After pleading guilty last week to Election Act violations, Larry Snively has resigned as the mayor of Essex.
Snively hand-delivered his resignation to the municipal clerk on Wednesday.
“For over twelve years I have served on Essex Town Council and I am proud of what the Town and its Council collectively have accomplished for its residents. I am particularly proud of the growth and development that has occurred in the Town during this most current term of Council. I will continue to assist the Town by working with developers in any way I can in order to help continue the progress of this great town,” said Snively in his resignation letter.
Snively apologized in court after pleading guilty to procuring a person to vote in an election who is not permitted to do so. The courts noted at least 32 proxy votes were filled out incorrectly by Snively during the 2018 municipal election.
After court concluded, Councillor Sherry Bondy called for Snively’s resignation.
Under the Municipal Act council will need to formally declare the Mayor’s seat as being vacant at its January 17 regular meeting. A decision as to how to fill the vacancy, by appointment or the calling of a by-election, is expected to be made at a later meeting.
“Although the recent news concerning the Mayor has been disappointing, we would like to thank Larry for his leadership and dedication during his time on Council. He has demonstrated his passion for our community by leading countless projects and initiatives in effort to better serve the residents.” said Chief Administration Officer Doug Sweet. “I would like to assure the residents that the Town of Essex will continue to operate at full capacity to uphold the highest level of service that they have come to expect.”
The next general municipal election will be held in October of this year.