Kevin Davis informed residents of his intention to resign as Mayor for the City of Brantford on social media on Wednesday, July 10, 2024.
Davis said he’s resigning from his position to pursue a career with the province’s License Appeal Tribunal (LAT).
“It is with a mix of gratitude, pride, and a touch of bittersweet sentiment that I announce my intent to resign at the end of this month as Mayor of Brantford. I recently applied for and have been honored to receive a provincial appointment as a member of the License Appeal Tribunal, a once-in-a-career opportunity that allows me to return to my roots as a lawyer for more than four decades, while also granting me more time to spend with my family and grandchildren. I expect to assume my duties as a tribunal member in August,” said Davis, in his post.
The LAT is a provincial body that resolves legal disputes surrounding compensation claims and licensing activities.
“When I embarked on my journey as your Mayor, I committed myself wholeheartedly to the service and betterment of our great city. Over the past two terms, we have achieved remarkable milestones together. From revitalizing our downtown core to enhancing our infrastructure and fostering economic growth, our collective efforts have significantly improved the quality of life for all Brantford residents. I am proud of the work we have accomplished, together,” he added.
Davis then went on to share some of Council’s accomplishments during his tenure, which began in 2018.
“Some of the more significant achievements include making possible the construction of a Costco, the GrandBridge Power merger the financial benefits of which was the catalyst for the City establishing a Hospital reserve fund, repurposing the Old Federal building into the City’s new City Hall, the extensive upgrading and redevelopment of over 26 City parks including the Dufferin Park Redevelopment, construction of Brantford Fire Station #2 including a tribute to Walter Gretzky, putting in place a Green Bin program, planning the infrastructure required to develop the City’s Boundary lands, developing a strategy for construction of much needed supportive housing and achieving significant progress in meeting the target to build 506 units, implementing Red Light Cameras, planning for the introduction of automated speed control devices, installing traffic calming measures throughout the City, streamlining the Development Application and building permit process, creating and implementing a downtown renewal strategy, an innovative Encampment protocol and advocating for improved and expanded rehabilitation programs, refurbishing the City’s iconic Clocktower, attracting and retaining so many incredible businesses, like Ferrero, SC Johnson, ANC, and more, and of course bringing OHL hockey to the City for the first time in 40 years,” recalled Davis.
Davis continued, “The work we have accomplished together, council and staff, community stakeholders, neighbouring municipalities along the southwestern Ontario corridor and across the province has raised the City’s profile and strengthened our industrial sector. The collaboration and unity we’ve demonstrated have not only elevated Brantford’s profile but also laid a strong foundation for continued success. With only 18 months remaining in my second four-year term, the timing of this transition feels ideal. I had already made the decision not to seek a third term, and this new role presents an exciting opportunity to continue serving the public, albeit in a different role, while allowing me to focus on personal priorities.”
Davis then concluded his announcement by thanking the rest of Council, as well as, City of Brantford staff.
“I want to express my deepest appreciation to the members of the Council, City Staff, and all the community partners who have worked tirelessly alongside me. Your dedication, support, and shared vision have been instrumental in our accomplishments. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and confident that Brantford will continue to thrive under new leadership,” he said. “Even as I step into this new chapter, my commitment to Brantford remains unwavering. I will continue to champion our city both here and across Ontario, working to raise the brand of this amazing community and ensure its prosperous future. Thank you for the honor and privilege of serving as your Mayor. I look forward to witnessing Brantford’s continued growth and success.”
