Chatham-Kent (CK) Councillor Morena McDonald won't be running in the upcoming municipal election.
She's only been a part of CK's council for just over two years, after she was chosen to replace Steve Pinsonneault, who vacated his seat to become a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP).
McDonald ran in the 2022 election, receiving the third-most votes amongst Ward 3 candidates, trailing behind Pinsonneault and John Wright. Since she received the most votes behind the two winners, CK's council approved offering her the job.
She told CK News Today her time on council has been short, but long enough to leave a negative impression.
"Things have become too divisive, and politics have really changed over the past few years," explained McDonald.
The issue that truly highlighted how divided CK's current council has been was the Chatham-Kent Community Hub. McDonald was one of five to vote against the project, which was ultimately approved.
The hub is just one example of a topic that split council. Others include the encampment on Grand Avenue, talks with the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) about creating a new arena, and, more recently, a motion to have a report highlighting the work done by each council member during regular meetings.
"I understand that arguments and disagreements are normal, but it's been different than previous years," explained McDonald.
While her time on council was short, there still were moments that McDonald was happy to be a part of. This included expanding community gardens across the municipality.
"We were successful in getting one in Thamesville; we're also doing one with residents in Ridgetown. I do hope that program expands further in the next term," she said.
Moving forward, she hopes whoever gets elected to represent her hometown of Ridgetown will truly be an advocate for people living in the area and treat the community the same as every other one in the ward.
