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 George Finch, running for Mayor in South Huron had to say.
TRANSCRIBED AUDIO:
“My name is George Finch and I’m seeking my third term for Mayor of South Huron. I’m running for Mayor of South Huron because I believe that we have gained significant momentum during my last two terms with me as your proud Mayor. We are literally leading the region in economic development like never before. In the last eight years, our tax rate compared to the rest of the county has dropped compared to the other eight municipalities and we are the economic engine for Huron County.
Originally in 2018, I was asked by the public to run for Mayor, due to my past involvement in South Huron as a community leader and volunteer. I was the South Huron Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year in 2010 and 2016 and I have been honoured to have been chosen as the recipient. I have been asked again by many members of the public to lead again. South Huron is very special community with a lot of community spirit and when I came here in 1986 as a new OPP recruit, I knew this was a good fit for me and I wanted to contribute to make it even better.
That passion has not changed in 40 years. As a frontline OPP officer, I saw firsthand the disparities in our community. They’re residents of all social economic levels, but we all needed to live in the same space. Everyone is important and everyone needs to be heard. You will see me at various functions and events throughout South Huron. I have been called the mayor who is everywhere. I’ve been told I’m a good listener and that I make time for people, which is why I’m out in the public interacting with the people as much as possible.
Prior to being in politics, I had no formal training or experience, but my role as a volunteer and being a police officer living in South Huron provided me that source of experience. Leading South Huron during COVID-19 was challenging, but while within my ability, as was leading the crisis on housing and homelessness. When it comes to what our greatest issue is right now, I would say that in the last eight years, we have solved a lot of the challenges, but we still need to focus on housing and homelessness.
I was successful in advocating the county for the 20 unit affordable housing complex on Sanders Street East. This will help to stabilize some of that need. The new Gibbon Street 40 unit project in Goderich is another complex that will provide wraparound services for those with higher acuity needs. We have seen housing prices come down significantly and many new housing starts have begun. When we keep it simple by looking at the housing problem as a supply and demand issue, we can solve it, but it does take time.
Advocacy for the South Huron Hospital is important for me as we grow because the demands on our health care will increase, including the mental health of our community. And as a result, I have formed the Tri-County Regional Health Care Alliance with four of our neighbours to support the hospital and area medical clinics and has been very successful when meeting with the Ministry of Health as a team.
I’m asking the public to vote for me for several reasons.
My proven track record of leadership that consists of many accomplishments, which include leading the region in economic development. Upgrades to both arenas. Reducing the speeds on our urban streets from 50 kmph to 40 kmph and introducing community safety zones in our higher pedestrian areas to 30 kmph around our schools. Dashwood Community Centre upgrades. The Dashwood Fire Hall is now under construction after all these years. The implementation of the Asset Management Plan to get the most out your tax dollars and stabilizing your tax rates. Establishing the Connection Centre to respond to our most vulnerable citizens experiencing housing and food insecurities, establishing a strong relationship with the province that has seen approximately $30 million in grant funding for many projects here in South Huron. Over 950 housing units have been approved with seven active housing developments on the go. Establishing the Tri-County Regional Healthcare Alliance in 2024 with our four neighbouring municipalities that supports provincial advocacy for the South Huron Hospital and our medical clinics.
When you ask why should people vote for me, it is quite simple. I lead by example, and I include everyone in my decision making.
My goals for the next four years and with the support of the new council is to pursue phase two of the South Huron Rec Center with a walking track and gymnasium. Since it will provide an opportunity for all of our residents to recreate together and will be very affordable. Advocate for the reinstatement of an OPP brief boarding location because safety is our number one responsibility. I want to add on to the Exeter of fire hall in accordance with the fire master plan, and will advocate and pursue more affordable housing. I will also advocate the County Council for the roundabout at Airport Line and Dashwood Road, and I will support an off-leash dog park in Exeter.
I always tell people my greatest responsibility is to the protection of the public, and the best predictor of future leadership is based on past performance. I would suggest that my track record does support that. I have an excellent track record based on my accomplishments and ability to work with others. My promise to the public is I will continue to do my best for you as it is the only promise that is truly achievable. Check out my Facebook page, Re-elect Finch for Mayor, and contact me anytime. Thank you for your time.”
