Walker will not seek re-election in St. Paul’s
Admin2 | Thursday, March 11th, 2010 | No Comments »
Former executive assistant Chris Sellors announces candidacy
Michael Walker will end a 28-year career representing the north Toronto communities in St. Paul’s this year – and his now-former executive assistant Chris Sellors will be running to replace him.
Walker and Sellors made the joint announcement Thursday, March 11, at the Toronto City Hall Press Gallery offices.
Walker, 69, told reporters he had been considering whether to seek re-election for some time, but was finally persuaded by his children.
“I’m announcing today my intention not to stand for re-election in Ward 22,” he said.
“I do this with mixed emotions. I’ve been most fortunate and honored to have represented residents in Toronto for 28 years. Over those years I’ve been privileged to serve the interests of an astute, discerning electorate. But the time has come now for me to step aside from that role which I will dearly miss.”
Walker said he has no intentions to return to politics – and will focus on spending time with his family at the ancestral cottage.
Chris Sellors, 35, had resigned from Walker’s office Wednesday to concentrate on the election campaign and announced his intentions Thursday.
The former sales manager and songwriter said he would bring to bear his eight years of experience working in Walker’s office, the past five as executive assistant.
“I am asking residents of Ward 22 for the privilege of representing them,” said Sellors. “I know the ward. I know its people. Their concerns are my concerns and because of my experience of eight years I’m the only candidate that can hit the ground running.”
Sellors is running against local TDSB school trustee Josh Matlow, who declared his candidacy in January.
– David Nickle
