Ward 5 by-election underway ahead of March vote

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

Residents in Ward 5 will soon choose a new representative at the council table, as the County of Brant moves ahead with a by-election to fill the vacant seat.

Council voted in late November to reverse its earlier decision to appoint a candidate and instead proceed with a by-election, citing transparency and public input as key considerations.

The seat has been vacant since former councillor Christine Garneau resigned last fall. After initially supporting a direct appointment, council revisited the issue at its Nov. 25 meeting, ultimately opting to let Ward 5 voters decide.

Under the approved timeline, nominations closed at the end of January, and Election Day is scheduled for March 9, following the 45-day period required under the Municipal Elections Act. The successful candidate is expected to be sworn in prior to the March 24 council meeting.

The vote will be conducted primarily online, with one physical polling station located in Ward 5. Staff estimate the cost of the by-election at between $20,000 and $25,000, to be funded through the elections reserve.

Clerk’s staff have also noted that the by-election provides an opportunity to test online voting procedures and vendor capacity ahead of the 2026 municipal election this fall. 

While the by-election will determine who represents Ward 5 for the remainder of the current term, voters will return to the polls again later this year during the regularly scheduled municipal election, when all council seats, including Ward 5, will be contested.

In the following pages, The Paris Independent speaks with the Ward 5 candidates about why they are running, the issues they believe matter most, and what they hope to bring to council if elected. Responses are presented in their own words to help voters better understand each candidate’s perspective ahead of election day and make an informed choice locally together.

Greg Anderson

1.Why are you running in this byelection, and what specifically motivated you to put your name forward at this time?

I am running in this by-election because I want to continue to give back to the community in which I live. I have served Brant and Brantford as a school trustee for the last 12 years and want to be directly involved in local County governance. I intend to run for council in ward 5 in the October municipal election and thought that this by-election was a good time to let residents know of my interest in joining Council.

2. What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Ward 5 right now, and how would you work at the council table to address them?

I believe that there are several issues at play currently in Brant County. I would like to see the level of services provided by the County remain the same or be improved providing that the local property tax increase is at the rate of inflation or lower. I also feel that we need to carefully plan growth in the county recognizing the need to keep as much good farmland as possible.  A third priority of mine is to build a new hospital that will serve all residents of Brant. The current hospital in Brantford has long passed its “best before date”. I am a very clear communicator and will make myself heard at council and will actively listen to other voices at the table before making a decision.

3. If elected, what principle or values would guide your decision-making as a county councillor?

To be an effective councillor, I will be an active listener at council meetings and seek out views from the ward that I represent as well as those from across the county. Councillors need to make decisions based on all available information presented and must be able to prioritize the needs of the community. I am guided by the belief that a councillor’s decisions must offer the most benefit to the greatest number of county residents at a cost that can be tolerated by the citizens of Brant

4. What would you like Ward 5 residents to know about you that may not be obvious from campaign materials or signs?

Residents need to know that I have years of experience serving on a multitude of boards, committees, and organizations that will enable me to quickly become an effective councillor.  As I am now retired from years in the positions of principal and superintendent of education, I have the time and energy to devote myself to the issues that may arise in ward 5 and in the county. Being retired allows me to be very accessible for all residents whether by phone, text, email, or personal meeting. I will be a full-time councillor who has the energy to well-serve the area.

5. Do you have any previous experience in municipal government or community leadership, including past campaigns or volunteer roles?

I have years of experience in governance at various levels. Currently, I am an elected school trustee with the Grand Erie District School Board where I have served since 2014.  I was Chair of the Board in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.

I am also the immediate past Chair of the Child and Family Services of Grand Erie Board (formerly Brant CAS) where I led the amalgamation of Brant, Haldimand, and Norfolk Children’s Aid Societies.

Prior to that, I chaired the Brant County Health Unit and was also the President of the Boys and Girls Club of Brantford.

I have also served on boards for the Brant County Health System (Brantford hospital board); Lansdowne Children’s Centre; and the YMCA of Hamilton Burlington Brantford.

In 2013-14, I was president of the Rotary Club of Brantford.

My years of experience in these positions enables me to work very effectively with others to “get jobs done”.

Joanne Dorr

1. Why are you running in this by-election, and what specifically motivated you to put your name forward at this time?

I’m running because I’m ready to stop watching from the sidelines and start doing the work. I’ve wanted for a long time to put my Political Science degree to practical use, and local politics is where decisions affect daily life. Municipal government should be about listening, connecting with residents, and delivering the basics: safe roads, strong community and social services, and spending that keeps property taxes as stable as possible. In local government, accountability lives next door. I’m ready to represent Ward 5. As the Great One once said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

2. What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Ward 5 right now, and how would you work at the council table to address them?

The most pressing issues in Ward 5 include responsible development, healthcare access, and housing. Residents want transparency about long-term planning, and sustainable outcomes for housing and employment lands. On healthcare, we can learn from innovative approaches like Colwood, B.C. 's municipally supported family doctor clinic, which recruits physicians and aims to serve thousands of residents. I’ll also track affordable housing commitments and timelines, and push for real progress. People want straight answers, clear priorities, and realistic budgets. At council, I’ll read the fine print, ask tough questions, and communicate consistently with residents.

