Essex Town Council meets to appoint a mayor on January 24, 2022. Image courtesy Town of Essex/YouTube.Essex Town Council meets to appoint a mayor on January 24, 2022. Image courtesy Town of Essex/YouTube.
Windsor

Ward 3 replacement in Essex expected to be named

After its meeting on Monday night, Essex Town Council may be back to its full complement for the first time since Larry Snively resigned as Mayor in January.

Council could finally choose a replacement for its vacant seat in Ward 3.

A decision was expected last Monday night, but councillors voted 6-to-1 to defer the decision, giving themselves more time to review the applications of ten candidates.

Council's other Ward 3 councillor, Chris Vander Doelen was the lone vote opposed saying he was concerned about the lack of representation for residents in his ward ahead of an information session on home rentals.

The candidates originally included former Mayor Ron McDermott and former councillor Ron Rogers, but they withdrew their names during the February 28 meeting.

Two of the remaining candidates also have council experience. Bill Caixiero is a former councillor, and Percy Dufour served as deputy mayor in the past.

The other eight are volunteer Jason Matyi, retired electrician Eldon Brush, Colchester resident Brad Allard, Committee of Adjustment member Sherry Ducedre, retiree Richard Kokovai, former automotive engineer Randy MacLeod, tradesman Mac Goslin, and hospitality specialist Rodney Hammond.

Since Snively's resignation following a guilty plea to charges under the Elections Act, Essex town council has undergone a series of changes. Former Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche was appointed Mayor in January, and councillor Steve Bjorkman deputy mayor a week later.

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