FCM Board Candidate

So why am I running?

In 2014, I ventured into politics driven by a desire to bring a fresh perspective and enact meaningful change at the grassroots level. Over three terms as a municipal leader, I’ve actively contributed to the betterment of our community. Now, I’m seeking a role on the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Board of Directors, driven by the belief that my distinct perspective as a leader hailing from a town with both urban and rural dynamics can add value.

Stouffville, situated just 25 minutes north of Toronto, boasts a rich agricultural heritage alongside a burgeoning urban hub, surrounded by 90% protected countryside. This unique blend presents both challenges and opportunities, particularly in navigating the delicate balance between urban expansion and preserving our precious green s

paces in the face of climate change.

I bring to the table insights gleaned from leading one of Ontario’s fastest-growing municipalities. Our focus on sustainable development and climate resilience mirrors challenges faced by many communities nationwide. I wholeheartedly support FCM’s advocacy efforts on behalf of municipalities and believe that my representation on the board could amplify the voices of smaller towns, ensuring they receive the attention and support they deserve alongside larger urban centers.

I humbly seek your support for my candidacy for the FCM Board of Directors. Together, we can work towards building stronger, more resilient communities across Canada

About Iain

Mayor Iain Lovatt was elected Mayor of Whitchurch-Stouffville in 2018 and again in 2022.

He was first elected to Whitchurch-Stouffville Council in 2014 as Ward 5 Councillor.

Mayor Lovatt currently serves on York Regional Council and is the Vice-Chair of York Region’s Transportation Commission and Housing York Inc. He also

sits on the board of directors of the York Region Rapid Transit Corporation and York Telecom Network. Last term, Mayor Lovatt was also the Vice-Chair of York Region’s Finance and Admin Commission and was a member of the Audit Committee. Mayor Lovatt sits on Parks Canada’s Rouge National Urban Park Advisory Board and gives his time to a number of non-profit organization

s related to the youth, the arts & healthcare. In 2020, Iain initiated the first DEI working group in the town’s history and has been an ally to 2SLGTBQ+ & indigenous partners in Stouffville.

Since being elected Mayor, Iain initiated and has directed his fundraising efforts to the Whitchurch-Stouffville Legacy Fund. Since its inception, the fund has raised a $1,000,000 endowment and granted over $900,000 to charities and service groups who work to enrich the lives of Whitchurch-Stouffville residents. 

As Co-Chair of Markham Stouffville Hospital’s newest capital campaign, his efforts have helped the hospital reach $112 million of its $150 million fundraising goal.

Iain has over 25 years of business management experience. In addition to his charity and volunteer work, Iain co-founded and managed several successfu

l technology companies before turning his sights on marketing and business development for Muskoka Woods, an internationally acclaimed youth development organization. Seeing the potential of Stouffville’s historic downtown and staying true to his entrepreneurial roots, Iain and his wife, were part of a team that opened the Main Street Bakehouse in downtown Stouffville in 2015. Iain is married (30 years this October) and has 3 grown kids, a son in law and a Frenchie named Alfie.