Russell Borden to run for vacant council seat in Ward 1
NEW GLASGOW, N.S. — A second person has thrown their hat in the ring for the race to fill a vacancy for Ward 1 on the New Glasgow council. Russell Borden was born and raised in Ward 1 and is now raising his own family in the area. He said he’s always had an interest in politics and has been asked by several people about running. In the past, the timing hasn’t been right, but he believes now with Troy MacCulloch stepping down to take a job in Alberta, that it’s his time to run. At 34, he believes he can offer a different perspective for the council. “I’m going to bring a fresh new outlook,” he said. Borden is currently working as the child and youth care practitioner for the Chignecto-Central Regional Centre for Education. He and his wife Tara have three children. While he’s still waiting to hear from residents about what issues matter most to them, he said one area he’d like to see grow in the area is recreation. He remembers growing up that there was always lots to do in Ward 1 particularly at the Ward 1 rec centre and the YMCA, which used to be located nearby. But he said recreational opportunities in the area seem to have diminished in recent years with the move of the YMCA. If elected, he said he’d like to see more recreation programming. Borden said he will be bringing a respectful attitude and a high degree of integrity and professionalism to the race and believe the experience he’s gained through his job has prepared him already to help people address concerns. “I would try to the best of my ability to get the matter resolved on their behalf,” he said. Anyone who would like to learn more about Russell can reach him by phone at 902-755-5848 or by email at BordenRS@ccrce.ca. Council has not yet set a date for when the byelection will be held. Former councillor Henderson Paris has also announced his intention to run.