The town of Goderich determined who will fill its vacant council seat on Monday, after a difficult vote.
Vanessa Kelly's name was drawn by the clerk after councillors remained deadlocked following four rounds of voting.
Both Kelly and Michael Daley received three votes each, after nine of the 11 candidates were removed in the previous rounds of voting.
Mayor Trevor Bazinet says the local educational assistant will make a great addition to council.
"All of council looks forward to working with you for the next three years. Your passion is evident and we're all excited for that opportunity," he said. "It was a tough vote. Mr. Daley, well done. I hope in three years from now, you will consider running in the election along with all of you."
Kelly is also a volunteer with the Goderich Lions club and coordinated its Ukraine relief efforts.
During presentations, Kelly touted the council's efforts on the recently completed Strategic Action Plan, saying it was a group she was eager to be a part of.
"I would be honoured to work with such a dedicated council," she said. "This council understands the importance of our waterfront and our natural environment to those who live here now. They recognize the importance it plays in our local economy. The plan's focus on economic growth demonstrates their ability to see the bigger picture. They understand that its difficult to attract new businesses or industry or sustain existing ones, without workers."
She will be officially sworn in at council's next meeting, on November 27.
Goderich council has been short one member since the passing of Mayor Myles Murdock in August. Bazinet was appointed to the mayor's chair, then Leah Noel was chosen to fill the vacated deputy mayor's seat.
