Oliver Mayor Martin Johansen says the time has come to step away from political life and embrace more time with his family, friends and long-delayed personal pursuits.

After eight years in the mayor’s chair and a lengthy career in public service before that, Johansen confirmed this week he will not be seeking re-election in next October’s municipal vote.

Johansen, who first won the mayoralty in 2016 in a surprising victory over incumbent Ron Hovanes, said the decision has been on his mind for quite some time. With his second term set to conclude next fall, he believes the timing is right to pass the torch and step back from the rigours of municipal leadership.

“I’ve been thinking about it for a long time,” said Johansen, reflecting on the months of consideration that led to his decision

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