"Legacy of Collaboration": Municipal Leaders React to End of Stewart Era
After years of dedicated service, Geoff Stewart’s term as President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) has come to an end following his defeat in the Nova Scotia Municipal election this past weekend.
Stewart, who has served as Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of the County of Colchester, Nova Scotia, was seeking to become Colechester County Mayor in Saturday's Municipal Election.
First elected to the FCM Board of Directors in 2017, Stewart has been a vocal advocate for local governments across Canada. His leadership was especially influential in areas like active transportation, where he sponsored a resolution in 2018 that helped shape the federal government’s landmark active transportation strategy. His commitment to engaging with community members and fostering a national dialogue on local issues has been central to his leadership style.
In a statement following the election, Stewart said in a Facebook Post that he was grateful for his time, and to meet with many residents across Colechester County, "I am grateful that I was able to get out and meet so many of you while going door to door and the various events within the county. "
Stewart’s departure from the FCM presidency has prompted an outpouring of praise from municipal leaders across the country.
Former FCM President Taneen Rudyk spoke of Stewart’s steady hand in difficult situations, noting, “Geoff was always prepared for the most high-stakes meetings or the most difficult circumstances. His connection to his community, compassion for Canadians, and commitment to municipal governance was always evident.”
Tyler Gandam, President of Alberta Municipalities, praised Stewart’s advocacy, saying, “Geoff is a great advocate for Canadian municipalities. I was very happy to see his leadership firsthand as FCM President. I wish him all the best in his future endeavours.” Scott Pearce, Past President of FCM, highlighted Stewart’s consensus-driven approach: “As I've said many times, and Geoff always agreed, we can disagree without being disagreeable. Even on tough files, we all had our opinions, but at the end of the day, we voted, and moved forward, and Geoff was a big believer in that."
Stewart's work on the RCMP file, where he helped negotiate a difficult contract situation that left many municipalities facing increased costs, was another defining aspect of his tenure.
"Geoff was a huge help when it came to the RCMP file. The federal contracts raised our prices significantly, and Geoff worked tirelessly to advocate for us," Pearce added.
Despite the election outcome, Stewart’s influence and friendships within FCM will endure.
Andrew Black, former President of the Union of Municipalities of New Brunswick, described working with Stewart as an enriching experience. "Working with Geoff has been great over the last two years of my time with the FCM.
"He has been a fantastic leader, always supportive of his colleagues and empathetic to the issues and concerns they shared," Black added. "I've always said that being firm and fair as a leader goes a long way, and if you can't get anywhere, then kill them with kindness—and this perfectly describes Geoff." Bruce MacDougall, President of the Federation of Prince Edward Island Municipalities, praised Stewart’s leadership and dedication, saying, "Geoff represented Atlantic Canada with pride as he worked his way up to president of FCM.
"I've known Geoff for years through the Atlantic caucus, and we all wish him the best. We thank him for his service to municipalities across the country. This likely won't be the last we hear from Geoff Stewart," MacDougall added. Amy Coady, President of Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador, spoke about his committment to municipal work, "His commitment and love for municipal work were clear, and his passion for the community extended throughout the country, not just his own municipality.
"FCM was another vessel for Geoff to advocate for the needs of communities nationwide. He's a respected leader, and I'm happy I was able to serve alongside him," Coady added.
While his tenure as FCM President may have concluded, Stewart's legacy of collaboration and commitment to municipal governance will have a lasting impact on the national stage.
Stewart Era Ends, Enter Bligh Era
On Monday, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) announced that Vancouver Councillor Rebecca Bligh would be stepping into the role of President following the departure of Stewart. FCM shared the news on social media, tweeting, “We are pleased to share that Rebecca Bligh will be stepping in as FCM’s President, effective immediately. Rebecca is a dedicated community leader in Vancouver, and we look forward to her leadership in the vital year ahead for local government in Canada.”
Bligh also took to social media to express her gratitude and optimism, stating, “To the membership, I’m ready to step into the role of President, deeply grateful for the support of the membership over the years. I look forward to continuing our important work together!”
In her message, Bligh extended heartfelt thanks to Geoff Stewart for his leadership, saying, “Grateful to my colleague and friend Geoff Stewart for your incredible leadership and guidance over the years. FCM is in a better place because of your strong municipal voice at the table. Your contributions have truly made a difference!”
Carole Saab, CEO of FCM, echoed this sentiment in her social media post: “Looking forward to working with Rebecca Bligh as she steps into the role of FCM President. Your leadership will be key as we work to strengthen cities and communities together.” According to FCM, all executive board members will now move up leaving the position of Third Vice President Vacant. Ottawa City Councillor Tim Tierney becomes FCM’s First Vice President, and Deputy Mayor of the City of Thompson, Kathy Valentino, becomes the Second Vice President. The position of Third Vice President will be filled at a later date, according to FCM’s bylaws. Pearce will stay on as Past President.
In a statement to Cross Border Network, the FCM Media Relations Team said, “We’re incredibly thankful to Geoff Stewart for being a strong President of FCM these past few months.
"Although the election outcome was not in his favour, he is a remarkable example of community leadership, and we wish him well in his pursuits," the statement concluded.
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