By Emily Stonehouse

Algonquin Highlands will have a new face in the role of deputy mayor. Jennifer Dailloux, who previously served as Councillor Ward 3 for the area was nominated for deputy mayor by Councillor Julia Shortreed. Dailloux is replacing previous deputy Liz Danielsen, who won the mayoral race against Mike Lang in last month’s municipal election.
Upon the appointment as deputy mayor, Dailloux shared a collection of “practical reasons” in which she is confident that she will serve the people of Algonquin Highlands well. “Having someone from the north on County Council for the first time in twelve years would be a positive change,” Dailloux said. Dailloux also believes that her experience in the role of councillor for ward 3 over the past four years has given her the “mental bandwidth to take on the additional workload,” she said.
Most importantly, Dailloux stated that she has developed “active and constructive relationships with constituents,” and wishes to increase her level of engagement and communications with the various communities of Algonquin Highlands.
Dailloux shared her overall philosophy of representing constituents not only in the region of Algonquin Highlands but as well as her newly appointed role in county council. She stated that she recognizes the fine line between listening to the frustrations of constituents, whilst honouring and respecting the decisions and regulations put in place by the township. “I make it a deliberate point to not take sides,” Dailloux said, “every experience I’ve had over the last four years, without exception, has proven that taking someone’s side is not a prerequisite for creating trust.”
Councillor Lisa Barry, who represents Ward 2 with newcomer Coun. Sabrina Richards, said she’s looking forward to making decisions that will affect the generations to come in Algonquin Highlands.
Liz Danielsen offered sincere thanks to the voters who showed their faith in her by choosing her to be mayor, and her “small but mighty” campaign team behind the effort.
“I am truly humbled, proud, and grateful,” she said. “I promise to give it my all to represent our community and all its needs.”
She threw a bouquet to former mayor Carol Moffatt who she said moved the community forward with passion and dedication. The COVID-19 pandemic, staff shortages at the township, and supply chain issues made the previous four-year term difficult.
“But through all of that, combined with a variety of other challenges, she led us with strength and grace, continuing to make Algonquin Highlands one of the best places a person could wish to live,” Danielsen said.
The mayor extended kudos to her council colleagues for having made it through a tough election, regardless of if they won by acclamation or through the official vote tally.
“I truly envy those who were acclaimed,” she said. “This particular election has been difficult for many of us, not just here but across the country.”
Councillors encouraged constituents to reach out to them directly at any time, with all contact information available at www.algonquinhighlands.ca.