By submitting his nomination papers on the first day of registration for the 2010 Ottawa Municipal Election, Stephen Blais wasted no time in launching his bid to represent the people of Cumberland Ward at city hall.

“Today, I seek elected office as a fiscally responsible, with a community conscience, voice for Cumberland Ward”, said Stephen Blais. “I have been part of this community most of my life, both as a resident, elected official and through my involvement with various community organizations.”

For the past three-years, Stephen Blais has served as Catholic school board trustee for Orléans - Cumberland. In that capacity, Trustee Blais has been proud to have donated the 150% trustee raise to charities, including breast cancer awareness, school breakfast program, military families fund and a Carleton University bursary for less affluent east end students.

“I’ve worked with Stephen Blais for three years on school board related issues – he has a great work ethic and collaborates well with stakeholders”, said John Shea, Ottawa Public School Board trustee for Orléans - Cumberland.

Trustee Blais’ accomplishments also include balancing budgets every year, growing reserves, making investments in classroom resources and students with special needs, advocating for safer streets, reducing the number of trustees, adopting a greener approach to board practices and raising awareness for blood donation and healthy living.

“I am pleased to be part of Stephen Blais’ campaign that seeks much needed change at city hall and for Orleans,” said Orleans French Public Trustee Pierre Maheu. “His leadership and ideas will be instrumental in ensuring Ottawa moves forward rather than being stuck in years of debate.”

Stephen Blais has also been a community advocate in the east end serving by serving as presidents of the Queenswood Heights Community Association, a member of the Common Sense Crossing to prevent an interprovincial bridge in the east end, a member of the east end president’s council, a coach with the Orléans Bengals and as a member of the St. Peter’s High School Alumni Association.

“During this campaign, I will not make promises that may get me elected but that are not achievable once in office", said Stephen Blais. “I pledge not to spend tax dollars that we cannot afford and that I will not shrink from the challenges currently before city council.”