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Melanie Pilon acclaimed next mayor of Wawa

Long-time resident and Indigenous professional becomes mayor on Nov. 15.
Melanie Pilon head-shoulders 3
(Supplied)

Melanie Pilon has been acclaimed as the new mayor of the Municipality of Wawa.

With nominations now closed, the long-time resident of the community of 2,700 and “proud Anishinaabe Kwe” will officially takes the reins on Nov. 15.

Pilon succeeds Ron Rody who announced last November he was stepping down as mayor after seven years, and 21 years on council. 

She was appointed to municipal council last February and currently serves as deputy mayor for the remainder of this term of council.

Pilon, known for her background in community economic development, is a senior consultant of Indigenous Relations for Bell Canada.

In a municipal news release, Pilon said she committed to “realigning and strengthening partnership with regional stakeholders, corporations, and Indigenous partners.”

On why she decided to run, Pilon responded: “I strongly believe that a willingness to serve one’s community is the biggest reason for deciding to run. My background has provided me with the desire and tools to both serve and facilitate positive change in the community. I am grateful for the opportunity.”

Situated near the north shore of Lake Superior, Wawa is located 230 kilometres north of Sault Ste. Marie.

Pilon will be leading a community that’s experiencing a resurgence in the area’s forestry and mining industries, which has put pressure on the town’s inventory of housing and exacerbated the need of local labour.