Tony Van Bynen will not seek re-election as Newmarket’s mayor.

The mayor expressed his appreciation to the residents of Newmarket who have supported him through five elections, something that will stay with him for the rest of his life, he wrote in a statement announcing he won’t run for the mayor’s seat come the municipal election scheduled for later this year.

“Since my first election as your councillor in 2000, I have seen many significant changes in our community as our vision of the renewal of Newmarket has built upon our rich history to create a solid foundation for our future — a future that holds out opportunities for our children, grandchildren and the generations that will follow,” he said

Reflecting on his time in office, he is proud of how council has worked together with the community to achieve success in projects such as Magna Centre, operations centre, Riverwalk Commons, Belinda’s Place and the revitalization of Main Street.

Pride is the word he used to describe partnerships struck with Southlake Regional Health Centre to create a business incubator and research centre in Create-It-Now and the new Margaret Bahen Hospice, as well as the relocation of the hospital’s cardiac rehabilitation centre to Magna Centre.

He also reference the town’s collaboration with Newmarket Chamber of Commerce in setting up Smart Commute Central York and the Smart City Council, and the makerspace at NewmakeIT.

“In spite of a number of challenges over these years, Newmarket council has consistently maintained its focus on making Newmarket even better,” he said.

With Van Bynen at the helm, council has seen and supported Davis Drive’s transformation into a new bus transit rapidway with VivaNext. A new rapidway is under construction on Yonge Street and a GO train station is planned on Mulock Drive.

He also thanks town staff for the professional support that has created a strong positive work environment built on trust, creativity, collaboration and innovation.

“I have decided not to seek re-election as your mayor,” Van Bynen said. “I am doing so with the full confidence that we have a dedicated team committed to making our community even better.”