Ottawa councillor Maria McRae won't seek re-election

Veteran and outspoken Ottawa city councillor Maria McRae has announced she wont seek re-election after 11 years on the job.

McRae has represented River Ward since 2003, a riding that moves along theRideauRiver covering areas includingCarlington, Fisher Park and South Keys.

McRae, who is only 48, becomes the sixth councillor to call it quits before the Oct. 27 election joining Steve Desroches, Peter Hume, Diane Holmes, Doug Thompson and Rainer Bloess.

After the 2010 municipal election saw a larger turnover than usual, these departures mean there will be at least 15 of the 23 ridings changing hands over a four-year period.

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In a letter to her constituents, McRae said the decision to leave city council was difficult but she was proud of the work on a rejuvenated Lansdowne Park, plus the growth of Neighbourhood Watch and new pedestrian and cycling facilities.

Being a city councillor is an extraordinary and rewarding job and I have enjoyed every day as your representative, the councillor wrote.

I am especially grateful to my husband Paul who is always by my side and whose support has allowed me to best serve you, and I am thankful to my parents, Michael and Gail, who have inspired my passion for community service.

McRae was also known for her work heading the citys environment committee.