Meet the new UTRCA Vice-Chair (weekly blog, February 19, 2021)

Feb 19, 2021 – The UTRCA Board of Directors held elections at its January 2021 meeting. The new Vice-Chair is Councillor Brian Petrie, who represents the Town of Ingersoll. Brian was born and raised in Ingersoll where he lives with his wife Brianna. He became involved in municipal politics in 2010 and was first elected to serve on Ingersoll Council in 2014. Brian has served as Ingersoll’s representative on the UTRCA Board since 2016, and is also a member of the UTRCA Hearings Committee and Finance & Audit Committee. We asked Brian some questions about his new role.

Why did you join the UTRCA Board?

The opportunity came about due to a change in the work schedule of Ingersoll’s previous representative on the Board. I was looking to be more involved with committee and board work, so I put my name forward and my colleagues on Council granted me the position. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of following opportunities in areas where you have an interest, if they present themselves! I have enjoyed being a part of this Board so much. The chance to serve with a talented, professional group doesn’t come along that often.

What do you see as the role of a Board member?

The role of a Board member is to provide governance to the organization through policy development; clear policy allows staff to achieve the goals of the organization. It is also to learn as much about the organization’s goals and activities as possible. Knowledge of the organization allows for better policy direction. Another aspect to the role is to represent the Authority and its goals to the public and policy makers. Educating, both about the Authority and its goals, is very important.

Why are Conservation Authorities important?

Conservation Authorities provide value on a grand scale. They are able to leverage funds received from member municipalities on a scale that no other government body does, and provide services that benefit the entire watershed. They ensure that development is done safely, both in regards to people and the environment. They provide important educational and recreational opportunities to the residents of the Province and beyond, and they make the environment better for future generations!

What do you hope to achieve during your tenure?

My hope is to provide support to the Chair, Board and Staff in reaching our goals, as there are some clear objectives ahead this year. The province made significant changes to the Conservation Act that will need to be addressed. I think this will consume a lot of the Board’s time this year. Also Ian Wilcox, General Manager of the Authority, has decided to retire. I wish Ian all of the best, as he has served the Authority very well. Finding a replacement, and getting them into the role, is certainly a top priority.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the UTRCA? The biggest opportunity?

The biggest challenge for the Authority is, without a doubt, the changes that were made to the Conservation Authorities Act. Never in the 70 year history of the Authority has there been a challenge like this! It threatens the watershed model that has served us so well. The requirement to have separate agreements with every municipality, regarding “non-mandatory” services, will be very challenging for the Authority.

The biggest opportunity is harnessing the public’s increased interest in the outdoors, brought on by the Covid 19 pandemic. The desire to get out and experience the natural environment is an amazing opportunity for the Authority to educate the public about the watershed, the UTRCA, and our goals. Turning the public into advocates for us can certainly assist with our challenges.

• See our previous article about our new Chair, Councillor Alan Dale.
• Find out more about the UTRCA Board of Directors.