If Elected, I will advocate for
Efficient use of taxpayer dollars through strategic decision-making and accountability
Smart infrastructure investments that support long-term growth
Continuous improvement in city services, with a focus on responsiveness and innovation
Transparent and collaborative governance that puts residents first
Environmental leadership that is grounded in measurable outcomes
Inclusive community building that reflects the diverse voices of Ward 6
Open forums where constituents can voice their concerns and ideas
I will bring disciplined financial stewardship and ensure that every investment aligns with community priorities and delivers lasting value to all stakeholders within the city.
Priority #1
Resident Advocacy
Why it matters?
Ward 6 is the fastest-growing area in Guelph and faces immense pressure from major residential developments and commercial expansions. My commitment is that all decisions made about our neighbourhoods, infrastructures and budgets will be made openly and always puts residents first.
How I can help:
Provide detailed meeting notes of council votes and motions
Transparent budget reporting and simplification
Host regular town hall meetings
Publish quarterly newsletters
Be available to hear resident concerns and feedback
Seek feedback through the use of polls and engagement questions on social media
Use the “Gemba” philosophy that I learned in Lean Management, which essentially means to go to the place where there is an issue so you can see it with your own eyes
Transparent and ethical leadership is necessary to ensure crucial decisions for Ward 6 are made in the open and prioritize south-end residents.
Priority #2
Reduce Property Taxes
Why it matters?
Affordability and household stability has decreased over the last several years. Families are finding it harder and harder to plan and save for the future. My career in Procurement has been built on finding cost savings and minimizing risk for stakeholders.
How I can help:
Reducing property taxes in Guelph must be managed through,
Spending requests and budgets need to be scrutinized for applicability and value to the community
Financial metrics such as service efficiency being used for decision making
Use benchmarking and continuous improvement techniques to determine areas for potential savings.
Update Future Growth Progress Report
Create simplified clear language financial reports that can be read and understood by residents. We all want to see where the money is going
Efficiency breeds innovation. We need to control spending and put money back in your pocket.
Align Future Growth Progress Report
Priority #3
Infrastructure
Why it matters?
Infrastructure is the foundation of our daily quality of life in Guelph. We need to have roads that are safe and reliable, and maintained throughout all seasons. Infrastructure supports business growth and can be a major part of long-term sustainability.
How I can help:
We need to master the basics before look to other projects.
According to the latest Asset Management report, 23.3% of all Guelph infrastructure is rated either “Very Poor” or “Past Due”. We cannot keep our core assets in this state of repair. We need action now!
Target all roads are plowed within 24 hours of a major snowstorm
Advocate for multi-use sidewalks that integrate bike lanes so they are off the street
Ensure major arterial roads are design-ready for expansion
Address potholes and other damages on roads
Adequately plan for repair and maintenance to ensure all infrastructure is in good working condition
Smart growth requires realistic planning, accessible transit and safe street for pedestrians and children.
Priority #4
Crime and Community Safety
Why it matters?
This has been a top concern for every resident I spoke to, particularly theft and street crime. Deterring crime and working within the community to prevent issues before they grow, being more visible downtown. I would also voice our concerns to the Provincial Government to address the ineffective laws that are compounding the problems.
How I can help:
Encourage GPS and community partners / neighbourhood watch groups work together to help address crimes and reporting. Listen to the current issues GPS are facing, such as,
Evaluate other staffing methods to help reduce overtime and sick time lost
Support Guelph Police Services in injuries lost on duty through awareness and support programs
Increase Special Constables to handle more low priority calls and administration
Embrace new technologies that use predictive crime mapping to better position resources
Support Guelph Paramedics
Address staffing issues and attrition with Guelph Paramedic Services. See latest video for more details
Practical solutions are required to make people feel safer within the community and bring everyone together to tackle this issue.
Priority #5
Transit
Why it matters?
Transit aides the community with connectivity, and provides affordable access to move around. This service makes up 8.62% of your property tax assessment, it needs to be efficient to better meet the needs of the community.
How I can help:
·Reduce overlap with Route 99 Mainline and other routes
Ensure access across the ward for Two Rivers Secondary School and the South End Community Center
Address service levels in key industrial areas
Expand On-Demand service in areas with low ridership
Crack down on fare jumpers
Increasing ridership will reduce traffic among key arterial roads, and assist in the City plan for CO2 reduction.