The Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus has announced its leadership for 2026 following its annual general meeting held in Kingston on Jan. 9.
The group, which represents 103 municipalities across eastern Ontario, named Bonnie Clark, warden of Peterborough County, as chair by acclamation. Nathan Townend, warden of Lennox and Addington County, was selected as vice-chair.
The meeting brought together federal, provincial, and municipal leaders to review progress from the past year and set priorities for the year ahead. Key issues discussed included economic growth, municipal infrastructure, rural health care, housing, and improving quality of life in eastern Ontario communities.
Clark said she plans to build on the work done in 2025 and continue working with government partners to support rural and small urban areas.
Several provincial leaders and regional partners also took part in the meeting, sharing their views on the future of the region.
The EOWC also confirmed it has submitted recommendations to the Ontario government as part of the 2026 budget consultations. The group says it will continue working with its partners to support economic resilience and long-term growth across eastern Ontario.
Written by Emily Chatwood
