Mayor Doug Measures has announced that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and is expecting some absences from the council table while he undergoes treatment.
The announcement came from town hall as councillors are participating in two days of training in preparation for the coming term.
“This is a critical time for new councillors, as they lock in the basics of our meeting procedures and learn the important roles they will assume,” said Measures in a news release. “I know our excellent staff will be of tremendous assistance to the new council as they settle in, set priorities, and prepare for the first meetings.”
“The training will be especially critical for deputy mayor-elect Paul Van Staveren, who will be called on to lead council a bit more than might usually be the case, as I receive treatment for cancer.”
Measures was diagnosed with prostate cancer in September and has begun treatment at the RVH Cancer Care Centre.
“Like anyone receiving such a diagnosis, it was a frightening shock, but I am so grateful for the support of my family. I am also happy voters in Clearview have chosen such a talented council. I know the councillors-elect will learn what they need to, quickly and thoroughly. Deputy mayor-elect Van Staveren has assured me he will be ready to chair meetings as soon and as often as is necessary.”
Measures expects to miss some meetings and to attend other meetings virtually, but he does not plan to take a leave of absence.
“My doctors tell me my cancer is curable, and I know how lucky I am to have the excellent treatment I have received so far. I hope people will support my family and me by respecting our privacy as much as possible,” said Measures. “It is not lost on me that this is November, also called Movember, when men’s health is in the spotlight. I certainly understand why so many of us are reluctant to discuss issues connected with men’s reproductive health.”
Members were participating in workshops to learn meeting procedures and township operations Wednesday and Thursday in preparation for the upcoming term.
The inauguration of the new council will be held at 7 p.m. on Dec. 5, at the Stayner Community Centre Hall. The public is welcome to attend.
The first meeting of the new council will be on Monday, Dec. 12, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Clearview Council Chambers.