3. If elected, what principles or values would guide your decision-making as a county councillor?

I’m guided by fairness, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and respect — even when opinions differ. I believe you can be kind and still be firm. I’ll always ask: is this good value for taxpayers? Is it sustainable? Does it make life better for residents? And can we actually deliver it? I’m not interested in politics for show. I’m interested in good, steady local government — the kind where people can see what’s happening, understand the choices, and trust that their councillor is doing the work.

4. What would you like Ward 5 residents to know about you that may not be obvious from campaign materials or signs?

What you might not see on a sign is that I’m not in this for attention — I’m in it to get things done. I listen carefully, follow up, and take public service seriously. I’ve spent years in community and corporate roles where you learn to stay calm, organized, and fair — especially when people are frustrated. If elected, I’ll work hard with council and staff, and be a steady, prepared voice for Ward 5. I also believe healthy communities need room for different opinions. I’ll listen to everyone and decide based on facts, fairness, and the public interest.

5. Do you have any previous experience in municipal government or community leadership, including past campaigns or volunteer roles?

Yes. I’ve served as an Executive Director of the Caledonia & Region Chamber of Commerce, where I led event planning, governance, volunteer coordination, and community engagement. I’ve also supported political campaigns in organizing and scheduling capacities, so I understand how work gets done behind the scenes. My professional background includes policy-focused work, project rollout, and accountability in both community and organizational settings. I’m not new to leadership or the workload that comes with it. I bring energy, organization, and practical follow-through.

Mike Gatopoulos

1. Why are you running in this byelection, and what specifically motivated you to put your name forward at this time?

I’m running in this by-election because I care deeply about Ward 5.  And not just as a voter, as someone raising a family and building a business here. I follow council closely, reading agendas and minutes, and talking with neighbours who feel their concerns aren’t always being heard. That stayed with me. This isn’t just about politics for me… it’s about protecting what makes our community special while planning responsibly for the growth we know is coming. I put my name forward now because I believe leadership needs to be present, accountable, and willing to step up when it matters.

2. What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Ward 5 right now, and how would you work at the council table to address them?

The most pressing issues in Ward 5 are responsible growth, infrastructure readiness, and transparency in decision-making. Growth is coming, but infrastructure and services must come first. Just as importantly, residents deserve to clearly see where their tax dollars are going. If elected, I will advocate for a clear, accessible breakdown showing how your property tax funds roads, libraries, infrastructure, and other services. That’s what breeds accountability. At the council table, I would push for data-driven planning, recorded votes, and straightforward financial reporting so residents aren’t guessing… they’re informed.

3. If elected, what principles or values would guide your decision-making as a county councillor?

If elected, my decisions will be guided by accountability, service, and community-first thinking. My time with Lansdowne Children’s Centre has shown me how important responsible governance and careful budgeting truly are. With the Brantford-Brant Chamber of Commerce, I’ve seen how local businesses depend on stable, predictable leadership. As a volunteer firefighter, I understand preparedness and putting people first. And as a parent, I care deeply about the kind of community we’re building for the next generation. At the council table, I’ll bring that same steady, practical approach… listening carefully, asking questions, and making decisions that protect Ward 5’s future.

4. What would you like Ward 5 residents to know about you that may not be obvious from campaign materials or signs?

What may not be obvious from a sign is that service isn’t a campaign strategy for me, it’s personal. When my son was diagnosed with a lifelong genetic disorder, it reshaped how I see community. I realized how much families rely on strong local supports and compassionate leadership. That experience pushed me to get involved… from volunteer firefighting to coaching T-Ball here in Ward 5. It’s not idealism. It’s perspective. I understand what’s at stake for families, and that responsibility guides how I serve and how I make decisions.

5. Do you have any previous experience in municipal government or community leadership, including past campaigns or volunteer roles?

I’ve been actively involved in community leadership across several organizations. I currently serve as Vice-Chair of Lansdowne Children’s Centre and Vice-President of the Brantford-Brant Chamber of Commerce. I sit on the Ministers Advisory Council on Special Education and previously served on the Grand Erie Special Education Advisory Committee, advocating for families navigating the education system. I’ve also served on the County of Brant Public Library Board. These roles have given me experience in governance, budgeting, policy review, conflict resolution, and collaborative decision-making. They’ve also reinforced the importance of transparency and accountability, principles I would bring to the council table.

Ella Haley

1. Why are you running in this byelection, and what specifically motivated you to put your name forward at this time? 

I have followed council for many years and can offer knowledge and understanding of key issues in Ward 5 and Brant County. As a 4th generation resident of Brant, I want to keep that rural community feeling while supporting inclusivity.  

I have been a consistent advocate of protecting farmland and promoting sustainable growth with affordable housing, public transit and local environmentally sustainable jobs.

I’m concerned about the rapid growth in Brant County and its impact on the residents and farms (traffic, taxes).

As a dedicated member of the community, I have shown my ability to get things done.

2. What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Ward 5 right now, and how would you work at the council table to address them?

The rapid development and loss of farmland in Brant County. We are losing 319 acres/day of farmland in Ontario. 

