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 was challenged by Steward and George Sumpter, and the former secured a majority of 45 votes. In the year of economic hardship in 1879, Steward chose not to seek re-election. Steward was formally commended at the final council gathering for the effective way he had led the council, and the polite manner in which he had interacted with the councillors.