By Haldimand Press Staff
HALDIMAND — September is here, and with it comes our first look at the many candidates in the running for the second major election of the year.
Returning to the municipal race following a bid at the role of MPP during this summer’s provincial election is three-term mayoral incumbent Ken Hewitt, who has held the position for the last 12 years. He will face-off for his position against four new candidates: Shelley Ann Bentley, Jennifer Gilmour, Dick Passmore, and Jake Vandendool.
Over in Ward 1, current Councillor Stewart Patterson is the only candidate to be acclaimed ahead of the election, with no other nominees stepping forward to challenge him for his seat.
In Ward 2, Councillor John Metcalfe faces a solo competitor, Paul Beauvais.
Ward 3 Councillor Dan Lawrence faces three competitors – Ray Kitchen, Julie Richardson, and Mark McEachern – for his seat, which will oversee Caledonia through a crucial phase of development as it continues to be the fastest growing community in Haldimand.
Over in Ward 4, Councillor Tony Dalimonte will run against Natalie Stam. Dalimonte had previously announced that he would run for mayor if Hewitt became the new MPP, therefore leaving the municipal level, but is instead seeking re-election as councillor since Hewitt is in the mayoral race.
Two new candidates are vying for the seat in Ward 5 against incumbent Rob Shirton, James Kaspersetz and Sheldon Simpson. Simpson also ran for the newly formed Ontario Party in this summer’s provincial election.
Ward 6 is the only place in Haldimand where the seat is guaranteed to go to a newcomer as long-time Councillor Bernie Corbett is set to retire at the end of the current Council term. Facing off to replace him are Julie Marchese, Lisa Taylor, and Patrick O’Neill.
The Haldimand Federation of Agriculture has announced it is hosting a mayoral debate on October 18 at the Haldimand Agriculture Centre, 1084 Kohler Road, Cayuga. Doors open at 7 p.m., with councillor candidates welcome to set up tables to greet visitors, and the debate will run 7:30-9:30 p.m. Questions will be ag focussed and can be submitted the night of or by email prior to the meeting at haldimandfederation@gmail.com.
The Haldimand Press will also be hosting a mayoral debate in October to discuss general issues of concern to Haldimand residents. Councillor candidates are also welcome to attend this debate to meet constituents before the debate begins. The details of this event will be released shortly. Also see future editions of The Haldimand Press for profiles on the confirmed candidates for mayor and each ward.
The municipal election is scheduled to take place on October 24.
Haldimand residents will have a number of ways to vote, including online, available through County’s website from October 7 to 23, or you can visit haldimandcounty.ca/election for a list of advanced voting locations and times.
