Windsor Mayor looks to forge new future

BY NADINE ARMSTRONG

Hants Journal

NovaNewsNow.com

As of Oct. 28, Mayor Anna Allen will drop out of politics for good. After 23 years in public office, Allen says it's time to leave her political career behind.

Although the mayor had planned to run for one more term, she told the Hants Journal that recent circumstances forced her to re-evaluate that position.

Citing personal reasons, Allen said the current political landscape has had no bearing on her decision. “This is personal and has nothing to do with council,” she said. “I felt certain this was the right thing to do, at the right time. I'm leaving on a high note.”

As for her future plans, Allen says nothing is set in stone, but she’s holding those cards close. “This is not a retirement and I’m not closing the door to other opporutnities. I’m just changing my priorities and doing what’s best for me right now.”

Allen says she is already looking forward to having time on her hands once she leaves office. “I can finally catch up on all those things I’ve put on the back burner,” including spending time with family and friends.

Maybe a book on the horizon

There may even be a book in the horizon. “I’ve always loved to write,” she said, “and I’ve had quite an unusual life. Everything that has happened to me has been very unique.”

At some point, Allen says she may pick up a new career, just not in politics. “I’m still a young woman and my experience in public office certainly counts for something.” She has had offers already, but says for now she plans to sit back and weigh her options slowly. “Don’t call me just yet,” she said.

Allen said her sudden decision to leave municipal politics has come as a surprise to many and says after eight years at the helm, it will take some time to adjust. “There will still be people who see me as mayor.”

Even as she prepares to close the book on that chapter of her life, Allen says she has no regrets. “When I look around this office and see what I’ve accomplished, I feel very blessed.” The only part of being mayor she will miss is interaction with the public. “There are so many positive, excellent people in this community,” she noted.

But as her wise old dad told her just recently, “you’ve done enough. Take a little Anna time.” That’s exactly what she plans to do. “I’m looking forward to my future,” she said.