Sarto Fournier, Canadian lawyer and politician, 38th Mayor of Montreal (d. 1980)

Sarto Fournier (1908–1980) was a distinguished Canadian politician whose career spanned both federal and municipal arenas, leaving an indelible mark on Montreal's civic landscape. Born on February 15, 1908, in Montreal, Quebec, he dedicated much of his life to public service, culminating in his influential term as the Mayor of Montreal during a pivotal period in the city's history. He passed away on July 23, 1980, in his home city, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service.

Early Political Career and Ascent to National Politics

Before his significant role at Montreal's City Hall, Sarto Fournier had established himself as a prominent figure in Canadian federal politics. A staunch member of the Liberal Party, he first entered the national political scene when he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the Maisonneuve—Rosemont constituency in 1935. He served multiple terms in the House of Commons, demonstrating a consistent commitment to his constituents and contributing to national debates on various policy matters. His federal parliamentary career spanned nearly two decades, from 1935 until 1953, during which he gained valuable legislative experience and a deeper understanding of governance at the national level, navigating the complexities of Canadian politics through the Great Depression and World War II eras.

In recognition of his dedicated service and political acumen, Fournier was appointed to the Senate of Canada in 1953. This prestigious appointment placed him in the upper house of Canada's Parliament, where he continued to serve the country as a Senator, offering his insights and experience to national policy-making. This extensive background in federal politics, including both elected and appointed roles, provided him with a unique and comprehensive perspective when he later transitioned to municipal leadership, equipping him with a strong understanding of intergovernmental relations and public administration.

Sarto Fournier: Mayor of Montreal (1957–1960)

Sarto Fournier's most widely recognized role was his tenure as the Mayor of Montreal, serving from 1957 to 1960. His election represented a notable interruption in the long-standing political career of Jean Drapeau, who had previously served as mayor and would later return to the mayoralty, becoming synonymous with modern Montreal's transformation. Fournier successfully challenged and defeated Drapeau in the 1957 municipal elections, campaigning on a platform that often promised a more traditional and perhaps less ambitious approach to city governance compared to his predecessor's grand visions. His administration focused on administrative efficiency and practical urban improvements, aiming for stable, consistent leadership rather than dramatic overhauls.

Key Issues and Initiatives During His Mayorship

During his time as mayor, Sarto Fournier oversaw a period of continued urban development and addressed various civic challenges typical of a rapidly growing post-war metropolis. While his term is sometimes overshadowed by the more iconic and transformative periods of Jean Drapeau, Fournier played a crucial role in maintaining the city's momentum and addressing day-to-day governance. Key aspects and focus areas of his administration included:

He sought re-election in 1960 but was ultimately defeated by Jean Drapeau, who then embarked on his long, transformative second period as mayor, leading Montreal through monumental projects such as Expo 67 and the 1976 Olympic Games, thereby defining much of Montreal's 20th-century international image.

Post-Mayoral Career and Lasting Legacy

Following his mayoral term, Sarto Fournier continued his distinguished service in the Senate of Canada, a position he held until his passing in 1980. His lengthy and multifaceted career in both federal and municipal politics underscored a profound and enduring dedication to public life and democratic institutions. While Jean Drapeau's influence often dominates narratives of 20th-century Montreal's development and international projection, Fournier's interlude as mayor offered a different approach to city leadership, emphasizing stability, administrative focus, and steady progress. His consistent service as an MP, Senator, and Mayor solidified his place as a significant figure in Canadian political history, particularly within the context of Quebec and Montreal's evolving political landscape during the mid-20th century. He is remembered as a committed public servant who contributed significantly to both national and local governance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sarto Fournier

When was Sarto Fournier born and when did he pass away?
Sarto Fournier was born on February 15, 1908, and he passed away on July 23, 1980.
What was Sarto Fournier's most prominent political office?
Sarto Fournier served as the Mayor of Montreal from 1957 to 1960. This was a significant period in the city's history, as he briefly interrupted Jean Drapeau's long mayoral reign.
Which political party was Sarto Fournier associated with during his federal career?
Sarto Fournier was a prominent member of the Liberal Party of Canada throughout his extensive federal political career, serving as both an MP and a Senator under the Liberal banner.
Did Sarto Fournier hold any other significant political positions before becoming Mayor of Montreal?
Yes, before becoming Mayor of Montreal, he had a distinguished federal career. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the Maisonneuve—Rosemont constituency from 1935 to 1953. Following this, he was appointed to the Senate of Canada in 1953, where he continued to serve even after his mayoral term until his death.
What is Sarto Fournier's legacy in Montreal?
Sarto Fournier is remembered as a dedicated Canadian politician who briefly led Montreal as mayor, focusing on stable governance, administrative efficiency, and ongoing urban development during the late 1950s. His term is seen as a period of steady progress amidst the city's continuous growth and transformation.