After serving for 35 years on the council in Trepassey, a small town in Newfoundland, Rita Pennell decided it was time for a change. While she was initially elected as the mayor in 1989 and has held the position intermittently since then, this time she chose to run for a councilor seat instead of seeking re-election as the mayor.
In an interview with CBC Radio’s program “On The Go,” the 88-year-old expressed her decision to step down from the mayor’s chair, citing her enduring vitality and sharp intellect. Pennell humorously mentioned her son’s jest about inheriting her mind when she passes away.
Acknowledging the demands of the mayoral role, Pennell shared that the position brought a constant stream of calls starting early in the morning, which she found challenging at her age. Despite this, she remains deeply involved in addressing Trepassey’s issues, such as the town’s ambulance shortage since October 2021 and the need for a temporary seawall discussed with provincial authorities in 2024.
With the recent election of a Progressive Conservative government in the province, Pennell is optimistic about the potential for change in addressing these pressing matters. Despite Trepassey historically voting blue in the electoral district for a decade under a Liberal government, she hopes that the newly elected MHA, Loyola O’Driscoll, will prioritize resolving the ambulance and seawall concerns.
As Pennell steps aside, Colin Cheater assumes the mayoral position, and Wanda Waddleton takes on the role of deputy mayor, signifying a significant transition in Trepassey’s leadership. Pennell expressed her intention to remain active while also making time for personal relaxation.
The transition in leadership marks a significant moment in Trepassey’s governance, with Pennell looking forward to a well-deserved break while staying engaged in the community’s affairs.