Economic development a key focus for South Huron’s new mayor
By John Miner
South Huron’s new mayor says priorities in the next four years will include job creation, increasing affordability, and looking at the municipality’s recreation programs.
A long-time councillor for Usborne Ward, Oke handily won election over incumbent George Finch and former mayor Maureen Cole.
The official tally was Oke with 2,033 votes, Finch 1,516, and Cole 690. Voter turnout was 48.1 percent, up from 44.49 percent in 2022.
Both Oke and Finch said they were surprised at the outcome. Cole declined to comment on the results.
Oke attributed his win to a feeling in the community that it was time for a change.
“I was surprised, but I’m really pleased that the residents of South Huron put their faith in me and I look forward to working with council for the next four years.”
He thanked Finch for the years that he was mayor of South Huron.
In highlighting job creation as a priority, Oke noted there is a series of new housing going up in South Huron.
“We also have to have work for the people to live in those houses. We need to look at economic development.”
Oke said he has other priorities as well, but will need to discuss those with the other members of council.
“I’m not the only one on council, I want to work with the whole council.”
He said he doesn’t plan to ever use the strong mayor powers that the province has given to the heads of council.
“Seven of us are elected by the residents of South Huron and I expect everyone to have a vote at the table.”
First elected in 2018, Finch was running for his third term as mayor.
In an email, Finch said that although he thought the results would have been different, he supports the will of the people and wishes the new council every success.
“In my eight years as mayor we went from what was described as a mess from an Integrity Commissioner Investigation to now becoming the economic engine of the region with a tax rate that went from fifth highest in Huron County to third lowest.”
Finch said his platform to provide more affordable and long-term solutions for recreation capacity, and measures for more public safety and housing, was not what people wanted.
“I will respect their wishes.”
The election results he said means he will have more than 35 extra hours a week to spend with his family. He is looking forward to the change in pace.
“I’m very proud of what I was able to accomplish as mayor for eight years and want to thank my supporters and our incredible staff who are truly the backbone of the municipality.
In her campaign, Cole emphasized the need for health care planning for South Huron Hospital and fiscal responsibility on the part of council.
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