Sarah Crookall
Staff Reporter
The Township of Madawaska Valley (MV) welcomes Hannah Gutoskie as its new recreation and community development coordinator.
On Nov. 4, Gutoskie started her role, she says, to a warm welcome.
“I’ve already learned so much this week—everyone is super wonderful,” says Gutoskie. “So, I’m just excited to learn as much as I can.”
Gutoskie was born and raised in Barry’s Bay. She also grew up in neighbouring Combermere before moving out of the small towns for school and work.
Just recently, Gutoskie returned to Barry’s Bay to raise her family.
“Being able to be part of community and grow the community is huge for me,”
says Gutoskie.
As one of 17 applicants, Gutoskie replaces the former recreation and community development coordinator Stephanie Plebon. So far, Gutoskie has been getting a feel for things. She’s spent her time learning roles and responsibilities of the office as well as familiarizing herself with MV’s facilities.
But Gutoskie says she’s eager to see what people want from their community. To do so, she’s thought about holding a forum or carrying out surveys to gauge community interest.
“It is a priority of mine just to see what people want out of their community and recreation ‘cause, you know, we have a lot of older folks, we have a lot of families, and then what about people who may not have events for them like teenagers,” she says.
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