Reeve Richard Kidd discusses economic challenges, growth, and council decisions
As Beckwith Township looks ahead to 2026, Reeve Richard Kidd says rising costs, slowing growth and the constant demands of municipal leadership defined much of council’s work in 2025. In a year end Q and A, Kidd reflects on the decisions that mattered most, where the township made progress, and what remains top of mind heading into the new year.
What was the single most important decision you made this year, and why?
For me personally, it was the decision to run for Warden of Lanark County. Having served as warden in the past, I understood the time commitment and dedication required to represent the county. I am truly honoured to have the opportunity to serve as Warden of Lanark County for 2026.
What was the hardest part of the job in 2025 that residents may not see?
Balancing personal time with the role of reeve. Municipal government is the level closest to the people, and residents’ issues are important. With social media, you are effectively on the job 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The hardest part is finding balance between being a municipal politician and having a personal life.
Is there a decision or moment you would handle differently now?
As a municipal leader, every decision must consider the community as a whole, both now and in the future. These decisions are also learning experiences that help guide future choices. The decisions council made in 2025 will make us better decision makers in 2026.
What issue took up more time and energy than you expected?
Economic pressures. Rising costs for capital projects such as road reconstruction and vehicle fleets, including snowplow and fire trucks, combined with a decline in development charge revenue. Beckwith’s 5 year average was about 70 homes per year, but housing starts dropped to 22 homes in 2025. Each new home generates $10,619 in development charges used toward growth related capital projects. With fewer starts, tax increases are the only way to make up the shortfall. Balancing growth, capital needs and affordable tax increases takes significant time and energy from both council and staff.
What do you believe council or staff got right this year?
Waste collection service. The township was experiencing inconsistent weekly collection by its contractor. Council recognized the issue, and staff brought forward a solution to move from 2 collection days per week to 3 by splitting routes. Since the change, service delivery has improved. It was a strong example of staff, council and the contractor working together to find a positive solution.
Where do you think the municipality fell short?
We could have done more to celebrate the many community events hosted in the township, including sporting events, cultural and heritage days, the Lilac Festival, youth committee achievements and the Goodwood Music Festival. These events have economic benefits and help build community by giving new residents opportunities to meet their neighbours and get involved.
How do you respond to residents who feel unheard or frustrated?
Residents are welcome to call me directly to discuss concerns. I try to make myself available to answer questions, and our staff are always open to listening. Council meets almost every second week, and residents also have the opportunity to appear as delegations to raise issues at meetings.
What is the most urgent issue heading into 2026?
Controlling costs while maintaining service levels for residents, and actively leveraging funding opportunities from provincial and federal governments.
How do you define success in this role?
Success means helping to create a quality of life where people are proud to call Beckwith Township home.
When your term is over, what do you hope people remember about your leadership?
That I was approachable, open and fair, and that I worked to create a quality of life for everyone to enjoy.
Will you run in the 2026 municipal election?
A former mayor of Carleton Place, Brian Costello, once told me that as long as you are enjoying the job as head of council, you should continue. I am still enjoying the work.
Keep connected to your community—Read the latest Beckwith news.
