With the nomination deadline for the municipal election fast approaching, ward races in Brampton are starting to come into focus.

One of the more interesting races confirmed for the upcoming Oct. 22 election so far will be for Peel Region council in Wards 3 and 4, where former Brampton councillor and one-time mayoral hopeful, John Sanderson, has registered to run against incumbent Martin Medeiros.

Regional councillors also serve their respective wards on city council.

Medeiros was first elected to Brampton and regional council in Wards 3 and 4 in 2014, beating out runner-up Shan Gill by a very close 100 votes.

“When I seek re-election, really, it’s on a basis of continuing to improve our service delivery, continue to look at our (finances) and how we provide the services in a more cost-efficient and effective way,” Medeiros told The Guardian.

“I’ve really enjoyed my job. I think on a personal level, I think I’ve been a strong advocate for my residents. I would suggest I’ve been one of the most active councillors, I support my community and have been involved with a lot of community groups (and) initiatives,” added Medeiros.

That seat was formerly held by Sanderson, who instead opted for a run at the mayor chair in that election. He lost to current Mayor Linda Jeffrey by just under 30,000 votes.

Sanderson was first elected to council in the 2006 after unseating incumbent Susan DiMarco. While in office, Sanderson chaired a number of committees at both the municipal and regional levels. He was voted Brampton Citizen of the Year in 2005.

“Thank you to all who encouraged and supported me as I registered to run for Re-Election for Regional Councillor for Wards 3/4. I'm humbled by the number of texts, phone calls, and the outpouring of support on social media,” wrote Sanderson in a Facebook post on Monday (July 16).

“Special thanks to all of those who came out to support me as I registered. I look forward to this campaign and once again being your #Brampton Regional Councillor for Wards 3/4,” he added.