East Hawkesbury Mayor Robert Kirby has ended his bid for re-election.
On Monday, August 31, Kirby issued a letter to township residents announcing that on Monday, August 24, he had formally withdrawn his candidacy. Kirby had filed his nomination on May 19.
In the letter, Kirby said his decision to withdraw from the campaign was made after careful consideration. However, the decision was made after the end of the official nomination deadline. Therefore, his name will still be on the ballot on election day, October 26.
Kirby told The Review that he has served as the township’s mayor for 23 years and it has become a challenge to keep up on both politics and the business of operating his farm.
“There’s no other reason,” he said.
“Sometimes it gets demanding,” added Kirby.
The landmark Kirby farm near Chute-à-Blondeau is one of the oldest multi-generational farms in the area. Kirby’s team of Percheron horses are well-known and a familiar sight in local parades. In 2011, the farm hosted the International Plowing Match. Kirby has also served as Warden of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell three times. Recently, Kirby has strongly opposed the proposed Alto project.
“It has been an honour to serve this community, and I sincerely appreciate the opportunity I have had to work alongside residents, council, municipal staff, and community organizations over the years,” Kirby wrote.
Kirby concluded the letter by thanking everyone for their understanding and many years of support.
