~with files from Ryan Drury
A member of Kincardine council is stepping away from municipal politics after accepting a new role in the justice system, bringing an unexpected end to their time as deputy mayor.
In a statement shared Monday, now former Deputy Mayor Andrea Clarke announced she has been appointed as a part-time deputy judge, calling it an opportunity grounded in public service and fairness. However, the appointment comes with a legal requirement under Ontario’s Municipal Act that prevents Clarke from continuing to serve on council, prompting their resignation.
"It is an honour I accept with deep humility," Clarke said. "One that is rooted in service, responsibility, and fairness, and that allows me to continue serving through the law while remaining in private practice."
The deputy mayor acknowledged the decision was not an easy one, describing the transition as both meaningful and difficult.
"Sometimes, the hardest part of any story is not the beginning or even the middle; it is the ending we did not expect. If we are honest, we all like to believe we are writing our own story. We plan the chapters, we decide how long we will stay in them, and we imagine the closing lines. However, every now and then, life gently reminds us that while we hold the pen, we are not always the author. This chapter has come to a close, perhaps sooner than I would have chosen, and certainly differently than I had imagined," she continued. “There are moments in life where gratitude and grief sit side by side, where you are proud of what lies ahead, but ache for what you must leave behind.”
Clarke extended thanks to colleagues and staff, highlighting the work done behind the scenes to keep the municipality moving forward. Special recognition was given to Mayor Kenneth Craig for his leadership and to fellow council members for their shared commitment to serving residents.
"To the many dedicated members of our municipal staff—please know this: while much of what you do may go unseen, it is never unfelt. Your commitment to your work, to this municipality, and to the people who call it home is both evident and extraordinary. Day after day, you move this community forward not for recognition, but because you care," Clarke stated. "That standard of excellence you uphold does not go unnoticed. It shapes who we are."
The deputy mayor also offered a message directly to the community.
“Service does not end when a title does. It simply takes a different shape," she continued. "You will still see my family and I in the places that matter most: at community events, cheering on our children and your children, supporting local initiatives, and showing up in quiet, meaningful ways that define who we are. Our connection to this community is not tied to a position; it is rooted in love."
A press release from the Municipality of Kincardine said Deputy Mayor Clarke has served the community with dedication, integrity, and a deep commitment to public service, noting that Clarke played a key role in advancing initiatives that strengthened community engagement, improved accessibility, and supported a more inclusive environment for residents and visitors alike.
"It has been an honour to represent the residents of the Municipality of Kincardine. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and proud of the progress we have made together. I look forward to continuing to serve the public in this new capacity," Deputy Mayor Clarke shared.
Council is inviting the public for a drop-in celebration in honour of Deputy Mayor Clarke on Friday, April 17, from 5-7 p.m. at the Davidson Centre in the Bruce Telecom Room.
"Deputy Mayor Clarke has made a lasting impact on our community,” said Mayor Kenneth Craig. "Her leadership, compassion, and unwavering focus on inclusion have helped shape a more equitable and accessible municipality. While we will miss her thoughtful voice at the Council table, we know she will continue to serve the public with the same excellence in her new role."
