Ward 2 Coun. Michael Vagnini issued a statement on July 9, indicating that he will run for re-election this fall.
There had been speculation swirling since Vagnini registered to run again in this year's election as to whether or not he would be putting together a bid to unseat mayor Brian Bigger.
Vagnini responded to speculations multiple times that he would not be running for mayor, and that was confirmed in today's statement.
"In my role as Ward 2 Councillor, my decisions at the council table were largely based on canvassing the people who live here and what is important to them. I take this responsibility very seriously and if elected again, it is to fully represent the constituents," said Vagnini in his statement.
"Ward 2 constituents gave me a mandate in 2014 to work towards Common Sense, Cultural Change and Structural Change. In the course of my duties, I was accused of workplace harassment for publicly stating what the citizen’s needed to know about the Fire Optimization Proposal by the City. Consequently there was an investigation which concluded and absolved me of any wrongdoing."
Vagnini says that the people of Ward 2 need a strong advocate and he is committed to being that voice for them.
"Speaking to the folks from Copper Cliff to Beaver Lake and across this City, has indicated that there is an ongoing need for common sense, cultural change and structural and it is more urgent than ever," said Vagnini
"Accordingly, I registered to run for Councillor for Ward 2 and at this point in time confirm my intention to seek renewal of the mandate by the people of Ward 2. I look forward to continuing work towards the objectives given me in 2014 as council representation of the people of Ward 2 and as councillor at large for the Greater City."
