Tara Stephens

Director of Legislative Services/Clerk

City of Welland


With over 18 years of municipal experience, Tara Stephens is a dedicated and accomplished leader in local government, currently serving as the director of legislative services and city clerk for the City of Welland. Throughout her career, she has played a pivotal role in municipal governance, policy development, and public service, ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in legislative processes.

A strong advocate for teamwork, equity, and collaboration, Tara is known for fostering a welcoming and inclusive work culture. Her open-door policy ensures that all voices are heard, reinforcing her belief that treating everyone with fairness and respect leads to stronger organizational success. She is passionate about mentorship and professional development, continuously guiding her team toward excellence.

Tara holds an Executive Diploma in Municipal Management (Dipl.M.M.) from AMCTO, as well as several municipal law, leadership, and public administration certifications. A lifelong learner, she remains committed to professional growth and advancing best practices in municipal governance.

Guided by her favorite quote from Michael Jordan, “talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships,” Tara believes that true success comes from working together to achieve common goals. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in the idea that collaboration and shared knowledge drive meaningful progress for both her team and the community she serves.