Saugeen Shores Mayor Mike Smith is the new Warden of Bruce County.
There was no majority of votes for either Saugeen Shores Mayor Mike Smith or Kincardine Mayor Larry Kraemer on the first two ballots.
Seconds before proceeding with a third ballot — an emotional Larry Kraemer told Council and the 75 spectators that he was withdrawing from the race.
Kraemer believed he could not carry on with only 50 per cent of the support— giving the Warden’s job to Smith.
Smith’s level of support on the first two ballots was the same as Kraemer’s, but he wants to look ahead and have the support of council and move onto getting business looked after.
Smith admires Kraemer for his difficult decision.
The drama continued later in the meeting when Councillors were named to preside over each county department.
Kraemer objected to not being named to any major committees, and highlighted his position as the third most experienced county councillor as a reason why he should be given greater responsibility.
With the support of Brockton Mayor Charlie Bagnato and South Bruce Peninsula Mayor Gwen Gilbert — Kraemer let his name stand for Highways Committee Chair.
But in a 4-3 vote — Kraemer lost to Arran Elderslie Mayor Ron Oswald, who was named for a second term.
Kraemer will continue to serve on the Board of Health.
Kraemer was visibly upset and did not return for the afternoon committee meetings — and did not wish to speak with reporters.
As for the year ahead, Warden Smith says looming spending cuts at the provincial and federal level will impact the county.
But says it’s an honour to serve as Warden and wants to work with council and staff is his main objective.
In his final remarks, past Warden Bill Goetz suggests council consider expanding the Warden’s term of office to two years.
He says more counties are doing it and believes the second year of the term would be more productive because the Warden usually spends the entire first year learning about everything.