Enniskillen Township Mayor Kevin Marriott intends to seek another term as Lambton County warden, after receiving encouragement from fellow councillors.
"I guess it feels like there's things that need to be completed," he told Sarnia News Today. "I really wasn't sure the last few months knowing that elections were coming up what I should do... but it was the positive feedback from county councillors that made me ultimately decide to let my name stand."
Marriott was first elected as warden in 2020 after previously serving as deputy warden. In 2022, he was acclaimed as Lambton County's 160th warden.
If elected for a third term, Marriott said his first priority would be to address the affordable housing and homelessness crisis.
"That's the issue that would be nice to see returned to some sense of normalcy like before COVID came along," he said.
Infrastructure improvements and economic growth were also listed as top priorities.
Marriott said he would also like to see some ongoing projects completed, including the Maxwell Park Place project. Fences were erected at the Sarnia site in 2021 but the housing project has experienced numerous delays.
"I know we take some criticism for it but to see it moving forward now, it feels really good," he said.
As for new projects, Marriott said perhaps the county will have more luck in receiving government funding next year.
"I've been trying to keep in contact and build a relationship with both the provincial and federal housing ministers so that we will rise to the top when it comes to getting funds to do new builds," he said. "I would like to focus on something for addiction treatment because I believe that goes hand in hand with affordable housing."
County councillors will elect a new warden in a secret ballot during the December 4 council meeting.
City/County Councillor Brian White is currently serving as deputy warden.
Marriott said White and County Councillor/ St. Clair Township Mayor Jeff Agar had expressed interest in running for deputy warden.
At this time, Marriott said no one else has indicated their intent to run for warden. However, names can be submitted up until the vote takes place.
The elected warden and deputy warden will serve a two-year term from 2025-2026.
The meeting in council chambers will begin at 9 a.m. at 789 Broadway St. in Wyoming. Council meetings are also livestreamed on the county's website.