Tecumseh Election: Hardcastle Claims Ward 4 Seat

Cheryl Hardcastle reclaimed her seat on the Tecumseh council by defeating incumbent Brian Houston in the Ward 4 race. Hardcastle received 781 votes, while Houston garnered 638, giving the challenger a 143 vote margin of victory.

The former deputy mayor and federal member of parliament cited a desire to apply her government experience at the local level. "I still had energy left after I retired and I said, you know what, I just want to focus on my neighbourhood," she said. "I want to focus on my town and bringing some of the experience that I have."

Hardcastle emphasized her ability to work across different levels of administration. "I don’t want to seem arrogant and just say like I’m coming in and and I know what’s best, but I do understand how to collaborate," she noted. She stated that she is eager to build relationships with current council members and county officials, including former colleagues who now hold mayoral or deputy mayoral roles in other municipalities.

Upon taking office, Hardcastle plans to address growth related traffic issues and improve communication channels for residents. She specifically advocates for the restoration of advisory committees, which the town previously eliminated. "In Tecumseh, we got rid of advisory committees, and I’d like to bring those back," she said. She proposed committees to provide feedback on heritage, arts, culture, and parks.

Voter turnout for the Tecumseh municipal election stood at 47.4 per cent. The result secures Hardcastle a place on the council table for the upcoming term.