The Town of Bracebridge is mourning the passing of former Mayor James “Jim” Lang, who dedicated more than two decades of his life to serving the community. Jim passed away on Monday, October 5 at the age of 89.
Jim Lang served as Mayor of Bracebridge from 1975 to 1994, making him the Town’s longest-serving Mayor. His years on Council, which began in 1971, spanned a significant period of change and growth in Bracebridge and across Muskoka.
During his 19 years as Mayor, Jim helped guide Bracebridge through an important period in its history. His tenure saw the establishment of District government, the relocation of a portion of Highway 11 and the construction of the Wellington Street Bridge, along with considerable growth and development within the community.
Jim was involved in numerous initiatives that helped shape the Bracebridge of today, including the redevelopment of Bracebridge Bay, the expansion of Kirby’s Beach and Bracebridge’s 100-year anniversary celebration in 1975. He supported the opening of Woodchester Villa as a museum and helped advance non-profit housing and a seniors’ centre as the community grew.
He also believed in creating places where people could come together and build community. His contributions included supporting the development of parkland around Bracebridge Falls, the Carnegie Library addition, and the Centennial Centre pool and community hall. He played an important role in securing a land agreement with the Rotary Club of Bracebridge that enabled the Club to build the Rotary Centre for Youth.
One of the most enduring examples of Jim’s leadership is the J. D. Lang Activity Park, which became a permanent home for the Bracebridge Fall Fair, Pioneer Power and generations of community gatherings. The park continues to be an important gathering place for the community today.
Flags have been at half-mast at municipal facilities since Monday.
