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More by Tim Bousquet

And round and roundabout we go....

The city wants to replace two North Park Street intersections with roundabouts, but will the public buy it?
- by Tim Bousquet
- Mar 1, 2013
More »

Councillor Debbie Hum bows out

District 10 race now down to two candidates: Russell Walker and John Thibeau.

by Tim Bousquet

click to enlarge

Debbie Hum

I'm back from vacation, and vow to start election blogging every day. First, though, a bit of catch up.

Hum calls it quits

Councillor Debbie Hum sent out a press release Friday announcing she would not run for reelection. She didn't answer her phone when I called today, but here's the text of her release:

"Today I'm officially announcing my decision not to re-offer in the upcoming October 20th Municipal Election.
I've given this a great deal of thought and personal reflection, particularly over the last month. It hasn't been an easy decision, but it is the right decision.
I'm incredibly honoured and privileged to have been given the opportunity to represent residents on Council for the last 9 years. I never thought of myself as a politician, but rather, someone dedicated to public service. I feel it is the right time to move on and seek other new, exciting opportunities and challenges.
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to residents for all your support and belief in me as your elected representative on Council.
What I take away most is knowing this experience and opportunity to serve is one that I do not regret. It has been exciting, demanding and rewarding in so many ways. I have not hesitated to take strong positions on a number of significant issues before Council that I felt were in the public's best interests. I am proud to be part of ensuring that HRM be open, transparent and effective in governance.
I wish HRM's incoming Mayor and Council Elect much success. I am confident the public will see strong commitment and leadership by HRM and the new Regional Council ensuring effective decision making, building upon our municipality's strengths, and a vision that will ensure a vibrant, safe and welcoming HRM with a bright future for many years ahead."

I honestly think Hum's departure is a big loss for the city. Especially over the last year or so she has proven to be thoughtful, and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the council table, and that's not easily replaceable.

In terms of the upcoming election, Hum's departure leaves just two announced candidates in the District 10 race: sitting councillor Russell Walker and Occupy veteran John Thibeau.

Kelly's intentions

I'm of course aware of Peter Kelly's continued mutterings about perhaps, possibly, running for something. But I'm still talking to people, and formulating some thoughts about this... I'll write something directly addressing Kelly in the next couple of days.