Those close to Ford say that he is building an organization and gathering the money needed to make a top tier shot at Toronto’s top job.

Ford won the #2 Etobicoke North ward with 66% of the vote during the last municipal election. Ford supporters that are concerned that the popular candidate is vacating a conservative seat on council may be relieved to hear that Ford’s brother plans on running in his place.

UPDATE: Ford is now denying the story. I should say that I spoke to him on his cell phone (last four digits: 2146) because I wanted to confirm it with the man himself. I had heard the rumour yesterday and sought to exercise due diligence by confirming it with Ford before running with the story. I told Ford exactly who I was and that I generally cover federal politics but was chasing down a municipal rumour. He told me in no uncertain terms that he’s looking to wrap up a few outstanding issues with his business (with clients in New Jersey, no less) and is looking to make the announcement in March. Excited by the scoop I thanked him and even told him that he’d probably be getting a few calls after I posted the story.