Strathroy hospice has received the green light from Middlesex County Council, and a major step has been taken toward bringing hospice care to Middlesex County. Middlesex County Council voted unanimously Tuesday, September 8, to support an amendment to the Strathroy-Caradoc Official Plan that will allow the proposed Strathroy Hospice to move forward on agricultural land.
The decision means the hospice group now has the support of County Council to continue with plans to establish hospice services in the area.
Strathroy-Caradoc Deputy Mayor and Middlesex County Councillor Mike McGuire said the decision was one of the most difficult he has faced as an elected official. McGuire said he had previously been concerned about the planning and regulatory requirements surrounding the proposal and had indicated he did not believe he could support it because he could not see a pathway forward.
He said further consideration of the issue, including the role of elected officials to represent residents and act in the best interests of the community, ultimately led him to support the amendment.
McGuire said he listened to the majority of residents and believes supporting the hospice represents the best interests of the broader community.
Strathroy Hospice Chairperson Tyler Damen welcomed the unanimous decision, calling it a major step forward in the organization’s efforts to bring hospice care to Middlesex County.
Damen thanked all members of Middlesex County Council for supporting the project, with particular recognition for Strathroy-Caradoc Mayor Colin Grantham and Deputy Mayor Mike McGuire for their comments and support throughout the process.
The unanimous vote clears an important municipal hurdle for Strathroy Hospice as it continues working toward bringing hospice care closer to families throughout Middlesex County.
For the hospice organization, Tuesday’s decision marks what Damen described as a very good day for hospice care in the county.
Written by: C. Soares
