Hawkesbury Mayor Robert Lefebvre is not seeking another term.
Lefebvre, who was elected Mayor in 2022, issued a press release during the evening on Thursday, January 8 and announced he is not running for re-election later this year.
The 2026 municipal election is to be held on October 26. Nominations open on May 1 and close on August 21. Lefebvre said he chose to make his announcement early so that any prospective candidates for mayor who have a serious commitment to public service have the time to organize. Lefebvre said even though he will not be a candidate, he intends to be involved in the election process and will endorse a candidate who has recognizable qualities and sincere values. He implied that whoever that candidate is will have to demonstrate they have the knowledge and determination for the role.
“Criticism without substance is not productive. It has no place or value in our society but simply shows a lack of vision,” Lefebvre wrote.
The mayor said he embarked on his campaign for mayor in 2022 with a theme of positive change. Lefebvre said he can confidently say he has achieved the goals he set. The most significant of those is the memorandum of understanding reached with Champlain Township on December 10, 2025, which will allow Hawkesbury’s boundaries to be expanded to include the site of a proposed new industrial park at the southeast corner of town.
“It will confirm that the Town of Hawkesbury is truly an economic hub, and that we are ready, willing, and able to continue to grow and prosper!” Lefebvre remarked.
Other accomplishments during the past four years which Lefebvre highlighted are the development of a new strategic plan, asset management plan, official plan, and recreation master plan for Hawkesbury. Lefebvre wants to ensure that during the months ahead, decisions are still made for the benefit of citizens and not postponed.
“The future is bright, but we also face important work ahead to ensure our roads and local infrastructure remain ready to allow us to capture the opportunities ahead,” Lefebvre said.
Municipal administration is Lefebvre’s career. He began his work in local government at the United Counties of Prescott and Russell more than 50 years ago. He subsequently served as the Clerk for the former municipality of the Township of West Hawkesbury, and then as Chief Administrative Officer of Champlain Township. Lefebvre served one term as a Councillor in Hawkesbury before being elected Mayor.
In announcing he will not seek re-election, Lefebvre expressed appreciation and gratitude for those who have worked collaboratively. He also expressed gratitude for the assistance of Hawkesbury municipal staff.
Lefebvre said it has been an honour and privilege to serve Hawkesbury residents as mayor and trusts he has been able to serve citizens well.
