Fort Frances Mayor June Caul attended her last town council meeting on Nov. 14, 2022.

The mayor of Fort Frances says it has been a privilege to serve as the head of council for the past four years.

June Caul made a final address to town council on Monday night.

She says it was four historic unprecedented years, starting with a failed sale of the former Resolute Forest Products mill at the start of her term.

“The decision of Resolute to not allow the sale of the paper and craft mill to interested forestry companies, leading us to tirelessly try to find potential new business and industry for our community. Two declarations of states of emergency because of the COVID-19 pandemic in the 2022 flood event and other adversarial issues,” says Caul.

Caul outlined some of the activities she took part in as mayor, from flag raisings to attending community events, participating in parades and festivals and several Treaty Three activities.

“I’ve been privileged to represent this community as your mayor for the last four years. I’ve worked in good faith for the betterment of our residents through everything I’ve done,” says Caul.

The mayor also spoke of the council’s accomplishments during her term.

“Council renamed Colonization Road as we endeavour to educate and promote reconciliation. We became the first community in Ontario to ban plastics in an effort to begin action toward climate change. We have a spray park that’s in the works. We have refurbished and rebuilt many critics and old water sewer lines,” notes Caul.

Caul says council also lobbied for the homeless, replaced critical equipment, such as acquiring a new pumper truck for the fire department and created more residential space with the development of the Erin Crescent subdivision.

Caul mentioned the start of the discussion on the proposed Shevlin Woodyard project and the work around new development at the former mill site.

“We have approved a solar farm to be built at the former lagoon property. The Fort Frances Power Corp is beginning a feasibility study for a microgrid, which will improve power here in Fort Frances. We have new generators at the high school, the water and sewage treatment plants to protect the town and residents in case of emergencies.”

While stepping aside as mayor, Caul won’t be slowing down entirely.

She is still president of the Rainycrest Auxiliary, a post she’s held for the past ten years. She also continues to be a member of the Kiwanis Club, the Substance Abuse Prevention Team, Safe Communities Rainy River District, and the Right Relations Committee.
She is also the church council chair and delay minister at Zion Lutheran Church.

“I want to thank this entire corporation administration and staff for your support and guidance during the last four years. I especially want to thank my family and close friends for their love and unwavering support. And thank you to the very vast community support from all residents who trusted in me and never wavered from your faith in knowing that I have always acted in the best interest of this community.”