First serving as mayor of Fort Frances from 1981-85, Coun. Deane Cunningham yesterday filed his nomination papers for the position in hopes of being elected for a second go-round this November.
“It was a matter of getting the consent from my family,” said Coun. Cunningham, who previously had stated he was considering a run for mayor.
“The job is very time-consuming.
So, I talked it over with my wife and children, and we felt that at this time in my life, it be something worthwhile for me to dedicate myself to,” he added.
Coun. Cunningham noted “it’s been a great run on council,” and that the centennial year had got him thinking about the town’s achievements.
“But I’m really looking forward to the future. We have a lot of work ahead of us,” he remarked. “I think I have the knowledge and the experience to do the job well.”^Dan Onichuk announced his intention to run for mayor shortly after Glenn Witherspoon announced last month that he wouldn’t seek a fifth-consecutive term.
And Coun. Cunningham said he’s hoping to see more people throw their hats into the ring prior to the Sept. 26 deadline. “It’s healthy for people to have a choice,” he said.
Meanwhile, among the other councillors, both Roy Avis and Sharon Tibbs said late yesterday they will run for another term.
Couns. Neil Kabel and Struchan Gilson previously have said they definitely will be running again, but have yet to submit their nominations.
Only Coun. Dave Bourgeault has said he will not seek re-election in November.
And as reported in yesterday’s Daily Bulletin, Todd Hamilton filed his nomination papers Monday to run for council. He’s the only new face in the race so far.
Anyone interested in running for mayor or council must file their papers with Clerk Glenn Treftlin at the Civic Centre prior to 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 26. Call 274-5323 ext. 236 for more info.
Election day is Nov. 10. Canada Post is expected to send out the mail-in ballots to residents in October.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
