BRACEBRIDGE – The Town of Bracebridge will have a new mayor this fall.
The race for mayor was thrown wide open this week when current Mayor Don Coates announced on Wednesday that he will not seek re-election.
“As much as I enjoy it, and I really do enjoy it, I think it’s just the four-year term. Frankly it’s the length of the term,” said Coates yesterday. “It was a difficult decision to make but ultimately Helen (his wife) and I thought it was the right one.”
Coates was elected to the mayor’s office in 2006, after serving one term on district council.
In 2006, Coates garnered 58 per cent of the vote in a narrow victory over largely unknown candidate Navarro Ralph.
“Although there are many exciting projects on the horizon, I believe now is the time to complete my service on council,” said Coates. “I am confident that our town will continue to be well served by both council and staff and will complete my term as mayor knowing that Bracebridge will continue to be a thriving and prosperous community in the future.”
Coates said Bracebridge has undergone a tremendous transformation over the past few decades.
He cited recent developments like the expansion of both Georgian College and Nipissing University, the construction of the Bracebridge Sportsplex and new recreation facilities such as Peake Fields at Verena Acres and the skateboard park as important projects that will have a long-lasting effect on the town.
Most important for Coates was the recent development of a new Community Based Strategic Plan, which sets out long-term priorities for the town’s future.
These projects could only be completed through teamwork and perseverance by council, staff and the support of the public, said Coates.
“I have had the opportunity to work closely with an exceptional group of councillors and a dedicated staff team, all committed to help shape a positive future for our community at both levels of municipal government,” he said. “In my position as mayor and district councillor, it’s been a true pleasure and privilege to serve the residents of Bracebridge and Muskoka.”
For expanded coverage of this issue look in next week’s edition of the Bracebridge Examiner.