Written By David Gomez
STRATHROY – Habemus mayor! Following a challenging election campaign, Colin Grantham has secured another four years as mayor of Strathroy-Caradoc, receiving nearly twice as many votes as his opponent, Brian Derbyshire.
Grantham received 5,185 votes, compared to Derbyshire’s 2,593, securing a decisive victory in the October 26 municipal election.
Shortly before 8 p.m., most candidates gathered in the committee room at Strathroy Town Hall to await the results. The announcement came approximately 20 to 25 minutes later than expected, adding to the anticipation among candidates, their families, municipal staff and members of the media.
As the results appeared on the screen, disappointment was evident among some candidates, while others celebrated their victories. Grantham and his wife were visibly delighted.
Speaking to this reporter shortly after his victory, Grantham described his feelings as a mixture of humility and gratitude.
“Very, very humbled. It’s been a long campaign, but I’m very humbled. I’m very grateful,” he said, before thanking Derbyshire for a hard-fought race.
Despite his considerable margin of victory, Grantham emphasized the importance of voter participation rather than the difference between the candidates’ totals.
“To me, it’s a mandate. It’s a mandate to keep moving forward,” he explained. “The number that I won by, or the plurality, if you will, that doesn’t mean anything.”
Looking ahead, Mayor Grantham indicated that he intends to begin working with the newly elected council immediately, including contacting councillors about preparations following the inaugural meeting.
When asked about residents who supported his opponent, Grantham emphasized unity. “Who voted for me? Who didn’t? There’s no message. We’re all in this together. We’re all going to move forward.”
The election also saw Mike McGuire retain his position as deputy mayor with 3,797 votes, defeating Mark Eyre, who received 2,839, and Bradley Bock, with 797.
In Ward 1, Steve Pelkman, Donna Pammer, Brad Richards and Kevin Morrison secured the four council seats. Ward 2 elected Sandi Hipple, Greg Willsie and Sheri Faccenda.
