[xtypo_dropcap]O[/xtypo_dropcap]n Oct. 25 Toronto will have an election to elect a new mayor and 44 city councillors. The Epoch Times asked Toronto city councillor candidates in midtown Toronto what is the top issue in the ward and how they will address it. We have compiled the results below.
Ward 16 Eglington-Lawrence
Candidate Names:Coll, Michael
Macdonald, Roy
Mills, Terry
Stintz, Karen
All candidate meetings and debate dates:
Rogers Cable 10 debate on Sept. 28 at 8 p.m.
All Candidates meetings at Fairlawn United Church on Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m.
All Candidates meeting at North Toronto Arena on Oct. 14 at 7 p.m.
All Candidates meeting with ARECA Oct. 18
All Candidates meeting with the Stanley Knowles Co-op date to be determined
Ward 22 St. Paul’s
Candidate Names:
Cook, Elizabeth
Matlow, Josh
Molls, William
Sellors, Chris
All candidate meetings and debate dates:
Oct. 4 - Rogers TV Ward 22 Debate with Dale Goldhawk
Oct. 6 - Town Crier Ward 22
All-Candidates Debate Oct. 13 - Ratepayers’
All-Candidates Meeting Oct. 14 - Toronto Green Community
Ward 25 Don Valley West
Candidate Names:
Dickins, Joanne
Hostler, Tanya
Jenkins, Cliff
Robinson, Jaye
All candidate meetings and debate dates:
Oct. 6 Rogers Community 10 Live Debate at 7 pm
Oct. 13 Don Mills Ratepayers’ Association 7 pm location TBD
Oct. 14 Lawrence Park Ratepayers’ Association 7 pm, Lawrence Park Community Church
Ward 26 Don Valley West
Candidate Names:
Ahmed, Tanvir
Burnside, Jon
Dhanani, Mohamed
Khan, Nawab Salim
Malik, Shaukat
Pandor, Yunus
Parker, John
All candidate meetings and debate dates:
Sept. 30, hosted by Don Mills Residents Association
Oct. 6, Rogers Cable on Dale Goldhawk Show
Oct. 19, hosted by Leaside Property Owners Association
Ward 27 Toronto Centre-Rosedale
Candidate Names:
Anderson, Enza
Bergen, Ben
Chan, Ken
Dick, Joel
Gapka, Susan
Jemstone, Jonas
Leroux, Gary
Meynell, Robert
Missal, Perry
Narula, Ram
Rebanks, Ella
Spence, Paul
Tindal, Chris
Wong-Tam, Kristyn
Wookey, Simon
All candidate meetings and debate dates:
Sept. 22, 7 to 9 p.m. at 877 Yonge St.
Oct. 7, 7 to 8 p.m. Rogers Cable 10
Oct. 14, 7 to 9 p.m. Cody Hall, St. Paul’s Church 227 Bloor St. E.
1. Biographical information
I am a contract firefighter, marathoner, executive board member of Labour Council and founder of Mikesrunforsickkids.com. I have lived in Toronto for 25 years.
2. Why are you running for council?
The nature of my career is to protect, I don’t see that changing. I am running to protect residents of Ward 16 from irresponsible development, protecting small businesses and protecting their tax dollars.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
Councillors must be patient, dedicated and passionate about their responsibilities. These are qualities I have been displaying for over 10 years at my career.
4. What political experience do you have?
From 2007-2009, I worked at Toronto City Hall. I assisted in the creation of the steering committee that would go on to defeat Walmart/Smartcentre and in they’re attempt to establish a large shopping mall near the beach. By co-ordinating local business improvement associations, residents groups and local unions we created a strategic counter approach to the re-zoning. I have worked with City Staff, Solicitors, media and Councillors. I feel I could seamlessly operate an effective office for the residents of Ward 16.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
Chicago has 2.8 million people (300,000 more then Toronto) and operates for billions less. Spending on Infrastructure-Water mains, roads, essential services is always a good investment for a world class city. I would focus on controlled city spending over a two year period. The St.Clair right of way demonstrated the lack of oversight and co-ordination of various managers, costing twice as much as projected, bankrupting local business and caused additional traffic on Eglinton Ave.
6.Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in?
Roll up my sleeves and demonstrate where expenditures can be reduced. There is one taxpayer and three levels of government. Reduce over-lapping of services and duplication of work. Sacrifice starts with the councilor.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
Protecting taxpayer dollars- in the last 7 years, 4000 employees were hired. Projects are not being delivered on time, or on budget, like they are in the private sector. Projects like St.Clair right of way and Lawrence Heights, backed by the local councillor, are risky and very costly. I believe reducing the debt, providing essential services and focusing on transit are keys to future success.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
Ensuring the Eglinton LRT or Subway is delivered and underground. The Yonge Street Subway is over-capacity and I propose providing free transit to seniors between 2-4pm to reduce overcrowding.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
Not at this time.
Roy Macdonald
www.roymacdonald.ca
1. Biographical information
My name is Roy Macdonald and I am a 43 year old teacher working for the Toronto District School Board for the last 17 years. I am a Red Tory, but not a card carrying member of any party.
2. Why are you running for council?
I am not happy with the way we are represented in ward 16 by our present councillor. We need people who understand the community issues and who are prepared to move forward and develop a sustainable plan for the city.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I live in ward 16 and I am deeply involved in the community with many ties to the residents. Over the years working as a teacher I have developed strong skills in working with people and treating everyone with respect and dignity. I know what needs to be done for our ward.
4. What political experience do you have?
My first degree from the U of T is in economics and political science. I do not have any employment history in politics, but I am an excellent learner and I have been actively following politics for 30 years.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
We must do a thorough study of our budget and develop a multi- year plan. I want to balance the books, but I will not do it on the backs of those who need us most such as children, seniors, the homeless and others who face challenges.
6.Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
We must maintain the infrastructure on a yearly basis so we are not hit with big items down the road. Taxes are to be used to provide services and that is what we must do for our constituents.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
Development is a key issue. We must bring in all the players and develop plans at an early stage. It is not right for the citizens most directly involved to be brought in at the end of the process.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
At this point I support the transit city plan with Light Rail. If the money can be found I would like to see as much underground as possible.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
None of the candidates have earned my vote so far, but I hope that changes in the next five weeks. We need someone who can work with all the vested interests and provide a good vision for the city.
