Andrew Rafton named as paramedic chief; other committee highlights
Andrew Rafton was appointed to paramedics chief, after serving as acting chief for the last several months.
Rafton has served Kawartha Lakes Paramedics for over 18 years and will serve as chief for the remainder of 2020, after which he plans to retire and a new chief will be appointed.
Council was also introduced to two new deputy chiefs, Sara Johnston and Patricia Bromfield.
Johnston has been with Kawartha Lakes Paramedics since 2002, most recently as acting deputy chief, and has assumed the role of deputy chief of professional standards.
Bromfield began her career with Toronto Paramedics Service in 2005, most recently as acting deputy commander, and is the new deputy chief of operations.
Service Modernization review touchpoint
CAO Ron Taylor presented a midway review of how the municipality is spending the $725,000 provided by the province to support reviews for service efficiency.
To date, cuncil has allotted $50,000 for internal and partner reviews, including a review of paramedics services in partnership with Eastern Ontario municipalities.
Technology enhancement and service reviews are earmarked for $370,000 and the remainder will be applied to future reviews, audits and capital/technological investments.
Cultural Master Plan 2020-2030 presented
Rebecca Mustard, manager, economic development brought forward the Cultural Master Plan 2020-2030.
The new cultural master plan builds on the goals of the municipality’s first plan completed in 2013 and provides a long-term vision and a strategic action plan to guide the growth of the local economy.
The new plan begins with a ten year vision statement that will help provide direction to ensure future investments reflect the unique cultural identity of Kawartha Lakes.
Introducing Kawartha Lakes new local data intelligence tool
In 2017, council adopted the economic development strategy to support a more diversified economy, through the expansion of existing companies and by creating new businesses and jobs.
To provide investors and entrepreneurs with access to up-to-date local market knowledge, economic development acquired the services of LocalIntel, a Canadian technology firm.
Kawartha Lakes’ LocalIntel tool is integrated with the municipal website and includes information such as business climate, workforce trends, industry trends, demographics and more.
