The 1878 election was contested by Steward and George Sumpter, and the former achieved a majority of 45 votes. In the depression year of 1879, Steward did not stand for re-election. Steward was formally thanked at the last council meeting for the able manner in which he had led the council, and the courteous was in which he had interacted with the councillors.
The 1878 election saw a contest between Steward and George Sumpter, with Steward emerging victorious by a margin of 45 votes. In the following year, 1879, an economic downturn led to Steward's decision not to run for re-election. Steward was publicly acknowledged at the council's last meeting for his outstanding leadership and courteous behavior towards councillors.