An end to an era in Arran Elderslie.
Mayor Ron Oswald — after nine years in the seat and over 40 years in municipal politics — has announced he is calling it quits and retiring.
Although he will remain as Mayor until the fall municipal election — Oswald says he announced his retirement to allow other councils enough time to think about possibly running.
The 77-year old Oswald says running for Mayor is a big time commitment and should be discussed at length with family.
Oswald says over his years in municipal politics the major event that headlines his memories is the amalgamation of Tara, Paisley, Chesley and the townships of Arran and Elderslie.
He says back in the 90’s when it was first talked about it was perseeved that the amalgamation would actually save money – when Oswald says it has made no difference.
The one plus on amalgamation is the smaller municipalities would not have been able to survive in these economic times on their own.
He says the eight municipalities of Bruce County still have a strong presence – adding although Arran Elderslie is the smallest – it never gets lost in the mix.
Oswald says in the future — 10 years or so down the road – he can see more amalgamation where Bruce and Grey and Owen Sound could become one municipality.
Oswald says he feels it was time to retire and says he has not heard of any councillor showing interest yet in filling his shoes — adding he will not be throwing support behind anyone in particular this election.
He looks forward to his retirement but will continue to sit on the Chesley Hospital Foundation Board and the grant review team for the Trillium Foundation.
Oswald adds he is the last of his family to be in politics as his daughter and son have not shown an interest and looks forward to spending time with his wife and family.
Both Oswald’s Grandfather and Father served on municipal council in the area.