Bruce County Council has approved the permanency of the Community Development Office (CDO) as of September 2025, making it a permanent part of the county’s organizational structure. The move comes after a two-year pilot project that officials say has proven successful in advancing key initiatives and supporting responsible growth.
The CDO has been leading several large-scale projects, including efforts to address housing needs, prepare communities for the proposed Bruce “C” project and other energy developments, support the medical isotope sector, and strengthen partnerships with municipalities and community partners.
“We are very pleased with how this capacity is helping us to address the housing and development needs of Bruce County communities,” said Warden Luke Charbonneau. “Through this approach, we are seeing results that impact quality of life, growth and the economy of Bruce County.”
Claire Dodds, who has overseen the office since its launch in 2023, will continue as Commissioner of Community Development. She will also oversee Human Services, Transportation and Environmental Services, and Planning and Development. Dodds, who joined the county in 2022, brings more than 20 years of experience and a Master’s in Rural and Regional Planning.
The county also confirmed that Jack Van Dorp will remain as Director of Planning and Development, a role he has held since the CDO’s launch. Van Dorp, who started with the county in 2009 as a planner, has a Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning and leads a team providing land use planning to guide responsible growth.
“Congratulations to both Claire and Jack on their respective appointments. Their experience and leadership will continue to ensure that Bruce County is innovating, collaborating, and thriving for years to come,” added Charbonneau.