Norfolk County Mayor Amy Martin has set her sights on provincial politics.
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Martin announced on Friday afternoon that she is standing as the Ontario Progressive Conservative candidate for Haldimand-Norfolk in the next provincial election.
“This decision reflects my deep commitment to improving our communities and ensuring we have strong, effective representation at the provincial level to address the challenges we face together,” Martin said in a Facebook post.
Martin, who lives in Port Dover, became mayor in 2022, ousting incumbent Kristal Chopp and defeating three others for the election win. She previously served as a councilor for Ward 6.
“Serving as the mayor of Norfolk County has been one of the greatest privileges,” she said. “During this time, I have fought for critical issues like housing affordability, infrastructure investments and the financial stability of our communities.
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“However, I have also seen first-hand the barriers that arise when our voice is not effectively heard within the provincial government. Now, more than ever, we need a dedicated advocate to amplify our voice and deliver results.”
A news release issued by the Ontario PC Party on Friday said Martin has been “focused on building infrastructure and homes, attracting jobs and investment and keeping costs down for families in her community.”
“Her leadership and advocacy have led to improved municipal finances for Norfolk County, expanded essential water and wastewater infrastructure, and new investments to address environmental risks, such as abandoned oil and gas wells.”
The next provincial election is tentatively scheduled for June 2026 but there is speculation it will be called earlier.
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Bobbi Ann Brady was elected as Haldimand-Norfolk MPP in the 2022 election as the province’s lone independent member.
Martin said her decision to run for provincial office wasn’t made lightly and followed a “rigorous process conducted by the Haldimand Norfolk Progressive Conservative Association to ensure the most suitable candidate would stand for election.”
In the meantime, Martin said she will continue to serve as mayor until the writ is dropped. Then she said she’ll take a six-week unpaid leave of absence to “focus fully on campaigning and connecting with residents throughout the riding.”
Martin told residents she remains “deeply committed to our shared success and will continue to work tirelessly for our community throughout this transition.”
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