As County of Simcoe councillors attended their final meeting of the term, the Province of Ontario announced their appointed regional chairs for next term, selecting former Orillia Mayor Don McIsaac to lead the County. CTV News reached out to McIsaac for comment who declined an on camera interview, but did say he is excited for the opportunity and looks forward to continuing to serve the needs of the community. Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Rob Flack said McIsaac is the right person for the job. “We went with him for obvious reasons: leadership, common sense, and experience,” said Flack. “Don is a great businessman leader, great business acumen and has long-time roots in Simcoe County and Orillia.” As mayor of Orillia, McIsaac was no stranger to controversial topics, including the Samuel De Champlain monument and the ongoing development of a new hospital. Outgoing County of Simcoe Warden Basil Clarke, offered words of encouragement for the newly appointed regional chair. “I really encourage Don, and he’s a good, solid guy. He’s got to get out there and meet his mayors, go around the neighborhood, get a tour of the County,” said Clarke. “But sit down and see what their goals are and how they can assist so they can work as a team.” Clarke is not the only change happening next term. The province is slashing the number of seats at council from 32 to 16, taking away smaller municipalities. Returning councillor Kenneth Fowler says the smaller council will need to work hand in hand. “We need to hear them. We need to listen to their needs just as much as New Tecumseth, Bradford and Innisfil,” said Fowler. “We have to work even more collaboratively as a team to make sure that everything goes smoothly for all residents of Simcoe County.” The current term of council is set to end on Saturday and it remains unclear when McIsaac will be sworn in as regional chair. The inaugural swearing in for the new County councillors will take place on Dec. 8.
