In a unique turn of events, the newest addition to Hamilton’s police board was selected via a random draw after two consecutive tied council votes. Coun. Mike Spadafora from Ward 14 emerged as the chosen candidate over Coun. Brad Clark from Ward 9 during the council meeting to replace Mayor Andrea Horwath.
Expressing his views before the vote, Spadafora emphasized the importance of law enforcement in ensuring community safety while also highlighting his intention to seek cost-saving measures within the police budget. On the other hand, Clark stressed his commitment to speaking truthfully to authority, showcasing his analytical, financially prudent, and respectful approach.
The initial round of voting resulted in a deadlock, with eight councillors favoring Spadafora and seven, alongside the mayor, supporting Clark. A subsequent vote failed to break the tie, prompting the official procedure of resorting to a random draw, which the city’s clerk, Matthew Trennum, humorously executed using a pencil case.
Following the announcement of Spadafora as the selected member amid applause, he completed the necessary paperwork in the council chambers. Spadafora will fill the vacancy left by Horwath, who resigned citing scheduling conflicts. Councilor Esther Pauls acknowledged Horwath’s contributions to the board and her decision to prioritize mayoral responsibilities, especially with the city’s upcoming budget deliberations.
Notably, the composition of the police board has seen significant changes since the council’s inception, with a new chair and three board members, including Spadafora. The voting breakdown showed support for Spadafora from Maureen Wilson, Jeff Beattie, Mark Tadeson, Matt Francis, Tom Jackson, Rob Cooper, Spadafora, and Pauls, while Clark garnered backing from Cameron Kroetsch, Nrinder Nann, Tammy Hwang, Craig Cassar, Alex Wilson, Ted McMeekin, Clark, and Horwath.