Toronto City Councilor Anna Bailao will not run for re-election in the fall.
Councilor and Deputy Mayor of Ward 9 – Davenport announced on Thursday that he is leaving the post after 12 years and three terms.
“I think it’s just an opportunity to do something different and renew the town hall and be able to serve and contribute to the city, but in a certain way,” she told CP24 on Thursday morning.
“I am proud of the work we have done to bring affordable housing to the forefront of the city’s agenda. I am very proud of the work I have done locally in my community and I think that in 12 years I have to find different ways to contribute, “she added.
Bailão has been on the municipal council since 2010 and will continue his position until a new councilor is elected in October.
Bailão is also the city’s housing advocate and serves on the boards of the Toronto Community Housing Corporation and CreateTO, which manages all real estate in the city.
She says her work in housing advocacy stems from being a young immigrant in Canada and understanding how safe and stable housing is the foundation for a successful and prosperous life in the country.
Mayor John Torrey says Bailão was a key member of his administration and a champion of housing.
“I will miss him here in the town hall, but I am convinced that he will do great things in whatever he decides to do next. And I hope to see her in politics again one day – we need more people like Anna Bailao in public life. No matter what, I know she will always be a strong advocate for housing, “Tori wrote in a statement Thursday.
As she reflects on her time in the office, Bailao says it has been challenging but extremely rewarding to serve her community.
“… This is a great, great privilege and honor. You have such special moments that when you see in someone’s eyes, in some of the conversations, the way you can influence their life, it’s so rewarding. “
Bailao says she is not sure what she will do next and that her work in politics may not be over.
“Right now I’m looking to see if I can contribute to the personal world, but I never say never. Again, it’s not about position, it’s about how you can influence change and influence change. And especially in areas that I am very passionate about, such as housing, you can influence change in all three orders of the government, the non-profit organization, the private sector, because you really need everyone to deal with this problem, “she said. .
Toronto’s municipal elections are scheduled for October 24, 2022.
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