Stephen Vance, Staff
The slate of candidates for the October 22 municipal election has grown by one this week after first-term councillor Steven Bartley filed his nomination papers with the municipal clerk to seek re-election.
Bartley joins Councillor Tony Bell, Deputy Mayor Harley Greenfield, and resident Ross Kentner who have also filed their nomination papers and will campaign for council seats. Councillor Shirley Keaveney previously announced that she will run for the deputy mayor’s position, and Mayor Barb Clumpus will seek re-election in her position.
After filing his paperwork to seek re-election, Bartley told The Independent that he has enjoyed his first term on council, and he is looking forward to another term.
“I have enjoyed my first term as councillor in the Municipality of Meaford. I took on this position to learn the process so I could give constructive opinions,” Bartley explained. “Personally I fought for the small guys and won most battles, which was very rewarding.”
While Bartley has earned a reputation on council for championing concerns of residents, particularly on infrastructure issues, the position of councillor also brings challenges.
“The greatest frustration has been internal as my head argues with my heart on issues each and every week. I have gained a huge respect for the municipal staff, and through the service delivery review have found we are doing the best we can at the lower level of government,” said Bartley. “My focus is now getting both the provincial and federal governments to help with our infrastructure shortfall.”
Bartley’s candidacy will be the last among the current members of council, as Councillors Mike Poetker and Jaden Calvert have both stated that they will not be seeking re-election.
Councillor Poetker, who has served two terms on council, told The Independent that he decided against running for another term primarily due to the large amount of time the position requires, while Councillor Calvert told The Independent that he will be moving on to other challenges.
Election day is October 22, and those hoping to campaign for a seat on council have until July 27 to file their nomination papers with the municipal clerk.
Candidate packages are available for pick-up at the municipal administration office at 21 Trowbridge Street West, and online at www.meafordvotes.ca. Candidates are asked to make an appointment with the Clerk’s Department to file their nomination papers.
Information about nominations:
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Nominations are open from May 1 to July 27, at 2 p.m.
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Filing fees are $200 for Mayor or $100 for Councillor or Trustee.
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Photo ID must be shown at time of filing.
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Nomination forms must be filed before candidates can accept election contributions or incur campaign expenses.
For information on the municipal election, visit www.meafordvotes.ca, email election@meaford.ca or call 519-538-1060.
