Whitby council votes 5-4 to push Dryden culvert decision to next term

Whitby council voted 5-4 to push a decision on the long-debated Dryden culvert to the next council term starting in February 2027, after resident George Gadinidis pressed councillors for cost certainty and near-term action, durhamregion.com reports.

Coun. Rhonda Mulcahy noted the culvert is rated in good condition, with three other culverts ahead of it in the town's asset management plan, while Coun. Niki Lundquist argued the current council should not make 'election-related decisions' ahead of the Oct 26 municipal vote.

Town staff recommended the Dryden culvert work be considered for the 2028 budget, leaving the timing — and the final price tag — to the incoming council.