Northumberland County bids Borowec farewell on his retirement
Photo of Dan Borowec. Courtesy of Northumberland County.
By Cecilia Nasmith.
Northumberland County
Northumberland Director of Economic Development, Planning and Strategic Initiatives Dan Borowec, leaving legacy of transformative public service. His successor in that office will be Director of Planning and Economic Development Dwayne Campbell.
On Wednesday, Warden Brian Ostrander gave a surprise tribute to retiring Director of Economic Development, Planning and Strategic Initiatives Dan Borowec at the end of the council meeting.
On Friday, the County of Northumberland announced Director of Planning and Economic Development Dwayne Campbell will be his successor.
Photo of Dwyane Campbell. Photo provided by Northumberland County.
The announcement set out details of three decades of “transformative public service” by Borowec, who was described as “a visionary force in rural economic development, not just in Northumberland but across Eastern Ontario,” driving initiatives that have shaped communities and changed lives.
Examples include spearheading the Eastern Ontario Development Program, securing funding to expand local broadband access and establishing Colborne's Agri-Food Venture Centre – in all, helping to secure millions of dollars in investments.
“Dan's dedication, strategic thinking and compassion have made an indelible impact on Northumberland County and beyond,” Chief Administrative Officer Jennifer Moore said. “He has been a mentor, a collaborator and a visionary whose work has strengthened our community and enhanced countless lives. On behalf of the county, I extend our deepest gratitude to Dan, and wish him happiness and fulfillment in his retirement.”
That transition comes Jan. 3, when Campbell – who joined the county in 2014 – takes the office.
As Manager of Land Use Planning, he played a key role in implementing the county's first Official Plan. In 2024, he served as Acting Director of Economic Development and Planning, demonstrating strong leadership during the department's transition.
He brings to the table a Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Planning form the University of Waterloo, membership in the Ontario Professional Planners Institute and Canadian Institute of Planners, and a resume that includes working for the Regional Municipality of Durham – where he implemented key provincial plans such as the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan and the Greenbelt Plan.
“His extensive experience and strategic vision will be vital in advancing Northumberland County's planning and economic development priorities,” the announcement said, building on the strong foundation Borowec leaves behind.
