After 20 years on Selwyn Township council, Mayor Sherry Senis has announced she will not be seeking re-election in this fall’s municipal election.
“I know some people will be disappointed and there will be some that will be delighted that I have made the decision to turn in my gavel at the end of this term and not seek re-election,” Senis said in a statement posted on Facebook.
Having previously served for three years on Pickering council, Senis was first elected to Selwyn Township council in 2006 as councillor for Smith Ward.
Senis served two terms as Smith Ward councillor before begin acclaimed as deputy mayor in 2014. She was acclaimed as deputy mayor again in 2018.
In 2022, Senis decided to run for mayor after Andy Mitchell announced he would not be seeking re-election for a third term. Without any challengers, Senis was acclaimed, heading a council without any incumbents.
“Through that time, I have advocated, led and fought both for and against very many changes too numerous to mention, that have been positive for our township and area, but I haven’t done it alone,” Senis said in her statement, acknowledging past and present councils as well as “our first-rate dedicated staff, both at the township and county levels.”
“I feel I am leaving having made my mark,” Senis added. “The one thing I have been most proud of is the fiscal discipline through the years that has allowed us to enjoy the lowest tax rate in Peterborough County, and I hope the future councils will be prudent and continue to maintain that status.”
With the nomination period coming to a close on August 21, the only registered candidate for Selwyn Township mayor is current deputy mayor Ron Black.
There are also only sole candidates for the remaining council positions, including incumbent Lakefield Ward councillor John Boyko for deputy mayor, incumbent Mary Coulas for Ennismore Ward councillor, incumbent Brian Henry for Smith Ward councillor, and Michael Barrett for Lakefield Ward councillor.
