A member of Kenora city council is requesting a leave of absence.
Kelsie Van Belleghem says comments that have appeared on social media are taking their toll.
“It is not okay to call me out-of-touch or brain dead…it is not okay to call me pathetic…it is not okay to call us a bunch of snakes…it is not okay to post my parents residence on (Kenora) Rant and Rave,” a tearful Van Belleghem told council this week at their Committee of the Whole meeting.
For those reasons she’s requesting a leave of absence.
“I know that the impacts of these behaviors I have experienced in this role have taken a severe toll on my mental and physical health and my ability to do this role effectively.”
Mayor Andrew Poirier is sympathetic and says it’s time they fight back from all the negativity.
Van Belleghem says her leave will begin if council decides to support it.
