Toronto city councillor Paula Fletcher has announced her retirement from city hall and confirmed that she will not be running for re-election in the upcoming October municipal election. In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Fletcher revealed that the decision to retire came to her while she was out on Lake Ontario on her paddle board. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the diverse communities of Toronto-Danforth over the past 23 years and stated that she will complete her current term in mid-November.
During her reflective moment on the water, Fletcher felt a sense of peace and made the significant choice to withdraw her name from the election ballot, emphasizing the importance of passing the torch to the next generation. She highlighted the need for a new chapter, both for the community and herself, as she acknowledged the progress made in revitalizing the city’s waterfront and restoring the Don River, as well as her contributions to various community projects and collaborations with esteemed colleagues like Dan Leckie, Jack Layton, and Pam McConnell.
Despite receiving encouragement to seek re-election and recognizing the ongoing work that lies ahead, Fletcher underscored the transformation of the waterfront, the establishment of Biidaasige Park, and the development of a new housing initiative at Danforth and Greenwood Avenues that will offer 70 new affordable and rental-controlled apartments along with a permanent home for Le Théâtre français de Toronto. Proud of her accomplishments during her tenure, Fletcher expressed her gratitude for the support and collaboration she has received from the community.
With Fletcher’s retirement announcement, the city prepares for a transition as she leaves behind a legacy of service and community engagement.