Mayor’s Levee highlights progress and priorities for final year of council term

Ferguson reflects on past achievements and looks ahead to key projects in 2026

Prince Edward County Mayor Steve Ferguson used this year’s Mayor’s Levee to reflect on council’s progress and outline priorities for the final year of the current term, as the municipality prepares for elections this fall.

Held January 4 at the Prince Edward Community Centre, the event brought together residents, local officials, and community groups for a mix of civic engagement and family-friendly activities, including skating, educational displays, and children’s programming.

Community event blends celebration and public engagement

The levee followed a familiar format, with both indoor and outdoor activities designed to bring the community together.

Families took part in crafts, local history exhibits, and educational sessions, while local firefighters were on hand to share fire safety information including updated provincial requirements for carbon monoxide detectors in homes with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages.

Food and refreshments were provided by the Friends of the Museums, adding to the event’s welcoming atmosphere.

Local leaders and officials in attendance

Mayor Ferguson acknowledged a wide range of attendees, including MP Chris Malette, MPP Tyler Allsopp, Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis, and Quinte West Deputy Mayor Jim Alyea.

He also recognized current and former councillors, thanking them for their commitment to public service.

“This is very tough work, requiring sacrifices at times,” Ferguson said. “We may not always agree, but we try to do so respectfully.”

He extended thanks to County staff as well, highlighting their day-to-day impact on residents, including the work of road crews during challenging winter conditions.

Final year of term shaped by ongoing challenges

With municipal elections scheduled for October, this marks the final levee for the current council term.

Ferguson described the past few years as both challenging and rewarding, noting that the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and broader global uncertainties continue to shape local decision-making.

“We will prepare for more flux, unpredictable threats and uncertainty in the future,” he said, emphasizing the need to maintain reliable and sustainable municipal services.

Infrastructure and roads remain top priorities

A major focus for the coming year is infrastructure investment, particularly roadwork.

The County’s Asset Management Plan has informed the 2026 capital budget, which includes approximately $14 million for road reconstruction and rehabilitation.

Ferguson pointed to County Road 49 as a key project, noting recent provincial funding commitments and ongoing discussions with the federal government.

“We’ve never been closer to getting this done,” he said. “With continuous pushing and advocacy, I’m confident we will resolve the County Road 49 problem.”

Another project on the horizon is a roundabout at Highway 62 and County Road 1, with construction expected to begin in 2027.

Progress on healthcare, housing, and community projects

The mayor also highlighted several major initiatives already underway.

Construction of a new long-term care home is in progress, with a projected opening in 2027, while work on a new hospital continues on schedule.

Other developments include approval of the Campfire Circle facility for families of children with cancer, and continued success in physician recruitment through the County Docs program.

According to Ferguson, nine new physicians have been recruited, helping move approximately 1,750 residents off the Healthcare Connect waiting list.

Housing remains another priority, with plans for roughly 400 new units across multiple sites, along with ongoing efforts to expand affordable rental options.

Encouraging community members to run for council

Looking ahead to the upcoming election, Ferguson encouraged residents to consider entering municipal politics.

“It is time to pass the torch,” he said. “While it may be the toughest work you’ll ever do, it can also be the most rewarding.”

Councillor Sam Branderhorst echoed that message, describing her experience on council as transformative.

“You see the community in a completely different way,” she said. “It opens your eyes to the needs of different groups and what it takes to move forward as a community.”

She pointed to recent progress on projects such as the H.J. McFarland building and road funding initiatives, and encouraged others to get involved.

“If you care about the County and are willing to listen, I encourage you to run,” she said.

Takeaway

This year’s Mayor’s Levee served as both a reflection point and a transition moment. With major infrastructure, healthcare, and housing projects underway, council is entering its final stretch while also calling on a new wave of community members to step forward and shape what comes next for Prince Edward County.