Background Questions
1) Do you live in Ward 15?
I currently live south of the ward boundary, having grown up near the Leaside Bridge.
2) Have you previously run and/or been elected for municipal office (school board trustee or city councillor). Please provide details.
I ran for Mayor in last year’s by-election.
3) Have you engaged in community and/or city building activities? Please provide examples.
Yes. For example, I’ve recently been proudly serving on the board of directors of Brands For Canada, a community charitable organization that takes surplus clothing from major retailers, diverts it away from landfills and distributes it to homeless shelters, women’s shelters, immigration and refugee settlement services across the city.
4) Do you have any relationships with developers or labour unions who may have potential conflicts of interest with the City?
No.
Qualifications Questions
1) Why do you want to be the City Councillor for Don Valley West?
I want to be the councillor for Don Valley West so I can provide effective representation to the residents on the local issues that matter to them. I know the area well and am proud to have team members on my campaign from across the ward who represent the many distinctive communities that make up Don Valley West.
2) What experience and accomplishments do you bring that you think will make you a good representative for Ward 15?
For many years, I tackled municipal issues through my work as a newspaper columnist, editor and broadcaster. This has given me an understanding of City Hall and local issues – what works and what doesn’t work and how we can better serve the needs of residents and taxpayers. My experience running for Mayor only enhanced my expertise and passion for the issues and public service.
3) What are the key 3-5 issues you see facing Ward 15 and the City?
Public safety and rising crime, fiscal responsibility and easing congestion.
4) What is the first thing you will work on if elected?
I will immediately work on public safety, via engaging with residents, the local police divisions, my colleagues at City Hall and the Mayor’s Office. The car theft crisis and break and enters must be urgently addressed.