Three challengers seeking to unseat Mayor Mark Sutcliffe formally launched their bids for the mayor’s office on Friday, marking the first day of the official campaign period for the upcoming Ottawa election.
Early Momentum at the Elections Office
The race began with an early surge at the City of Ottawa Elections Office on Cyrville Rd. Kitchissippi Coun. Jeff Leiper arrived more than six hours before his appointment to sign his forms, stating that every hour counts
in the lead-up to the vote.
Joining the mayoral race was economist Neil Saravanamuttoo, who previously worked on Catherine McKenney’s 2022 campaign and was involved in opposing the redevelopment of Lansdowne Park. Saravanamuttoo had previously stated he would only run if he secured 1,000 supporters, a threshold he says he has now exceeded.
Alex Lawson, a lobbyist and owner of a home building company, also filed his papers. Lawson arrived with a campaign team described as a cast of high-profile political hands, expressing excitement about raising and spending the funds necessary to reach a wide range of voters.
A Shift in Campaign Rules
The start of this formal period introduces critical changes to how candidates operate. For the first time in this cycle, candidates are permitted to collect donations and spend money on their campaigns.
Jeff Leiper noted that campaigning prior to this date was awkward
, as he was unable to provide brochures or physical materials that directed citizens to a website. He described the ability to now solidify support through these means as a sizeable step.
Incumbents and Council Contests
While challengers were early to file, the landscape for incumbents remains relatively stable. Mayor Mark Sutcliffe has confirmed he will run again, though his office stated he will file nomination papers in due course
.
Beacon-Hill Cyrville Coun. Tim Tierney was the only incumbent spotted during the first few hours of registration. Despite speculation regarding a mayoral bid, Tierney filed for his council seat, stating he is absolutely
not planning to run for mayor unless something absurd
happens. He suggested a mayoral run could be a possibility in 2030.
Tierney is currently the first vice president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and is expected to move into the role of president.
Broader Election Landscape
Other early filers included Erin Coffin, a public servant and Bridlewood Community Association president, who was the first to observe an election worker. Cathryne Milburn, an Ottawa-Carleton District School Board trustee, filed to challenge Tim Tierney in Beacon Hill-Cyrville.
Additional early candidates included Joanne Chianello in Kitchissippi and Chelsea Walton in Stittsville, both seeking seats that do not have an incumbent. Most incumbent councillors are seeking re-election, with the exception of Stittsville Coun. Glen Gower, who has announced he will not run again.
The nomination period remains open until Aug. 21, which also serves as the final day for candidates to withdraw. On Oct. 26, voters will select a mayor, 24 councillors, and trustees for four school boards.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Ottawa election day?
Voting day is set for Oct. 26.
What is the deadline for candidates to file nominations?
The nomination period runs until Aug. 21, which is also the last day a candidate can withdraw from the election.
How many council seats are up for election?
Voters will be choosing 24 councillors.
Which issues do you believe should be the primary focus for the mayoral candidates during this six-month campaign?
