Carleton Place Mayor Toby Randell (Fiie photo)
Toby Randell says he wants to continue leading Carleton Place through what he describes as a critical period of growth and development, officially announcing his bid for re-election in the Oct. 26 municipal election.
Randell confirmed he has filed his nomination papers, seeking a second term as mayor after first being elected in 2022.
In a statement posted Monday, Randell said serving as mayor of his hometown over the last four years has been an honour and said his combined eight years on council have helped build the knowledge and relationships needed to continue guiding the municipality.
His re-election campaign comes as Carleton Place council nears the end of a term marked by significant population growth, housing pressure and major infrastructure planning.
Among the largest initiatives during the current term has been the town’s work to prepare for long-term residential growth. Council secured more than $5.6 million through the federal Housing Accelerator Fund, aimed at reducing red tape and speeding up housing approvals. The agreement is expected to help accelerate construction of 168 homes over the next three years and nearly 1,000 over the next decade.
Council has also advanced planning reforms, including expanded as-of-right residential density and new digital permitting systems designed to streamline approvals for builders and homeowners. Those measures are intended to address housing demand while reducing administrative delays.
Infrastructure has also been a major focus.
During this term, Carleton Place moved forward with what is being described as the largest infrastructure investment in the town’s history — a roughly $133-million upgrade to the community’s water and wastewater treatment plants. The multi-year project is intended to support rapid growth and future development, with population projections showing Carleton Place could grow from about 15,000 residents to 25,000 over the next two decades.
Transportation planning has also advanced, including major road network improvements tied to growth around Highway 7, Highway 15 and McNeely Avenue, along with future corridor expansions identified in the town’s transportation master plan.
Council has additionally begun work on long-term recreation planning, including public consultation on a proposed new recreation complex that could include aquatic features, gymnasium space and expanded community programming.
Randell said while election season is approaching, council remains focused on its current work.
He said Carleton Place’s future will bring both opportunities and challenges, adding that leadership must remain steady, transparent and mindful of the town’s history while planning for continued growth.
