
The Mayor and Council welcomed a strong turnout at the first Fall Forums, bringing neighbours together to chat about what’s new in their neighbourhoods and what’s coming up in the community. Hosted separately in the west for Wards 1 and 2 and in the east for Wards 3 and 4, these gatherings gave residents a chance to talk one-on-one with their Council team and learn about local projects.
“This term, we’ve been engaging with folks more than ever. We’ve built our long-term plans on a solid foundation of feedback from the good people of Clarington. As we take in all the good things coming from those efforts, the Fall Forums gave us a chance to slow down, catch up with neighbours and swap stories. There’s a lot going on in Clarington these days, and we want everyone to have a front-row seat for all the excitement,” said Mayor Foster.
In Wards 1 and 2, residents heard updates on the South Bowmanville Recreation Centre, new ice-skating opportunities, major transportation projects, and the new nuclear economy. In Wards 3 and 4, neighbours learned the latest about the hospital and hospice, plans for the Bowmanville Zoo lands park, and improvements to the Newcastle Community Park.

Residents in Wards 1 and 2 attend the Fall Forum on October 21 at Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex.

Residents in Wards 3 and 4 attend the Fall Forum on October 22 at Diane Hamre Recreation Complex.
“Thanks to everyone who came by to catch up on what’s happening in their areas and had a friendly chat with your Council team. Truth be told, I think these conversations helped us all get to know each other a little better, which builds a stronger Clarington community,” said Mayor Foster.
Feedback collected during the development of Clarington’s 2024-27 Strategic Plan showed residents wanted more opportunities to connect with Council, share ideas, and get involved. These Fall Forums are just one way Council is working to make that happen.
At the Fall Forums, Mayor and Council members also took time to honour some outstanding community members with the Mayor’s Office Challenge Coin. The challenge coin is a symbol of appreciation and gratitude to those who have made a positive impact on the community. Recipients are volunteers, fundraisers, organizers, educators, and advocates who make Clarington a more vibrant place to call home.

Wards 1 & 2 Challenge Coin (left to right): Wards 1& 2 Regional Councillor Granville Anderson, Ward 2 Councillor Lloyd Rang, Challenge Coin recipients Shawn Clearsky Davis, Ben Earle and Lionel Furs, with Mayor Adrian Foster and Ward 1 Councillor Sami Elhajjeh at the Wards 1 & 2 Fall Forum.

Wards 3 & 4 Challenge Coin (left to right): At the Wards 3 & 4 Fall Forum, Wards 3 & 4 Regional Councillor Willie Woo, Challenge Coin winners Jim Boate and Steve Matthews, with Mayor Adrian Foster and Ward 4 Councillor Margaret Zwart.
Clarington Council Members nominated the recipients of the 2025 challenge coin, and from the nominations, the Mayor’s Office selected the individuals who received the award this year.
Recipients:
“This is a token of our profound gratitude for the residents who shape our community for the better. It’s a privilege to present it to these folks and honour their extraordinary actions,” said Mayor Foster.
Media inquiries:
Municipality of Clarington
Jennifer O’Meara, Policy and Communications Advisor
905-260-2844 | jomeara@clarington.net
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