Diane Holmes to seek re-election

Speculation about whether or not veteran Somerset Ward Coun. Diane Holmes will be seeking re-election this year can be put to rest.

Holmes, who began representing downtown wards in 1982, has confirmed that she intends to run again in the this November's municipal election.

She said she just hasn’t had a chance to formally launch her candidacy.

Holmes retired from municipal politics briefly between 2000 and 2003 after the city’s amalgamation with Ottawa’s surrounding municipalities.

Holmes has worked in the past on improving the quality of life in the city’s downtown  by supporting initiatives such as the downtown transit tunnel that will reduce traffic congestion in her ward.

She has also been an advocate of city beautification by supporting heritage buildings and tree planting and maintenance.

Holmes won just over 62 per cent of the votes in 2006, with her next closest competitor attracting 17 per cent.

The election will be held this November.