Former Collingwood top cop to run for mayor

by John Edwards Collingwood Connection

Collingwood’s former top cop now wants the top political job in the municipality.

John Trude announced on Wednesday that he plans to run for mayor in the 2018 municipal election.

Trude served as detachment commander for the Collingwood OPP for about 14 years, before retiring in 2016.

“I have a long history in the community and I think I bring a lot to bare that can assist the community,” Trude told Simcoe.com. “Community service has always been a part of what I do.”

Current Collingwood Mayor Sandra Cooper told 95.1 The Peak on Wednesday that she won’t seek re-election this fall.

Trude said he wouldn’t have run against Cooper but with her stepping aside, it gave him the opportunity to run.

“I’ve been exposed over a number of years to municipal government,” he said. “I believe my experience will be of great assistance.”

In a press release, Trude said his campaign theme will be “principles matter.” He raised concerns about legal fees, lack of public engagement, the airport and the hospital.

“This council has created turmoil, disenfranchised the electorate and spent our taxpayer dollars on matters that lack broad public interest,” he said.