Mayor Robin Jones Announces Retirement from Westport Council

Westport Mayor, Robin Jones. Photo Credit: Village of Westport

As council wrapped up last Tuesday, May 19, Mayor Robin Jones announced that she will retire from municipal politics, giving rise to the question of who will emerge to stand as a mayoral candidate in the municipal election.

At times emotional, Mayor Jones said that public service has been a defining part of her life, and “serving the people of Westport has been both an honour and a privilege.” She served 13 years on Westport council, 12 as mayor. She also served in leadership positions at county and provincial levels including, most recently, president of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario.

She noted the biggest achievements during her tenure as strengthening the Village’s financial position, investing in critical infrastructure, and modernizing municipal administration.

She said that volunteers are the backbone of the community. “They are the people who organize events, support local organizations, serve on committees, raise funds, and step forward whenever help is needed.”

She also praised the local business community. “The strength of Westport is built not only through public investment, but also through the commitment, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of those who choose to invest and do business here.”

In concluding her remarks, she said, “Municipal government is rarely easy or glamorous. Resources are limited, priorities compete, and decisions are often complex. There are moments of disagreement and criticism, but there are also moments of collaboration, progress, and shared purpose.”