Ross’s broadcasting career began by watching his brother work in radio and was captivated by the industry. Ross was soon a staff announcer at CFOS in Owen Sound, which launched him into a 57-year career in broadcasting.  He played a pivotal role in expanding AM CFOS into eight FM stations from Goderich to Muskoka. Ross’ contributions to the industry have earned him Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Radio Television News Directors Association and the Ontario Association of Broadcasters.  He was also a recipient of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal.

After retiring in 2018, Ross entered the political arena, securing a seat on the Meaford Council. His leadership was recognized in 2022 when he was elected Mayor.

Ross’ commitment to his community began with the Meaford Citizen’s Band where he played alongside his father and younger brother, contributing to the local cultural scene.  He has been active in numerous fundraising campaigns, including the local hospital, the Meaford United Church Raise the Roof campaign, and is a past Chair of Community Foundation Grey Bruce.

As Mayor, Ross has been instrumental in advancing strategic priorities for the present term in addition to our annual capital budgets. His initiatives have focused on enhancing community engagement, fostering local development, and improving infrastructure to benefit and connect residents.  He has worked to expand Council’s advisory committees to include topics in need of a public forum, notably the new Pumped Storage Advisory Committee.  Ross is committed to ensuring the execution of the Twin Bridges capital project.

Ross and his wife, Ruth Ann, have a strong partnership.  After her 38 year career in banking, she continues to support Ross in his career. Their family includes a son (and his wife), a granddaughter, a grandson (and his wife), and two great-granddaughters; who all cherish their visits to Meaford.

Ross envisions Meaford as a vibrant and dynamic community where growth and potential are harnessed to meet the evolving needs of both current and future residents. His goal is to stimulate business growth and jobs as well as recreational opportunities, all the while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.  By balancing progress with preservation, Ross aims to ensure that the Municipality of Meaford remains a highly desirable place to live, work and play for generations to come.

With over 43 years in the Dairy Queen business, owning and operating both the Collingwood and Meaford locations with her late husband, Shirley has demonstrated strong entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to local business development. This experience has equipped her with invaluable insights into economic matters, which she now channels into her role on Council.

Currently serving her third term on Council and second as Deputy Mayor, Shirley is actively involved in various committees pivotal to advancing Council’s strategic priorities. She leverages her expertise in fostering sustainable economic growth through active roles in committees with the Municipality of Meaford as well as Grey County.

Shirley recognizes the impact that volunteer-based community groups have in the community and participates in several of them.

Shirley has brought 14 successful motions before council this term including: conditional support for the TC Energy Ontario Pumped Storage Project, support for the reconstruction of bridges 21 and 22 in Bognor, request for a CIP Update, becoming a member of the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, and more.

Shirley’s commitment to Meaford’s sustainability and economic vitality is unwavering. She advocates passionately for the preservation of Meaford’s heritage and small-town charm while supporting responsible development aligned with community goals. Shirley recognizes the challenges, such as the expansion of our wastewater plant, that Council must overcome this term through critical decision making rooted in meaningful community engagement.

Outside of her civic duties, Shirley finds joy in spending time with her two sons and cherished grandchildren, nurturing her love for walking, attending local events, and supporting community initiatives.

It is an honor for Shirley to serve the community of Meaford, and she is dedicated to continuing her efforts to shape a community where residents and visitors alike can 'love it here.' Through her leadership and engagement, Shirley looks forward to the sustainable growth of Meaford where all can experience a vibrant and inclusive place to live and work.

Growing up in Meaford, Tony attended high school locally, followed by studies at Conestoga and Fanshawe Colleges. He is a certified tool and die maker and has contributed to the Ontario Metal Working Advisory Committee, setting industry standards. In 2004, Tony established a custom machine shop specializing in heavy equipment repair and hydraulics, serving industrial, commercial, and agricultural sectors.

Tony joined the Meaford Council during a turbulent period, driven by a desire to restore order and bring positive change. His focus is on enhancing infrastructure and fostering collaboration between council and staff. His aim is to leave a positive legacy for the community.

Tony is deeply involved in the local community, valuing the rural lifestyle and engaging in various local activities. His wife helped him to restore his appreciation of their rural space, promoting a greater respect for the environment and the quality of life in the area.

Tony Bell has significantly influenced Meaford Council by advancing key policies and contributing to the design of the Municipality of Meaford’s flag during amalgamation. The flag's design symbolizes the unity of communities, reflecting Tony’s commitment to bringing people together. He has also focused on improving local infrastructure and fostering collaboration within the council.

A passionate guitarist, Tony enjoys the four seasons, scenic landscapes, and the laid-back nature of rural living. He finds fulfillment in working with his wife on their property. They have raised two daughters and two sons, who now have children of their own.

Tony envisions continued growth for Meaford through prudent financial management and investment without significant impact to ratepayers. He emphasizes the importance of addressing Indigenous relations and the timeline for the proposed Pumped Storage Project that exceeds this Council term; he sees it as a long road with many milestones including learning about the impacts and engagement with the community. He is committed to creating positive change and evaluating new approaches during his term. His goal is to continue to bridge urban and rural divides and looks forward to the 25th anniversary of the amalgamation in 2026. 

Known as the “pet expert,” Brandon is Vice President of Canadian Pet Connection, a respected family-owned business with over three decades of operation. His background in Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare, coupled with certifications in animal nutrition and psychology, underscores his commitment to animal well-being.

