Councillor Purcell has been the Deputy Mayor of Dutton Dunwich the past 8 years. In October, he successfully ran for the Mayoral position. He was also the Reeve of Dutton previous to amalgamation. This is his seventh year on Elgin County Council. He has previously been the Warden for Elgin County twice in 1986 and 1987.

Over the span of 30 years, Councillor Purcell was a Claims Executive for Avia and Economical Insurance.  He has also invested and put time into private companies such as Purcell & Son’s, CHAPS, and PROMUS Restoration Services.

Councillor Purcell has been active in Elgin County aside from seating on Council and is a long-time member of Dutton & District Lions Club.  He has also spent time on the Elgin-St.Thomas Hospital and Family & Children’s Services Boards.

Councillor Purcell sits on the POA Court Facility, the Policy Review and the Terrace Lodge Building committees.