Two-term city councillor Jo-Dee Burbach will continue to contribute to Stratford after a close 2026 municipal election.
In eight years at city hall, Burbach learned Stratford has an amazing community.
“It’s been an honour to get to know the residents of Stratford, to build trust with them. I really enjoyed being on citizen council groups, council advisory groups, the library board, Gallery Stratford (board), just getting to know people and working together to make sure community organizations work well with the city.”
The mayoral candidate wound up with 3,738 votes.
Robert Ritz won the five-person race with 508 votes more than Burbach.
Martin Ritsma, current mayor until the new council is sworn in, finished in third with 2,899 votes while Mark Hunter received 2,542 votes and Andrew Rae wound up with 206 votes.
Burbach said she did the best she could during the election, adding it was a lot of work.
She said it was great getting to know city staff, and that they get stuff done.
Burbach notes implementing crosswalks and sidewalks around the city and the green bin organics collection program are accomplishments she’s proud of in her time at city hall.
For next steps, Burbach will focus on her own business, Enhanced Graphics, and spending time with family.
She wishes the new mayor and council all the best and encourages them to keep the lines of communication open.
