Lanark Highlands, ON — As 2025 draws to a close, the Township of Lanark Highlands is reflecting on a busy and productive year and extending sincere appreciation to Township staff, Council, Committees, volunteers, and the broader community for their contributions and support.
“2025 was a full and memorable year for the Township—one that included both challenges and meaningful accomplishments,” said the Township’s Chief Administrative Officer. “Throughout the year, our staff demonstrated patience, collaboration, resourcefulness, and professionalism. Their commitment to public service and to one another is helping lay the foundation for a resilient and improving organization.”
Over the course of the year, Township staff continued to deliver essential municipal services while advancing a wide range of initiatives and priorities. Key accomplishments included progress on important plans and projects—such as the Strategic Plan, Asset Management Plan, Upper Perth Road improvements, and the replacement of the Sheridan Rapids Road Bridges—as well as the successful completion of the 2023 and 2024 audits and ongoing improvements to the Township’s annual municipal budget processes.
The Township also secured external funding through successful grant applications, including the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund grant for the Watson’s Corners Community Hall Revitalization and the Fire Protection Provincial Grant to support firefighter cancer prevention through the purchase of two gear extractor machines. Additional achievements included policy updates, facility upgrades—most notably renovations to the Township Offices—fleet improvements, enhancements to corporate health and safety programs, and the welcoming of new team members across departments.
Throughout the year, the Township worked to improve transparency, communication, and meaningful community engagement. We hosted six strategic planning open houses throughout the Township where residents had an opportunity to share their perspectives and priorities, helping to inform the Township’s long-term direction. We held a large public meeting in September, which amplified our residents' voices and directly informed Council decisions. These touchpoints reflect our commitment to meeting residents in the community, listening to feedback, and strengthening transparency in municipal decision-making.
“These accomplishments are the result of teamwork and dedication across every department,” the CAO added. “Each employee played an important role in moving the Township forward, and their collective efforts continue to strengthen the organization. I also want to recognize the support of Township Council, whose leadership and encouragement help staff deliver services effectively and ensure we remain focused on serving the community.”
The Township also recognized the patience, engagement, and cooperation of residents, businesses, and community partners throughout the year. “We are grateful to our community for working with us, providing thoughtful input, and supporting the work we do on their behalf,” said the CAO. “Serving the public remains at the heart of everything we do.”
Looking ahead to 2026, the Township remains focused on building on this momentum through continued collaboration, responsible stewardship, and a shared commitment to serving the community.
“As we enter the holiday season, I extend my sincere thanks to all Township staff, Council, and our community,” the CAO concluded. “On behalf of the Township of Lanark Highlands, I wish everyone a safe, happy, and restful holiday season, and all the best in the year ahead.”
