With just over two weeks left in the nomination period, a three-way race for mayor in Arran-Elderslie is shaping up.
Incumbent Paul Eagleson has not yet filed his nomination papers but says he will be seeking a third term at the head of the council table when voters cast their ballots for the municipal election on October 22.
With the July 27 nomination deadline looming, two challengers have so far emerged looking to unseat Eagleson.
Councillor Steve Hammell has officially joined the race after two terms as the Arran Township ward representative, while former mayor John Alpaugh will once again look to regain the job, having lost to Eagleson in both the 2010 and 2014 municipal elections.
Eagleson says he's looking to remain a steady influence in Arran-Elderslie, adding the natural gas project remains the top priority as the $100-million plan gets set to enter the construction phase next year.
"We're hoping to see shovels in the ground next spring, the project's been given to EPCOR and yeah, there's still going to be hurdles to overcome," says Eagleson. "To me, that's a big economic boost, not just for the three municipalities involved, but all of [Bruce] County."
Eagleson adds if he's successfully re-elected in Arran-Elderslie, he will look to continue a dual role and will put his name forward for re-election as warden of Bruce County.