Brian Milne, 2023 Grey County Warden, accepts his gavel from Tara Warder, Clerk

Southgate Mayor Brian Milne is returning to the Warden’s chair for 2023.

Warden Milne, who served previously as Grey County Warden in 2014, was acclaimed by County Council at the inaugural meeting on December 6.

In his inaugural address, Warden Milne spoke of his optimism for the future of Grey County. “New people, new ideas, and new investment alongside the commitment of folks that have been here for generations – truly a winning combination,” he said.

Milne has served as an elected official in Southgate since 2003, including a previous term as mayor. This is his fourth term on Grey County Council. In addition to his municipal roles, Milne is a member of the Egremont Optimist Club and sits on the board of the North Wellington Health Care Alliance. Outside of government life, Milne is a fourth generation Grey County farmer and enjoys spending time with his wife, three children, and two grandchildren.

Warden Milne also spoke of how he plans to advocate for the people of Grey County. “[As] a Council, we must be diligent in getting full value for the tax dollars we collect and spend,” he said. “We must determine priorities. We can't be everything to everyone and so we must work very hard to do the right things, the best things, to be just and to be fair.”

The election of the Warden happens each December at the inaugural session. Grey County Council elects one of its members to lead council for the upcoming year. Warden Milne was nominated for the Warden’s position by Grey County councillors Sue Paterson and Scott Greig.

Councillor Paul McQueen was also nominated for Warden but declined the nomination, leaving Milne unopposed for the position.

source: media release