As to Why I Am Running as a Candidate…

"I felt compelled to make my voice heard and to stand up for the principle of local democracy."

I had not planned to run for Waterloo City Council.

For many years, I have been interested in local government and have participated in civic life wherever I have lived, but seeking elected office was not part of my immediate plans. What changed my mind was witnessing an increasing pattern of provincial intrusion into local democratic institutions.

I watched with growing concern as the Government of Ontario moved to diminish the independence of public school boards while at the same time placing responsibility for financial challenges squarely on those same boards. More recently, proposals to allow greater provincial control over regional governance, including the appointment of regional chairpersons, reinforced my belief that local voices are being steadily weakened. To me, this represents a troubling trend: decisions affecting our communities are increasingly being made farther away from the people who must live with their consequences.

I have spent much of my life involved in education and community service, and I deeply respect the traditions and accomplishments of municipal government. I firmly believe that grassroots decision-making carries greater legitimacy because local residents best understand the unique needs, values, and aspirations of their own communities. Policies developed close to the people they affect are often more relevant, more practical, and ultimately serve the common good more effectively.

Although I know that seeking public office is a demanding undertaking and often an uphill battle, I felt compelled to make my voice heard and to stand up for the principle of local democracy.

My commitment to public service did not begin in Waterloo. While living in Fort McMurray, I volunteered on numerous municipal committees and served as Chair of the Public Library Board. I also served as a trustee with the provincial library association. Later, while living in Woodstock, I sat on a committee of adjustment and remained actively engaged in community affairs. Upon moving to Waterloo, I continued that tradition of civic involvement.

In recent years, the challenges facing our city have increasingly captured my attention and convinced me that I should become involved more directly. The rising cost of housing, questions surrounding urban development, concerns about sustainability and long-term water supply, and the rezoning of church and residential properties for higher-density development are issues that will shape Waterloo for generations to come.

Waterloo is a remarkable city, but it is also a city in transition. Growth is inevitable; how we manage that growth is a choice. I believe we must balance progress with sustainability, preserve the integrity of our neighbourhoods, protect our environmental resources, and ensure that residents continue to have a meaningful voice in the decisions that affect their daily lives.

That is why I have decided to run for City Council in Ward Five—not because I planned to, but because I believe this is a moment when local democracy needs strong advocates. I want to help ensure that Waterloo remains a city where residents are heard, communities are respected, and decisions are made with the long-term public interest in mind.