THUNDER BAY – Northwood Coun. Shelby Ch’ng is taking a leave of absence from her duties on city council as she runs as a candidate in the June 2 provincial election.
Ch’ng was announced on Wednesday as the Ontario Liberal Party candidate in the Thunder Bay-Superior North riding, after long-time MPP Michael Gravelle stepped aside due to renewed health concerns.
Ch'ng will face PC candidate and fellow Coun. Peng You, and NDP candidate Lise Vaugeois, who came within fewer than one thousand votes of toppling Gravelle in 2018. Tracey McKinnon is running under the Green Party banner.
Ch’ng would have to resign her council seat to become an MPP, if elected. That would trigger a process for council to appoint a replacement for the short time remaining in the current term before the Oct. 24 municipal election.
During her absence from council, Ch’ng said constituents can instead contact the city’s five at-large councillors.
It’s not required, but other councillors including You have previously taken leaves during their own campaigns for provincial or federal office. Like You, Ch'ng requested she not be paid during her leave, the city clerk's office reported.
