Tagliaferri first involvement with local government came that same year, in an effort to speak up for the concerns of southern suburbs residents, oppose a highway through Beaconsfield and address parking and retail issues.
Tagliaferri's principal platform in the 2001 mayoral election was reclaiming Fremantle for its residents, strong financial management and an open-door policy.
He received the Heart Foundation President's Award in 2007 in recognition of work to ensure a smoke-free environment in Fremantle and is patron of The One World Project, as well as being a Mayor for Peace.
He was defeated by Greens challenger Adele Carles on 16 May - the first time a Labor candidate has lost in Fremantle since 1924.
He chose not to run for mayor again in the October 2009 elections, after two successful terms, and was succeeded by Brad Pettitt.