Crain running for deputy mayor in the 2026 election

Linden Crain

After four years as a councillor, Linden Crain is seeking to move up.

Crain was the first person to file his nomination papers and did so in an effort to be Amherstburg’s next deputy mayor. 

“For the past four years, it’s been an honour to serve as a councillor,” said Crain. 

Crain said he’s looking to step forward and become deputy mayor, in part, because of his desire to sit on Essex County council “and look at the region as a whole.” 

Mayors and deputy mayors from the county’s seven municipalities comprise county council.

Being a part of county council will allow him to further his service to the community, he indicated.

“I’m looking to expand my impact on the community,” said Crain.

Relating to the town, Crain viewed the town as moving forward over the last four years.

“I think over the past four years, we’ve made great strides and I’d love to continue our progress so far,” said Crain. “I’d like to step into a growing leadership role and represent more voices.”

Crain stated he has to learn more about the county level but understands there are such services delivered as the Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority, the Essex County Library, Essex-Windsor EMS and many others that have to maintain their service levels and stay funded.

During the current term of council, Crain pointed to a number of accomplishments that he believes are helpful to the community both now and into the future. He said the town’s Community Improvement Plan (CIP) helps provide incentives for commercial and industrial businesses. The recently adopted Heritage Conservation District (HCD) is helping to protect the “look and feel” of the town and protects “homes and businesses that go back centuries.”

The Howard Industrial Area will be important as it will help bring commercial and industrial development to Amherstburg, he added. Improvements have been made to parks and recreation as Crain said the town had to “play catch-up” and put in new playgrounds and recreational amenities in area parks.

Crain said the town has to manage “responsible growth” and take care of infrastructure needs such as water and wastewater, among others. 

Affordability for residents was also something he listed as a priority as well as economic development.

The decision to run for deputy mayor was something Crain said he was considering for some time, adding he believes he has a “strong connection” with residents.

“I’ve been thinking about it for a while,” said Crain. “I’m extremely passionate about this community. I live and breathe Amherstburg. I want to continue serving our residents.”

Crain running for deputy mayor in the 2026 election

By Ron Giofu