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 Marissa Vaughan, running for Ward 1 in South Huron had to say.
TRANSCRIBED AUDIO:
“Hi, I’m Marissa Vaughan and I’m seeking re-election as Councillor for Ward 1 in South Huron. For the past 12 years, I’ve had the privilege of representing the residents of Ward 1 and I’m asking for the opportunity to continue that work.
What inspired me to put my name forward again? Two things really. First, the positive feedback I receive from constituents when I bring their concerns to the council table. That tells me the work still matters. Second, a strong desire to help finish what we’ve started. My focus this election is straightforward, living within our means. Our residents only have one checkbook. I believe in cost-effective, needs-based solutions for South Huron. We manage over $600 million in public assets, roads, bridges, buildings and pipes in the ground. All of them need proper maintenance so they keep their value.
In Ward 1 alone, we’ve invested millions of dollars improving roads, sidewalks, culverts, bridges, water mains, sewage systems and street lighting. At the upcoming 2027 budget, I’ll keep pushing for real value for money on both operating and capital spending. I’m also committed to finishing the work already underway, making it easier to build new homes across South Huron, a new fire station in Dashwood, more leisure and recreation opportunities at Stephen Arena after the $5 million of investments we’ve made these past seven years, continued improvements to our park facilities in Centralia, the McNaughton Trail, and our parklands with accessibility for all ages and abilities and completing the rebuild and repaving of King Street in Crediton with enhanced drainage and new sidewalks to improve safety and connectivity.
If re-elected, I will continue working to strike the right balance between delivering safe, reliable services and living within our means. That means realistic, cost-effective solutions for taxpayers. How will I do that? The same way I have for 12 years, by doing my homework, coming prepared to council and budget meetings, listening carefully to residents, researching the issues thoroughly, and asking the tough questions. This past term, we’ve accomplished a lot of important planning. A new official plan, zoning bylaw, water and wastewater management plan, an updated asset management plan, community improvement plan, development charges study, and an active transportation study, all to strengthen our future.
On the ground, we’ve delivered Stephen Arena upgrades, new sidewalks and streetlights in Dashwood, revitalized Port Blake Park, introduced new cancer protection measures for our firefighters, new and upgraded water and sewer means to support housing and employment lands in the greater Grand Bend area, resurface roads and culvert work along the beeline.
There’s more to do and I’d like the chance to help finish it. Thank you for listening. I’m Marissa Vaughan and I’m asking for your vote on Election Day.”
