FORT FRANCES, ON — Andrew Hallikas will return to Fort Frances council chambers for the next four years, but this time as mayor.
The member of the outgoing town council won the race to succeed June Caul as mayor by defeating former councillor Ken Perry in Monday's election.
Hallikas received 1,573 votes compared with 1,029 for Perry.
The veteran councillor currently serves as deputy mayor.
He has stated that public safety is a priority issue in the community, along with the need to recruit and retain health care professionals as well as firefighters.
Hallikas has also spoken of the importance of supporting and partnering with area First Nations to help develop the district's economy.
Just under 50 per cent of Fort Frances voters cast ballots in the election.
In an interview, the mayor-elect congratulated residents who took time to vote, saying elections are what democracy is about.
He also offered thanks on behalf of the community to all the candidates who put their name forwards, saying they had demonstrated their passion for Fort Frances whether they won or lost.
The former educator and local union president said he's looking forward to working together with council to make the town "a better place."
Hallikas noted that Fort Frances voters re-elected three incumbent councillors but also chose three new ones.
"They come from a variety of demographics, backgrounds and experiences, and I'm really excited about having them on council. I think together we can do some good things."
