Darrin Canniff, Candidate for Mayor, Chatham-Kent
What motivated you to run in the 2026 municipal election, and what do you believe you can bring to Chatham-Kent council that is needed right now?
“Over the past eight years, we’ve worked hard to change the conversation around Chatham-Kent. We’ve focused on growth, positivity, strategic investment and creation of opportunities for individuals and families to build their future right here in our community. We’ve made significant progress in reducing our debt load, improving infrastructure across all areas of Chatham-Kent, building much needed affordable housing units, improving our downtowns and supporting local businesses. There is a great deal more to still be accomplished. I would like to apply the experience gained as mayor over the past eight years to ensure that we continue the progress and momentum that has been building across Chatham-Kent.”
What are the biggest issues facing residents across Chatham-Kent, and how would you work to address them if re-elected?
“Homelessness, mental health and addiction have become significant issues. We must continue to create additional affordable housing units and increase support for our community partners in finding solutions that serve individuals and families dealing with these issues. Funding necessary infrastructure projects is always a challenge that will require careful planning and execution. Advocacy for assistance from senior levels of government is an important element in ensuring these projects are delivered as efficiently as possible. Attraction and retention of businesses will be a key to ensuring that Chatham-Kent continues to grow into a thriving and welcoming community. Providing additional supports, removing barriers and eliminating unnecessary red tape will be important steps to support these efforts. Delivering enhanced and expanded of Arts and Culture programs and amenities and improved sports and recreation facilities and programs all across CK is also important. Programs of this nature have been identified as important elements in attracting new business, industry and people to our community.”
What would you like voters to know about you personally — including your background, experience, and values — as they decide who to support in this election?
“Foremost, I am a passionate and tireless promoter of Chatham-Kent and strong supporter of all things that enhance the fabric of communities across the municipality. My experience dealing with the many significant issues encountered over the past two terms as mayor demonstrate that I am an engaged, capable and qualified leader with the initiative, enthusiasm and commitment necessary to continue to move our community forward. My extensive community involvement includes serving as a Board member or Chair of many corporate entities and community organizations such as Entegrus, Mainstreet Credit Union, The Children’s Treatment Centre Foundation, The International Plowing Match and The United Way of Chatham-Kent. I believe this involvement along with my education and business experience has given me the background necessary to continue to serve in the role of Mayor.”
How can people connect with and learn more about you during your election campaign?
“I can be contacted by email: info@DarrinCanniff.com”
Editor’s Note: The same questions are being sent to each Mayoral, Ward 4 and Ward 5 candidate in the 2026 Chatham-Kent Municipal Election. The questions and candidates responses are above. Watch for more Q&A’s being posted from candidates who choose to participate.
