Severn Coun. Sarah Valiquette-Thompson is taking a leave of absence.
Township council unanimously approved the Ward 5 representative’s unpaid leave during a meeting Wednesday.
Valiquette-Thompson said family, including her two young children, was the main reason for requesting the leave.
“We don’t know what’s going to happen with a second wave. We don’t have daycare,” she told OrilliaMatters, noting the daycare provider her son with special needs has become used to has not yet reopened. “It’s just the path we feel is best for our family.”
Valiquette-Thompson and her husband, Ian Thompson, own a restaurant in Washago. At the beginning of 2020, they had their year planned — catering gigs every weekend, daycare, Valiquette-Thompson’s goals as a councillor. When COVID-19 hit, everything changed, and it continues to change.
“I have no idea what September is going to bring. I have no idea what October is going to bring,” she said, adding she needs to turn all of her attention to her children. “I feel it in my heart and soul that I’ve got to be with my kids and that’s what I’m going to do.”
Making the decision to request a leave was “really difficult,” she said.
“I love serving the people. It’s something I’m extremely passionate about,” she said. “Those passions will be there when this all blows over.”
Council approved a six-month leave for Valiquette-Thompson, but that could change, depending on how her situation develops during the pandemic.
The response from residents and fellow council members has been encouraging, she said.
“COVID, for so many families, has given people time to sit and reflect and re-evaluate their perspective on life. Everyone I’ve been talking with has been like, ‘I get it,’” she said. “I’m blessed that people understand.”
In her absence, Mayor Mike Burkett and Deputy Mayor Jane Dunlop will oversee matters related to Ward 5. If they’re unavailable for some reason, someone else on council will step up, Burkett said.
“We have a council that is by no means new to Severn,” he said, noting there are many long-time, experienced councillors. “All of us are able to take care of business wherever we’re needed.”
Burkett said he wishes Valiquette-Thompson the best as she takes some time to relax with her family.
“We need to respect what she’s come forward with and we hope to see her back in six months,” he said.
Valiquette-Thompson’s leave of absence is effective Sept. 1. She will be heading to the East Coast for “much-needed time as a family.”
“I’m wishing that everyone keeps safe and keeps healthy,” she said.
