PCs substitute Hewitt for Barrett in Haldimand-Norfolk
Haldimand mayor confirms candidacy Wednesday morning
The Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario has made a last-minute change in Haldimand-Norfolk now that a provincial election looms on the horizon.
Incumbent MPP Toby Barrett is reportedly out as the PC candidate after serving the local area for 27 years. Substituted in his place by appointment of Premier Doug Ford is Haldimand Mayor Ken Hewitt. Hewitt confirmed the move in a phone interview Wednesday morning.
“My understanding is there was a conversation between the party and Toby,” Hewitt told the Reformer. “It was my understanding that Toby stepped down.”
Hewitt said the Premier’s office approached him about running about 10 days ago. Hewitt talked it over with family and friends and concluded “it would be an honour” to serve under the leadership of Premier Ford.
Ontarians elect a new provincial government June 2.
This is a developing story. Further details will be posted as they become available.
MSonnenberg@postmedia.com