Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath discloses history of abusive relationship

Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath has released an open letter disclosing that she was previously in an abusive relationship. Horwath stated she decided to speak out to support other survivors and to reduce the shame and stigma often associated with domestic violence. She noted that following criminal harassment charges and a no-contact order, she had maintained distance from her former partner.

The disclosure follows a public dispute regarding a property owned by Horwath on West Street North, where her former partner resides. The city's property standards committee recently ruled that it lacked the jurisdiction to hear a late appeal from the mayor regarding required repairs to the building's roof, basement, and foundation. While Horwath expressed disappointment in the committee's decision, she stated she intends to fulfill her legal obligations as the property owner.