COUNCILLOR JO MORPHY BEGINS MAYORAL CAMPAIGN WITH ‘MORPHY PLAN’ FOR CHANGE IN GRAVENHURST

GRAVENHURST — A mayoral race here will see at least two members of council on the campaign trail this summer.

Two-term councillor Jo Morphy filed her nomination papers Thursday for mayor Gravenhurst’s mayor.

She said a release she brings eight years of town council experience and a career in senior management.

And is running on a platform of economic action, downtown revitalization and accountable leadership.

“Gravenhurst is at a turning point,” said Morphy. “We have incredible potential, but potential alone won’t restore our downtown or protect our lakes. We need a Mayor who moves projects from ‘idea’ to ‘implementation’ without bureaucratic delay. I am running to ensure town hall works for the residents — delivering the services we need and the growth we deserve.”

A two-term town councillor, Jo Morphy lives on Lake Muskoka. PHOTO submitted

She has represented Ward 2 since 2018, “earning a reputation as a proactive advocate for local infrastructure,” her release says.

Previously, Morphy was president of the Muskoka Bay Property Owners Association (MBPOA), where she says she led critical efforts in waterfront stewardship.

Her professional background is in IT and retail management and offers the “private sector lens required to manage the town’s budget with discipline and transparency.”

According to her, the Morphy Plan has three pillars for Gravenhurst:

  1. Economic & Downtown Revitalization:
  • Launch an urgent “Business Back to Main Street” program.
  • Leverage the return of the Ontario Northland Train to capture new visitor dollars and spark investment in the Wharf and downtown core.
  1. Community Infrastructure & Recreation:
  • Prioritize securing a second ice pad to meet the growing demand for hockey, figure skating, and family recreation.
  • Streamline Town Hall processes to accelerate local housing.
  1. Responsible Waterfront Stewardship:
  • Protect lake water quality and shorelines through proactive policies that balance environmental protection with sustainable, responsible development.

“Whether it’s adding ice time for our families or ensuring our Wharf is a world-class destination, the goal is the same — results.”

“I’m ready to get to work.”

Current mayor Heidi Lorenz has also reportedly filed her papers as well for the Oct. 26 municipal election.

Nominations are open until Aug. 21 at 2 p.m.