Brant County mayor will not seek re-election

Brant County Mayor David Bailey posed for a photo in this undated image. (Courtesy: County of Brant)

The mayor of Brant County has decided he will not run for a third term.

David Bailey has been the mayor of Brant County since he unseated Ron Eddy in 2018 after Eddy had served as mayor for 20 years.

“Eight years feels like the right time for a transition. I’ve given this role everything I have, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together,” Bailey said in a news release on Tuesday. “I also believe it’s healthy for any organization to welcome new energy and new leadership. When I was first elected in 2018, I didn’t come from a political background. What I brought instead was a genuine desire to serve this community that I care so deeply about. Two terms later, I can say without hesitation that these have been among the most rewarding years of my life.”

Bailey said he was especially proud of the relationships the county has been able to built with Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation during his tenure.

“These are relationships grounded in respect, consistency, and listening. They’ve led to real collaboration and better decision-making, and I know they will continue to grow long after I’m out of office,” he wrote.

He finished by saying it has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as mayor and he believes Brant County is a community full of good people who care about each other.

“Serving the County of Brant has been an honour from start to finish. I want to sincerely thank the residents for placing your trust in me—not once, but twice. Your support, your feedback, and your engagement have shaped the work we’ve done together.”