Terry Mills
www.terrymills.ca
1. Biographical information
My name is Terry Mills I am 59 years old and a registered professional planner without any party affiliation.
2. Why are you running for council?
I am running for council because this community is threatened with substantial intensification and has shown itself to be vulnerable to excessive and inappropriate development thrusts through the current exercise of planning and decision-making.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I have a lifelong experience in planning and development living in this community and I have been an active participant in planning matters with demonstrated results.
4. What political experience do you have?
I have not held political office before, but I am no stranger to the workings of City Hall throughout the past 30+ years of my career. Likewise I have held office in substantial industry organizations, and have been a long time community advocate working within community associations in this locality focusing upon the concerns and opportunities resident within Ward 16 and the surrounding locality of North Toronto.|
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
In this next Council session we need to see that the construction of infrastructure is tied to development in order that both may be delivered together, and that development bears its share of infrastructure development costs whilst it is enjoying profitability that such infrastructure investment in these development lands.
6.Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
The preparation of the budget presumes that there is an agenda or vision of what is to be undertaken, and with this in place one can then establish a budget; and then through an iterative process one can balance the agenda with the costs arriving at a fulsome solution that everyone can proceed upon confidently and effectively.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
The top issue in Ward 16 is preserving the community’s neighbourhoods and local values in the face of what is essentially unbridled growth. Throughout the past decade this community has waited for the prescriptions of the Official Plan [which describes itself as being a general guide] and calls for its implementation through local planning including urban design guidelines, zoning, and other initiatives. This work is incomplete and reluctantly being undertaken, whilst same time there has been a myriad of predilective developments ushered through, which scarily present the prospect of local planning being perfected through the precedence they establish. In truth, the community is better served to turn around and express its own destiny in terms of development in order to brief not only the planning process but the oncoming development initiatives themselves - rather than presuming that city planning will ever be perfected by following the current course.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
Yes I do have a transportation plan that is predicated upon linking transit construction with growth, funding its construction by harnessing the added value you presume to adjacent development properties, and integrating the movement of people throughout the city with the city’s resources and enterprise. Furthermore the whole experience of transportation needs to be rethought from the consumer point of view applying the astute practices of marketing that the private sector readily adopts in its presentation of consumer products. Transportation is not a plumbing problem on a grand scale is truly a matter of appreciating that Torontonians live “in a city and transit” rather than simply static places and spaces. It is developed in more detail at terrymills.ca/ZZ-transit.shtml
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I am listening like everyone else, but at this point in time I do not support any Mayoralty candidate, as there is a failure to recognize the need for a comprehensive urban agenda. It is more readily appreciated that the candidates are pandering for votes and lost as to the city’s future vision. It is all remarkably a parallel to dogs chewing at tree roots in the park, whilst the true objective resides in the tree’s crown above.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
I believe that it is readily evident that the incumbent does not represent her constituents, she is not protecting her community and has in fact betrayed them. That much is known. This brings a choice down to the three contenders including myself. Throughout the following weeks the community will have the opportunity to meet with these three candidates, to hear them speak, to ask some questions and to consider who is best to lead them into this next session of Council. In fairness to all I leave it to the constituents to determine who will be elected.
Karen Stintz [incumbant]
www.stintz2010.com
1. Biographical information
Karen Stintz, age 39. Prior to becoming the City Councillor for Ward 16 I was a bureaucrat for the long-term care department at the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. I am a graduate of the University of Western Ontario (BA honours), Boston University (journalism) and Queen’s University (Master of Public Administration).
2. Why are you running for council?
I am running for re-election because I am proud of what I have achieved in partnership with the community and local business and I want to continue to build a strong community.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I am the best choice for Eglinton-Lawrence, Ward 16 because I am a neighbour as well as the local Councillor. I have the experience to deliver results and the knowledge of the community to understand the needs of the neighbourhood.
4. What political experience do you have?
I have been the local Councillor for the past seven years and proud of the results that we have achieved, such as: local parks improvement, keeping the school pools open, holding the line of the garbage fee, creation of mural program and the noise by-law to limit construction noise.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
Over the next four years, City Council will need to get its spending under control by taking a new approach to doing business, being more creative in the delivery of services and embracing new partnerships. The City will need to work in closer partnership with the Provincial and Federal governments to ensure that the required infrastructure is built.
6.Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
The top issues in the community are traffic and development pressures. I will continue to take a balanced approach to development issues and keep our neighbourhoods safe through town halls and new traffic study initiatives.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
I support the Metrolinx transportation plan. This plan has the funding commitments of the Provincial government and adopts a regional approach to transit and transportation.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
As City Hall moves in new directions, I have the knowledge and experience that will make me a stronger representative for Ward 16 and a stronger partner to participate in the renewal of our municipal government.
Elizabeth Cook
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Josh Matlow
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
William Molls
www.molls.ca
1. Biographical information
Name: William Molls
Age: 22
Profession: Communications consultant & graphic designer
Political party: Independent
2. Why are you running for council?
I feel that this election is a turning point for the city. With so many incumbent councillors not seeking re-election in their ward, the makeup of the next city council will be noticeably different.
I decided to run because I passionately care about the well-being of this city. I feel I bring the best combination of professional experience and perspective to the table, and I can help ensure that the city does not regress backwards into the divisive, bitter politics we’ve seen over the course of this election.
I am a strong supporter of Transit City. If I were councillor, I would ensure that the transit needs of my ward were not put on hold for an unrealistic, fiscally irresponsible subway plan. Transit City would bring modern, efficient rapid transit trains across the whole city. We should build the Eglinton LRT from Scarborough to the airport, and connect the city from end to end.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I’ve always been passionate about my area - after all, I was born and raised here. I feel I can bring a fresh perspective to our city politics. My opponents have made their living off of the status quo, whereas I bring a new outlook to how we manage our city. As well, I think having more young people on council can only change our city for the better. City Hall needs a youth advocate, and I plan to fill that role on the next council.
