Acchione seeking re-election as Friendly City mayor

Lee Griffi, Editor

“I am seeking re-election as Mayor of Woodstock because I believe our city is moving in the right direction, but there is still important work ahead.”

Current city mayor Jerry Acchione is hoping people will mark an X beside his name in the upcoming municipal election to again represent Woodstock.

“My commitment to Woodstock did not begin when I became mayor — it has been built through decades of volunteering, community involvement, advocacy, and public service. I care deeply about this community and want to continue providing stable, experienced leadership as Woodstock grows and faces new opportunities and challenges,” he explained.

Acchione said Woodstock has seen significant growth and investment in recent years, and his focus has been on building a city that remains affordable, safe, welcoming, and financially responsible.

“I believe in collaborative leadership, listening to residents, and making decisions that balance immediate needs with long-term sustainability for future generations.”

Looking forward into the fall and next year, he said housing affordability and homelessness remain among the biggest issues facing the community.

“Many residents are struggling with the rising cost of living, and affordable housing continues to be a challenge for families, seniors, and young people alike. These issues impact not only individuals directly affected but also our workforce, healthcare system, local economy, and overall quality of life. Through partnerships with community organizations, Oxford County, and other levels of government, we must continue working toward practical solutions that support both immediate needs and long-term housing growth.”

Acchione stated economic stability is another major priority. While the city has been fortunate to attract significant investment and maintain a strong manufacturing base, uncertainty in the broader economy continues to affect communities everywhere.

“Supporting local businesses, protecting jobs, and positioning Woodstock for future investment opportunities will remain essential. We have worked hard to build strong relationships with industry leaders and government partners, and those efforts are helping create opportunity and confidence in our city.”

He added infrastructure is also critical as Woodstock continues to grow. Residents expect reliable roads, recreation facilities, water capacity, emergency services, and community spaces.

“We must continue investing responsibly while ensuring taxpayers receive value and strong financial management. Growth needs to be planned carefully so we maintain the quality of life residents expect and deserve.”

Acchione added he is proud of the work accomplished through the Mayor’s Social Well-Being Task Force, which focuses on housing and homelessness, food insecurity, and youth well-being.

“Bringing community partners together to address these complex issues has helped strengthen collaboration and create more coordinated local responses. We have accomplished so much in a short time that I share everyone’s pride in delivering a new Food Rescue Hub, City Encampment Team, new Youth Hub, as well as fully supporting the creation of the HART Hub. City council also contributed financially and continued advocacy for a new Homelessness Support Centre here in Woodstock through Oxford County.”

He said when residents look at his track record of eight years as a city councillor and over the last three-plus years as Mayor, he hopes they see his leadership has been accessible, collaborative, and focused on results.

“Our city has continued to see residential, commercial, and industrial growth while advancing important community initiatives and investments. We have strengthened relationships with businesses, community organizations, and other levels of government while continuing to advocate strongly for Woodstock.”

He also believes experience matters.

“Municipal governments are facing increasingly complex challenges, and having leadership that understands how to navigate growth, advocate for funding, manage infrastructure needs, and build partnerships from day one is extremely important. My focus has always been on practical solutions, responsible decision-making, and ensuring residents feel heard.”

Acchione said, most importantly, he cares deeply about the community.

“Woodstock is a city built on hard work, volunteerism, compassion, and pride. I remain committed to protecting those values while helping position our community for continued success in the years ahead. I would also like to thank the many residents, volunteers, businesses, community groups, and city staff who work every day to make Woodstock such a great place to live. The progress we have achieved reflects a community working together, and I remain excited about what we can continue accomplishing together in the future.”