In an exclusive interview with LanarkLeedsToday.ca, Smiths Falls Mayor Shawn Pankow annoucned his decision about running for another term of office.
The Mayor says he will not seek re-election this fall, ending nearly 16 years in municipal politics.
Pankow has served almost 12 years as mayor after four years as a councillor. He said the decision followed months of reflection.
The mayor said the role is one that follows him around his life, limiting time with family and friends.
Pankow has deep ties to Smiths Falls and entered politics during the economic crisis of 2008 and 2009, motivated by wanting to help the town recover from major job losses.
To that point, the Mayor says the growth surrounding Tweed and ultimately Canopy Growth was one of the most exciting chapters of his career.
Pankow also highlighted housing growth, new businesses, downtown improvements, the new pedestrian bridge and Hershey’s purchase of its former factory.
Mayor Pankow credited councils, town staff and residents with helping Smiths Falls become financially stable and better prepared for setbacks.
The Mayor also praised a change in attitude, saying Smiths Falls has learned it can overcome difficult periods.
As he prepares to leave office, Pankow hopes more residents will become candidates for municipal council and believes future councils will keep moving the town moving in the right direction.
He notes that there are two candidates declared for mayor, and he is not prepared to endorse either at this time.
Pankow said he is proud of the difference he helped make and looks forward to a clean break and more family time.
Listen to our full interview with outgoing Mayor of Smiths Falls Shawn Pankow below.