4. What political experience do you have?
I’ve volunteered and worked as an activist for issues like social justice and affordable housing. As a student at Ryerson University, I was in a number of campus clubs fighting for the rights of students and youth.
As well, this year I will be launching a campaign to lower the voting age in Toronto to 16. I feel by including young people in our political process, we can make our politics accountable to them, as well as helping them to have a better sense of civic responsibility.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
Everything the city does needs to be sustainable; both fiscally and environmentally. For example, it is not sustainable for the city to build a wildly expensive and unnecessary subway network that will cause the TTC’s operating budget to skyrocket. We must approach every infrastructure problem with a solution that is efficient and cost effective, both in the short-term and the long run. We must balance what we want to build with realistic expectations, projections, and costing.
That said, there is no question that we must continue to address the infrastructure deficit in the city. Our roads, transit system, bike network, and more, are all in need of improvement. We should not forego these costs - or worse, cut back on them - but find more practical solutions that will meet the infrastructure needs of both today and tomorrow. Transit City is an example of just such a plan that strikes this balance.
6.Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
Without question, the city’s largest expense currently is our transit system. This is a result of Mike Harris era downloading of responsibilities. Whereas cities like New York and Montreal receive a transit subsidy from the state or provincial level of government, Toronto does not - despite operating North America’s third largest transit system.
I see the provincial government as a deadbeat dad. They show up for holidays and major announcements, but are otherwise nowhere to be found when we really need them.
One way we can reduce the weight of our transit system on the city’s budget is to work with the province to restore this subsidy. Metrolinx, the provincial transit body, could raise this subsidy through road tolls on major highways that feed commuters into the city.
Regardless, transit is the lifeblood of our city, and as such we must continue to give it due respect in future budgets. The well-being of the city as a whole rests on this issue.
In addition to transit, we must continue to seriously address the lack of affordable housing spaces in the city. Toronto currently faces a housing crisis. If we don’t change the way we treat the issue of affordable housing, we'll be leaving more and more people out in the cold. I believe the people of my ward are compassionate enough to want to fix that.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
The most important issue in my ward is whether we proceed with building the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, or if we scrap it in favour of a fiscally irresponsible subway plan.
The numbers simply don’t add up to justify a subway. The necessary ridership isn’t there now - nor will it be for decades to come - to warrant the construction of an expensive, inefficient subway. We must learn from the mistakes of the Sheppard subway: We can’t afford to have another “stubway” on Eglinton.
The Eglinton Crosstown LRT could span the entire city, not just the midtown core. It would connect Scarborough with Etobicoke, bringing the city together as a whole. A good transit network can take you to more places - that should be our goal. Not only that, but it would be completed much sooner than it would take to build a subway.
LRT trains are used in Paris, Seattle, and Los Angeles, so why not Toronto? Why must our attitude be “Subways or nothing!” There’s a better way. Let’s build the Eglinton Crosstown LRT.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
My transportation plan is to proceed with Transit City, and bring modern rapid transit to Toronto.
At the moment, the only mayoral candidate who agrees with this vision is Joe Pantalone. Unfortunately, the other candidates have chosen to go with an unrealistic subway plan.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
Like the majority of the city, I’m undecided. All of the candidates bring something to the table that I like.
Joe Pantalone is a consensus builder. He offers the municipal experience we need, and he would build the original Transit City transportation plan, which I’m in favour of. Rocco Rossi is an excellent manager and, though I may disagree with some of his ideas, you can’t say he doesn’t have vision. George Smitherman is a fighter, and would protect Toronto’s interests while passionately promoting the city. Sarah Thompson understands the importance of social justice issues like affordable housing, and has creative solutions to addressing these problems. Though he’s not a “mainstream” candidate, I’m also a fan of HiMY SYeD. I think it’s a shame that he hasn’t been invited to the debates, as he brings a lot of great ideas to the table.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
Gosh, that’s a tough question. Both Chris Sellors and Josh Matlow would make excellent councillors for our ward. Chris brings tenacity and experience, while Josh brings perspective and vision. I would be hard-pressed to choose between them.
I think that, no matter who wins, our ward is going to have a city councillor we can be proud of. Michael Walker is leaving big shoes to fill, but I’m optimistic that our next councillor will be able to live up to his
record.
Chris Sellors
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Joanne Dickins
My name is Joanne Dickins and I am running for councillor of Ward 25 as a business person and community activist. Like most of you, I am tired of the wasteful spending by city councillors and beaurocrats at City Hall. They do not represent the voice of the taxpayer. A new council would end the culture of entitlement that exists by cutting wasteful spending and balancing budgets. These are the first steps in fixing what is wrong with our city. I will vote to abolish the Land Transfer Tax and the Vehicle Registration Tax, along with other tax grabs and pet projects. I will make sure our city runs efficiently. I support Rob Ford for mayor and believe his policy of eliminating wasteful spending, and his plan for transit, found at GetTorontoMoving.ca, are the changes Toronto needs to prosper.
Tanya Hostler
www.tanyahostler.com
1. Biographical information
Vital statistics- Name, age, profession, political party Tanya Hostler, 42, Financial Analyst / Author, No current political affiliation
2. Why are you running for council?
I think I can help. I tend to attract attention to everything I do and can bring a background in government finance to this position to help solve Toronto’s fiscal crisis.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
All the candidates are very qualified. I don’t think I am “better” than anyone else. I am just offering to help.
4. What political experience do you have?
I worked at the Ontario Financing Authority / Ministry of Finance for six years, two of them in municipal finance at the Provincial Local Funding Unit. As a public servant in the most important Ministry, I had a great deal of exposure to politics. Previously in law school, I worked in various co-op and contract positions in government which also gave me exposure to politics. Also, I follow the news and take an interest in politics and current events. Rather than sending emails to politicians offering my opinions on what they should do, I would like to get involved directly.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
Toronto has run up an enormous debt burden over the years. We need funding from senior governments for the kind of capital expenditures they are talking about for potential transit and other infrastructure projects. Property taxes and water rates can only go so high to cover increased operating costs before everyone moves to the 905.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
Essential core municipal services are a priority. When you run a balanced operating budget, you can’t reduce or hold taxes steady without reducing expenditures. Cuts can be made through attrition and an assessment of core services versus superfluous services.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
Given Ward 25 has the highest property values and incomes in Toronto as well as an older population many of whom may be on fixed incomes, I would say increased property taxes and water rates are the most important issues as well as protecting the neighbourhood from high density condo development creeping south of the #401. I would fight to prevent further increases in taxes and to maintain the low density residential character of the most beautiful neighbourhood in Toronto.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
Ward 25 is well served by the Yonge and Sheppard subway lines.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I supported John Tory for Mayor but he isn’t running.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
Cliff Jenkins has been a good Councilor and has always responded to my emails in a helpful manner.
