The mayor of The Pas has stepped down from his position just weeks before the upcoming local election and has also announced that he will not seek re-election this fall. Andre Murphy, who was initially elected as mayor of the northern Manitoba town in 2022, made the announcement of his resignation online on Monday evening, effective immediately.
Confirming his resignation to CBC News, Murphy stated that he is no longer holding the position of mayor and will not be a candidate in the upcoming election, leaving The Pas without a mayor for the next nine weeks until new councils are elected on October 28th. A by-election for the mayoral position will not be conducted before the scheduled election date. Deputy mayor Carrie Atkinson will be taking on most of Murphy’s day-to-day responsibilities until the election.
Murphy disclosed that he and his family reached the decision the previous week and officially informed the council on Monday. Despite considering running for another term, he opted against it after a change of heart during the summer. His decision was based on his commitment to fully engage once he commits to a role, and he felt it was time to prioritize his family over a potential four-year term.
Expressing his desire to spend more quality time with his family, including children and grandchildren residing in eastern Canada, Murphy emphasized his strong connection to The Pas, where he has lived for over 50 years. He reassured the community that the town is in capable hands, praising the council and administration for their ongoing efforts to advance the town’s welfare.
Reflecting on his tenure as mayor, Murphy highlighted accomplishments such as fostering closer collaboration with neighboring communities and government bodies, eliminating obstacles for residents, and securing substantial grants for recreational and infrastructural development. He expressed confidence in the town’s future trajectory and encouraged progress and growth in northern Manitoba.
The Pas town councillors have been contacted by CBC News for their response to Murphy’s resignation.