When it comes to staying power in politics, nobody had more than Hurricane Hazel McCallion.
All the newbies preparing for London council would be wise to heed the 93-year-old’s advice about success in municipal politics, which can be a blood sport.
McCallion, who recently left the mayor’s chair in Mississauga after 36 years, was speaking Thursday at the Dante Club in Sarnia. She’s promoting her new book, Hurricane Hazel: A Life With Purpose.
“First of all, they have to be up front with their people and not just give political answers,” she says.
“Second, they must do their homework before they make a decision on an item. They should do a lot of homework, as well as consult with people.”
At the Dante Club, was also Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley. He is now the second longest serving mayor in Ontario. Milton's Gordon Krantz, 77, has the longest service, with 49 years to his credit.
Bradley may not be a hurricane, but he also packs a political punch.
“I never expected to be mayor for 26 years. My advice to anyone who’s just been elected is, just be yourself. Don’t’ be a stereotype of what you think politicians should be. Be yourself and the public will respect that.”
With Bradley’s re-election Monday, he’s not going anywhere, anytime soon.
Neither is McCallion.
She won’t be retiring.
“Well, I’m going to do some work with the Ontario Women’s Hockey Association. I’ve been on their board for 20 years," she says.
