Shelby Ch’ng will appear on the ballot for first time next month in the riding of Thunder Bay-Superior North.
The Liberal candidate had originally planned to help incumbent Michael Gravelle with his final election run, but the return of cancer and subsequent treatment forced him to step aside.
The Northwood Councillor was first elected in 2014 and won re-election in 2018.
“Oh it is a huge advantage for me,” said Ch’ng, when asked how her municipal experience will help in the campaign. “I have one of the largest portfolios of committees and things that I am involved with on council, so I take all of that experience that I’ve had over the last eight years. Particularly my experience as the Vice-Chair for the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee, which allowed me the opportunity to travel to Toronto a few weekends ago and advocate for mental health facilities and other resources that the city is in desperate need of. I know the files, I know what we need and I have a great pulse on the community.”
Ch’ng will run against fellow councillor Peng You (Ontario PC Party) as well as Lise Vaugeois (NDP) and Tracey MacKinnon (Green Party).
“I have worked nine years in the most socially economic disadvantaged area of the city, building my business and trying to keep dollars in this community,” Ch’ng answered, when asked why someone should vote for her. “I sit on so many committees with (Thunder Bay) city council. I have a lot of experience just dealing with the public and understanding what we need to vote on. I come with a great toolset to advocate for you at Queen’s Park.”
The election is set for Thursday, June 2nd.
