Halifax Mayor Mike Savage will not run in the next election.
The 63 year-old fought back tears as he made the announcement on Tuesday at city hall.
Savage described his time leading Halifax and being its spokesperson as “the best job I ever had.”
Savage was first elected as mayor in 2012 and the next municipal vote is set for this October.
“It was a difficult decision, but it passes the test that my mother gave me more than 20 years ago…. ‘Is it a decision that sits comfortably in both your head and your heart?’…. it does.”
The news of Savage stepping away from the mayor’s chair sent a shock through the city.
Premier Tim Houston spoke to his dedication to Halifax.
“Mike has a passion for his community and has been a valuable partner as we tackle the challenges of growth in Halifax Regional Municipality,” said Houston. “I look forward to continuing to work with him as he finishes his term and wish him all the best for the next chapter.”
Savage was elected for his third term in 2020.
Prior to his election as mayor, he served three terms as the MP for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour.
Halifax MP Andy Fillmore believes Savage was the leader the city needed.
“Mike helped turn our municipality toward prosperity, moving us closer to the promise of our potential,” said Fillmore. “This period of remarkable growth across our region is a clear testament to his steady leadership and vision.”
“Thank you, Mayor, for your years of service to HRM.”
