The mayor of The Pas has resigned from his position just weeks before the upcoming local election and has also decided not to seek re-election this fall. Andre Murphy, who was initially elected as the mayor of the northern Manitoba town in 2022, officially announced his resignation online on Monday evening, effective immediately.
In an interview with CBC News, Murphy confirmed that he has stepped down as mayor and will not be participating in the upcoming re-election in the fall. Following his resignation, The Pas will be without a mayor for a period of nine weeks until new councils are elected on October 28, including The Pas and most other municipalities in Manitoba. There will be no mayoral by-election held before the scheduled election day. Deputy mayor Carrie Atkinson will take on most of Murphy’s daily responsibilities until the election.
Murphy disclosed that he and his family reached the decision the previous week and informed the council on Monday. Although he had contemplated running for another term, he had a change of heart over the summer. Murphy emphasized his commitment to serving the community and expressed that once he commits to a role, he is fully dedicated. Ultimately, he and his family decided it was the right time to step down.
Expressing his desire to spend more time with his family, particularly his children and grandchildren residing in eastern Canada, Murphy stated his deep connection to The Pas, where he has lived for over 50 years. Despite his resignation, Murphy believes that the town is in capable hands and highlighted his achievements in collaborating with neighboring communities and securing grants for local projects during his term.
Murphy expressed confidence in the town’s council and administration to continue the progress he initiated, stating, “We’re in good hands still. I was one part of a good team that was moving our community forward, and I have full confidence that it’ll continue to move forward.” He also mentioned the potential opportunities on the horizon for northern Manitoba and expressed his support for the community’s future growth.
CBC News has contacted town councillors in The Pas for their responses to Murphy’s resignation.