Cliff Jenkins [incumbant]
www.cliffjenkins.com
1. Biographical information
Family
- Ward 25 resident for more than 25 years
- Married to Liz, a long-time volunteer in the community
- Three grown sons, Neil, Scott and David, all university graduates
Experience
- Currently serving as City Councillor for Ward 25 - Don Valley West
- 30 years with IBM Canada as a Client Executive leading a team of information technology professionals to meet the business needs of a large client.
- 12 years as President of the York Mills Ratepayers Association.
Education
- B.Sc.; McMaster University
- M.Sc., B.Ed.; University of Toronto
2. Why are you running for council?
It has been my distinct privilege to serve the people of Ward 25 as Councillor. I have lived in the neighbourhood for twenty-five years. I value the quality of life we have built here together and understand the importance of protecting it for the future. I am running for re-election in order to continue my efforts protect the interests of Ward 25 residents and families by advocating for policies that support:
- Neighbourhood stability
- Efficient and reliable city services
- A responsible approach to the City’s Finances
- A clean and sustainable environment
- Real protection for tenants
- Safety and security in our streets
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
Over the past seven years, I have earned the trust and support of Ward 25 residents by emphasizing service over self-interest; principle over politics; and delivering honesty, integrity and the highest standard of professional conduct. My proven track record of protecting neighbourhoods and the interests of taxpayers, and my wide-ranging business and community experience including 30 years in the private sector with IBM, 12 years as President of the York Mills Ratepayers Association and 7 years on Toronto City Council, make me the best candidate for the job.
4. What political experience do you have?
- 7 years experience as City Councillor for Ward 25, Don Valley West
- 12 years as President of the York Mills Ratepayer’s Association
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
People are tired of paying more taxes for municipal services that are in decline. We need to apply sound business principles to the management of the City’s finances in order to strengthen our infrastructure and improve the quality and reliability of our municipal services. This includes moving to ‘zero-based budgeting’ and service level management to allocate resources more efficiently and deliver better, more accountable services to you. We also have to reverse the last Council’s misguided leadership in creating large numbers of pet projects with little regard for sustainability. In particular, we have to examine these programs for “value for money” - and where the benefits do not exceed the costs, we must find ways of either improving them or curtailing them.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
- reinvest in core infrastructure including storm sewers, roads, parks and community facilities.
- eliminate wasteful, unproductive spending
- implement a business approach by adopting zero-based budgeting, value for money reviews and service level management to allocate resources more efficiently and deliver better, more accountable services to you.
- reduce the property tax burden that weighs on our homeowners and tenants, hurts the competitiveness of Ward 25 businesses and stifles job creation.
- control development to fit existing communities
- create a Local Appeal Body, to eliminate the influence of the OMB in neighbourhood planning matters.
7. What are the top issues in your ward? How will you address them?
Protecting Neighbourhoods – People invest in their neighbourhoods. I believe in protecting that investment. As Councillor, I will continue to work for policies to provide residents a greater say in the future of their communities and for planning policies to prevent incompatible development in our stable residential neighbourhoods.
Fiscal Responsibility – The City has a spending problem - created by those with little regard for people’s ability to pay. I opposed the new vehicle and real-estate taxes; annual spending and tax increases; and the unaffordable wage settlement with City workers during the last term of Council - and will continue to oppose wasteful spending and unfair taxation. By applying sound business principles to the management of the City’s finances, we can control costs and hold the line on property taxes - and at the same time strengthen our infrastructure and improve the quality and reliability of our municipal services.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
The TTC is a vital piece of the City’s infrastructure. It moves people. It reduces pollution and carbon emissions. It enables commerce. And it generates jobs. It has to work and it has to work well for Toronto to continue to grow, thrive and be green. The City’s commerce generates $500 million per day. When the TTC doesn’t run, it costs us fully 10% of that productive output – a massive hit to our standard of living if sustained. And without transit operating, pollution from cars is increased.
That is why the provincial government does not permit sustained transit labour disruptions and orders transit workers back to the job immediately with compulsory arbitration. It is also why we really need a new protocol to negotiate fair contracts with TTC workers and avoid costly service disruptions. After the last TTC strike, I formed a Citizens Working Group (CWG) to make recommendations on such a protocol. It includes fair negotiations and, only in the event of an impasse, mandatory arbitration using Final Offer Selection (FOS).
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
Like many of the people I have met at the doors while campaigning in Ward 25, I have yet to decide who to support for Mayor. Ultimately, the candidate that gets my vote will be the one who presents a strong and realistic plan to get the City’s financial house in order and refocus Council’s attention on improving the basic, fundamental municipal services that you rely on.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
I believe I am the best candidate to represent Ward 25, based on the reasons outlined in my response to question #3.
Jaye Robinson
www.jayerobinson.ca
1. Biographical information
Jaye Robinson
47 years old
Community Builder and Senior Manager in Economic Development
No party affiliation.
2. Why are you running for council?
For the last seven years, I’ve watched as the current group of councillors has failed to address the critical issues facing our City. Service levels continue to decline, parks and infrastructure are not maintained, traffic is terrible and the City’s financial position continues to deteriorate. I’m running for Council because I believe it’s time for new leadership. We need fresh ideas, renewed energy and the courage to take action.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
My community and City experience sets me apart. I have a lifelong passion for public service and a 20-year track record of getting things done, both as a community leader and a senior manager in the City’s Economic Development Division. My experience gives me a unique and informed perspective on the problems facing our City and the best possible solutions. I have an action oriented “can-do” approach with a strong customer-service focus. At the same time my commitment to fiscal responsibility is steadfast. At the City, I delivered budget surpluses every year and developed innovative private sector partnerships bringing millions of dollars into the City.
