Mark Eakins announces candidacy for Smith Ward councillor
Mark Eakins is running for Smith Ward Councillor in the 2026 Selwyn Township municipal election.
Eakins moved to Bridgenorth in 1991 from Brooklyn, Ontario. He has an educational background in economics and political science from the University of Toronto, as well as training through Durham College's Diamond Triangle program and Humber College's steamfitter and millwright program.
Mark Eakins is running for Smith Ward Councillor in the 2026 municipal election. (Photo provided by Mark Eakins)
He is currently contracted to Cameco in Port Hope and has a diverse employment background, with much of his career focused on capital projects.
Eakins previously worked with the federal government's Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP), a program that provides support to Canadian innovators and businesses. He said the experience allowed him to develop his problem-solving skills while working on projects involving challenges that had not previously been encountered.
Prior to his work with IRAP, Eakins spent 10 years as an organizer with the Ontario Pipe Trades Council.
Eakins said one of his priorities if elected would be to move Selwyn Township council meetings back to evenings. He believes evening meetings would make it easier for residents who work during the day to attend and participate without having to take time away from their jobs.
He also said he wants to serve as a conduit between taxpayers and council when it comes to capital projects and publicly funded spending, including construction and infrastructure improvements.
Eakins said his approach to municipal government would focus on transparency, accountability and ensuring residents receive clear answers about decisions affecting their community.
The 2026 Selwyn Township municipal election will take place on Monday, October 26. The nomination period is now closed.
Editorial Note: This article is published by Discover Lakefield to inform the community about the 2026 Selwyn Township municipal election. Discover Lakefield does not endorse or oppose any candidate. Election coverage is intended to be factual, impartial, and in the public interest.