An online petition has been launched urging city councilor Joni Baechler to run for mayor.

The petition organizers say Baechler has told them she is not interested in the job, but they are hoping a groundswell of support might change her mind.

“We hope people will support the petition. If she knows that people want her, she might do it,” said Kallie Miller, one of the petition organizers.

Miller says Baechler has carved out a reputation for integrity in 13 years on council.

She said Baechler does not take donations from developers and has earned the respect of other council members.

“Integrity is very important given the situation the city is in today . . . We have had a tough go with Joe,” said Miller referring to the criminal charges and other controversies facing Mayor Joe Fontana.

The petition was launched Monday night on the change.org website.

Miller said Baechler was not advised about the petition before it was launched.

Baechler was out of the city Tuesday and could not be reached for comment.

hank.daniszewski@sunmedia.ca

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