Bob Crate, Mayor of the Municipality of Trent Hills, has been elected as Warden of Northumberland County for the final year of Council’s 2023-2026 term. Mandy Martin, Mayor of the Township of Cramahe, was also elected during Wednesday’s regular meeting of County Council as Deputy Warden.
Crate previously served as Warden in 2021 and 2022, while Martin held the role of Warden in 2023. The positions are one-year terms filled by members of the seven-seat County Council.
Outgoing Warden Brian Ostrander reflected on a demanding year for municipal governments, thanking council members and staff for continuing to deliver services while advancing major priorities across the county. He said 2025 was one of the most complex years local government has faced, noting progress despite financial and operational pressures.
Over the past year, the county advanced work in several key areas, including infrastructure renewal, broadband expansion, emergency services modernization, housing and homelessness supports, physician recruitment, climate adaptation planning, and progress toward full operations at the new Golden Plough Lodge and Northumberland County Archives and Museum.
Looking ahead to 2026, council will focus on completing remaining strategic plan commitments, advancing broadband expansion, moving the Trent River Crossing project toward construction, opening the Golden Plough Lodge and archives facility, and supporting the transition to new administrative leadership with the appointment of a new chief administrative officer.
Crate, who has served in municipal government since 2010, was nominated by Alnwick/Haldimand Mayor John Logel, who cited his leadership experience, integrity and county-wide perspective. Crate said the final year of council’s term will focus on working collaboratively, supporting staff and advocating for the tools and funding Northumberland communities need.
Martin, nominated by Crate, said success in the coming year will depend on council working as a unified team while continuing to advance major county initiatives.
A video highlighting county accomplishments in 2025 was also shared during the meeting.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
