I’ve taken some time to reflect and regroup from the painful end to my campaign for Reeve of Hilton Township. I will forever wonder who that one person was that I needed to make a difference. There have been so many elections in my lifetime where I’ve doubted that my single vote will make a difference – I will never think that way again.

Just before 10pm, on Election night, my appointed scrutineer, Joe Books, arrived to deliver the results.

“One vote difference.” Joe said, “91 to 92.”

“Who had 92, Rod or I?” I asked.

“Rod” Joe said as he braced for my response.

That moment was surreal for me. All of the work over 3 months and it all came down to a single vote. I could see both the comedy and the tragedy of such a result. To come so painfully close felt worse then losing by a wider margin. What I had hoped would become the beginning of 4 incredible years quickly became the end of 3 all-consuming months.

A recount was done on the night of the election. A second count was done and there was no change from the original tally. There were no spoiled or contested ballots and it really was simply a one vote difference.

I am thankful and humbled by the support of the 91 voters that cast their ballot for me. I feel more disappointment for letting those 91 people down then anything else. These supporters are the ones that volunteer their time and show their support to build a strong sense of community and extend their arms to new and established residents alike. They share my vision of a township that exhibits strong leadership outside our municipality while building a strong foundation at home. To these people I express my most sincere thanks and extend my deepest apology for not being able to put their vote to work, as their new Reeve.

I would also like to thank the dozens of people that have emailed, phoned and personally expressed their disappointment in the election result. What amazes me is wide-reaching response of these people. It seems our little election was being watched closely by not only the township but by the rest of the island, out onto the mainland, through Algoma and into the Sault.

Many have asked if I will try again in 4 years – considering the close result. I will carefully consider my future endeavours based on consideration for my family and based on the performance of the new Reeve and council.

One thing is clear from this election – only 183 people voted of just over 700 eligible voters. I hope that the new council finds this as unacceptable as myself and moves to find methods that allow all voters reasonable access to the political process in Hilton. When voter turnout equals 26%, something needs to be done to get true representation. Inaction by the new council, on this issue, is self-serving and works against the democratic process.

I wish the new Reeve and Council success and I hope they see such a close result as a hint that some change is required. That people want a leader and expect council to be proactive in local issues. I hope council explores alternative methods and technologies for public council meetings to make it more approachable and accessible to residents and ratepayers. I hope they do what is right for Hilton today and for our future.

I encourage everyone to get involved in the municipal process and hold those that are voted in accountable for the decisions they make on our behalf. Everyone holds their own valid opinion and has a right to be heard. Each one of us can make a difference and even one single vote can have a large impact.