As part of 90.5 myFM’s 2026 Election Coverage, myFM reached out to candidates in South Huron, Bluewater, Lambton Shores and Lucan-Biddulph to hear why they believe residents should vote for them on October 26th.
Here’s what Ted Oke, running for Mayor in South Huron had to say.
TRANSCRIBED AUDIO:
“Hello, South Huron. My name is Ted Oke and I’m candidate for Mayor of South Huron. One of the questions I’m asked most often is why are you running for Mayor? The answer is simple. I care deeply about South Huron and I believe it is time for a change in leadership.
South Huron has been home to my family for more than 175 years. My family has farmed, worked and lived here for generations. I was born and raised in South Huron, attended the local schools, played minor sports, participated in 4-H, and began my working career here. My wife Tara and I raised our family here as well. For the past 12 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as Ward 3 Usbourne Counselor. During my time on council, I worked on municipal budgets, economic development initiatives, healthcare partnerships, agricultural issues, and long-term community planning. I’ve also chaired initiatives focused on business recovery, fire services and regional healthcare while serving on numerous community organizations, including Minor Hockey and South Huron Chamber of Commerce and the Kirkton Woodham Community Centre and Pool Committees.
These experiences have shown me what strong local leadership can accomplish. That is a major reason why I’m running for Mayor.
I believe leadership begins with listening. It means asking questions, bringing people together, making informed decisions and following through on commitments. Professionally, I’ve spent decades working with agricultural, financial and commercial businesses. That experience has taught me the importance of sound financial management, evaluating risk, balancing competing priorities and making decisions based on facts. Those same principles should guide municipal governments. One of the greatest challenges facing South Huron today is finding the right balance between growth, affordability, and maintaining the quality of service residents expect. Families, youth, seniors, farmers, and business are all feeling the effects of rising costs these days, and the municipality faces those same pressures.
We need a broad range of housing options that are affordable and attainable. We need employment opportunities that encourage young people and families to build their futures here. We also need services and amenities that allow seniors to remain active and engaged within our community. Supporting local businesses, encouraging investment and expanding our commercial and industrial tax base are also critical priorities.
As we focus on growth, we cannot lose sight of rural South Huron. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of our economy and our identity. Supporting rural communities means protecting farmland, maintaining roads and drainage systems, supporting agriculture operations, and ensuring rural residents receive responsive service and clear communication from their municipality.
South Huron cannot solve every challenge alone. Whether we are talking about health care, housing, recreation, transportation, emergency services, or major infrastructure, success requires on collaboration with neighbouring municipalities, the county, other levels of government, community organizations, and the private sector. I also believe residents deserve a municipal government that communicates openly and honestly. People should know what council is discussing, why decisions are being made and how those decisions affect them. Residents should have meaningful opportunities to provide input and should feel confident that their concerns are being heard and addressed. If elected mayor, I will be accessible. I will listen and I will communicate openly and will continue to ask the tough questions.
My approach has always been working together, growing together.
To learn more about my platform or to contact me directly, please reach out to Ted Oke for Mayor on Facebook or email me at tedoke88@gmail.com. Remember, your voice matters and your vote matters. Vote Ted Oke Mayor for South Huron on October 26th.”
