Patricia ‘Pat’ McCourt rejoining Township of Hamilton council
By editor/reporter Sarah Hyatt
Township of Hamilton residents aren’t looking at much change for the next council term, with the exception of the return of Patricia “Pat” McCourt.
Early on, it was confirmed the Mayor Scott Jibb was acclaimed and would retain his seat.
Similarly, Deputy Mayor Larry Williamson also kept his seat running unopposed and was acclaimed.
Councillors Bruce Buttar and John Davison have also secured their bids for re-election after Monday night’s (Oct. 26) election.
This means council will be the essentially the same, except Coun. Mark Lovshin has decided to retire after 25 years of service, and McCourt will now round out the team.
Leading up to election night, Buttar earlier told the Independent that he viewed the top issue for the community as the Wesleyville nuclear project, saying it could have a tremendous impact not only in Port Hope, but all surrounding municipalities.
“Issues such as housing, infrastructure and environmental concerns must be addressed before a project of this magnitude can proceed,” he said, while pledging early on if re-elected that his first step would be to engage with Ontario Power Generation (OPG) to ensure the needs of area municipalities are known and addressed by OPG, stressing there are ongoing consultations that must involve local communities.
He also spoke of the importance of maintaining communication with all neighbouring municipalities to ensure inclusion in relevant discussions and to ultimately make informed decisions relating to the project. He vowed to remain committed to staying informed and speaking up for residents when it comes to the Wesleyville nuclear proposal.
For McCourt, she has her eyes on an increased focus around affordable housing.
“To make our community complete, there should be reasonable housing options for all stages of life,” McCourt told the Independent earlier. “As a senior, I understand the desire for smaller accessible spaces that allow us to maintain a safe, independent lifestyle.
“It is also difficult to retain youth because there is a lack of appropriate housing.”
McCourt highlighted a common concern across Northumberland: Youth being forced to move beyond local borders just to find housing, whether rentals or starter homes.
Previously on council, she noted she already has supported affordable developments – and successfully advocated for a decreased minimum size for homes and bylaw changes to enable attached or separated secondary residential units, all with the hopes of putting a dent in need for affordable housing. She has pledged to continue advocacy efforts under housing.
Looking ahead, McCourt also noted the township’s official plan needs to be reviewed.
“I will look for ways to improve our ability to promote diverse housing options in our community,” she said, adding she’ll also encourage township staff to investigate solutions implemented in other municipalities. “My goal is that people of all ages can have the opportunity to enjoy safe affordable housing within our township.”
According to the township, Davison took the highest number of votes with 1,633 residents casting ballots in his favour, while Buttar followed closely behind with 1,457 ballots and McCourt with 1,375 votes.
Candidates Jay Chatten – who received 1,234 votes – and Robert MacArthur – who received 789 votes – were not successful in their campaign to secure a council seat. All of the councillor candidates cumulatively garnered a total reported 2,519 votes, while there were 17 spoiled ballots, according to the township.
Final voter turnout hovered around 23.7 per cent, with 10,760 eligible electors casting ballots, reported township staff. In comparison to the last election, turnout dipped slightly from 27.1 per cent, according to the latest information available at press deadline.
The inauguration of the 2026-30 council is set for Tuesday, Nov. 17 at 1 p.m. in council chambers at the Township of Hamilton Municipal Office and will also be livestreamed via the township’s YouTube channel. The next term will conclude in November 2030.
The Township of Hamilton hosted no in-person announcement on election night.
EDITOR’S NOTE: School board trustees who were elected or acclaimed are included in Port Hope and Cobourg election rundowns.
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