In 1980 election the right united around Art Eggleton, and he narrowly defeated Sewell.

Incumbent Allan Sparrow had stepped aside to allow George Hislop to run, in the belief that the large gay community in the ward deserved a representative on council.

Hislop was one of the leading gay rights activists in the city, and his campaign was vigorously opposed by figures such as evangelist Ken Campbell.

Tom Wardle Jr., who had been involved in several controversies including an assault conviction, was defeated by former councillor Dorothy Thomas.

After four failed attempts Joe Pantalone won a seat on council by capturing the one vacated by Eggleton.

Ward 2 Alderman Tony Ruprecht resigned to contest the 1981 provincial election.

A by-election was held on October 19, 1981: Alan Redway won his third term in office as mayor.