José Fortunati, Mayor of Porto Alegre

My Life, My City looks at the person behind the decisions through a Q and A with urban leaders

Biography

José Alberto Réus Fortunati

BIRTH PLACE AND COUNTRY: Flores da Cunha – RS – Brasil

EDUCATION: Degree in Public Management and Law

DATE OF ELECTION AS MAYOR: October 2008

PREVIOUS POSITION: Porto Alegre Municipality Secretary of Planning

Why did you become mayor? 

I always had this dream of becoming mayor of the city in the early 70s when I left Flores da Cunha to finish my studies.

What do you consider is your biggest achievement in office? 

During my political career I have had many outstanding moments. I was a student leader, bank employee, unionist, Constitutional State Assemblyman, Congressman, Deputy Mayor of Porto Alegre twice, Councillor in Porto Alegre with the greatest number of votes in the history of the city, and State Secretary of Education when the State of Rio Grande do Sul was recognized by UNESCO as the best state in Brazil in terms of education. I have so many good memories of my public life which all make me proud, but I recognize that currently I am in the best position as I am fulfilling the dream of being mayor of Porto Alegre.

What was your last overseas trip as mayor? 

My schedule is very busy and it does not allow me to do many big trips. If I am not mistaken, it was to Mexico during the UCLG Congress. I was in Mexico to talk about Porto Alegre’s plans for the World Cup 2014 and also about participatory democracy.

What do you think of the media’s coverage of your role? 

The press plays an important role following the actions of local government. Here in Porto Alegre we have developed a mature and strong relationship.

Who is the most interesting person you have met or worked with since becoming mayor? 

In this position, as the mayor of the one of the major state capitals of Brazil, I meet numerous interesting people so I would be committing a great injustice if I picked out just one person.

What do you think of social networking for mayors? 

I am a social network enthusiast. I take part in the main ones and I believe they are tools that I can use to interact with everyone. I try my best to keep updated on all such novelties. Social networks are one of the most important channels of communication we have.

Which other cities do you collaborate with? Is contact formal or informal? 

As mayor, my main concern is really Porto Alegre, but since we are the capital of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, we collaborate with other cities, mostly with cities in our metropolitan region such as Canoas, Gravata’, Gua’ba, among others. In addition, we also interract with our sister cities from other countries through decentralised cooperation, especially south-south cooperation.

Where do you expect to be in five years’ time? 

In five years, I want to be serving my second term as Mayor of Porto Alegre.

Which is your favourite place in the city and why? 

I have great admiration for everything in this city. It is very hard to choose one place, but since I live and work in the downtown area, to me the historical part of the city is very special.

What are you reading right now? 

I read a lot, I really do, but if I have to mention one book, it must be the Bible.

What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? 

I always try to spend time with my family, relaxing and, sometimes, going to the cinema and also playing soccer with my friends. I am a “gremista”.

Which is your favourite travel destination and why? 

I enjoy travelling as I believe that when we travel, we have the opportunity to experience new things, and meet different people but I do not have a favourite destination.

Who is your hero or inspiration? 

Well, I would choose a Brazilian politician who to me is an inspiration: Leonel de Moura Brizola.

What is your life philosophy? 

There is a Chinese proverb that really is part of my life: “There are three things in life which cannot come back: the spent arrow, the spoken word and the lost opportunity”.