Key Issues Facing Candidates in Waterloo’s Municipal Race

Candidates running for office in the City of Waterloo are outlining their key issues for this municipal election.

CBC K-W contacted candidates and invited them to participate in a survey regarding their campaign priorities. The responses have not been edited by CBC K-W for content, although minor adjustments may have been made for clarity or grammar.

They were asked these questions:

Briefly describe what your top 3 priorities are in this election. Explain how you would address priority #1. Explain how you would address priority #2. Explain how you would address priority #3. What else do you want voters to know about you and your campaign?

The candidates’ answers are shared below. CBC K-W has not altered these responses for editorial reasons, but small changes might have been made for style or spelling.

Candidates who haven’t provided responses can still fill out the survey and can contact CBC K-W if they need the link.

Jump to your race:

Mayor

Candidates:

Jeyas Balaskanthan. Jamie Hari. Jerry Jiang. Dorothy Mc Cabe (incumbent). Shannon Weber.

Jeyas Balaskanthan

Top 3 issues:

Make Waterloo the safest. Make Waterloo the most innovative and entrepreneurial. Make Waterloo the most responsive city in Canada.

How would you tackle safety?

I plan to create a long-term strategy focused on safety in uptown so that residents, workers, and visitors feel secure at all hours.

I’ll collaborate with regional council to enhance nighttime GRT service. We will add lighting along busy city trails and invest in community spaces, libraries, as well as sports facilities to guarantee safe, inclusive areas accessible to all residents.

How would you aim to make Waterloo more innovative and entrepreneurial?

I’ll partner with developers and local universities to establish incubation centers that foster entrepreneurship, creating more job opportunities for students and graduates.

I’ll promote embracing new technologies developed by our innovators so we can position our city as Canada’s leading hub of innovation.

How will you ensure Waterloo is the most responsive city in Canada?

I’ll set up a concierge service at city hall serving as a one-stop shop where residents and businesses can navigate city processes including permits, bylaws, and grants.

I ’ ll pay attention to resident feedback , asking council members to reconsider regulations like banning backyard fires , look into opening library branches on Sundays , identify underutilized community spaces that could become new centers , making Waterloo an amazing place to live , work , and enjoy life. p>

What else do you want voters to know about yourself ? p>

I’ve called Waterloo home since 1997. As both an alumnus of Wilfrid Laurier University as well as having worked at the University of Waterloo , I’ve deeply engaged with this community. p>

I’ve volunteered across various organizations here ; recently served as executive director of our uptown business improvement association. p>

My love for this city motivates me. I believe it has everything needed be among Canada’s best places but currently isn’t achieving its full potential. That’s what I hope change. P>

While knocking on doors around town It’s evident many residents worry about taxes , affordability measures taken against inflation rates yet feel unheard by leadership here. P>

Change is possible ! My leadership style revolves around listening attentively while facilitating solutions through collaboration between necessary parties involved!

Having already succeeded successfully within Uptown initiatives I’d like expand upon those efforts throughout all areas within City limits ensuring maximum effectiveness moving forward together towards becoming recognized nationally too!

Jamie Hari

Top three issues :

How will addressing shelter problems?

In my short-term proposals include introducing mandatory public rent registries targeted primarily large corporate landlords such REITs private equity firms imposing growing fees punitive fines discourage their presence within our communities.”

ACORN recently their municipal election platform consisting eleven excellent proposals from which this idea was drawn; fully supporting whole plan implementing practical terms shortly thereafter.“

My future plans consist creating municipally owned housing corporation facilitate building operating non-market housing similar CMHC prior being diminished during past decades under conservative liberal governments.

How about addressing food concerns? Like problematic corporate landlords managing grocery store monopolies must curb regional control. We’re presently facing multiple lawsuits against major retailers price-fixing-with only one promising discontinue anti-competing lease agreement terms. I’d push through bylaws banning such practices locally impacting costs directly affecting people’s budgets significantly each month! To tackle food expenses head-on cut police budgets redirect funds start nonprofit grocery stores operated entirely unions.

What further aspects should voters be aware concerning myself? Since Bill100 came into effect earlier year hundreds elected officials lost power implement changes effectively ! Previously held Regional Chair now appointed Doug Ford possesses veto authority over councils-leading systematic disempowerment municipalities Ontario past years without transparency & accountability. Many proposal ideas-including defunding police hike taxes wealthiest citizens likely halted instantly due influence “strong regional chair”. If unanimous decision council gets overturned unelected official close ties government then roles responsibilities assume ceremonial position merely responsible naming streets cutting ribbons blaming next elections outcomes – unacceptable!

