Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy Wins Re-election With Over 5,200 Votes

Sherry Bondy secured 5,288 votes in Monday's Essex municipal election to win her second term as mayor. The result places her ahead of challenger Trevor Menard by 3,082 votes, according to unofficial tallies.

Bondy first assumed the mayoral role in 2022 after serving as the Ward 4 councillor from 2010 to 2022. This victory marks her return to the chair following a competitive contest against Menard.

The mayor-elect stated that the outcome reflects the work completed over the previous four years. "Campaigns are not built on the last six weeks before the election, they’re built on the four years," Bondy said. She noted that the council focused on budget discipline, infrastructure investment, and communication during the term.

Bondy expressed readiness to address resident concerns in the new term. "I’m thrilled that the voters, you know, chose me to lead the municipality again," she said. She added that the campaign was challenging and that she intended to bring key issues back to the council chamber.

The new Essex council will feature a mix of returning officials and new members. Bondy highlighted the achievement of gender parity on the council, describing it as a rare occurrence in Essex County. Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley will continue in his role.

In Ward 1, voters elected Katie McGuire-Blais and Joe Garon. Kim Verbeek won the seat in Ward 2. Bill Baker and Ron Rogers claimed the Ward 3 positions. Rachael Mills won the councillor seat in Ward 4.

Several incumbents lost their seats in the election. Ward 3 councillor Jason Matyi and Ward 4 councillor Rodney Hammond were unseated by their challengers.