Timmins mayor first to have baby while holding office

Michelle Boileau is set to be the first Timmins mayor to have a baby while in office as she announced her pregnancy Wednesday morning.

Boileau and her husband Andrew Morrish said they are expecting their second child in October.

Michelle Boileau is first Timmins mayor to have baby while holding office. April 24, 2024 (Lydia Chubak/CTV Northern Ontario)

"We are excited to be expanding our family," the mayor said.

"The roles of mayor and mother are extremely important to me. Timmins is where I was born and raised and it's where I am choosing to raise my family."

Boileau served one term as city councillor after being elected in 2018 before becoming the city's third female mayor in 2022.

Timmins' pregnancy and parental leave policy for council members allows for the elected officials to be absent for 20 consecutive weeks, so Boileau is planning to take a five-month leave starting in late September or early October.

While she is away, councillors Cory Robin and Andrew Marks will serve as deputy mayors.

"I am grateful for the support of my fellow councillors and city administration," Boileau is quoted as saying in a news release.

"I was fortunate to help establish the city's pregnancy and parental leave policy for council members prior to having my first child. I am passionate about creating a space where women and individuals with young families are encouraged to participate in local government."

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She said she wants to assure residents there is a plan in place to keep the city's momentum up while she spends time with her family.

"We have a clear list of priorities in place, we know the work that needs to get done and I will make sure to stay informed."