Beckwith Reeve Richard Kidd Acclaimed as 2026 Lanark County Warden

Press Release – Lanark County

Councillor Richard Kidd (Beckwith Reeve) was acclaimed and sworn in as Lanark County’s 2026 warden at the inaugural meeting held on Tuesday afternoon. This marks Kidd’s fourth time in the top Lanark County Council position.

Kidd was nominated by Councillors Andrew Tennant (Carleton Place Deputy Mayor) and Brian Dowdall (Beckwith Deputy Reeve), who highlighted the value of his experience in light of election year challenges and in dealing with upper levels of government, as well as the effort he puts into his work.

Kidd said it is an honour to be chosen as warden as part of this unique and historical process.

“The responsibility of being warden, I believe, is to make sure the lines of communication are good between staff and council, and that recommendations made by staff are heard and understood by council and that the council decisions are carried out by staff.”

In addition to being the face of county council to the public and other levels of government, he said the role is also to build on the harmony within council that Past Wardens Toby Randell (Carleton Place Mayor), Steve Fournier (Drummond/North Elmsley Reeve) and Peter McLaren (Lanark Highlands Reeve) have created over the last three years. 

“It’s an honour to be the warden and your team leader for 2026. We have a great team thatvincludes staff.”

Kidd reflected on the diversity of the council team, recognizing each member of council and the experience and assets they bring to the council table.

“Our diverse backgrounds make us a strong team of decision makers. One thing we all have in common is that we care for the long-term well-being of Lanark County and its residents.” 

Kidd thanked Past Wardens John Fenik (Perth), Bill Dobson (Montague) and Gordon Patterson (Lanark Highlands) for attending the inaugural meeting. 

Committee chairpersons were approved at the meeting as well:

• Corporate Services: Councillor Toby Randell (Carleton Place Mayor)
• Community Services: Councillor Rickey Minnille (Mississippi Mills Deputy Mayor)
• Economic Development: Councillor Jeff Carroll (Montague Deputy Reeve)]
• Public Works: Councillor Steve Fournier (Drummond/North Elmsley Reeve)

Kidd also named a striking committee, which appoints members to various committees and boards. Council reconvenes Wednesday, November 26 at 5 p.m. for its regular meeting.