Kelly: Ward 5 solar project approvals, Budget consultation, Carp town hall

On Oct. 2, the Agriculture and Rural Affairs committee (ARAc) voted in favour of the staff recommendation to provide a Municipal Support Resolution for the two solar applications in Ward 5.

 This has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make in this job. It’s something I’ve reflected on daily since I first became aware of the application.

You can watch the video or read my full statement if you’d like to understand how and why I arrived at the decision to support the recommendations.

Ward 5 city budget consultation

Looking ahead, I will be hosting two important public meetings in the next month. 

With the city’s draft budget 2026 discussions now well underway, I will be holding my annual Ward 5 Budget Consultation on Oct. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the West Carleton Community Complex (Dr. Roland Armitage Hall at 5670 Carp Rd.). 

City staff from various departments will be joining me to make presentations and field your questions. All West Carleton-March residents are invited to attend. West Carleton-March residents can still take my brief survey on the budget. This will provide important local data and help inform my positions in upcoming budget meetings and discussions.

Village of Carp town hall

I also look forward to my Village of Carp Town Hall. It’s set for Nov. 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Carp Agricultural Hall (3790 Carp Rd.). As the city prepares for the introduction of municipal water and imminent growth, I want to better understand your concerns, priorities, and hopes for the future.

More details, including our Village of Carp survey, are coming soon. The survey will be your opportunity to have your voice heard and help to guide the town hall discussion on Nov. 4. Sarting this Wednesday, my team and I will be visiting homes throughout Carp to drop off information about both the survey and the town hall.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Finally, as we gather this Thanksgiving weekend, I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and your families. This is a great time to reflect on what truly matters — family, friendship, and the strength of our community.

In West Carleton, we are blessed with the spirit of togetherness, hard work, and generosity. Whether around a kitchen table or out in the fields, it’s clear that gratitude lives in the hearts of our people every day, not just during the holidays.

I’m thankful for each of you for your kindness and contributions that keep our community thriving. May this Thanksgiving and long weekend bring you peace, rest, and great new memories with loved ones.

And also turkey. Lots of turkey.