John Fenik, Mayor-Elect of Rideau Lakes Township
After 16 years as Mayor of Perth, John Fenik is preparing to lead a different municipality, and he says he’s excited about what lies ahead for Rideau Lakes Township.
Fenik won the October 26 municipal election with 2,822 votes, capturing approximately 46 per cent of ballots cast in the mayoral race.
Steve Weir finished second with 1,714 votes, followed by Paula Banks with 969.
Speaking with LanarkLeedsToday.ca, Fenik admitted the result caught him somewhat by surprise.
Fenik inherits a council with considerable turnover. Dustin Bulloch is the only returning councillor, with seven newcomers joining the table.
He believes the election reflects a desire for change and says he’s already spoken with the incoming councillors about working together.
Fenik also acknowledges the challenges of a difficult election campaign, including what he describes as misinformation and personal attacks on social media.
He says the new council must welcome different opinions while ensuring discussions remain respectful and decisions are based on accurate information.
For Fenik, success will depend on collaboration rather than individual accomplishments.
That includes learning from outgoing Mayor Arie Hoogenboom and former Mayor Howard French, both of whom Fenik has already contacted.
He’s also looking forward to working with township staff, including Chief Administrative Officer Shelley Fournier.
Looking ahead, Fenik wants to introduce new approaches to municipal operations, including technology that could make township services easier to access.
Fenik says the goal is to improve efficiency, transparency and the public’s experience with municipal government. He hasn’t yet announced specific projects.
His new responsibilities will also extend beyond Rideau Lakes, with a seat at the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville council table.
Having previously served three terms as Warden of Lanark County, Fenik understands the importance of regional cooperation.
Fenik says he expects to spend considerable time in Brockville, developing relationships and working on issues affecting the wider region.
While he isn’t ruling out seeking the warden’s position someday, he says his immediate priority is learning his new responsibilities.
For now, the focus is firmly on Rideau Lakes.
Fenik and the new council will be sworn in November 16 at 11 a.m. at Newboro Community Hall. The ceremony is open to the public.
After a successful return to municipal politics, Fenik says he’s ready to get to work.
