After serving the Royal City as Mayor for three terms, Cam Guthrie has made the call to step aside.
In a post made to social media, the long-serving Guelph Mayor said that he’s made the call to not seek re-election in October, instead opting to “pass the baton” to the next leader chosen by Guelph voters.
In his statement, Guthrie said that serving his city as mayor has been an “honour and a joy,” but he is looking forward to moving on to his next chapter. While he admits that stepping away from the role has been an “incredibly difficult” decision, he adds that he’s at peace with it — with the full support of his wife and children.
“As a person of faith, I thank God, who I believe has guided me every step of this journey since the beginning,” reads Guthrie’s statement.
Guthrie explained to 570 NewsRadio directly why he made the decision now.
“Knowing that we’re moving into the election in the fall, I think it was important to really make some final decisions. With the support of my family I have decided to not run again. I thought it was important to announce early so that people can be ready if they choose to put their name forward.”
Guthrie acknowleged that being Mayor takes a toll both personally and on his family.
“Family and health are the most important things and that’s why it was quite easy to come to the decision that we’re going to prioritize that in our lives moving forward.” He went on to say he’s excited for what the future brings, “I don’t have anything in mind yet, so, it will be fun over the next several months to see where my life takes me. But, I know I can look back at this time as the mayor as really a rewarding time.”
When it comes to any regrets, Guthrie said he really only has one,
“I kinda wish I was still going to stay as the mayor for when the Memorial Cup comes to Guelph. I was glad to be part of the bidding process of getting it here. I’ll still be enjoying the Memorial Cup just from a different vantage point.”
The mayor also took time to acknowledge the work that he’s been able to accomplish with support of staff, councillors and community members, highlighting work including improved communication with Guelph residents, advancing supportive housing to help those experiencing homelessness, and working on a new South End Community Centre, set to open by the end of his term.
“I will stay fully engaged for the remaining months of my term,” assures Guthrie. “My focus remains on what I believe matters most: public safety, respecting taxpayers’ dollars, building homes and hopefully bringing a few laughs along the way.”
“Thank you, Guelph. I feel truly blessed every single day to have served you as I worked towards shaping our city into a pace we’re all proud to call home.”
Read Cam Guthrie’s statement here.