I would work to slow down the rate of development and focus on more compact urban development with firm urban boundaries; increase public transit (inter-city and within Brant County); use existing infrastructure (water, sewer) where possible, to avoid expensive sprawl; locate housing within walking distance of jobs; implement affordable housing initiatives, including co-housing for seniors and a dedicated percentage of low-income housing; and address the root causes of homelessness and provide safe housing and support.

3. If elected, what principles or values would guide your decision-making as a county councillor?

Ecological Planning: Smart growth with reduced sprawl, Implement LEED certified building requirements, planning to reduce climate risk

Fiscal responsibility: to taxpayers

Community consultation: on issues that affect residents

Transparency: regarding council decision making

Respect: for residents, fellow councilors and staff.

Inclusive Community: fostering a welcoming environment so that everyone feels safe, respected and valued including people of different socioeconomic status, religion, age, gender, race and ethnicity. 

Reconciliation with First Nations: strengthening our understanding; respecting First Nations’ history and rights.

Ethical Investment: of the County’s investments and the Ontario Municipal Employees Pension System (OMERS) – divest from weapons and international law violations.

4. What would you like Ward 5 residents to know about you that may not be obvious from campaign materials or signs?

My concern for underrepresented members of our community (e.g. migrant farm workers, temporary foreign workers and newcomers). I’m affiliated with groups working to find affordable solutions for new farmers to access land (e.g. ground leases, co-operatives, and community land trusts). 

We’re putting a conservation easement on our farm to protect it from development pressure.

I’m dedicated to creating accessible buildings and events (e.g. Langford Schoolhouse and accessible farm stay).  

We are committed to supporting cyclists. We have a bike repair station and shelter along the Brantford to Dundas rail trail on our farm 

I speak Spanish, some Danish and French. 

5. Do you have any previous experience in municipal government or community leadership, including past campaigns or volunteer roles?

I was runner up in the last municipal election. I’m a project manager for the Langford Conservancy, operating the Langford Schoolhouse as an inclusive community hub with outreach to seniors and farmers. I’m also a project manager for betterbrant.ca helping people to understand land use and planning issues. I have served on the Biggars’ Lane Landfill Liaison Committee, Parks and Recreation Committee, and the Environmental and Sustainability Policy Advisory Committee, the Board of Directors for various farm organizations (National Farmers Union, Local Food and Farming Co-ops, and Ecological Farmers of Ontario) and the Alberta Universities Academic Pension Plan Committee focusing on fiscal responsibility and ethical investment.

Jeffery G. Johnston 

1. Why are you running in this byelection, and what specifically motivated you to put your name forward at this time? 

I love this County, and all good things begin at the grassroots level. My decision to run was a culmination of concerns regarding transparency and accountability. From initial tax hike proposals to skyrocketing development fees ($70,000 per unit by 2027), Council hasn't been clear on how these costs impact our services. I’m running to prioritize community engagement. Whether it's defending local heritage or questioning inconsistent voting processes, your concerns are mine. I am no different than you when it comes to the rising cost of living. Your vote is your voice. I’ll represent what is right for all my constituents.

2. What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Ward 5 right now, and how would you work at the council table to address them?

The most pressing issue facing Ward 5 is the cancellation of essential infrastructure upgrades to prioritize other county developments. Ward 5 cannot afford to fall behind while growth happens elsewhere.

At the council table, I will be a strong, persistent voice to ensure Ward 5 projects remain a priority. I will work to build consensus by presenting evidence-based arguments and fostering collaboration among councillors. My goal is to find common ground that balances growth with the immediate needs of our residents, ensuring that "progress" never comes at the expense of the infrastructure we rely on every day.

3. If elected, what principles or values would guide your decision-making as a county councillor?

I am not easily rattled. My decision-making will be guided by a firm commitment to the constituents of Ward 5. I believe in voting based on your voices and concerns, rather than political convenience.

I will always address issues with honesty, grounding every discussion in truth and hard facts. You can count on me to be a steady, resilient representative who prioritizes transparency and ensures that the real-world impact on our community is the primary factor in every vote I cast.

4. What would you like Ward 5 residents to know about you that may not be obvious from campaign materials or signs?

I was raised in a hardworking family, learning the value of labour early by working for my father and grandfather. Whether it was baling hay or learning to milk cows at age five, those roots shaped my character. Today, I am a columnist for the Paris Independent, a father of three young women, and an active community member. I’ve travelled the world, yet I’m happiest playing pool, chess, or a round of golf. Above all, I value family and the grit I learned on local farms—I’m ready to bring that same work ethic to Council.

5. Do you have any previous experience in municipal government or community leadership, including past campaigns or volunteer roles?

My leadership experience is rooted in community service and early advocacy. I’ve been involved with successful fundraisers, and I have assisted local businesses and community groups throughout the County such as 4-H through social media and my column in the newspaper. My interest in municipal government began at age ten, when I successfully petitioned Council for fair admission pricing and new music at the local arena. Guided by my mentor, the late Paris politician Ann Wilson, I learned early on how to navigate the council process to achieve results. I bring that same lifelong passion for advocacy to this by-election.