Municipal leaders, including local elected officials as well as municipal and county staff, came together at The Plex in Port Elgin on Thursday, July 10, 2025, for the inaugural Municipal Forum.
Welcomed by Warden Luke Charbonneau and Bruce County’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Christine MacDonald, attendees took time to connect, reflect, and better understand their shared challenges and opportunities.
Prior discussions with members of the County Council indicated a willingness to explore collaborations for better realization of opportunities at regional and local levels. The potential for inter-municipal cooperation strengthens and expands the ability to address today’s complex community needs.
“Bruce County has some challenges, and it has many opportunities,” commented Warden Charbonneau. “When our County and local governments work together, we are all better prepared to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities while navigating changing provincial, federal, and global landscapes.”
A series of round-table discussions invited attendees to share their thoughts on the topics presented by County staff throughout the afternoon including:
A panel presentation from the Community Development Office highlighting housing, economic growth, and regional planning initiatives.
Through these discussions, a shared understanding of priorities and needs across the region took shape.
“This has been a fantastic step toward the co-creation of innovative solutions to better serve our communities,” reflected Warden Charbonneau following the day’s activities. “Every person in attendance brought their varying perspectives, understanding, and deep commitment to our County. I extend my thanks to everyone who took the time to share and listen. I have no doubt that these discussions at these tables will generate great solutions for Bruce County.”
Participants also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to come together to celebrate successes, explore collaborative paths forward, and to strengthen the region.
