Gibb seeking to move up to mayor's chair

Chris Gibb

Chris Gibb is looking for a promotion.

The current deputy mayor filed his nomination papers last Friday, the first day nominations were open, and is seeking to become Amherstburg’s next mayor.

“I went and signed the papers at 11 a.m.,” said Gibb. “I am officially approved to run for a new job.”

Gibb said he wants to continue giving back to the community.

“This town has given me so much,” he said, noting his family, business and political achievements. “I feel I need to do more to give back to a town that has given me so much.”

Gibb acknowledged he could have run for re-election as deputy mayor but believes he is ready and can handle the mayor’s position. He said he has 30 years of business experience in Amherstburg and states he can unite people, so he wants to bring that to the council table. Listening to people and bringing them together on a common vision for the town is something he wants to add to the next town council.

The thing Gibb said he is most proud of is town council’s investing into core infrastructure, such as parks and roads.

“I hope to continue to invest in the town and invest in the core infrastructure,” said Gibb. 

Continuing to improve the town’s financial stability for future generations is another priority, he said.

Gibb added he has been proud to serve as deputy mayor and it is up to the voters whether they want to make him the next mayor. The next four years should be a continuation of the last four, he believed, including the investments in infrastructure and working to stabilize town finances.

Protecting the “small town feel” of Amherstburg is important, Gibb added, and while it is known the town is projected to grow, managing that growth is key.

“I’m excited to get into the campaign and let the voters know what I have to offer,” he said.

Gibb said he spoke with family, friends and contacts in the business community and they support his candidacy for mayor. 

The town has roughly 23,000 people, Gibb added, and they all have their “unique perspectives” on where the town is and what is needed for the future. He said he plans on continuing to listen to the voters and deliver what they want to see, adding he has the desire to make things better from the start of the term to the end.

“It’s trying to bring the vision of what residents want to see for the town and how to make it better,” he said. “I know it’s a lot of work but I think I’m up to it.”

Gibb added “it’s going to be an interesting six months. I’m really looking forward to the opportunity.”

The municipal election is Oct. 26. The nomination period ends Aug. 21 at 2 p.m.

Gibb seeking to move up to mayor's chair

By Ron Giofu