Professional accountant and energy-sector capital project manager Chris Young has announced his candidacy for the Ward 5 council seat in Chatham-Kent’s municipal election on Oct. 26, 2026.
Young, who is running under the slogan “Committed to Community, Dedicated to Progress,” said he plans to bring a financial management focus to municipal government, drawing on his experience overseeing multi-million-dollar capital spending budgets, financial forecasting and project management.
“Voters in Ward 5 are tired of seeing their tax dollars stretched thin while infrastructure projects face delays and budget overruns,” says Young. “I track dollars and forecast long-term capital costs for a living. I am stepping up to ensure our municipal budget is managed responsibly, tax hikes are kept in check, and Ward 5 firmly secures its fair share of infrastructure funding.”
According to the campaign announcement, Young’s platform centres on fiscal responsibility, infrastructure investment and economic development. He says he wants to strengthen oversight of municipal projects, prioritize spending on roads, bridges and public utilities, and reduce regulatory barriers for small businesses while supporting housing development.
A lifelong resident of the Wallaceburg area, Young has been involved in community organizations and local sports for decades. He served on the Wallaceburg Minor Hockey executive for 10 years, including eight years as president, and has been active as both a player and coach in minor sports. He also chaired the Wallaceburg Splash Pad Committee, which led the construction of the community’s splash pad facility.
Young’s background also includes work in several Wallaceburg businesses, including Quinlan’s Shoe House, Wallaceburg Paint and Wallpaper, Lozon’s Meat Market, Leach Jeweler’s, The Zavitz Hardware Co., Gray Stationery, Strong Office Supplies and Splash Pools.
Young joins Brendan Authier, Dave Hyatt, Jason Debuck and Zac Nicholson as candidates in Ward 5.
