Timmins mayor announces she’s running for re-election

As the official candidate registration period begins, Michelle Boileau announced Monday that she is running for re-election as mayor of Timmins.

Timmins Mayor Michelle Boileau has officially announced she will seek re-election in the upcoming municipal vote this October.

She said her decision is based on wanting to maintain momentum on key priorities, including infrastructure improvements, housing development, economic growth, and long-term community planning.

Speaking in Timmins on May 4, Boileau said she wants to maintain momentum on several key priorities, including infrastructure improvements, housing development, economic growth, and long-term community planning.

“I would hate to lose that momentum that we’ve built and take a step back, losing sight of some of those important initiatives we’ve been driving forward,” she said.

Boileau said she wants to build a city that is “stronger, more connected, and ready for what’s next.”

Expecting positive results

While homelessness was not addressed during her announcement, Boileau told CTV News the issue has grown significantly. Since 2023, she said homelessness in Timmins has risen by more than 130 per cent.

“We should be able to see some positive results in the coming years,” she said.

“But quite frankly, without adequate housing, we won’t be able to get that done without the support of other orders of government.”

Boileau’s competition in the mayoral race will include Rob Knox and Lawrence Martin, both of whom have also announced their candidacies.

One other northern large city mayor, Matthew Shoemaker of Sault Ste. Marie, confirmed he will also run again.

Difficult economic situation

Shoemaker said his campaign will focus heavily on strengthening the local economy, considering challenges tied to tariffs and industrial changes, including Algoma Steel’s transition to electric arc steelmaking.

“The difficult economic situation … is the main issue in the community and the one that needs the greatest attention,” Shoemaker said.

“I plan to focus strongly on economic issues.”

He added that advancing the development of the local port will be an important goal if re-elected. He said it is a potential driver for business investment and job creation.

The municipal election is on Oct. 26.

“Timmins has always been a community that works hard, looks out for one another, and rises to the occasion,” Boileau added. “I’m asking residents to join me in building what comes next.”

A full list of candidates who have declared they are running in Timmins in the October municipal election can be found here.