Long-time Chatham Councillor Michael Bondy is officially trying his hand at becoming the municipality's next mayor.
He filed his paperwork on Friday, more than a year after first announcing his plans to run for the position.
Bondy is currently in his fourth term as a Ward 6 Councillor, first being elected in 2010.
He told CK News Today the experience he gained over that time makes him believe he's the best person for the job.
"I think we frankly just need some different leadership and some different leadership skills," explained Bondy.
If elected, he plans to ensure that the next municipal council focuses on addressing residents' basic needs. To Bondy, this means ensuring that all necessary infrastructure is properly managed.
"We have to take care of our roads, our sewers, our water treatment plants. Big things like the [Community Hub], I don't have a lot of interest in those things," added Bondy.
He also plans to conduct a deep dive into the municipality's spending to identify savings to help lower the tax burden on residents.
"We have to curb our spending, we have to be logical with our spending, and we're not," said Bondy.
When asked why he thought he was the best person to be the next mayor, Bondy noted he understands the needs and wants of both the urban and rural communities.
"I live in both worlds. I work in the rural environment and I live in the urban environment, so I think that gives me a pretty good perspective on both sides of the coin," he explained.
Bondy is the second person looking to become Chatham-Kent's (CK) next mayor. Ward 1 Councillor Lauren Anderson announced he candidacy on Friday.
The municipal election will be on October 26, 2026.
