Preceded by Jan Reimer Name Bill Smith Resigned October 26, 2004 Signature Succeeded by Stephen Mandel | Profession Businessman Spouse Marlene Trudel Children 4 children Role Businessman | |
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Born December 11, 1935 (age 88)
Edmonton, Alberta ( 1935-12-11 ) | ||
speedy bill smith tribute
William Smith (born December 11, 1935) is a Canadian businessman, former politician, and former professional football player. Smith was a mayor of Edmonton, Alberta from 1995 until 2004. Smith was a Grey Cup champion with the Edmonton Eskimos.
Smith was born in 1935 in Edmonton, Alberta. Smith played for the Eskimos from 1956 to 1963 as a defensive back. Smith was named a West All-Star in 1960. The club won the Grey Cup in 1960.
Smith was first elected in 1995 after defeating incumbent Mayor Jan Reimer and was re-elected in 1998 and 2001. As Mayor, Smith was known as "Booster Bill" for his efforts in promoting Edmonton as the "Greatest City in the Greatest Province in the Greatest Country." During his term in office, Smith is credited with being instrumental in bringing the IAAF World Championships in Athletics, the Juno Awards and the World Masters Games to Edmonton. In 2004, Smith was defeated by Councillor Stephen Mandel.
After his mayoralty ended, Smith became a director of BioNeutra, a producer of VitaFiber, a natural fiber-based food sweetener. Smith is also a director of Imperial Equities.