The top 10 mayors in World Mayor 2005 were selected equally on the number of votes received and the quality and conviction of supporting statements. Below we publish an edited selection of comments received in support of Larry Campbell, Mayor of Vancouver (Mayor Campbell has now been appointed to Canada's Senate).

Comment: Larry Campbell of Vancouver Canada is so progressive and "unpolitical" - he thinks outside the politician's box - that is why I think he is best.

Comment: Transparency started before Larry Campbell became Mayor. As a visionary leader he accepted the challenges of his predecessor. Campbell created cooperation through coalitions of public and professional stakeholders by giving them power in decision-making forums. He provided direction when there appeared to be none,and fulfilled his promises by capitalizing on the strengths and foresight of individuals who shared his dreams. Controversy was his friend even when it came from Canada's southern border. He knew the wealth of Vancouver's human resources and he used it.

The Pearl of the Pacific glistens with new programs and projects:redeveloped sections of the city and revitalized buildings; medically supervised injection sites for drug users;prevention and health center treatment programs;immigration programs and services;training and employment programs for disadvantaged people; childcare initiatives; political Wards representing ordinary citizens; finances restored to the Inner City School Program; protections for sex trade workers;sustainable energy projects reducing greenhouse gases and energy costs,green transportation and parking lots offering financial incentives for fuel efficient cars; a Property Endowment Fund to support investment and transformational neighborhood development; and the start of an Olympic Athletes' Village for 2010. "Li Jian Bao"is truly living up to his given name in that he possesses affection for his people by creating a solid base where his people can feel protected and safe.

Comment: Mayor Larry Campbell of Vancouver, BC is an inspiring leader who, by his own admission, is not a politician. As he has accepted the appointment to Senator by the Canadian Prime Minister, we will no longer enjoy his wry comments and great sense of humour and fun. With his intelligence and strong sense of duty, he brought about some great projects to this city, including the 2010 Winter Games. Best of luck, Larry, you will be missed.

Comment: The story of Larry Campbell's life is an amazing one. From being a "mountie" in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to the city's coroner. His "story" is already being told in the popular TV series "Davinci's Inquest". He is a man of extremely high integrity and cares deeply for the people he represents. I know he devotes a great deal of his personal time to various charities and "good causes" including shaving his head to raise money for children with cancer. He is a without a doubt a legend in our time and the best candidate for "best mayor". It is a pleasure to vote for such a man.

Comment: Larry Campbell was the most charismatic and personable mayor this city has ever known. He brought us the 2010 Olympic bid, put Vancouver in the top ten best cities in the world in which to live and was the man behind the popular TV series DaVinci's Inquest. He will be sorely missed as mayor of Vancouver. We wish him well in the country's capitol!

Comment: Larry Campbell is the best mayor that Vancouver has ever had. He listens to the people and makes informed decisions. He is respected by members of the entire community, not just one or two segments. His main motivation is the community, not his own beliefs or ideologies.

Comment: I have known Larry Campbell since he was with the RCMP - during that time I found him to be a true Police officer; my dealings with him as a Coroner was on a positive level with his assistance to NorthWest Native People. I have always found Larry to be up-standing, a strong code of ethics and a very honorable person.

Comment: Larry is a striking change from the typical local politican - he clearly does not care about re-election, but about his city and his fellow citizens. He is always outspoken about his priorities and ideas, and he does what we all would like to see done with special interest groups and those who believe the government owes them a living: shut them up and send them away. He has recently been appointed to the Canadian Senate - a loss for Vancouver but we look forward to the dramatic effect Larry's style will have on that institution. Whether one supports or disagrees with his decisions, there is no doubt that Larry is passionate, effective and immensely popular.

Comment: Larry Campbell bought new life to Vancouver's City Hall. He added flare, comedy and realism to city politics. He made City Hall meetings worth attending. He is also a very approachable individual and didn't let the Mayor-thing get to him. Very influential. Helped Vancouver secure the 2010 Winter Olympics. Additionally, introduced the Four Pillars approach to combat the declining East Hastings district. I believe that Mr. Campbell has done a fantastically superb job as Mayor of Vancouver. Furthermore, I wish him all the best should his Canadian Senate nomination be finalized.

Comment: Mayor Larry Campbell of Vancouver is a passionate and moral man, who is not afraid to stand up for his beliefs. He seems more like a friend or realative than a politition. If only all mayors could be like Larry...

Comment: Mayor Campbell has been brave and outspoken - always pushing the boundaries with an eye to compassion and humanity. He will be missed.

Comment: Mr Campbell is a deeply caring individual with a passionate vision for improving Vancouver's liveability for all citizens, particularly the less fortunate. His "four pillars" approach to managing drug abuse and its resulting social problems is a model other jurisdictions are beginning to follow.

Comment: I hope that Mayor Larry wins because to he has been up front and honest with all of us. I have total respect for people who tell the truth and dont lie. Good luck Mayor Larrry!

Comment: Mayor Larry Campbell has enlivened the debate about urban issues in Vancouver and brought voters back to the polling booth to exercise their opinions about the path we need to carve towards a 'best urban environment' in our region, not just Vancouver city.

Comment: Mr Campbell has been great for Vancouver, he tackles projects that need doing and not afraid of actually saying what needs to be said without worrying what is 'politically correct'...too bad is not running again, but there again he is fed up with the system.

Comment: Mayor Larry Campbell is so straightforward and honest...how freshing. He passionately cares about the City of Vancouver and its residents: all of its residents, including those who are the most vulnerable and need the most care from our politicians. He has worked hard to keep Vancouver what it is: the most beautiful city in the world, and to improve the lives of all of us living here. Thank you, Mayor Larry Campbell!

Comment: Mayor Larry Campbell was not a politician when he assumed the post as Mayor of Vancouver. The developments that took place during his tenure are numerous. His performance as a Mayor has been very successful, and much better than other Mayors who have had the experience of being a politician.

Comment: Larry Campbell has incredible insight into the diversity of our city...during his time as mayor, he initiated a number of programs for the betterment of all levels of our society and involved himself in activities from all walks of life. He is our hero!

Comment: There are no words to describe the work Mayor Larry Campbell has done for the City of Vancouver. He has brought passion for people and the environment back to politics.

Comment: Mayor Larry Campbell has been a refreshing change from the typical politicians that we have in our civic, provincial and federal politics. He doesn't think or act like a typical politician. I believe that is why he is well liked and respected by the public and the media. He says and does what he believes is right, not what will get him re-elected. I was sorry to hear that he will not be re-running. We need more people like him in our governments.

Comment: Mayor Campbell has citizens of Vancouver engaged and aware of civic issues and politicians in an unprecedented way. He has made the problems of homelessness and drug addiction a priority and began to address the issue in our Downtown Eastside, opening the first safe injection site and ensuring 200 units of social housing in the development of the Woodwards' building in the neighbourhood. He has given us an invaluable gift and that is hope. His honesty, candor and caring have been a breath of fresh air.