Van Sant served as mayor of Baltimore from 1871 to 1875, during which time the current Baltimore City Hall massive construction project 1867-1875, was completed under budget and dedicated. He later declined to be a candidate for renomination.
As mayor of Baltimore from 1871 to 1875, Van Sant played a key role in completing the massive construction project for the city's new hall, which was finished on time and under budget. He later declined to seek another term as mayor.