John Divinski Appointed as new Southampton Ward Councillor

On Monday, November 1, Town Council appointed John Divinski as the new Ward Councillor representing Southampton. Mr. Divinski signed the Declaration of Office at the Municipal Office on November 2.

“I welcome John to Town Council and I look forward to working with him,” said Luke Charbonneau, Mayor for the Town of Saugeen Shores. “He knows our community well through his history as a radio announcer and journalist. My colleagues on Council and I are confident his skills and background will make him a strong representative for the people of Southampton. He will be a positive addition as Council works to leverage our growth for the benefit of the whole community.”

Mr. Divinski has been a full-time resident in Southampton since 2005 with a keen interest in local politics. He was initially the News Director for CFPS-FM radio where he hosted the top-rated phone-in show Soundingboard. He was also a reporter with Bayshore Broadcasting, covering most council meetings. He has been involved in the community in many ways over the years. Some highlights include:

• moderator of many all-candidates meetings in local, provincial, and federal elections
• a former member of the Port Elgin Rotary Club
• first Honourary Chair of the Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation "Light the Way" campaign
• WOAA minor hockey referee.

“I have tried to work for the betterment of the community my entire life. I want to make a difference and be a part of the future of this Town,” said Mr. Divinski. “I am honoured to have been selected to represent my community in Southampton. I will be their staunch supporter and a fresh voice. I am ready to get down to work and I look forward to giving back to a community that has already given me and my wife so much.”

Mr. Divinski was appointed over nine other candidates. Prior to the meeting, each candidate submitted to Council written answers to a list of questions. At the November 1 meeting, they each presented their opening statements and responded to one of those questions. Following which, Council Members held an open vote. Mr. Divinski received 4 out of 7 possible votes.

To learn more about Mr. Divinski, read his personal statement from his application.