RENFRW COUNTY – It’s been a busy three years for Renfrew County Warden Jennifer Murphy.

Since being elected warden on Dec. 13 of 2016, Murphy has guided the county through two major floods and a tornado. A presentation of a gavel and plaque took place at the November county council meeting Tuesday (Nov. 26) to thank the warden for her service. Murphy is also the mayor of Bonnechere Township.

Murphy says she’s proud most proud of the work they did this past spring during the flooding, efforts lobbying the province and how the county is on the leading edge of community paramedicine. 

“You can see that we are on the leading edge of so many things such as community para-medicine and of course our service delivery improvement model,” Murphy said. “So you can see that we are on the cusp and I am looking forward to seeing what the next warden can do.”

Murphy was also commended by her colleagues and fellow county councillors for her work on the strategic plan, expansion of Highway 17, creating partnerships with Garrison Petawawa, CNL and the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation. Murphy says it was a bittersweet feeling taking part in her last meeting as warden of Renfrew County. The election of the next warden will take place at the December county council meeting. Murphy says whoever fills the role should rely heavily on the expert staff members and not be afraid to ask for help when needed. 

McNab/Braeside Mayor Tom Peckett and Laurentian Valley Reeve Debbie Robinson are both seeking the Warden seat for 2020. While she will not serve as warden next year, Murphy will continue to represent Bonnechere Valley as a member of county council.  Read Murphy’s 2019 inaugural speech here.

• Courtesy Oldies 107. FM