 Aspden was a police officer for over 20 years and a municipal councillor for nine years, representing Ward 2 before he was elected as mayor.He has been a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for over 28 years, received the President's Award from the Navy League of Canada and is the secretary and treasurer for the Ontario Association of Police Services Boards.On September 8, 2010, Aspden announced his intention to seek a second term in the city of Barrie, just two days before the close of nominations.