Craig Hodge holds a narrow edge among named contenders in this open-seat race following the retirement of longtime Mayor Richard Stewart, who has publicly endorsed the sitting councillor. Multiple candidates, including Madhavee Inamdar and Trish Mandewo, have entered the field ahead of the October 17 vote under first-past-the-post rules, contributing to a fragmented contest where no single contender has consolidated broad support. Nomination filings close September 11 and the formal campaign period begins September 19, leaving limited time for differentiation on local priorities such as infrastructure, growth planning, and fiscal management. Trader pricing reflects this early-stage uncertainty, with several outcomes clustered near even money and room for shifts once debates, endorsements, and voter outreach intensify in the coming weeks.