4. What political experience do you have?
As VP of my Residents’ Association I have worked to preserve the character and vitality of our neighbourhoods and have successfully mediated property issues with the City and the OMB resulting in positive outcomes for all stakeholders. I recently organized a speaker series to address the important issues facing our City and promote civic engagement. I have connected, engaged and mobilized countless community groups, charities and business in projects that have made the City a better place. I have worked collaboratively with virtually every City department, Councillor and the Province. With a strong work ethic and a positive, collaborative approach, I know how to build consensus and get results on the Council floor.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
This is a critical issue. 100,000 new residents are coming into our City on an annual basis over the next decade and we do not have the infrastructure to support this growth. Council needs to create a 10 year strategic plan and adopt a longer term multiyear budget planning process. Expediency should not overrule excellence. Toronto needs to reduce or eliminate its debt load and more efficiently manage its long term assets. Careful long term planning, efficient asset management and a comprehensive capital funding model that works is the only way Toronto can prosper and build the infrastructure it needs to be a world class city.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
Before considering any additional spending, Council`s first priority should be getting Toronto’s fiscal house in order. We carry a structural deficit of more than $400 million dollars which must be addressed. We need to eliminate waste and find efficiencies in service delivery by setting annual saving targets for each year in a multi-year budget. We need to conduct a line by line review of all expenditures and identify where there is duplication and overlap. Having accomplished this, the ideal budget would be one that provides strong value in service delivery with sufficient flexibility to invest for the long term.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
Apart from my concern about the City`s finances and frustration about poor service levels, residents in Ward 25 feel powerless to affect change in their own neighbourhoods. I will promote safe and vibrant neighbourhoods with strong community spirit by encouraging civic engagement and giving residents greater opportunity for input and influence on local issues. I will give residents a stronger voice on planning and development issues with the creation of Local Appeal Boards. The current councillors have had the authority to set up these boards for years but haven’t taken action. I will work to enhance the use and accessibility of our public spaces by creating park improvement associations. I will develop community hubs at schools and improve city and neighbourhood traffic with an integrated traffic and transit plan.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral
candidate campaigning on it?
A lack of vision and investment over the decades has left our transit system lagging far behind many comparable cities such that Toronto now has one of the longest average commute times in North America. An enhanced transit system and integrated transportation plan that takes in to account all forms transportation will do much to ease traffic congestion. We need to work with the surrounding regions to develop a comprehensive and financially sustainable transportation plan that seamlessly links the City and regions together and can accommodate the expected growth for generations to come.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I am not endorsing any Mayoral candidate. I’m listening to all the candidates at this point, especially those who combine a strong commitment to fiscal order with positive, substantive policy and long-term vision to build a vital and prosperous Toronto for all. I can work with any of the leading candidates or anyone else who is committed to taking action to ensure our community and City are sustainable, vibrant and prosperous.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
Our Ward needs a candidate with strong community and City experience, who is willing to roll up their sleeves and take action on the many difficult issues our City faces today.
Tanvir Ahmed
http://www.votetanvirahmed.ca/
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Jon Burnside
www.jonburnside.com
1. Biographical information
Jon Burnside
44 years old
President of Jon Burnside’s Healthy Heart Meals
No affiliation to any political party.
2. Why are you running for council?
I have been involved with the community helping in one capacity or another for almost 25 years. This is a natural progression of my desire to assist the community and what better place to do this than as a memeber of City council.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I have lived, volunteered, and worked in this community most of my life. I worked in Ward 26 as a police officer for over 10 years and most importantly, I been involved with this community in various volunteer roles for over 25 years which is longer than any other candidate. I know what the community needs and want to continue to assist with the growth of the community.
4. What political experience do you have?
This is my first time running for political office. Being a self employed businessman and being active in many community initiatives means that my skill set is perfectly transportable to the political arena.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
It is always hard to comment on this question without the benefit of a detailed knowledge of the complete fiscal picture of the City of Toronto. It is not a secret that the City of Toronto is in a financial crisis and that decisions need to be made for the long term, not for just a one year budgeting cycle. City of Toronto costs are escalating far faster than inflation and it is imperative that costs be matched to revenue streams. For there to be any balance, costs will have to increase and City of Toronto program delivery will have to become far more efficient.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
This is very open ended and difficult to answer with clarity without a detailed knowledge of the City budget. However, the ideal City budget would match expenditures with revenue streams and would not keep chipping away at the reserve fund which is what has been going on for years. The ideal City budget would also address the explosive growth in the number of City employees over the past few years - a growth which is far outstripping the growth of the Toronto economy.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
Ward 26 has no voice at City Hall. I intend to remedy this by making our concerns known through forging relationships with other councillors and with the mayor.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
The transportation plan for Toronto must include the TTC but we need to address many TTC structural issues before we proceed such as becoming more inefficient each year. I favour subways because they are faster, they move many more people and last two - three times as long a LRT. We also have existing rail lines in Toronto that could be utilized as they are not being used at present.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I am not endorsing any candidate for mayor. I will work with whoever is ultimately selected as mayor by the people of Toronto. The Mayor is just one vote at City Council.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
There are several candidates running in Ward 26. The people will decide who is best to represent them.
Mohamed Dhanani
www.votedhanani.ca
1. Biographical information
Name: Mohamed Dhanani, Age 39, Management Consultant in Public Health and Entrepreneur, No political affiliation
2. Why are you running for council?
I believe Ward 26 needs a responsive, effective councillor to address local and city issues
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I have the linguistic skills, experience with government, and the ability to build bridges between the different communities in Ward 26
4. What political experience do you have?
I ran for Toronto City Council and came up second by a margin of only 214 votes. I also served as the Senior Advisor to the Deputy Premier of Ontario.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
We need to rethink the way the City is financed, and we need the federal and provincial governments to pay their fair share.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
An ideal city budget would balance necessary capital expenditures while at the same time balancing the needs of Toronto’s residents (e.g.: Transit, Housing, Welfare, Health, etc.)
