Calling Fred Eisenberger a "caretaker" mayor, Coun. Terry Whitehead says he's seriously considering running against him in the mayor's race this fall.

The outspoken west Mountain councillor has raised the possibility at recent speaking events to gauge public support and, he says, in response to people who are urging him to throw his hat in the ring.

"I think I need to take a serious look at this and I'm pointing it out to get feedback, and I'll measure that feedback and make a determination in the coming weeks."

Whitehead, who has represented Ward 8 since 2003, is the only member of council to publicly muse about challenging Eisenberger's re-election bid.

"I don't take these things lightly. I've thoroughly enjoyed and it's been a humbling experience to represent the people that I currently represent, but many of them are saying 'it's time.'"

On the verge of turning 60 years of age, Whitehead feels he's "got a lot more in the tank" which he'd like to take to a "higher level."

"At some point you've got to put your head above the water and stand for something."

Would-be municipal candidates can't officially register for the Oct. 22 election until May 1.

But so far, Eisenberger and longtime de-amalgamation advocate Roman Sarachman have said they intend to seek the mayor's chair, while accountant and local Liberal organizer Vito Sgro says he's "leaning toward running."

There's also speculation Ontario NDP leader and local MPP Andrea Horwath is keeping her options open in case her party hits the skids in the June 7 provincial election.

Before being elected to council, Whitehead was a special adviser to former federal cabinet minister Sheila Copps, chief of staff to the late former mayor Bob Morrow, and a special assistant to David Christopherson when he was a provincial cabinet minister.

Thick-skinned, talkative, and candidly assertive, Whitehead was arguably the most vocal council critic of the $1 billion light rail project.

He finally came aboard when the province agreed to extend the LRT line to Eastgate Square but he also made it clear he will consider voting against the yet-to-be signed operating agreement if local taxpayers are asked to contribute more than is palatable.

Whitehead's critics — and there are many on social media — see him as divisive and reactionary. Whitehead sees himself as a gutsy "innovator' who isn't afraid to speak up, grab people's attention and adopt "cutting edge" approaches to city services.

He believes that sets him part from Eisenberger who he characterizes as a "safe guy" and "caretaker" mayor.

Eisenberger literally laughs off Whitehead's description, noting that the city has been pushing the envelope in the last few year and is on an "upward trajectory."

"The proof is in the pudding. If I'm a 'caretaker mayor' I've done a pretty spectacular job both individually and collaboratively," Eisenberger said.

Whitehead hasn't set himself a deadline for making a decision but he figures there are a number of things he needs to take into account before committing to the race. Assembling a campaign team or raising money are not his foremost concerns.

"You have to have strong messaging, branding, and I believe those are the kinds of things I'll be working on."

"Can I clearly contrast and distinguish myself differently from any other candidate? Can I clearly embolden people and bring a level of inspiration and hope?"

If Whitehead decides to play it safe and not run for mayor, he'll still seek re-election to council, though he's not sure yet which ward he'd run in.

Under the changes to the ward boundaries ordered by the Ontario Municipal Board, Whitehead's current Ward 8 will be divided, with part of the area staying with the new Ward 8 and other part going to the new Ward 14.

According to Whitehead, there aren't any dramatic differences from a political perspective, but having to choose between the two options will be like forcing a parent to pick a favourite child.

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Andrew Dreschel's commentary appears Monday, Wednesday and Friday. adreschel@thespec.com @AndrewDreschel

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