“Be Prepared. Know Your Risks.” Elgin County Encourages Residents to Ready Themselves for Emergencies during Emergency Preparedness Week 2023

The County of Elgin is reminding residents ahead of Emergency Preparedness (EP) Week, May 7 – 13, 2023, about the importance of preparing themselves and their families for a wide range of potential emergency situations. EP Week is a nationwide initiative that aims to raise awareness about emergency preparedness in Canada.

Elgin County Honours Fallen Workers on National Day of Mourning with Black Flag Raising Ceremony

Today, April 28, 2023, the County of Elgin raised a black flag in front of the Elgin County Heritage Centre to observe the National Day of Mourning. April 28th is a day that commemorates workers who have been killed, injured, or suffered illnesses due to workplace incidents or exposures. According to the Canadian Labour Congress, approximately 1,000 workers in Canada die annually, with even more enduring life-altering injuries and illnesses on the job.

Elgin’s Local Food Program Receives Federal Funding

With the importance of local food on the rise, Elgin County Tourism is thrilled to announce that its Savour Elgin Culinary program has been revamped. In late January, Elgin County Tourism received $35,000 from the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) to update its Savour Elgin program. This update includes a new modern logo and a refreshed magazine-style booklet that focuses on culinary tourism and agritourism experiences throughout Elgin County and St. Thomas.

Elgin County Council Remains Committed to Delivering High-Quality Services while Keeping Tax Increases to a Minimum

On March 28, 2023, Elgin County Council approved its 2023 operational and capital budget of $92.6M. For this year, residents can expect a 3.76% increase in the County portion of their municipal property taxes. This share of municipal taxes supports road and bridge maintenance on county roads, paramedic services, community planning, long-term care homes, libraries, and more. Homeowners will see a slight addition of $23.88 for every $100,000 of residential property assessment.

Community Paramedicine program for home-based residents launching in Elgin County and St. Thomas

The County of Elgin is pleased to announce that beginning today, March 1, 2023, eligible residents living in Elgin County and the City of St. Thomas will have access to a new Community Paramedicine (CP) program. This program, funded entirely by the Province, will bring high-quality care to residents living in seniors housing and retirement homes while also offering accessible home-based care for our community’s most vulnerable population.

Community encouraged to get involved with the County’s Budget Discussions

Each year, the Warden and County Council – with input from County residents and businesses – make decisions about County services, programs and infrastructure and approve a budget. The budget is about setting goals and building a great community – together. The public’s feedback is a crucial part of the County’s budget process.