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
Ward 26 is a diverse community in which different issues take precedence in certain neighbourhoods. Traffic and public transit are issues affecting the entire ward equally. Fiscal and environmental sustainability, job creation, and access to services are the other main concerns. I would consult widely with the communities, and work with city officials and the police to bring about change.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
I strongly support the intent of Transit City, and I want to see the Eglinton and Don Mills LRT’s completed. I will work with Council to make the TTC a source of pride, and improve local public transit.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I am currently not committed to any of the Mayoral candidates, and I pledge to work cooperatively with whomever the citizens of Toronto elect.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
Nobody.
Nawab Salim Khan
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Shaukat Malik
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Yunus Pandor
www.pandor.ca
1. Biographical information
Yunus Pandor, 61, Service Technician, No affiliation with any party
2. Why are you running for council?
Since my arrival in Canada back in 1972, I have been involved in various level of services helping and supporting the community. I want to see my neighborhood, a crime free, environmental friendly with more community facilities for family; youth, women and seniors. I w to create a family culture, and respect for seniors, more creative and healthy engagement of youth.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I have been living in this ward since last 30 years with my wife Fatima, raised seven children. They all grew up here and were educated in local schools. I have seen changes over the years, involved deeply in the community and I know the issues facing this ward.
4. What political experience do you have?
I am the President of CEP Local 554, for past 15 years. I work for ADT Security System Company and have been with them for 35 years. I have successfully dealt with people all the years, understanding their problems and solving them satisfactorily. As a member of the liaison and negotiating committee, together we have successfully negotiated six contracts, which give me understanding and capability to negotiate with people. I was also a volunteer in ADT’s unique ‘DVERS’ program dealing with domestic violence. I have served as a member of one of the Toronto Police Chief’s Advisory Committee
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
-Cost effective use of tax dollars. Accountability, Conflict of interest and lobbying restrictions, explicit codes of ethics for both politicians and civil servants; elimination of appointed bodies which do not protect community interests. Honesty, lowering administrative cost, prioritising the most needed infrastructure/services and good financial management are keys to balance the growing costs.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
A balance budget; it should be more focused on developing city infrastructure and building community facilities.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
Housing: Development of effective tenant and landlord regulations to ensure fair rents, high quality maintenance with safe, secure, clean and healthy living environments. Condos fees and Property tax should not be felt burden to families and seniors.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
-Not final. However, our transportation system must cater the need of the city, it should be environmental friendly, and accommodative of pedestrians and cyclists. For my ward, I will suggest few of the Buses number 25 should be routed from Thorncliffe Park Drive for the passengers going to Don Mills..
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
-Not supporting any particular Candidate. I am ready to work with any elected Mayor.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
- I am confident I will be representing Ward 26.
John Parker[incumbant]
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Enza Anderson
[email protected]
1. Biographical information
Enza Anderson, 46, no party affiliation
2. Why are you running for council?
Politics affects every aspect of our lives. Politicians need to be more connected and more responsive to the people they serve. I’ve made a difference to everything I’ve been involved. I can make a difference at City Hall.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I have a record of community service demonstrating civic leadership and pride. I have a record of running for office demonstrating my sincere interest in service to people.
4. What political experience do you have?
In 2000, I ran for mayor placing third out of 26 candidates. In 2003, I ran for city councillor in Ward 27 placing second. I may have not have the experience of holding office but I have the political drive to know the issues that matter to the people of this city.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
Toronto citizens have been burdened with year after year property tax increases. It’s time to look at other revenue producing alternatives like road tolls. We need to cut wasteful spending on services that do not produce results and make sure that projects are on time and on budget.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
1. Debt reduction. 2. Public transportation initiatives. 3. Infrastructure 4. Essential services i.e. public health, police, fire, ambulance services, waste management. 5. Community programs i.e. increase funding in libraries and public swimming pools.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
$12,000 of public money Councillor Rae spent on his goodbye party—seems like a minor issue until you consider the principles it represents. Cut council office budgets. Close all free spending loopholes by city councillors.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
It’s simple. We need to build more subway and streetcar lines, improve stations and expand transportation hubs. A comprehensive bike plan needs to be implemented that will see bike lanes stretch from east to west, north to south of this city and on roads that are safe for cyclists. Eliminate traffic gridlock by synchronizing traffic lights and creating more one-way streets.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I’m not endorsing any mayoral candidate. I can work with whoever becomes mayor of this city.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
I am the best choice to bring much needed change to City Hall.
Ben Bergen
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Ken Chan
www.votekenchan.ca
1. Biographical information
35 years old.
Former Police Officer and advisor to governments in Ontario and England, including a year in the office of Mayor Boris Johnson of London, England.
Bachelor of Arts (Political Science and Criminology), MBA and Post-Graduate Diploma in Forensic Accounting
2. Why are you running for council?
I see great potential for our city and know what it takes for Toronto to be a true world city. To do that, we must punch above our weight and make Toronto be that place where corporations and NGOs want to locate their head offices and people. I want to work with our city builders in the private, public and non-profit sectors to unleash Toronto’s full potential, creativity and talent. We can be North America’s next hub for arts and culture. And I want our city government to work for our citizens again.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
A councillor needs to be committed to working with real people and their problems in the community, and then be able to change things so those problems are not repeated. A councillor needs to contribute to the building of a vision that makes Toronto a true world city. I have the experience, having worked the frontline as a police officer and later behind the scenes as a policy advisor for governments in Canada and abroad, including for Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, England. I have an MBA and previously served as a Director of Alterna Savings. My experience has prepared me well to work for you from day one at City Hall to make a real difference to real lives. And, it also means working behind the scenes to change the way business is done at City Hall so we have a government that works for you.
