Long-time Lambton Shores Mayor Bill Weber will not seek re-election in October’s municipal election, marking the end of a political career that began in 1986.
Weber has served on Lambton Shores council for the last 22 years, including the last 12 as mayor. He started his political career on the former Stephen Township council in 1986, sitting on that council for 12 years and eventually serving as deputy reeve and reeve in the 1990s.
Weber said in a June 28 interview that he’s very pleased with the municipality’s financial situation, with its staffing, and with its infrastructure.
“I feel I’ve done what I can, I think the municipality is in good shape, and it’s time to move over and let somebody move up through the rank,” he said.
Weber said he is happy that current Deputy Mayor Doug Cook has filed his nomination papers for the mayor’s position in Lambton Shores.
“Everything’s in a good place, I think,” Weber said, pointing to infrastructure projects such as bridge and road work in Grand Bend, road projects in the southern portion of the municipality as well as “two great arenas” as positives in the municipality .
Another highlight Weber mentioned is the ongoing construction of a new municipal administration office and council chambers in Northville.
Weber said he’s proud of the amalgamation of Lambton Shores and said he feels the municipality, now 22 years old, is really starting to get an identity.
Asked what he has liked about his council work, Weber said he enjoys meeting people and explaining municipal happenings to them.
“I will miss it,” he said. “It’s certainly been a part of my life for over 30 years.”
While on Lambton Shores council, Weber also served as Lambton County warden for two terms from 2017-2020. He said representing Lambton County on the international stage at a conference in Taiwan was a highlight of his political career.
Looking ahead to life after politics, Weber said he has family from Boston moving back to the area that he’d like to spend more time with. Also, he and his wife Ginger, married 49 years, enjoy a pottery hobby together.
At 68, Weber said, “I think I’m getting out before my best before date expired.”