Manitouwadge councillor resigns to take township job

MANITOUWADGE — A member of the town's council is stepping down next month after accepting a job with the municipality.

Manitouwadge municipal officials on Friday announced that Coun. Mike Scapinello had submitted his resignation on Thursday, after applying for and accepting a mechanic job for the township.

Scapinello had been elected for a second term in last year's municipal election.

Provincial legislation does not allow municipal employees to serve on council.

Mayor Jim Moffat described the resignation as "bitter-sweet."

I know it was a difficult decision for Mike to make to leave his seat on Council," Moffat said in a statement. "The Township is extremely fortunate to have hired Mike as a talented and experienced Mechanic joining our Public Works department.” 

According to the township release, Manitouwadge CAO Florence MacLean will bring a report to council on June 14 outlining options to fill the council vacancy.

Scapinello's final day as a councillor will be on June 11, and he will start employment with the municipality the next day.