John Mutton facts for kids
John Mutton (born August 5, 1966) is a Canadian businessman and former politician. He was the Mayor of Clarington, Ontario, from 2000 to 2006. He is also known for starting Municipal Solutions, a company that helps businesses grow around the world.
Contents
Early Life and Education
John Mutton grew up in Bowmanville, Ontario. He went to Bowmanville High School. Later, he earned a science degree from the State University of New York in the USA. He also completed a special certificate in Municipal Management from the University of Ontario Institute of Technology in Oshawa.
John Mutton's Time as Mayor
John Mutton became the Mayor of Clarington in 2000 when he was 34 years old. He was one of the youngest mayors in Canada at that time. He served as mayor for six years, from 2000 to 2006. Before becoming mayor, he was a Regional and Local Councillor for Clarington starting in 1997.
Focus Areas as Mayor
As mayor, John Mutton worked on making local government more responsible. He also focused on developing urban areas and expanding nuclear power in Clarington. He held important roles like Chair of Durham Region Finance and Chairman of the Association of Nuclear Host Communities.
Funding Big Projects
He helped create a new way for cities to pay for large projects, like new buildings. This method involved using something called "debentures" (a type of loan). It was first used in 2001 to build the South Courtice Arena and Recreation Complex. This method made it easier and cheaper to fund big public projects.
Supporting Nuclear Energy
In 2003, Mutton was part of Canada's effort to host a big international science project called the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). Even though Canada was not chosen, Mutton continued to support the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station as a place for new nuclear facilities in Ontario.
Changing How Leaders Are Chosen
In 2010, Mutton worked to change how the Durham Regional Chair was chosen. Before, this leader was appointed, but Mutton believed voters should elect them. A referendum (a public vote) was held in 2010, and 80% of voters agreed with the change. In 2012, the Durham Region Council decided that starting in 2014, voters would elect the Regional Chair. Durham Region was the second area in the Greater Toronto Area to make this change.
Achievements and Awards
- In 2003, John Mutton helped create the Clarington Sports Hall of Fame.
- In 2006, he was named "Newsmaker of the Year" by Durham Region Metroland Newspapers.
- In 2013, he received the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Medal from the Canadian government. This award recognized his many years of service to Canada.
Sports Achievements
John Mutton is also a talented athlete. He has won several medals in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions:
- In 2017, he won the gold medal at the IBJJF Superheavyweight Las Vegas Open.
- In 2017, he won the gold medal at the IBJJF Superheavyweight Miami Open.
- In 2017, he won the Rickson Gracie Superheavyweight Gold Medal in New York.
- In 2017, he won the bronze medal at the IBJJF Superheavyweight World Championship.
- In 2018, he won the gold medal at the IBJJF Superheavyweight Los Angeles Open.