[6] An editorial in the Peterborough Examiner describes him as having focused his attention on city-wide issues, rather than acting as a "parochial ward councillor.
As mayor, he has established an Action Committee on Poverty that identified six priority areas for investment, including a day warming room, shelter services for adult women, and reduced transportation fare for people receiving Ontario Works benefits.
[14] Peterborough This Week rated him as the best member of city council in its 2007 annual report card, notwithstanding what it described as his "low-key, cut-and-dry [sic] manner.
[16] In 2009, Ayotte appeared with federal and provincial representatives to announce more than three million dollars for affordable housing.
[17] Ayotte sought re-election in the 2010 municipal election and lost to local businessman Daryl Bennett.