Brockton is recognizing Mayor Chris Peabody for his 25 years of service on council.
Peabody was presented with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s Long-Standing Service Award during a meeting on Tuesday.
The long-standing member of council first took on the role in 2000 following the Walkerton Water Crisis, before assuming the position of Mayor in 2018, and also representing Bruce County as Warden from 2023 to 2024.
“It’s hard to believe that it was 25 years ago when I first put my name on the ballot and I think it’s a significant accomplishment. I am certainly dedicated to public service and 25 years shows it and I am very happy to reflect on that the people of Brockton have trusted me for that long to continue serving,” says Peabody.
Over his career, the municipality says Peabody drew from his environmental background and championed clean water initiatives and worked on implementing safeguards to prevent future tragedies.
Additionally, during the Covid pandemic, he provided timely updates to keep residents informed.
Peabody is a former educator and has helped expand local high school co-op programs as a strong advocate for local training opportunities in the skilled trades.
He has served on a number of committees and boards while also working with leaders from across Bruce County on regional improvements including housing development, waste diversion initiatives, addressing the local healthcare system, welcoming newcomers to the region, and building relationships with neighbouring Indigenous communities.
“The last seven years in Brockton have been some good years. We have seen some very good growth with our East Ridge Business Park as well as significant growth in the area of housing and affordable housing and we have got some long range plans for Walkerton to grow. To be able to be the mayor during a time of growth and renewal and revival in Walkerton is very significant,” says Peabody.
He plans to continue to serve the community on council.
“I have lots of energy left and I love the job and I am looking forward to continuing on as long as the people allow me to in the next election,” says Peabody.