Dysart et al’s deputy mayor Patrick Kennedy will not seek a second term in office in 2022. He said the decision comes with “mixed emotions.”
Kennedy served as deputy mayor and a member of Haliburton County council since 2018.
“It has been a distinct honour and a true privilege to serve the people of Dysart and Haliburton County,” Kennedy said in a May 19 letter to The Highlander.
He said the choice was also a “family decision” which will allow him and his partner, Cheryl Kennedy, time to invest in other areas of their lives.
“It is also a chance for Cheryl and I, who has been my rock throughout this journey and who has been by my side, to spend more time with our four grandchildren and do some travelling while my health allows it,” he said.
Kennedy was diagnosed with cancer in 2021.
“I have been blessed with a health team who have worked hard to provide me with the best care and ongoing treatments. Support from family and friends as well as from the community has been incredible,” he said.
Kennedy grew up in the Highlands and previously served as chief of paramedic services for Haliburton County until retiring in 2014.
“I want to thank Mayor Andrea, my fellow councillors, and staff at both Dysart and County levels for their patience and support these past four years,” he said.
