Maloney not seeking re-election
Addressing questions raised in the community, Port Colborne Mayor John Maloney announced during Monday’s council meeting that he will not be seeking re-election at the end of this term.
Maloney, who made the announcement during the mayor’s report, said that even though the deadline for registration is not until later this year, he wanted to make his intentions known now in order to let potential candidates know they will not have to face an incumbent during October’s municipal election.
“Certainly for those seeking election to office, they now have a fresh perspective in that they know they don’t have an incumbent to run against, and that may encourage others to come out and seek the office,” Maloney said in an interview following the meeting. “And that’s why I’m announcing now so as to not deter people who would otherwise come forward.”
Maloney said he made his decision after discussions with his wife and family at the beginning of the year. He said he came to the realization that after a long career in politics, including 15 years as a member of parliament and now four years as mayor, it was the right choice to make for himself and the city.
“I decided it was the proper time,” he said.
In February 2016 he took a leave of office after suffering a stroke. Initially slated to be off for six weeks, he didn’t return to city hall until the end of June.
However, Maloney said on Monday there are no health concerns now and that it was not a factor in his decision. He said he had an appointment with his rehabilitation physician as recently as two weeks ago and that he was given a clean bill of health.
“He was quite pleased with my health at that time,” he said. “So there’s no reason from a health perspective.”
Maloney said he’s proud of what council has accomplished during this term, noting the city has progressed economically and has addressed crucial pieces of infrastructure that needed to be replaced.
The next big step, he said, will be running a water line underneath the Welland Canal in order to service the 35.2 hectares of industrial lands on the east side.
“If we want to have expanded economic opportunities, we have to have somewhere for them to go,” he said.
He noted the city has also seen
substantial residential development in this term.
“We want to continue to see that happen,” he said, explaining the water line will also service lands available for residential development.
As to what comes after the term ends, Maloney said he sees himself pursuing more leisurely activities and spending time with his family, including his grandchildren.
“I have an opportunity now for beaches, sailing — and babysitting,” he said.
Maloney said he’s enjoyed his time in office and that the job is a hard one to leave. However, he said, he had another reason for making the announcement at this time: it’s his wife’s birthday this week.
“There’ s no question it’ll be a present for her.”
Voters in Ontario go to the polls for the municipal elections on Oct. 22. Candidates can file nomination papers starting Tuesday, May 1, up until 2 p.m. on Friday, July 27.