One of, if not the longest-serving, councillors in the Pontiac decided not to seek re-election this year, after more than three decades at her post.

Lois Smith has occupied a seat on the Campbell’s Bay council for 34 years and said that her move into politics grew out of her involvement in numerous other community groups and activities, from her church, to school committees, to TransporAction.

She pointed to several projects over the years that she was particularly proud of, like work to the outdoor rink and obtaining a grant to renovate the kitchen at the RA Hall:

She said that at her last council meeting, she thanked her colleagues for their support and wished them well.

“There’s a time and season in life for all things and I look forward to my new life after my retirement,” she said.

When asked if she had any advice for those who would be joining council for the first time following the elections, she said that it’s important to go in with an open mind and remember that you’re a part of a team:

Smith said that while she has stepped back from her responsibilities on council, she has no intention of slowing down her community involvement. She added that she had already signed up for bowling in Renfrew to keep her social calendar full.