A familiar face joined city council Monday night, after a six-year absence.
Andrew Prince was sworn in to his new role of Ward 7 councillor, filling a seat vacated by John Brassard who is now an MP for Barrie.
"It's good to be back," Prince said, addressing council for the first time.
"Every election has a different flavour to it, but one thing remains the same ... It is never easy to put your name forward on a ballot." Prince recognized and congratulated the 11 other candidates who ran in the January by-election.
"Now it is down to business," Prince said, noting the significant issues as traffic, taxes and public safety. "One thing I learned while campaigning is that the average resident doesn't have a big concern if taxes go up two or three percent . . . as long as there is value for the money."
Mayor Jeff Lehman and Prince were first elected in 2006.
"It is really good to have an experienced voice around the table," Lehman said.
Prince served one term representing Ward 9 and was defeated in 2010.
"Many issues have changed, but much remains the same," Lehman said. "The impacts of growth particularly on wards such as yours are a constant challenge."
