Four county councillors gunning for warden's seat

GUELPH – Four county councillors have put their names forward to become the next warden of Wellington County. 

Puslinch Mayor James Seeley, Minto Mayor Dave Turton, Ward 2 councillor Earl Campbell and Ward 6 councillor Diane Ballantyne all declared their interest in the top spot on county council at an Oct. 29 meeting.

Current Warden Chris White said he has “no ambitions” to continue in the role next term. 

“My ambitious days are over,” he said adding he “definitely” wants to stay on the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health board of health.

Wellington County councillors will elect the next warden at the inaugural meeting of the new council on Nov. 20. 

Councillor Matthew Bulmer and Mary Lloyd shared an interest in chairing the joint Wellington-Guelph social services and land ambulance committee.

“We are in a tenuous space with potentially very new people and councillors ... and our relationship with neighbours in Guelph seems to be at risk,” Lloyd said.

“I find myself as more of a median person that likes to have agreements and work together on that table.”

She also sees herself continuing as a member of the information, heritage and seniors committee.

Councillor Jeff Duncan hopes to stay on as economic development committee chair while councillor Steve O’Neill has set his sights on administration, finance and human resources committee chair.

Councillor David Anderson would like to continue sitting on the social services committee, as “I recognize (the) individuals coming forward will be good chairs,” he said referring to Bulmer and Lloyd.

Anderson said he is also interested in a seat on the OPP detachment board and on the board of health. 

Councillor Gregg Davidson, current chair of the roads committee, said he hopes to stick with engineering, with council’s permission.

Councillor Doug Breen currently chairs the information, heritage and seniors committee, but was not in attendance to share his wishes for the next term of council.