Peter Emon is preparing to begin his third consecutive term as Warden of Renfrew County, reflecting on the key achievements of 2024 and sharing his plans for the upcoming year. Throughout his time in office, Emon has focused on tackling pressing issues in the community, from housing shortages to economic growth.
One of the biggest challenges Emon has worked to address is the housing and homelessness crisis in the county. He has prioritized finding long-term solutions to housing shortages, with a particular focus on replacing aging housing stock. Working with various partners, Emon hopes to develop strategies that can address these issues sustainably as resources allow.
In addition to housing, Emon has been focused on improving the overall health and well-being of Renfrew County’s residents. He has emphasized the importance of fostering economic growth while also strengthening the social, cultural, and environmental health of the community. As part of this, he is pushing for more child-care spaces and is committed to supporting individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The Mesa initiative, which helps people struggling with addiction or precarious housing, continues to be an important part of these efforts.
Another significant goal for Emon in 2025 is to engage the community in shaping the future of the county. He aims to develop a climate action plan with input from residents, focusing on both local and corporate responsibility. Emon is also keen on improving transportation options, with plans to explore a rural transit solution for the county. His vision includes consulting with the community to better understand the services available to seniors and their families, particularly the “stay in your home” services that allow seniors to live independently in their communities.
Looking ahead, Emon continues to advocate for the expansion of Highway 417 through Renfrew County. He believes this project is essential for the county’s economic development and will significantly improve access to resources and opportunities. Additionally, Emon plans to host an economic development workshop to guide future policies in key sectors like tourism, manufacturing, agriculture, and forestry, with the aim of attracting more investment from higher levels of government.
As he moves into his third term as Warden, Peter Emon remains focused on ensuring that Renfrew County addresses its current challenges while planning for a sustainable and prosperous future. His leadership is driven by a strong commitment to the community, with a focus on improving services, creating economic opportunities, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
(Written by: Emma Butler)