June 2016
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Ward 5: progress and beautification By Ellen Cohen Donald Westcott, councillor for Ward 5 in Severn Township, hesitates to brag about what he’s accomplished in his life, although he’s extremely proud of his family and his community involvement. He says he’s just a farm boy from the 10th Concession in Ramara, where he spent the early part of his life. He eventually left the farm and joined the OPP, serving for 30 years before retiring in 2002. In 2008, he and his wife, Cathy built their home in Washago. Donald and Cathy have three grown children and one grandchild. Since his retirement, he has been involved in community and volunteer work and he is clearly enthusiastic about Ward 5 and his job as councillor. This is Donald’s first term and he’s enjoying the work, particularly talking directly to residents and getting involved in some of the initiatives that help to improve his ward and the township in general. The Villager talked to Donald about some of the township issues and focused on some that are specific to Ward 5. The imminent new community centre in Ward 4 is of great interest to Donald. He says he is extremely supportive of this project because he believes each ward needs a hub, a meeting place. “Ward 4 is where our township will see the greatest growth over the next several years. In fact, there’s already been a lot of growth and it’s time that those residents
The view from the beach at Centennial Park, Washago. The park is adjacent to a public boat launch. have a meeting place. A community centre is an important service,” he says. On a more complex topic, Donald discussed the need for library services, for both Ward 5 and Ward 4 residents. Speaking on behalf of Ward 5 residents with whom he has spoken, he said that the Severn Library in Coldwater does not serve the eastern side of the township well. “The library in Coldwater is well-run and in a beautiful old building but Ward 5 residents don’t use it. It’s too far away and residents tell me that they enjoyed the larger Orillia facility,” says Donald. He added that people tell him that even
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though many use e-library services and read books on their tablets, people still like to go to a library to search through books, sit and read magazines or join programs, particularly the programs for children and youth. Donald says Ward 5 is lucky to have a community centre, with an outdoor skating rink, that serves the area well. There are many locals who rent the facility for private events, and programs run at the centre are constantly booked to capacity, programs such as summer day camp for children, Continued on page 8
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