Brogan Aylward earns a win for the ages

Keri Lush and new councillor Ryan Leaman congratulate newly elected Mayor Brogan Aylward after the results were released on election day Oct. 26.

By Stewart Grant

An astonishing 88.8 per cent. That’s the share of the mayoral vote that Brogan Aylward captured Monday night, delivering a landslide victory for the 27-year-old who will become the next mayor of St. Marys – and the youngest mayor in St. Marys’ history.

A packed house at Broken Rail Brewing erupted in celebration at 10 p.m. Monday when the results were released. Aylward, a three-time deputy mayor, received 2,491 votes, while former town councillor Don Van Galen received 313.

Voter turnout increased significantly over the 2022 election, when incumbent Mayor Al Strathdee was acclaimed to a third term and no mayoral contest was held. This year’s total of 2,824 votes in the mayoral race was up 82.8 per cent from the 1,545 ballots cast in 2022. As a percentage of eligible voters, turnout rose to 43.5 per cent from 24.9 per cent.

Andrea Macko and Bill Pickering led the councillor race, receiving 2,155 and 2,087 votes, respectively, in their first bids for council seats. Incumbents Jim Craigmile (1,766), Fern Pridham (1,690) and Marg Luna (1,578) finished in the next three spots, while newcomer Ryan Leaman rounded out the six elected councillors with 1,533 votes.

Ryan Lush (1,443) and Stephen Hearn (1,070) each earned more than 1,000 votes, underscoring one of the campaign’s positive storylines; St. Marys had a strong field of candidates interested in serving the community.

In the school board trustee elections, Sheila Armstrong-Marshall retained her seat on the Avon Maitland District School Board, while Derek Van De Walle defeated incumbent Mary Helen Van Loon for the Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board.

Prior to Monday’s vote tally, Aylward reflected on his first term on council and the campaign that propelled him to the mayor’s office.

“Four years ago, I was given the opportunity to represent the town I’ve called home my entire life. Serving on council, and more recently as deputy mayor, has been an incredible experience and something I’ll always be grateful for,” he said.

He said his first term had given him a greater appreciation for the work involved in running the town, the challenges it faces and the decisions council must make.

He said his conversations with residents on the campaign trail reinforced his appreciation for the community.

“I’ve had so many great conversations with residents, whether it’s been at their front doors, at local businesses, during community events, or just running into someone around town. I’ve heard plenty of ideas, concerns and different perspectives, and I appreciate everyone who has taken the time to share them with me.”

He also thanked the volunteers who helped with door knocking, flyer delivery and campaign signs, along with his friends and family for their support.

“Growing up in St. Marys, I always knew this was a special place. Having the opportunity to serve this community has only strengthened that feeling. I care deeply about this town, the people who live here, and the future we’re building together.”

According to town staff, Aylward is the youngest mayor in the town’s history. Prior to this election, the town’s youngest mayor was Harold Lang, elected at 30 years old and serving as mayor from 1930-1931.