4. What political experience do you have?
This is the first time I am running for political office. My background is in business and public service. I have worked for governments of different political stripes, and also have served on the boards of large private, public sector and non-for-profit organizations. Being your councillor means rolling up my sleeves to work directly with residents to bring positive, tangible change for our community.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
We need a fiscal plan that focuses on results and delivery, and which achieves value-for-money. We need Toronto to maintain a good credit rating by achieving a low debt burden, healthy levels of cash and investments, and a multi-year planning approach. Achieving fiscal responsibility doesn’t mean “slash and burn”, but is about respecting your tax dollars and finding efficiency savings so that we can invest our tax dollars in core services that matter to Toronto. I am open to new ways of doing things if at the end of the day it means greater value for money and better quality of service.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
By moving to a multi-year budgeting approach, the City can have more certainty about long-term investments and prioritization of services and programs. Multi-year budgets provide operating flexibility to accommodate significant changes in economic, social and other circumstances which affect the City, and also provides for greater discipline when it comes to controlling spending. Multi-year budgets means Council and staff can take a more strategic approach to managing the City’s finances. We need to implement a Comprehensive Spending Review program to assess the spending priorities by the City. Spending reviews can help control overall public spending while helping to allocate resources according to Council’s priorities while considering longer term issues.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
I have heard over and over again that residents in the ward want their voices heard. And that is why I want to open up City Hall and bring City Hall to the residents. I want to change the way business is done at the city. I will hold town hall meetings regularly and constituency days right in local neighbourhoods to discuss a wide range of issues such as development, transportation and community safety. For those who are computer savvy, I will make greater use of online tools to promote community engagement.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
We need a fresh approach in tackling gridlock through an integrated, comprehensive transportation strategy that ensures people move around the core of our city quickly, safely and efficiently whether on foot, by car, on bicycle or public transit. The transportation strategy must prepare us for future population growth and for the Pan Am 2015 Games. And it needs to take into account all modes of transportation. The objective of such a strategy is simple: It is about helping Torontonians get from “A” to “B” as quickly, as easily, as safely and as affordable as possible. It is about improving the experience of one’s journey. I support the planned Eglinton LRT project and the Union Station to Pearson Airport rail link, both which will benefit those who live in ward 27.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I believe that a councillor works for the citizens and not for the mayor or city hall. As a citizen, I will be voting for Mr. Smitherman because I know him from his time as my MPP and from when I worked at Queen’s Park. I want to vote for a mayoral candidate who is committed to city building.
Joel Dick
www.joeldick.com
1. Biographical information
Joel Dick, 36 years of age, lawyer, NDP
2. Why are you running for council?
I envision a vibrant, sustainable, and prosperous Toronto that provides opportunity for all of its residents: a city that inspires.
The great cities of the world make responsible investments in the arts, in communities, in transit, in affordable housing, and in reliable infrastructure.
A healthy city is built on a strong foundation. We must get the basics right. That means replacing water mains on time, finishing road repairs on budget, and making sure Toronto’s infrastructure is able to handle our growing population. It also means providing safe and secure housing to our most vulnerable members.
Accomplishing this vision will require hard work and toughness. I grew up on a farm so I am no stranger to hard work. I make my living as a trial lawyer so I am used to standing up for principle in the face of opposition. I am ready to go to work for you. I am ready to fight for each of our neighbourhoods. That’s why I am asking for your vote on October 25.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
My experience as a lawyer and in the not-for-profit sector, bringing people togther and representing diverse communities, my track record for getting things done.
4. What political experience do you have?
I ran for public school board trustee and finshed a strong second.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
By setting priorities and sticking to them. My priorities are transit, affordable housing, infrastucture, and culture. The city must also insist that the province do its part by funding transit as senior levels of government do in every other major North American city.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
The ideal budget should be a multi-year budget that clearly shows expenses and revenue streams over time. It should prioritize investments in transit and infrastructure. I would rely on an inclusionary zoning bylaw which would require developers to include affordable housing in each new development at their own expense.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
Lack of communication from city hall and their councillor. I would address this issue with regular town halls, an ‘open door’ office policy, and an up-to-date and interactive constituency web site.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
I support transit city as currently proposed.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I am not endorsed by any mayoral candidate nor have I endorsed any candidate. I will vote for the candidate with the boldest vision for our city and for the candidate that I believe can get council working together again and focused on practical solutions.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
There are many good candidates in Ward 27, all of whom I believe would do a good job representing the residents. I am running for my vision of Toronto, not against other candidates.
Susan Gapka
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Jonas Jemstone
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Robert Meynell
www.robertmeynell.ca
1. Biographical information
Name: Robert Meynell Age: 39
Profession: Government Relations Associate (March of Dimes Canada), Lecturer (Trent University)
Party: None
2. Why are you running for council?
I am running to give back to my community and fight for fiscal accountability, public transportation, and protecting our parks.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I am the most qualified candidate and am the candidate who will be able to listen to and serve the constituents without being indebted to a party, Labour Council, or developers. With my Ph.D. in political science and exprience working in government relations, I understand government and how to serve Ward 27 in City Hall. As a real estate entrepreneur, I can bring a strong business sense to government and ensure the city is run in a business-like manner. And through my board work for the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art and Meynell House, I know how important both the arts and housing are to the city. I have the knowledge, experience and judgement to best serve Ward 27 and the city. And as someone has who grew up in Ward 27 and is now raising my family here, I have an intuitive understanding of how the ward works and what makes it great.
4. What political experience do you have?
I am a government relations associate at March of Dimes Canada, I am an advocate for the arts, and I have a Ph.D. in political science. This is my first time running for public office.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
I believe many of our financial challenges can be overcome with greater efficiency in government and through sharing more costs with the provincial and federal governments.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
We need to invest more in TTC infrastructure and our parks.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
The bike lanes on Jarvis have attracted the most attention. I believe the lanes were a mistake. I will observe the impact of the lanes for a year. If the traffic continues to be seriously congested and they prove to be insuffiently used by cyclists, then I will return the middle car lane.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
TTC: support Metrolinx; work with Province and federal government to get funding for Metrolinx plan; ensure accessbility Bikes: implement the Toronto Bike Plan Cars: keep Jarvis St. and University Ave. reserved for cars. Synchronize lights to keep traffic moving. Pedestrians: make sure sidewalks are safe and accessible
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
Remaining neutral.
Perry Missal
1. Biographical information
Perry Missal
44
iSeries Systems Analyst at HMV and Alcohol Management Officer at Rogers Centre
No party affiliation
2. Why are you running for council?
I have a long history of community involvement with many successes and have a record of achievement working with various levels of government and residents.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I speak in specifics, not generalities and I have developed what I believe is a well thought out comprehensive platform that touches on all aspects of city life such as budget, parks, community, transportation and safety, which I feel, will appeal to the fast majority of people.
