Update:
There's a new person headed for the mayor's chair in Timmins with an upset in the race for the top chair.
Five people were on the ballot for the position and the winning mayor-elect is George Pirie, a former CEO in the mining industry.
The Stars and Thunder Festival and attracting new businesses were key issues in this election campaign.
In the end, it was Pirie who unseated the incumbent Steve Black by a huge margin. And finishing well back in third place is Raymond Burey.
As for reaction, the new mayor-elect is pleased with the support shown by the people, while Steve Black says he's surprised by the numbers.
“I was all about working with everybody to make Timmins a better place. To really capture it and realize its potential, working together. And I think my message resonated, because I had individuals from every political stripe come out and support me. It's wonderful to get the endorsement of, you know, 63-64% of the voters. It's tremendously humbling and much an honour. A lot of work to do to actually live up to the faith these people have put in me, and I will work hard on the taxpayers' behalf on every citizen's behalf.” said Pirie.
Defeated candidate Steve Black was somewhat surprised by the margin betweem he and the winner.
“I think a little surprised in the gap for sure, but as I said, the voice of the people and their decision that they wanted to change at the mayor level. I just thank you for the last four years, it's been a true honour.” said Black.
As for Timmins City Council, five wards were looking for representation.
Newcomer Rock Whissell will be representing Ward One, with a 53% lead over incumbent Veronica Farrell.
In Ward Two, challenger Mickey Auger is the successful candidate in a tight race with fellow challenger Lorne Feldman and incumbent Walter Wawrzaszek.
Ward Three saw the incumbent Joe Campbell returned to his seat with 55% of the vote.
John Patrick Curley will be the new representative for Ward 4 with double the votes of incumbent Pat Bamford.
And in Ward 5, four representatives are elected. They are: Kristin Murray, Michelle Boileau, Noella Rinaldo and Andrew Marks.
Originial:
The City of Timmins has elected a new mayor in an overwhelming vote.
Challenger George Pirie wins with over 63% of the vote over incumbent Steve Black, who only received 34%.
