Richard Yaceyko Announces Bid For Mayor Of Vermilion

Richard Yaceyko. Photo Lorna Hamilton

With the upcoming municipal election set for October 20, longtime Vermilion resident and former councillor Richard Yaceyko has officially entered the race for Mayor.

Yaceyko, who previously served 17 years on Vermilion Town Council, says his experience and dedication to the community make him well-prepared for this next step. “Being semi-retired, I feel I have the experience and time required to serve the Town as Mayor,” he explained, adding that encouragement from community members also influenced his decision to run.

Raised on a farm near Clandonald and Derwent, Yaceyko attended Lakeland College where he earned his Journeyman Carpenter’s Ticket. He and his wife, Terry, have lived in Vermilion for the past 42 years, raising their four daughters in the community they call home. Over his career, Yaceyko worked in construction as both a cement finisher and carpenter, as well as with a local small business—experience he says has shaped his belief in the importance of supporting Vermilion’s business community.

His vision for Vermilion includes fostering sustainable growth while balancing affordability for taxpayers. “My vision is for sustainable growth, but not at the expense of overburdening taxpayers,” Yaceyko said. “We can achieve modest growth as Council works collectively to set a path that is workable for our community.” He noted that while the town needs additional residential lots, the priority must be the expansion of the sewer trunk line to support future development.

Financial responsibility is at the forefront of Yaceyko’s platform. He emphasized the need for a balanced budget and prudent investment, noting that “investments today pay dividends tomorrow—if those investments are chosen wisely.” He supports the creation of dedicated reserve funds for infrastructure projects and believes in distinguishing between the community’s “needs” and “wants” when setting spending priorities.

The future of the Vermilion airport is also an important issue for Yaceyko. Recognizing its role in serving medivac needs and benefiting both town and county residents, he supports pursuing grants, reserve funds, and regional collaboration to fund necessary upgrades. “The airport provides a valuable service to our community,” he said, adding that partnerships with the County and other stakeholders will be vital.

When it comes to leadership, Yaceyko describes himself as positive, approachable, compassionate, and guided by integrity. “I am a person of my word,” he said. “These are qualities my parents instilled in me and are part of who I am to this day.”

He also highlighted the importance of transparency and resident engagement, encouraging Vermilion residents to attend council meetings, review budgets, and take part in discussions. To maintain ongoing dialogue, he suggested holding coffee gatherings and town hall meetings throughout his term.

Yaceyko sees Vermilion as a community with much to offer new families and businesses, citing its highways, commercial, hospital, airport, schools, recreational facilities, and Lakeland College as major assets. He believes these factors, combined with existing unique businesses and available industrial lots, position Vermilion well for growth. At the same time, he stresses the need to support and retain local businesses, doctors, and other professionals to strengthen economic and social resilience.

For Yaceyko, success as Mayor would be measured by being fair, honest, and hard-working on behalf of the residents. “I would rather serve the town’s needs and purposes than my own agenda,” he said.

As he looks ahead to election day, Yaceyko encourages Vermilion residents to carefully consider their choices for both Mayor and Council. “You need to choose who you believe you can trust to lead Vermilion for the next four years,” he stated. “Good things happen when good people make good decisions.”

The municipal election will take place on October 20.