Bracebridge Mayor and Council were administered the Declaration to Office at the Inaugural Meeting on November 23, 2022.

Mayor, Rick Maloney introduced the new Deputy Mayor, Brenda Rose, adding, “I have full confidence in Brenda’s ability to step in in the absence of the Mayor and look forward to working side by side with her during this time of council.”

In his address, Maloney expressed that the upcoming term “won’t be without challenges,” and indicated that council will “keep the pace with the demands of an ever-growing community through sound fiscal judgment and continued respect for the natural environment in all of our decision making.”

To his council colleagues, Maloney said, “Tonight we celebrate our accomplishments and mark a new beginning, tomorrow we roll up the sleeves.”

MP Scott Aitchison, wrote a congratulatory letter to the Mayor and Council that included, “It takes a lot of courage to put your name on a ballot… It is a tremendous responsibility to hold elected office. One that I trust you won’t take lightly.” He added, “Politics and government is a crazy game. There are astonishing highs and incredible lows, good days and bad. Have faith that the good will outnumber the bad and that there is no better feeling than getting great things done for your neighbours.”

MPP Graydon Smith, also congratulated the new Council and Mayor. He joked that it may not be the 9 to 5 job the new members think it might be. “What you thought was a short trip to the grocery store isn’t short anymore. What you thought was a coffee with a friend at Oliver’s might be coffee with six friends by the time you’re done,” he said, adding that it’s rewarding even given the challenges.

District of Muskoka Chair John Klinck, will be leaving this role and thanked everyone “for the kindness, the support, and the encouragement,” and wished them well.

OPP Sargent Jason Belanger, new to Bracebridge, having moved here four months ago, expressed enthusiasm working with Council, adding, “We will have some challenges, no doubt, over the next four years, and I think this Mayor and Council - this team - is up to the challenge. So, I look forward to working with everybody.”

Council members expressed their thanks and appreciation to friends, family, and voters.

Archie Buie concluded, “The most important thing is keep us accountable. That’s critical.”