Not many would have predicted that political novice David Campbell would top the polls among all the candidates running for a council seat in this year’s municipal election.
But Campbell did just that as 1,610 citizens cast their ballots for the rookie Ward 1 councillor.
“Considering in 2014, I got 671 votes, it’s pretty crazy,” Campbell told OrilliaMatters.
However, it is no fluke, he said.
“I have worked really hard to make sure I was ready this time and I think people recognized that and appreciate the work I’ve done and thought I’d do a good job,” said Campbell.
He will be joined by ward mate Ted Emond, who was re-elected to a second term. Emond, who served as mayor in the 1980s, captured 1,143 votes, narrowly defeating the lone other candidate in the Ward 1 race, Ken Abbott.
"My sense is there's about 20 to 25 per cent of the populace who is voting against what our council has done," said Emond, upon reflecting on the Ward 1 results. "That suggests to me 75 per cent are in favour of continuing the momentum. We are on a roll and we can keep that roll going."
Campbell, 54, agreed.
“Hopefully, we can continue to move forward. I think most people, obviously, based on the results, feel like the last four years have gone pretty well and that we’re heading in a good direction. I want to be part of that and be part of Orillia’s success,” said Campbell.
The full-time IT technician for the Township of Severn admits he feels pressure to do a good job and reward the trust voters put in him.
“There is pressure, of course, (but) I also know they’re behind me and hopefully I can make them all proud and they won’t regret the decision,” said Campbell, who was savouring his victory with some champagne and the company of his family, friends and campaign volunteers.
When it’s time to get down to work in December, Campbell said a key priority for him is an issue near and dear to residents in his ward.
“The first thing I’d really like to see resolved is the Grape Island issue,” said Campbell, referencing a long simmering dispute principally about barging. “In this ward, that’s probably the biggest issue. I’m really hoping we can get both sides back to the table and come up with a resolution that makes everyone happy.”
Abbott, who owns a property maintenance business, thanked his supporters in a Facebook message. He said he was “very impressed” he came so close to winning in his political debut.
“There isn’t anything to be ashamed of,” he wrote. “I ran a clean election, I was honest and factual with what I was saying. I truly hope that the people that are voted in finally start listening to we the people.”
He said he was grateful 908 people “heard my voice. I will continue to be a voice.”
