Sandy Shantz will not run for re-election

Sandy Shantz speaks with CTV News on Wednesday, July 8, 2015.

The mayor of the Township of Woolwich will not be running for re-election.

In a news release on Thursday, Sandy Shantz said it has been one of the greatest honours of her life to serve first as a Waterloo Region District School Board Trustee, then a township councillor, and finally, as mayor.

“These roles have given me the opportunity to connect with so many incredible people, to listen, to learn, and to work together to build the strong, caring community we are so proud to call home,” she wrote.

Shantz said it was not an easy choice to make, but she is stepping away from public life to spend more time with friends and family.

“I leave this role with a full heart and great confidence in the future of Woolwich. We are well positioned for continued success, and I know our community will choose thoughtful and capable leadership in the years ahead.”

Shantz is the latest politician to announce she will not be running in the upcoming municipal election. Fellow mayors Cam Guthrie and David Bailey also announced their intention to step away from their roles.

Election day is coming up on Monday, Oct. 26.

Nominations open on May 1 and candidates have until Aug. 21 at 2 p.m. to submit their name for consideration.