The race for elections this fall has begun.
Puslinch is the first township to have a run-off for mayor. Incumbent Dennis Lever is being challenged by former mayor Brad Whitcombe, who lost that seat after a spectacularly bitter campaign last time around. This should prove a race worth watching.
Guelph-Eramosa as of this date has the majority of council requesting another mandate from voters. With Doug Breen now seeking a county council seat and murmurs that John Scott isn’t running again despite his unwillingness to confirm that point, there could be two open seats in wards that include portions of the village of Rockwood.
Mapleton has current councillor Neil Driscoll running for the mayor’s job after mayor Bruce Whale indicated he would not seek that office again.
In Minto, Mayor George Bridge is again seeking the town’s top post.
Centre Wellington’s Joanne Ross Zuj will seek the mayor’s job again and Walt Visser is looking to be returned as councillor.
Allan Alls, current president of East Wellington Community Services, was first to file nomination papers for the mayor’s post in the town of Erin.
By press deadline there was no News from Wellington North.
As the lay of the land for elections this fall becomes more clear, anyone thinking of running should start doing their homework now.
Most municipalities face specific issues and candidates would be wise to bring those issues into focus. Whether it is overall debt, the unaddressed infrastructure deficit many townships face, or simply making the town or township more inviting, ideas need to be offered rather than relying on the age old strategy of condemning the current council. It would be good to see some positive suggestions on how to correct problems and advance the cause of living in a safe, proud community.
Hands are often tied by legislation in terms of dealing with certain issues, but a willing body and thoughtful mind can go a long way in making a municipality more responsive to what its citizens wish.
The work of a councillor or mayor is not easy – if the intention is to do a good job and make the most of elected office.
Most township websites have information on how to file a nomination form. The clerk’s office can be helpful in ensuring forms are filed properly and deadline dates are met.
Depending on comfort level, retired politicians can be a great source of advice on running for office. It is important that new candidates particularly, enter the job with realistic expectations of what the demands of the job include.
We will attempt to keep nomination lists current on our website and as candidates are added we will note that. Closer to election time we will provide more details on candidates which typically include a few resume notes and a list of pertinent questions.
We are also keen to hear from readers any questions they may have for candidates or ideas on what they think the real election issues are.
