Business as usual at Cimino constituency office

It will be business as usual at Joe Cimino's constituency office in Sudbury in the wake of the Sudbury MPP's surprise announcement he would be stepping down from that role Thursday.

“The constituency office is still staffed, and we are committed to giving the same quality of service we did while Mr. Cimino was serving this office,” said Frank Anselmo, Cimino's constituency assistant.

In a statement, Cimino said he would be stepping down from office for his personal health and wellness, and the well-being of his family.

“I've known this man for 28 years. I am a huge supporter of his because of his integrity and because of his positive dealings as a councillor for the City of Greater Sudbury,” Anselmo said. “Although Joe won't be with us, our vision is still here.”

Nina Kitts, acting president of the Sudbury NDP Riding Association, said the news of Cimino's resignation came as a shock.

“We're really sad,” she said. "We were really excited about Joe having won the election, and about the work he was going to do. We felt like he was a strong MPP and had a great future.”

Kitts said she is confident the NDP will be able to keep the seat after a byelection.

“Sudbury is a very strong NDP riding,” she said.

The party plans to start a local candidate search soon, and will host a nomination meeting after that.

“From there, we'll gear up for another election. I'm sure we'll win again,” Kitts said.