Rotary Program Monday March 8, 2010

We are pleased that our guest speaker will by Mayor Stephen Mandel.

Serving Alberta's Capital City, Mayor Stephen Mandel has led the City of Edmonton since October 2004.

Mayor Mandel is a strong advocate for Alberta municipalities, ensuring they receive a fair share of funding to pay for vital infrastructure and community services.   In addition, his advancement of key initiatives like Port Alberta are driven by his dedication to fostering Edmonton's growing position as a hub for northern development, transportation, logistics, manufacturing and research.

His bold vision to improve the integration of services in the Edmonton region made historic progress by encouraging the Province to take the lead and create a new governance body with a clear direction to build a more effective regional plan.

Mayor Mandel's impartial leadership approach strengthens the community.   In 2007, when the City invested a record breaking $1 billion to improve roads, neighbourhoods and community revitalizations, the City continued to be a strong patron for the arts and cultural events leading to Edmonton becoming the Culture Capital of Canada.

Through his inclusive vision for the city, Mayor Mandel has given a voice and opportunities to low-income families, seniors, and those in need.

As Mayor, Stephen is a steadfast steward of numerous green initiatives and remains committed to preserving Edmonton's reputation as a global environmental leader.

Before running for public office, Mayor Mandel was an accomplished businessman bringing 30 years of private sector experience to City Hall.   As President of Mandel Group, he was involved in business development, residential and commerical real estate development, construction, as well as operations of hotels and sports enterprises.

Stephen remains active in the community and volunteers for organizations including the Mazankowski Heart Institute, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Jewish Community Centre, and Allen Gray Continuing Care Centre.   He is married, with two grown children.