Norfolk County will have a new mayor, with Amy Martin not seeking re-election. If you’re still weighing your options before voting today, our candidate interviews and debate coverage can help you compare priorities and proposals.
Our newsroom interviewed six of the seven mayoral candidates and covered the October 13 debate hosted by the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce at the Port Dover Community Centre.
Below, you can explore two debate stories, watch the full event and learn more about the candidates through their individual profiles.
Compare the candidates’ debate answers
Taxes, spending and affordable housing
The six participating candidates explained how they would deliver campaign promises, manage tax increases and respond to housing needs. Their answers highlighted different approaches to municipal services, infrastructure spending, economic development and the County’s role in affordable housing.
Rapid-fire questions
Short answers offered a quick comparison of candidates’ positions on strong mayor powers, recreation fees, Ride Norfolk, paid parking, housing density, tourism taxes and other local issues.
Rapid-fire questions puts Ward 5 candidates on the spot | NorfolkToday.ca
Watch the full debate:
Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce Mayoral Debate
Meet the candidates
Our profiles include audio from each candidate’s interview and more detail about their background and priorities. Candidates are listed alphabetically by surname.
Doug Brunton
The Ward 5 councillor highlighted his municipal public works experience, with priorities including infrastructure spending, waste management and protecting local groundwater sources.
Dave Finch
The former Grimsby alderman, retired paramedic and practising psychotherapist identified fiscal responsibility, industrial development and long-term water and wastewater planning as key priorities.
Noel Haydt
The former Norfolk councillor focused on accountability, affordability, commercial and industrial growth, and turning existing plans into completed projects, including improvements to downtown Simcoe.
Ken Hewitt
The former Haldimand County mayor emphasized budget discipline, supporting municipal staff and strengthening relationships with provincial and federal governments.
Keith Milner
Milner identified property taxes, water affordability and farmland protection as major concerns, while calling for tighter spending controls and less reliance on outside consultants.
Adam Veri
The Ward 6 councillor and deputy mayor highlighted affordability, a municipal services review, economic development and a long-term plan for Norfolk’s downtowns, starting with Simcoe.
Ken Gilpin is also running for mayor. He did not respond to our interview request and did not participate in the October 13 debate.
Polls are open today until 8 p.m.
