Kensington mayor announces he won’t re-offer
Rowan Caseley has called Kensington’s Town Hall a second home since 2009.
“I’ve spent a lot of time in this building and with the staff here. I’ll miss having the discussions with them and I’ll miss working with them.” On Monday, Caseley announced he would not be running for re-election come November.
“I wanted to give councillors notice now so they have some time to think about if they wanted to run for the position.”
He was elected as a town councillor in 2009, not long after he began working as chairman of the financial department. Over his tenure he also took on roles to organize the 2014 celebrations, helping the town secure ownership of the Community Gardens Complex (now Credit Union Centre) and securing upgrades for the complex.
Now he’s taking a step back. While he did say he hasn’t been feeling the best, his health wasn’t the only factor in the decision.
“I’m slowing down. I don’t have the energy anymore. And I figure it’s time. We’ve got a strategic development plan on the go and we’re trying to move the town forward. So, I think it will be good to have some fresh blood and new perspectives come into council.” Caseley says he’ll miss the role. “I look forward to the meetings, there’s always something going on. I’ve enjoyed being here and while the job is serious, I’ve always tried to be jovial about it.”
He said the most rewarding time in the position has been seeing the downtown core grow into a business and restaurant hub.