Lakeshore Ward 2 Councillor Michael Hoffman signs his declaration of office after being named to the vacant seat on October 1, 2024. Photo courtesy Municipality of Lakeshore.Lakeshore Ward 2 Councillor Michael Hoffman signs his declaration of office after being named to the vacant seat on October 1, 2024. Photo courtesy Municipality of Lakeshore.
Chatham

Lakeshore council welcomes Michael Hoffman

The seat on Lakeshore council recently vacated by a member's passing is now filled.

At their meeting on Tuesday evening, Lakeshore councillors passed a by-law to appoint Michael Hoffman to fill the Ward 2 seat, left empty by the sudden death of Paddy Byrne.

Hoffman was then invited to take his Declaration of Office and occupy the seat.

"I am proud and honoured to continue the tradition of the great work done on Council by Paddy Byrne," said Hoffman. "I look forward to becoming an integral member of this team moving forward."

Mayor Tracey Bailey said Hoffman has some big shoes to fill.

"Stepping into this role is no small task, and we appreciate Michael's commitment to serving our communities," said Bailey. "His background and passion for Lakeshore make him an excellent addition to our team, and we are excited to work with you as we build upon the success of the first half of council’s term."

Byrne passed away on July 25 at the age of 71. Councillors had several options to fill the seat, including a byelection and appointment. Hoffman was the runner-up to Byrne for the Ward 2 seat in the 2022 municipal election.

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