Mayor hopefuls begin filing in

Ottawa Mayor Bob Chiarelli launched his campaign for this fall's municipal election on Tuesday morning, the first day for mayoral candidates to file nomination papers.

The runner-up in Ottawa's last municipal election, Terry Kilrea, was also among candidate hopefuls who filed at City Hall.

It was not an auspicious start for Terry Kilrea, who tried to pay his $200 filing fee with a personal cheque only to be declined. The city only accepts certified cheque or money order.

Kilrea recovered quickly thanks to a loan from his aide, and promptly announced his candidacy.

"This city needs a leader, and I will be that leader. I'm running for mayor," he said.

Kilrea surprised many in the city's last election when he wound up with one-third of the popular vote.

His platform for this year's election focuses heavily on law and order, without raising taxes.

"We will look at other areas that won't affect people, and we will put police officers on the street," said Kilrea.

In the last election, Kilrea was Mayor Bob Chiarelli's strongest rival.

Currently in his second term as mayor, Chiarelli plans to run on his record and on fast-tracking the East-West light rail. He also plans to reform both the property tax system and the whole relationship between the city, the province, and Parliament Hill.

Chiarelli says he's not taking any chances this election.

"You assume conservatively that there'll be strong opposition, that it will be a tough campaign, and that any number of candidates could enter the race, who also have credibility. And you have to earn it."

That strong opposition could include former councillor Alex Munter, who says he's been talking to people across the city about what they want for Ottawa's future.

"I'm listening to what people have to say, and I'll be in a position to make an announcement soon," said Munter.

Munter won't say whether that means days or weeks.

Nominations can be filed until Sept. 29. Ontario's municipal election is scheduled for Nov. 13.