Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts Up for World Mayor

Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts has been shortlisted for the 2010 World Mayor Prize. This is an international designation that honours mayors with the vision, passion and skills required to make their cities incredible places to live in, work in and visit. Additionally, it aims to show what outstanding mayors can achieve and raise their profiles nationally and internationally.

Photo credit: John Bollwitt on Flickr

Mayor Watts is one of only four North America mayors to make the cut. There are two finalists from Canada and two more from the United States; Mayor David Broconnier (Calgary), Mayor Cory Booker (Newark), and Mayor Mick Cornett (Oklahoma City). All those shortlisted will be asked to sign the code of ethics.

At this point in the process it is now up to the public to help select the finalists. Head to the World Mayor website to cast your vote for your favourite mayor.

Mayor Watts has has an impressive career in local politics. She was elected Mayor of Surrey in 2005, has served on the board of the GVRD, has done as term as Chair of the Mayor’s Council on Regional Transportation, has seen Surrey through growth and expansion through development of a ‘City Centre’, as well as being a venue and celebration site for the 2010 Olympics. Having been born and raised in Surrey, I have an interest in seeing my hometown thrive under great leadership.

Dianne Watts & Me, July 2010

The Prize is handed out by City Mayors about every two years, with the most recent recipient being Helen Zille, Executive Mayor of Cape Town (2008).