Lucas Cleveland, Nicole Beatty and Max LeMarchant respond to questions on 310 Division Street, homelessness, council relationships, strong mayor powers and Cobourg’s future
With Cobourg’s October 2026 municipal election approaching, Today’s Northumberland has asked the three mayoral candidates the same five questions on some of the most important issues facing the town.
Incumbent Mayor Lucas Cleveland, Nicole Beatty and Max LeMarchant were each given the opportunity to respond to the questions, covering the County’s purchase of 310 Division Street, homelessness and criminal activity, rebuilding relationships around the council table, the use of strong mayor powers and their priorities for Cobourg beyond homelessness.
The questions address issues that have become central to the town’s municipal debate, including the relationship between Cobourg and Northumberland County, public safety, the direction of local government and how the next council will work together following a potentially divisive election campaign.
The first question asked candidates to assess the impact of Northumberland County purchasing 310 Division Street without consulting Cobourg.
Candidates were asked whether they believed the purchase was good or bad for the town and why, putting the spotlight on the relationship between the two levels of government and the importance of consultation when decisions have a direct impact on Cobourg and its residents.
The second question focused on homelessness, drug activity and criminal activity, asking where Cobourg should go from here as the town continues to grapple with concerns about public safety and the challenges associated with homelessness.
The third question turned to the next council, with candidates asked how they would begin building relationships with newly elected councillors after what has been a tumultuous election campaign.
All three candidates have spoken about the importance of teamwork. The question challenged them to explain how they would translate that commitment into a functioning council capable of working together despite political differences.
Candidates were also asked whether they would use strong mayor powers and, if so, for what reasons. Those who would not use the powers were asked to explain their position.
The final question asked each candidate to identify their main priorities for Cobourg beyond homelessness, providing an opportunity to explain what they believe the town’s next mayor and council should focus on over the coming term.
Today’s Northumberland has published the candidates’ unedited answers on YouTube, allowing voters to hear their responses directly and make their own comparisons ahead of the election.
With voters preparing to choose Cobourg’s next mayor and council, the answers offer an opportunity to examine where the candidates stand on the issues and what direction they would take the town if elected.
Watch the full, unedited responses from Lucas Cleveland, Nicole Beatty and Max LeMarchant on Today’s Northumberland’s YouTube channel.
Today’s Northumberland asked the three mayoral candidates five questions.
Lucas Cleveland, Nicole Beatty and Max LeMarchant were each asked the same five questions.
Their unedited answers are posted on YouTube.
1. Since the County purchased 310 Division Street without consultation with Cobourg – how did that effect Cobourg? Was it good for the town or bad and why?
2. Where does the town go from here regarding homelessness along with criminal activity/drugs?
3. Every mayoral candidate has stated they would work as a team. A team of council will be elected in October 2026. How would you start off on building relationships with your new council after a tumultuous election?
4. Would you use strong mayor powers?
If so, for what reason? If not for what reason?
5. What are your main priorities for Cobourg other than homelessness?
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
