personal achievements, while setting his sights on ambitious goals for 2025.

2024: A Year of Achievements

  • Tay Valley Township saw a relatively smooth year in municipal governance and operations, highlighted by notable progress and community engagement.
  • One of the year’s standout accomplishments was the significantly expanded use of the Maberly Community Hall. Recognized by the Province as a Seniors Active Living Centre, the hall hosted a diverse range of public programs, becoming a vibrant hub for the community.
  • Another key milestone was the substantial update to the township’s Official Plan, approved by the county. This update lays the groundwork for future development while addressing current needs.
  • Progress was also made toward completing the long-envisioned Maberly Pines subdivision. Dating back to the 1970s and ’80s, only nine of its 56 lots have been developed, but 2024 saw meaningful steps forward, creating optimism for its eventual completion.
  • Additionally, the township undertook its first employee pay equity and compensation review since 2008. The review resulted in pay equity compliance and brought compensation in line with comparable nearby municipalities, strengthening Tay Valley’s ability to attract and retain talent.

Personal highlights

On a personal level, Rainer said he explored new horizons and deepened his community connections. He and his wife, Mary Lou Carroll, traveled to southwest Saskatchewan, “reveling in its breathtaking landscapes.” 

A separate adventure saw Rainer and his eldest daughter, Robin, touring the national and state parks of Utah.

Rainer’s passion for music also flourished in 2024. He performed at benefits for The Table Community Food Centre and the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust, while regularly entertaining residents at Lanark Lodge.

In September, he took on a new challenge, being nominated as the Ontario Liberal candidate for Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston, setting the stage for a potential provincial election run in 2025.

Looking ahead to 2025

Rainer is gearing up for another busy year, both professionally and personally.

In municipal governance, he anticipates community priorities including: 

  • Kicked off with the Perth Polar Bear Plunge on Jan. 1, raising nearly $4,000 for the Hospice Hub. “As of this writing (Dec. 29) I’m in second place with the fundraising, with $3,695 raised of the total of $45,958 which has surpassed the Hub’s goal of $40,000! Taking the plunge and raising money for this cause is a great way to begin the new year! I hope to top $4,000.
  • Continued progress on the Maberly Pines subdivision, with plans to upgrade subdivision roads by 2026. 
  • Potential construction of a pickleball court and the replacement of the Maberly Outdoor Rink—both projects dependent on securing grant funding. 
  • Hopeful for the start of a county-wide natural heritage systems plan, which could have far-reaching implications for environmental protection and sustainable development.

Personally speaking

Rainer said he has plans to maintain his active lifestyle, focusing on health and fitness. His musical pursuits will continue with performances alongside the Tay Valley and Westport community choirs and the River Resonance vocal ensemble.

He and his wife also aim to revisit New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, reconnecting with places that hold special meaning from his nearly two decades living in the region. 

Additionally, he plans to start writing his memoir.

“With a provincial election likely in 2025, I’m competing to win the Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston seat,” Rainer said. “I aim to bring a progressive voice to Queen’s Park, tackling provincial-level challenges and opportunities while representing our riding.”

spot_img
spot_img

Hot this week

Smiths Falls Police address crash, bar incident and youth assault in series of responses

SUBMITTED No injuries after collision with hydro pole. Driver facing...

King Charles III Coronation Medal recognizes exceptional Canadians

LAURIE WEIR In a special ceremony hosted by Lanark—Frontenac—Kingston MP...

UCDSB to host holocaust survivor Andy Rèti as Tour for Humanity returns

SUBMITTED The Tour for Humanity mobile classroom will return to...

Smiths Falls History & Mystery: Farmer grocer solider reeve

Ambrose Halladay moved into the Keyhole House in Smiths...

Impaired charge laid after a collision on Roger Stevens Drive

SUBMITTED A Toronto resident has been charged following a single...
spot_img

Stolen boat motor recovered in Arden

SUBMITTED BY OPP EAST REGION Arrest Warrant To Be Issued...

Council divided over veto, integrity complaints, and strong mayor powers in Rideau Lakes

LAURIE WEIR CHANTRY — The controversy around the Chantry office...

Disturbance results in multiple charges

SUBMITTED BY LANARK COUNTY OPP CARLETON PLACE - The Lanark...

Butterflies take flight again in Perth for second annual memorial release

Community gathers Aug. 20 to honour loved ones through...

Canada Post clarifies that the red flag’s only use is for outgoing mail

LAURIE WEIR PORTLAND — Rural residents, did you know that...

Six charged in Smiths Falls police investigations including impaired driving and animal cruelty

SUBMITTED / SMITHS FALLS POLICE SERVICE Breach investigation results in...

HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS: Markets, music and family fun this weekend

Looking for something to do this weekend? We’ve got...

Related Articles

Popular Categories

spot_img