Gary Cloutier facts for kids

Gary Cloutier in 2014

Gary Cloutier is a community leader and former mayor of Vallejo, California. He was elected mayor on November 21, 2007, and sworn into office on December 4, 2007. However, his opponent, Osby Davis, asked for a recount. The recount showed that Davis had won the election, and he took over the position on December 7, 2007.

Early Life and Education

Gary Cloutier grew up in Rhode Island. He attended Brown University, where he earned a degree in Political Science. While at Brown, he was also a talented athlete in football. Later, he earned a law degree from Suffolk Law School in 1991. Before becoming a lawyer, Cloutier worked as an assistant for Senator Claiborne Pell from Rhode Island.

Work as a Lawyer

Gary Cloutier worked as a lawyer, focusing on important civil rights cases. He helped people who faced unfair treatment. For example, he worked on cases related to the Americans with Disabilities Act. This law helps protect people with disabilities from discrimination. He also helped people who were treated unfairly because of health conditions. In one notable case, he won a significant amount for a person who was refused medical treatment by a surgeon.

He also worked on a case in San Francisco, Gohstand v. Leibert. In this case, he helped a man who was attacked. Cloutier worked to get a fair outcome for his client.

Political Career in Vallejo

Cloutier's journey in politics began in the city government of Vallejo, California.

Serving on the City Council

He was first elected to the Vallejo City Council in 1999. He served as a councilman and later as vice-mayor for eight years. During this time, he helped make decisions for the city and its residents.

Running for Mayor

In 2007, Gary Cloutier ran for mayor of Vallejo. His opponent was Osby Davis, a real estate attorney. The election was historic for Vallejo. Cloutier would have been the first openly gay mayor, and Davis would have been the first African-American mayor.

The first count of the votes showed that Cloutier had won. He was elected on November 21, 2007, and officially became mayor on December 4, 2007. However, Osby Davis asked for a recount of the votes. After the recount, it was found that Davis had actually won the election. The mayoral position was then transferred to Osby Davis.

After His Time in Vallejo

After the Vallejo mayoral election, Gary Cloutier continued his work in public service.

Working in Miami Beach

He moved to Miami Beach, Florida, where he worked as an aide to the Mayor and a Commissioner for the city. This role allowed him to continue contributing to local government.

Writing a Book

In 2010, Cloutier published a book called Rough Point. The book shares his experiences as an athlete, a civil rights lawyer, and a politician. He also started a blog called "Among The Hogs," where he writes about living well in a democracy.

Hall of Fame Induction

In March 2012, Gary Cloutier was honored for his athletic achievements. He was inducted into the Westerly High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

Groundwork Providence

In May 2012, Cloutier became the Executive Director of Groundwork Providence. This organization is an environmental and community development trust located in Providence, Rhode Island. It works to improve the environment and communities.

In January 2013, Groundwork Providence received the "Champions in Action" award from Citizens Bank. This award is given each year to the best non-profit organization in Rhode Island.

In August 2013, Gary Cloutier left Groundwork Providence. He returned to San Francisco to continue his work as a lawyer.