Lambton County Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, where members reviewed presentations and approved several important initiatives affecting the county.
During the meeting, council heard three key presentations. Kate Burns Gallagher, Executive Director of the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus, outlined the caucus’s strategic priorities for 2024-2025 and reviewed accomplishments from the past year. Stephen Turner, Manager of Lambton Emergency Medical Services (EMS), provided updates on the EMS Deployment Plan aimed at improving emergency services across the county. Sarah Churchill, Community Engagement Specialist from the Social Services Division, discussed the "Be Part of the Solution" campaign, a community initiative focused on addressing local social challenges.
In other actions, council supported the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership's application to the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program. By participating in the REDI initiative, Lambton aims to attract new immigrants to address local workforce needs and stimulate economic growth.
The Social Services Division also provided council with an update on homelessness prevention and affordable housing. This report highlighted ongoing efforts and strategies to address housing insecurity within the county.
A major decision involved the approval of the revised estimated cost of $12.22 million for the Small House Addition Project at Lambton Meadowview Villa, a long-term care facility. The project is part of Lambton’s ongoing commitment to improving long-term care services for its residents.
In the realm of emergency services, council accepted updates to the Lambton EMS Deployment Plan. These updates aim to improve resource utilization and reduce response times. Staff were authorized to proceed with necessary changes to enhance EMS operations.
Council also voted to maintain the Committee of the Whole structure on a permanent basis. This structure facilitates in-depth discussions on issues prior to council decisions.
As part of preparations for the 2025 County Budget, council directed staff to continue a moratorium on new capital grants for the upcoming year. This measure is designed to control and contain costs as the county works on its budget for the next fiscal year.
The next Lambton County Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. It will begin with a Closed Session, if necessary, followed by the Open Session.