Theresa Kavanagh was first elected to City Council in 2018. She was named the first City Council Liaison on Women and Gender Equity and oversaw the creation and implementation of the report on Women and Gender Equity for the City of Ottawa. She now serves as the Council Liaison for the Older Adult Advisory Committee alongside Councillor Hubley.  

Councillor Kavanagh is passionate about providing sustainable, affordable housing that meets the needs of all residents, and is proud to serve as Chair of Ottawa Community Housing. As Councillor for Bay Ward, she has championed sustainable development, affordable public transit, environmental stewardship, and services and programming for seniors, families, and vulnerable populations.    

Theresa spent most of her previous work life on Parliament Hill – working with Members of Parliament – a career that lasted almost 30 years.  She was also elected and served two years on the Board of Directors of Alterna Savings from 2008-2010. 

In 2010 Theresa was elected as the Ottawa Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) Trustee in Bay Ward (Zone 4) and was re-elected in 2014. During her eight years on the School Board, she worked closely with families and advocated on their behalf for the development of school programs and accommodation for students with diverse needs. 

Theresa is an accomplished amateur athlete having completed 23 marathons including three Boston Marathons, seven iron distance triathlons (including Ottawa’s first Ironman in 2025) and numerous cross-country ski loppets. She regularly commutes by bike, both for health and environmental benefits. 

Theresa has lived in Ottawa for over forty years. She has two grown sons and lives in Bay Ward with her husband Alex. 

 

Councillor Kavanagh is serving on the following boards and committees over her 2022-2026 term: 

  • Audit
  • Community Services 
  • Ottawa Community Housing Corporation (Chair) 
  • Environment and Climate Change 
  • Planning and Housing  
  • Rideau Valley Conservation Authority 
  • Council Liaison for Older Adult Advisory Committee