4. What political experience do you have?
None, I am not a career politician.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
Develop a state of good repair policy for city infrastructure and ensure utility companies repair the roads after digging.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
Deliver essential city services at fair value.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
Improve pedestrian safety by creating pedestrian activated traffic lights instead of unsafe crosswalks and to educate visitors to Toronto via a campaign in all rental cars and hotels to our laws to stop at crosswalks and when streetcar doors are open.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
I believe that people should be allowed to move freely as quickly as possible from point A to point B using their method of choice. Support an integrated transportation network recognizing the needs of vehicle, transit, cyclists and pedestrians. I would remove large trucks from City streets, during rush hour.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I have not yet decided whom I support for mayor.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
I am the ONLY candidate.
Ram Narula
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Ella Rebanks
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Paul Spence
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
Chris Tindal
www.christindal.ca
1. Biographical information
Chris Tindal, 29, Ward Resident and Media Professional. Not endorsed by any political party.
2. Why are you running for council?
We urgently need a city council that is more responsive and in-touch with its residents; a councillor that to represents all Ward 27, not just certain neighbourhoods. I’m running to make sure we have responsibility managed finances, transit that works and smart, sustainable development.
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I’m the only viable candidate who is not aligned with any mayoral candidate or special interest at city hall. My experience in both business and not-for-profit has prepared me well for the challenges of the role.
4. What political experience do you have?
I have governance experience as a former Vice President of the Ontario Recreational Canoeing Association and as a board member for a boys and girls summer camp. I also ran federally in this ward (riding) in 2008 and achieved a record-breaking result.
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
We need to get better at prioritizing, planning and spending effectively. Most importantly we need smart community development plans that look forward to our future while preserving our past. That will ensure that all new development also comes with the infrastructure to support it. Better project management must also be emphasized; never again should we allow disastrous management like occurred on Bloor St.
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
Spending has increased at an unsustainable rate over the past 10 years. We need to make sure that Torontonians are seeing a return in quality services for the money they pay in taxes. That means spending money more effectively on large items like the TTC while also sweating the small stuff. We also need to diversify revenue sources to relieve the burden placed on residents thorough property taxes. For example, I think we need road pricing to make sure people from outside of Toronto who use our roads pay their fair share.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
Development has always been a priority for me, and the residents of this Ward agree. Condos have shot up, but we do not have community plans in place to make sure they have the infrastructure, green space, transit and schools they need, nor are we providing adequate affordable rental housing. We must maintain our sense of community, foster our unique communities, and preserve our heritage while at the same time growing and moving forward. We need to plan for the Toronto we want tomorrow and start building it today. And we need to build it to high standards of energy and water efficiency. We can accomplish this by making adjustments to the current planning process and improving Toronto’s Green Development Standard.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
Improving transit will be one of my main priorities as councillor. In the short term, we need to focus on some quick wins like improving customer service, reliability and cleanliness. Simultaneously we need to make the longer term infrastructure improvements that are already so far behind. We must move ahead with existing transit plans while also championing long-overdue and badly needed plans like the Downtown Relief Line, a new subway line that would take pressure of the existing downtown lines and make it easier to live, work and travel downtown.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I have not aligned my campaign with any mayoral candidate because my first priority is to work for and represent the residents of Ward 27. I don’t want to be beholden to a mayor or have made an enemy of a mayor because that would compromise that objective. I will find common ground with whoever is elected and represent all Ward 27.
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
I have a number of priorities in common with a few of my closest competitors, but I’m not sure who I would support if I wasn’t running. I'd be concerned about voting for a candidate who shared some of my values, but hadn’t been living in our ward, or was closely aligned with a special interest at city hall.
Kristyn Wong-Tam
www.kristynwongtam.ca
1. Biographical information
Kristyn Wong-Tam
Real estate agent and small business owner
Independent candidate
39 years old
2. Why are you running for council?
A social progressive who believes in fiscal responsibility and community empowerment my first priorities will be to:
restore public trust in council
reengage the community in local decision-making
ensure development is inclusive of community interests, is smart and sustainable
3. What makes you the best choice for your ward?
I prioritize the needs of my constituents above narrow partisan interests. My diverse experience as a businesswoman, community and arts advocate and active resident in the ward make me the best candidate.
4. What political experience do you have?
Advisor on the Mayor’s Economic Competitiveness Advisory Committee
Advisor to the Toronto Police Chief
Steering Committee Member of the Toronto Women’s City Alliance
Past President of the Chinese Canadian National Council – Toronto Chapter
5. How should the next council balance the needs of a growing Toronto with the growing costs of infrastructure and other services?
The city’s budget is a living document that reflects the needs of its people. Policies include:
Maintain multi-year transparent budgets to better prepare and plan for future spending and revenue collection
Use the City of Toronto’s $1 billion in purchasing power as a policy tool to affect positive change in local neighbourhoods.
Explore lobbying the Federal government to direct 1% of revenues from the 13% HST to local council
6. Can you outline what you think the ideal city budget would look like in regards to spending priorities and major expenditures?
Recognise that wealth is intrinsically buried in Ward 27. I am committed to building a ward that is age-friendly, family-friendly and accessible. Prioritizing major expenditures in infrastructure with communities in mind will result in value creation.
7. What is the top issue in your ward? How will you address it?
I am hearing from ward residents and public transit is a top issue. I address this issue below.
8. Do you have a transportation plan, if so outline it or indicate a mayoral candidate campaigning on it?
Some of my first priorities are to:
Expand public transit in Toronto including the projects of Transit City
Invest strategically in existing and new transit based on local procurement, hiring, and green technology.
All subway stops should be accessible to those with mobility needs and have accessible and family-friendly washrooms.
9. Who do you support for mayor? Why?
I am willing and able to work with any of the candidates
10. If not you, who best to represent your ward and why?
I would hope that Ward 27 is represented by a councilor that prioritizes the needs of the community and small business owners equally with those of big business and development.
Simon Wookey
Candidate did not return requests for comment.
