Campion cruises to victory
Mayor looks forward to working at Region with Chiocchio, Villella
Frank Campion is looking forward to the next four years as mayor of Welland.
“There’s nothing but positive activity in the city of Welland. We’ve seen a lot of positive change and that’s what’s going to happen for the next four years.”
He said the key to winning his second term — his challengers were way behind in the polls — was keeping his campaign positive, as he beat David Clow and Steven Soos.
Welland’s mayoral race was marked by a lack of debates among the three men.
In late August, Clow interrupted a council meeting trying to get Campion to commit to a live debate with him in late September on YourTV (Cogeco). The mayor called a recess of the meeting until Clow left council chambers.
That September debate never took place as Campion was in Toronto on city business. Soos pulled out of the debate as he wanted a chance to face the two men and talk city issues.
A debate scheduled for Oct. 11 by radio station Newstalk 610 CKTB was also cancelled.
During an interview in September, Campion said he wouldn’t debate Clow, who he said is a very negative person who misrepresents things. He added the candidate came into his office a few months prior to the nomination date for those running and threatened to disrupt the mayor’s campaign.
“He was trying to influence me to withdraw … he’s gone beyond decent, respectful behaviour,” he said at the time.
Campion said he had no issues with Soos.
Neither Clow nor Soos could be seen at the Hungarian Hall where Campion held his victory party Monday night.
As he spoke to his supporters, Campion said nothing is beyond the reach of Welland.
“We have proven that time and time again. We are thinking big here and making things happen.”
The mayor pointed to past successes such as the GE plant, Northern Gold Food and other businesses that have moved into the city, creating jobs.
Campion said the key to Welland’s growth is both in the industrial/job and residential sectors.
“There has to be a balance between development and investment. It’s one thing to have jobs, but we need people to live here, too.”
Campion said he is looking forward to working with his two new regional councillors, Leanna Villella and current Ward 4 councillor Pat Chiocchio.
While final vote counts weren’t available by deadline, Campion said the residents of Welland have given him a clear mandate to keep moving the city forward.
“There are plans in place to make things happen. Welland has a dynamic future. We’re a world-class city and we need to act like it.”