Hilda MacDonald Celebrated at Warden's Banquet

Warden Hilda MacDonald’s four years as head of Essex County Council were celebrated at the Ciociaro Club Thursday night, with regional leaders, elected officials and County staff gathering to honour the County’s first female Warden.

“Hilda MacDonald has broken barriers, opened doors, and demonstrated that leadership is defined not by title, but by character, vision and service,” said County of Essex CAO Sandra Zwiers. “Through her dedication to the residents of Essex County, she has led with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to the communities she proudly represents.”

MacDonald was elected by her fellow County councillors in 2022 to serve as Warden for the 2022 to 2026 term. She has served on Essex County Council since 2014, when she was acclaimed as deputy mayor in Leamington. She became the second female mayor in Leamington’s history when she was elected in 2018 and was re-elected in 2022 and 2026.

“As I leave the Warden’s chair, I do so with pride in what this Council has accomplished and confidence in what comes next. The next Council will inherit ongoing projects, stronger planning tools and solid partnerships through years of working together,” said MacDonald. “There will be difficult decisions ahead. There always are. But there is also tremendous opportunity, and there are capable, committed people ready to carry this work forward.”

MacDonald cited the development of the County’s first Strategic Plan and advocacy strategy as key accomplishments of her term.

“Whether we are discussing roads, housing or paramedic services, we need decision-makers at Queen’s Park and on Parliament Hill to understand the challenges facing Essex County and the opportunities before us,” said MacDonald. “Our residents deserve a strong voice in those conversations. I believe we have strengthened that voice and embraced our role as a champion for this region.”

MacDonald also highlighted the hundreds of millions of dollars the County has invested in expanding its road network, particularly the County Road 42 corridor. She pointed to key investments in Essex-Windsor EMS and plans for a new headquarters near the Fancsy Family Hospital.

Housing and homelessness were also priorities during her term, said MacDonald. The County worked with the City of Windsor to develop a Regional Affordable Housing Strategy and supported the construction of affordable homes at The Bridge in Leamington.

“Behind every new home is the possibility of greater stability,” said MacDonald. “A place to keep your belongings. A place to prepare a meal. A place to close the door at the end of the day and feel safe.”

The County also funded a Homelessness Hub and overnight program in Leamington, which has recorded about 20,000 visits and served about 850 people since opening its doors.

“Those numbers speak to a real need in our community,” said MacDonald. “I am proud that the County stepped up to help meet that need.”

Though she is stepping aside as Warden, MacDonald will continue serving on County Council in the upcoming term as a representative for Leamington.

Warden and Deputy Warden Elections

Two candidates have announced their intention to run for Warden: Tecumseh Mayor Joe Bachetti and Essex Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley. Two candidates have announced their intention to run for Deputy Warden: Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey and LaSalle Deputy Mayor Michael Akpata.

Candidates have until 2 p.m. on Nov. 10 to declare their intention to run for Warden or Deputy Warden. County councillors will elect a Warden and Deputy Warden by secret ballot at their meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026.