Gord Perks announces he will not run in the upcoming municipal elections in Toronto

Toronto —
Gord Perks, a member of the City Council, announced that he will not run in the upcoming municipal elections in Toronto, thus ending a political career that lasted more than two decades in municipal work.

Perks represents the Parkdale–High Park district and was first elected as a city council member in 2006, before being re-elected for several consecutive terms, becoming one of the prominent faces in the local council .

His decision comes as the city prepares for the 2026 municipal elections, where he is among a number of current officials who have decided not to run in the upcoming electoral race .

During his career, Perks held influential positions within the council, including chairing the Planning and Housing Committee, and was known for his stances on housing, transportation, and environmental policies.

Perks has not yet announced details of his future plans after leaving office, but he indicated that his decision comes after many years of public service.

His absence is expected to open the field for new competition in his electoral district, amid broader changes taking place in the local political scene in Toronto as the election date approaches.