Parry Sound-Muskoka will soon have a new Member of Parliament.
Current MP Scott Aitchison was appointed Chair of the District of Muskoka council on Nov. 10.
“Ontario stands at an important juncture. As we navigate geopolitical challenges and create the conditions for growth, strong leadership at the regional level is more important than ever,” said Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “These appointments reflect our confidence in local leaders who bring a deep understanding of their municipalities and a proven record of performance and public service.”
The decision follows Aitchison’s announcement on social media in late September that he would resign after serving seven years as the area’s member of parliament.
“Having served as a Huntsville Town Councillor, District Councillor, Mayor of Huntsville and Member of Parliament for Parry Sound-Muskoka, Scott knows our communities, understand the issues that matter to local residents and has longstanding relationships across the District,” said local MPP Graydon Smith.
“His extensive municipal experience, combined with his leadership on housing policy at the federal level, makes him exceptionally well qualified to help address the challenges facing Muskoka, particularly housing affordability, infrastructure needs and responsible growth.”
In April, the province announced that it would appoint chairs to lead councils in the regional municipalities of Durham, Halton, Muskoka, Peel, Waterloo, York and Niagara, as well as the warden of Simcoe County. These unelected regional chairs will have “strong chair” powers, similar to the strong mayor powers bestowed across the province.
Aitchison intends to resign from his seat in the House of Commons by the end of November. He will be sworn in as District Chair on Dec. 1.
A by-election to fill the open seat in Parliament is expected to follow.
