Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX - The township has decided what step to take to fill the vacant Ward 3 council seat, following the resignation of councillor Amy Choi earlier this month. During the February 19 council meeting, councillors voted 4-3 in favour of approaching the runner-up from the 2022 municipal election to fill the vacancy, with a contingency plan to open the application process if the candidate declines.
The decision followed a presentation by CAO Amanda Gubbels, who outlined four options for council to consider, as required under the Municipal Act. These included appointing the next highest vote-getter from the 2022 election, opening applications to the public, making a direct appointment without an application process, or holding a by-election.
Deputy Mayor Mike Sholdice introduced the motion to first offer the seat to the runner-up in the Ward 3 race, who secured 229 votes in the 2022 election. If the individual declines or is found ineligible, council will move to a public application process to fill the role.
The approach, however, sparked debate among councillors. Councillor Martin Vink advocated for a public call for applications from the outset, noting past instances where council used this process to ensure fairness and transparency. “We have been through this before, and I believe an open application process treats everyone equally,” Vink argued.
Councillor Joel Haggith seconded the Deputy Mayor’s motion to move the process forward, albeit with the understanding that a public application process remains an option if the initial candidate declines.
Gubbels highlighted the importance of adhering to the 60-day timeline set by the Municipal Act, with council required to fill the vacancy by April 5, 2025. “This two-step approach allows us to act quickly while maintaining flexibility if the preferred candidate isn’t interested,” she noted.
Mayor Allan Mayhew closed the discussion by emphasizing the importance of ensuring Ward 3 remains fully represented. “If the candidate from Ward 3 declines, council will have plenty of opportunity to review applications and ensure the seat is filled,” he stated.
The next update is expected at the March 5 council meeting, when staff will report back on whether the runner-up has accepted the position or if the application process will proceed.
