Written By David Gomez
From Mount Brydges and Melbourne to Campbellvale and the surrounding rural communities, Ward 2 faces decisions about infrastructure, development and municipal services that will shape the area over the next four years.
Five candidates are competing for three seats on Strathroy-Caradoc Council in the October 26 municipal election. Incumbents Greg Willsie and Sandi Hipple are seeking re-election, while Sheri Faccenda, Charles Reath and Joshua Randall hope to join Council.
Greg Willsie, a Mount Brydges resident since 2009, has a background in manufacturing, automation and business management. He holds an MBA from Western University’s Ivey Business School and a graduate diploma in municipal administration.
During his current term, Willsie said he helped advance discussions about municipal debt, employment lands and infrastructure planning.
“During the 2026 budget, for example, motions I brought forward on long-term debt planning led to further work and a dedicated Council meeting on debt and debt policy,” he mentioned.
Willsie wants infrastructure and municipal services to keep pace with development, particularly wastewater capacity, roads and recreation. He also supports expanding employment and commercial opportunities along the Highway 402 corridor.
“I believe these pieces need to be planned together rather than addressed one at a time,” he said.
Sandi Hipple, whose family has lived and worked in the community for four generations, is seeking another term representing Ward 2.
Hipple emphasized the importance of balancing infrastructure investment with the recreational and community facilities that serve residents of different ages.
“I believe strong infrastructure is important, but so is investing in our parks, recreational spaces, landscapes, and community facilities to maintain the quality of life we all enjoy,” she said.
Her priorities include improving roads, sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, while ensuring rural residents and farming families remain represented in municipal decisions.
Hipple also supports identifying a suitable location for a new Mount Brydges fire station and maintaining safe facilities for firefighters.
Sheri Faccenda, a Mount Brydges resident and Strathroy business owner for 24 years, previously ran for Council in 2022. She subsequently joined the municipality’s Community Development Adjustment Committee, where she gained experience with local policies and community initiatives.
Faccenda, who is also a soccer coach and volunteer, said her experience living in Mount Brydges and operating a business in Strathroy has helped her understand the relationship between the two communities.
Her priorities include completing ongoing projects, addressing infrastructure needs and maintaining the character of local communities as residential and commercial development continues.
“Growth is not a bad thing when thoughtfully considered and planned out properly,” she said.
Faccenda also wants Council to maintain open communication with residents and preserve the culture, safety and welcoming atmosphere of the municipality.
Charles Reath, a third-generation Caradoc resident, has served as a volunteer firefighter for more than 30 years and worked in the non-profit sector for over two decades. He currently works for London Transit.
Reath identified the future of the local arena and sewer infrastructure as two major concerns requiring attention.
“Our arena is an important part of our community, it’s a place that is important to people and I believe we need a clear, responsible plan for its future,” he mentioned.
He believes infrastructure decisions should consider long-term costs, taxpayers and future development, with meaningful public consultation.
Reath also emphasized the importance of accessible representation.
“I don’t believe a Councillor needs to have all the answers. I believe they need to listen, do their homework, communicate openly, and make responsible decisions for the community they represent.”
Joshua Randall, a Mount Brydges resident, works in learning and development, teaches marketing courses through McMaster University Continuing Education and holds a certification in infrastructure asset management.
Randall is advocating changes to municipal administration, including modernizing utility billing, improving infrastructure tracking and reforming procurement procedures.
“I am running for Ward 2 Councillor because our local government needs a fresh, data-driven approach to municipal governance,” he said.
He also wants greater transparency in Council proceedings, including reviewing the use of closed meetings.
Randall believes better asset management and financial planning would help the municipality address infrastructure needs before they become more expensive problems.
