Ed Sleiman, who has dedicated 16 years to serving Ward 5 as a city councillor, has declared that he will not be seeking re-election this autumn. Initially elected in 2010, Sleiman disclosed that he had been contemplating his future for the past year. “I was pondering whether to continue as a councillor or step aside to make way for new faces,” he shared with CBC News. The notion of introducing fresh perspectives to the city council played a significant role in his decision-making process. At 83 years old, Sleiman expressed that he did not want to appear overly possessive of the position.
Joining Ward 6 Coun. Jo Anne Gignac and Ward 4 Coun. Mark McKenzie, Sleiman is among the current city councillors who have decided not to run for re-election. Reflecting on his tenure, Sleiman stated that he believed he had served his ward and the city to the best of his abilities. His dedication to aiding the residents of Ford City and east Windsor in their daily struggles motivated him to continuously put his name forward for election. Mayor Drew Dilkens revealed Sleiman’s choice during a press conference on Friday afternoon, surprising the veteran councillor, and commended Sleiman as one of the most industrious councillors he has encountered.
Dilkens recounted an incident where Sleiman, a former construction worker, was found in a woman’s basement using cement and a trowel to repair a leak in her foundation when he was urgently needed on the phone. This level of personal care and commitment, exemplified by stories like assisting an elderly woman in discarding a dumped couch at the landfill, has endeared Sleiman to his constituents. Such actions, as shared by Dilkens, showcase Sleiman’s exceptional responsiveness to the needs of the community, setting him apart during his tenure on the city council.
Sleiman’s journey into city politics began with defeating an incumbent councillor to secure his initial term following a ward boundary review. He emphasized that his day starts at 5 a.m. with a sense of purpose focused on helping others and contributing positively to the community. Looking ahead, Sleiman expressed his willingness to support the upcoming councillor in his ward and expressed a desire to remain involved in constructive community efforts post his council service.
