Open Letter from the Executive Director of the Huron Chamber of Commerce

To the Huron Chamber of Commerce Community,

The working relationship between the County of Huron and the Huron Chamber of Commerce has always been rooted in our shared commitment to fostering economic prosperity for all. Together, we strive to create an environment where businesses thrive, communities flourish, and opportunities abound for everyone in Huron County. The transition of County Warden provides an opportunity for me to reflect on the past and look forward to the future, celebrating the contributions of outgoing Warden Glen McNeil while welcoming Warden Jamie Heffer to this vital role.

As the Warden of Huron County, Glen McNeil has exemplified public service over the past four years. In addition to his role as Mayor of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh (ACW), Glen has been a tireless advocate for Huron County, elevating its profile regionally and beyond. His leadership and commitment to inclusion have made Huron County a more welcoming place for everyone.

Glen’s ability to connect with people is well-known. Whether it was county staff, local leaders, or residents, Glen made it a point to know you, your story, and how he could help. He’s the kind of leader who leaves a lasting impression, not just because of his formal accomplishments but because of the kindness and generosity he shows every day. Anyone who has attended a public event with Glen knows there’s almost always a lineup to chat with him—and he gives everyone his time and attention.

During his tenure, Glen worked closely with regional economic drivers like Bruce Power and the Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII). His efforts were recently recognized when he received the inaugural Community Visionary Award from the NII, a fitting honour for a leader who has done so much to strengthen ties between Huron County and the broader region.

On a personal note, Glen has been a source of support for me in many ways. When we first moved to Huron County nearly a decade ago after purchasing Point Farms Market, the McNeil family – Glen, Vanda, Curtis, and Craig and their families – were our neighbours and some of our biggest supporters. Their encouragement helped me build a reputation for our small business in ACW and Goderich. That support continued when I stepped into the role of Executive Director of the Huron Chamber of Commerce earlier this year. Glen was there to offer advice and context as I found my footing. It’s no accident that Glen was my very first meeting as Executive Director; he set the tone for what has been a highly collaborative and productive relationship between the Huron Chamber and the County of Huron.

It was an honour to be present at Glen’s final County Council meeting, where his tenure as Warden was celebrated. I look forward to continuing to work with him as Mayor of ACW as we expand the Chamber’s activities in that township.

As I thank Glen for his service, I also turn my focus to Huron County’s new Warden, Jamie Heffer, Mayor of the Township of Morris-Turnberry. On behalf of the Board of Directors and members of the Huron Chamber of Commerce, I wish Warden Heffer all the best over his two-year term.

Morris-Turnberry represents an exciting opportunity for me and the Chamber to expand our presence. I look forward to working closely with Warden Heffer to bring the Chamber’s resources and support to businesses and community leaders in his township. I was pleased to attend the inaugural meeting of County Council this week, where Jamie was sworn in as Warden. The passing of the chain of office and the gavel marked not only a transition in leadership but also the start of what I anticipate will be a strong partnership between the Chamber and Warden Heffer.

Sincerely,

Colin Carmichael
Executive Director, Huron Chamber of Commerce