Stephen Blais, a municipal candidate for Cumberland ward, is lobbying to reduce the number of seats at Ottawa city council.

Blais, who is serving is final term as the Orléans-Cumberland trustee for the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) said that by eliminating six council seats, the City of Ottawa will save $2 million per year, which adds to $8 million over the length of a council term.

"We could use these savings to hire more police officers or public health nurses and make much needed repairs to roads and sidewalks," said Blais. "Although it's rare for politicians to reduce their own ranks, I believe it's time to put the needs of our city first."

Blais noted to other municipalities across Canada, that have less councillors. Vancouver has 10 city councillors, Calgary has 14, Edmonton has 12 and Hamilton has 15. Toronto has two councillors for every federal riding. Ottawa has 23 municipal representatives.

Blais said that Ottawa should have two councillors for every federal riding and three rural councillors.

"It's better value overall," added Blais.

Bruce Hollands, former vice president of the Federal of Canadian Municipalities, agreed with Blais.

"Stephen Blais has always fought for more efficiency and transparency in government," he said. "His plan to reduce the number of politicians at Ottawa city hall will allow millions to be reinvested in improving the quality of life for Ottawa families."

Blais is also a strong supporter of the two term limits for city councillors, giving a chance for fresh faces in council.