County Council Highlights for Jan. 10, 2024

Council Pays Tribute to Former Warden and Welcomes New HR Director

Essex County Warden Hilda MacDonald began Wednesday’s budget meeting by paying tribute to a former warden who died in December and welcoming the county’s new human resources director.

Carl Davison, who passed away on Dec. 20 at the age of 93, was Essex County warden in 1986 and represented Colchester North Township on council from 1981 to 1998.

“Carl was admired and respected for his dedication to serving his community and his willingness to make tough decisions for the greater good,” MacDonald said. “We extend our condolences to his family, as well as our gratitude for his many years of public service.”

The warden also welcomed Anthony (Tony) Papa, who joined the County of Essex this week as Director, Human Resources. Papa has 25 years of human resources experience in senior leadership positions at multinational companies that include Gates Corporation, Icahn Automotive, Federal Mogul Holdings and Linamar/Mobex. He is a native of Essex County and has maintained his ties through involvement in organizations like Workforce WindsorEssex.

“We are thrilled Tony has decided to bring his considerable skills to our team and look forward to working with him in the months to come,” MacDonald said.

Council Reviews Proposed 2024 Budget

Essex County Council spent several hours reviewing the proposed 2024 Budget, including hearing presentations by a delegation and department heads.

The budget meeting began with Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Rakesh Naidu providing council with the chamber’s priorities.

Budget deliberations will resume on Wednesday, Jan. 17, at 6 p.m.