Passionate about community engagement, Brandon has been actively involved in various business and animal advocacy roles throughout his career. His decision to enter municipal government stems from a deep-seated desire to contribute to the community’s growth and well-being.

In his current term as Councilor, Brandon has championed strategic initiatives that align with Meaford's development priorities. Notably, as Chair of the Heritage Advisory Committee, he collaborates with community members to preserve and integrate historic elements into the municipality's evolving landscape.

A proud father of three, Brandon strives to be a positive role model for his children. Outside of his civic duties, he enjoys exploring Georgian and other local trails with his loyal German Sheperd companion, Bodhi. An avid woodworker, Brandon has crafted bookshelves and other furniture pieces which demonstrate his passion for creativity and craftsmanship.

Brandon’s profound affection for Meaford is anchored in its rich history, picturesque waterfronts, and promising future. He is eager to foster economic growth through thoughtful policymaking, inspired by the limitless potential of his beloved municipality.

Harley's entry into municipal politics began in the late 1980s in response to a proposed landfill near his farm, which was ultimately denied. He first ran for Council in 1997, was elected, and played a pivotal role in the amalgamation of the Municipality of Meaford during his initial term. Over his extensive tenure, Harley has served eight terms on the Council, including three as Deputy Mayor. His work has included significant engagement with provincial and federal stakeholders and active participation in various committees, allowing him to interact with a wide range of residents and perspectives.

Harley played a crucial role in the saving, restoring, and reopening of Meaford Hall, transforming it into a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub in rural Ontario. His efforts also extended to maintaining and expanding numerous parks and trail systems, enhancing community recreation and natural spaces. Additionally, he was instrumental in the purchase and refurbishment of the building at Sykes and Trowbridge, leading to the creation of a dynamic Meaford Public Library that serves as a key resource for the community.

A proud Meaford native, Harley has raised three children in the area and enjoys spending time with his three grandsons [and soon-to-arrive granddaughter]. He has been actively involved in local soccer and theatre groups, contributing to youth engagement in extracurricular activities. As a founding member of Canadian Parents for French Immersion in Grey County, he also played a pivotal role in advocating for bilingual education.

Harley has a deep interest in local and world history, which he indulges through visits to vintage auto, and farm machinery displays, and enjoys reading history and mystery novels, in between reviewing municipal reports. Although he has traveled extensively across Canada and into Northern USA, Meaford remains his cherished home.

Energized by the region’s natural beauty, Harley is committed to preserving its landscapes for future generations and is eager to continue engaging with residents on critical infrastructure investment decisions that will shape Meaford's growth. Harley sees the new pumped storage advisory committee as a key mechanism to gather public feedback as well as understand the outputs of the anticipated environmental reports, on which the Council’s support is conditional. 

Robert's career blends artistic and business accomplishments. He began with a successful music career, achieving chart success leading to a Juno nomination through collaborations for his writing partner A&M recording artist, David Gibson. He later transitioned to the business sector, accumulating over 20 years of experience in Sales, Marketing, and Customer Service Management. His roles included General Manager at a Mississauga manufacturing company and Sales and Marketing Manager for Bruce Street Technologies Limited. This diverse background in both the arts and business informs his approach to community and Council work.

Currently in his first term on Council, Robert has made notable contributions in several roles throughout the region. His initial interest in local politics stemmed from a desire to give back to the community that shaped him, driven by a commitment to improving local governance and community well-being. His engagement reflects a deep-seated dedication to the growth and development of Meaford.

Robert is actively involved in various local organizations, using his time and expertise to support community growth and engagement. His contributions extend beyond council responsibilities, playing a key role in local cultural and economic initiatives. This involvement underscores his commitment to enhancing Meaford’s quality of life.

Robert’s work is marked by his contributions to the arts, culture, and economic development. His leadership with the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority and various local committees highlights his focus on advancing Meaford’s growth and sustainability. His efforts to revitalize local events and drive economic development reflect his dedication to the community’s progress.

In his free time, Robert continues his passion for music, collaborating with David Gibson and working on screenplays and a television series. He enjoys an active lifestyle, including cycling, hiking, and participating in sports such as basketball, tennis, and [recently] pickleball. Robert also values spending weekends with his stepdaughter and two granddaughters, enjoying outdoor activities and hiking local trails. These hobbies enrich his life and complement his dynamic approach to both personal and professional endeavors.

Robert’s vision for Meaford is to cultivate a thriving, vibrant community where local culture and economic development harmoniously coexist. He aims to leverage the town’s strong volunteerism and community spirit to create a welcoming environment that offers residents and visitors unique opportunities and experiences.

The Community Builder Award is presented each year to a local volunteer who has helped shape and promote our community through their work. You can nominate a volunteer to receive this award. The recipient is selected by Council, and presented with the award at the Volunteer Appreciation event. Above all, this award recognizes those who strive to make the Municipality of Meaford an incredible place to live, work and play.

Nominations 

Nominations for the 2025 Community Builder Award are now closed.

Recipient Selection 

All nominations will be reviewed by the Municipality of Meaford Council during a closed session of Council. Council may elect not to select an award recipient in any given year if no nominations are deemed to be appropriate. Identifiable information regarding nominated individuals shall not be released to the public at any time. Only the name of the individual receiving the award shall be made public. If no nominations are received, Council may, at their discretion, present the award to an individual of their choosing. 

Community Builder Award Policy

• Council Strategic Priorities 2023-2026
• Council Remuneration (2022)
• Code of Conduct
• Council Contact Information - PDF