A New Year Begins with Community, Reflection, and Looking Ahead in The County
Date: January 4 , 2026
The County welcomed 2026 with its annual Mayor’s Levee and Winter Family Fun Day, bringing residents together for an afternoon of conversation, activities, and reflection at the Prince Edward Community Centre in Picton.
Mayor Steve Ferguson and members of council spent time mingling with residents, while families enjoyed free skating, crafts, treats, and hands-on activities for children including cookie decorating, snow-themed crafts, and a chance to explore a fire truck parked outside. Displays highlighting local history, heritage, and nature rounded out the event, reinforcing the Levee’s shift toward a more inclusive, family-friendly format.
Reflecting on Change and Uncertainty
In his address, Mayor Ferguson spoke candidly about the challenges of recent years and the uncertainty that continues to shape the future. He reflected on the long-lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and noted that global political and economic pressures have added further unpredictability.
Despite these challenges, Ferguson emphasized the County’s commitment to delivering services in a responsible, sustainable, and cost-effective way, even as conditions continue to evolve.
Infrastructure, Housing, and Healthcare Priorities
Looking ahead, the mayor outlined several major priorities for 2026. Road reconstruction and rehabilitation remain front and centre, including continued planning for the long-anticipated upgrade of County Road 49. While the province has committed nearly $20 million toward the project, approximately half of the total $52.3 million cost remains unfunded.
“We have never been closer to getting this done than we are now,” Ferguson said, noting ongoing efforts to secure federal funding.
He also highlighted progress on water and wastewater infrastructure, physician recruitment, and housing. Through the County Docs program, nine physicians have been recruited so far, helping remove more than 1,700 residents from the Health Care Connect waiting list. On housing, staff continue to work with non-profits and developers on plans for more than 400 affordable units across multiple sites.
Community Growth and Long-Term Vision
Economic development was another focus, with Ferguson pointing to a newly approved action plan aimed at supporting existing industries while preparing for future growth. He acknowledged both opportunities such as expanded grain shipping through Picton and setbacks, including the closure of the Highline Mushroom plant.
The mayor also expressed pride in council’s approval of the Campfire Circle development, a project that will allow children facing serious illness to experience Prince Edward County’s natural environment later this decade.
A Closing Chapter for This Council
This year’s Levee marked the final one for the current term of council, with municipal elections scheduled for October. Ferguson encouraged residents to consider running for office or encouraging others to do so, stressing the importance of diverse voices and lived experience in local government.
While the format of the Levee has evolved from its more formal roots at Macaulay Church, the event continues to serve its core purpose: bringing the community together to mark a new year, reflect on shared challenges, and look ahead with cautious optimism.
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