Ron Hodgson appointed as new Ward 4 Councillor in Brock Township

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: A unanimous vote at a Special Council meeting on Wednesday, November 12th has resulted in the appointment of Ron Hodgson as the new Ward 4 councillor. The longtime community volunteer and lifelong Brock resident was selected from a field of seven candidates to serve the remainder of the 2022–2026 council term.

The vacancy was created earlier this fall when former Ward 4 councillor Cria Pettingill was appointed to the Regional Councillor seat. Council formally declared the Ward 4 office vacant on October 14th and opted to fill the role through an open call for nominees.

The November 12th meeting in Cannington drew seven candidates, many of them well-known volunteers and lifelong Brock residents. Those who stepped forward included Ruth Berry, Tony Laundrie, Anthony Macoretta, Jessica Pizzulo, John Rush, Christopher Shier, and Ron Hodgson.

Each candidate was given five minutes to introduce themselves, outline their intentions for the role, and answer questions from Council.

Mr. Hodgson, a lifelong Brock resident, began his remarks by introducing himself using his traditional Algonquin name, which translates to “Clear Heart.” He spoke passionately about his commitment to the community and highlighted several priorities he hopes to tackle during his time on Council.

“My top concerns are roads and infrastructure, supports and services for rural community members, and improving transportation systems in Brock,” he told councillors.

“I reside with my spouse in the farmhouse my grandparents helped raise me in. I have a deep relationship and gratitude with where we live,” he added. “My hope is to serve Ward 4 in a way which is consistent and aligns with my professional and personal values.”

Mr. Hodgson brings experience in human resources for organisations serving Indigenous communities, as well as years of involvement with local groups such as the Beaverton Lions Club and the Beaverton Curling Club.

Following the presentations, Council selected Mr. Hodgson unanimously. He will serve until the next municipal election in October 2026, when he may choose to seek the seat again.

After being appointed, Mr. Hodgson offered his thanks to his fellow candidates. “It was great to hear the passion that everyone has for our community,” he said. “It’s something I really have to reflect on to make sure I’m doing a good job going forward.”

Mayor Mike Jubb congratulated Mr. Hodgson and expressed appreciation for the full slate of nominees.

“Congratulations to Councillor Ron Hodgson on being appointed the new Ward 4 councillor for the remainder of the term,” said Mayor Jubb. “I would also like to thank the other six candidates who put their names forward. As I commented at the meeting, I was extremely impressed by every one of them. This was an extremely difficult decision. Now, we can get back to the business of the municipality with a full council.”

Councillor Hodgson is expected to take his seat at the next regular meeting of council.