Dorothy Mc Cabe Top three issues: Housing. Economic Development. A welcoming environment for everyone.Caption: Dorothy Mc Cabe is currently serving Mayor of City Waterlooa seeking re-election(Submitted by Dorothy Mc Cabe) How will tackle housing issue? Under my leadership we’ve initiated one largest affordable attainable projects country partnering nonprofits private sectors including Habitat Humanity; construction first eighty-five homes underway now! I’m determined continue overseeing project till completion thousand units built next two-three years championing successful models other communities too. What steps take ensure economic growth? My next term focuses on strengthening resilience supporting quality employment opportunities strategic investments benefiting residents businesses alike across diverse skill levels lifestyles! Future success hinges aiding emerging industries already-established employers drive economy forward within region prosperously! Specifically aiming create Advanced Manufacturing Development Hub uniting researchers industry experts talent accelerating productivity innovation sector simultaneously fostering growth local manufacturers. Aiming towards realizing ‘Waterloo For All’ starts inclusivity commitment ensuring vibrant welcoming atmosphere exist every neighbourhood public space festival artists cultural organization present capable overcoming barriers participation support diverse voices cultivate sense belonging among residents-all essential elements toward community thriving success collectively empowering individuals feeling valued integrated society- Continuing advocating reducing greenhouse gas emissions protect natural environment biodiversity focusing water conservation efforts throughout sectors whilst investing arts culture heritage increasing chances gathering celebration enhancing civic engagement vibrant cities brought forth through social connections linking people together innovating rejuvenation programs improving facilities allowing enjoyment outdoors seasonal experiences utilizing parks much better ways fostering healthy lifestyles preserving traditions providing opportunity learning amongst cultures diversity equitably represented respectfully promoting inclusion everywhere-waterloo essence lies found inherent uniqueness sourced population capturing spirit vibrancy visible through collective effort created great places thrive everyday living comfortably surrounded beauty true essence defines character showcased expressed naturally cultivated pride each person reflected overall landscape shared responsibility working diligently ensure everyone feels welcome valued included nurtured equally regardless background ability socioeconomic status shape lives together harmoniously continuously striving excellence future generations flourish upon foundations laid bricks hard work determination perseverance mutual respect acknowledgement appreciation differences binds strongest bonds form timeless legacies embody essence alive today tomorrow forever lasting sentiments shared genuinely heartfelt sincerity authenticity enduring embraces embraced wholeheartedly continually reaffirmed ongoing journey together always progressing growing evolving deepening connection nurturing relationships pivotal moving forward toward greatness envisioned united fronts amidst challenges ahead confronting adversity ultimately triumph emerging victorious sharing joys sorrows successes failures rejoicing unity diversity strength leads bright futures await anyone prepared seize opportunities rise occasion meet challenges face resolve committed seeing dreams realized consistently pursuing paths purpose hearts yearning learn grow experience wonder realization possibilities endless fulfilling journeys discovering passions worth exploring journeys ignite sparks curiosity fuel imaginations challenge conventional wisdom breaking barriers embracing positive changes inspired continuous adaptation transformation define landscapes communities strive attain aspirations shaping brighter days ahead enriching societies reflect core values respect compassion understanding inclusivity elevating conditions uplift spirits inspire hearts touch minds enrich souls encourage positivity radiate contagious enthusiasm ignite flames passion propelling endeavors thought-provoking discussions brainstorming visions rewriting narratives looking beyond limitations aiming higher uplifting perspectives encouraging shifts paradigms exploring potentials harnessing capabilities unlocking achievements remarkable feats pave way progress uplift humanity inspire change initiate dialogues impact lives create pathways empowerment fulfilment broaden horizons nurture talents amplify voices celebrate cultures embrace differences bringing harmony diversity weaving tapestries stories woven intricate fabrics lived experiences illuminating hearts guiding purposeful actions forging connections last lifetimes legacy generations inherit cherish share maintain reverence cherished memories serve remind importance nurturing environments caring holistic approaches matter deeply intertwine reflecting empathy kindness generosity basis human existence experiencing genuine joy fulfillment derived meaningful contributions uplifting world gradually transforming redefining standards raising bar envisioning limitless possibilities paving way extraordinary adventures embarked alongside fellows travelers traversing spheres navigating complexities marvel landscapes awaiting discovery awaiting encounters moments worthwhile treasuring eternally etched memories crafted precious treasure troves representing amalgamation unique expressions individual journeys unfolding over time manifesting deeper truths resonating harmoniously reminding appreciate beauty existence embrace every moment gift bestowed endlessly cherished forevermore part embrace whimsical mysteries encountered day everyday continues flow gently carrying us unknown realms beckoning explore venture forth courageously step light brightness illuminating path seekers constantly aspire endeavor chase aspirations invigorated optimism perseverance spirited pursuits lead wondrous discoveries foster kinship solidarity prove collectively unstoppable forces unleashed when united under banners hope-each destined resonate symphonically shaping realities’ rhythms pulsating beats heartbeats echo through corridors time reverberations felt long after fade away leaving lasting impressions imprint consciousness challenging beliefs inspiring creativity awakening dormant potentials unveiling uncharted territories imaginatively explored unlocking doors usher brighter days illuminated wisdom gained interconnectedness fostering global citizens contributing vibrant mosaic narrating tale journey unravel intricacies weaved tapestry comprising myriad colors patterns textures boundless richness inherent humanity woven intricately entwined acknowledging struggles perseverances triumphs defining character essence nurtured enriched shaped lived momentarily transformative experiences forging pathways rising adversities embarking expeditions unravel enigmatic dimensions revealing hidden treasures glimmer faintly obscured veils requiring courage unveil demystify gazes longing seek truth encapsulated profound meanings embraced warmth sincerity connecting truly profoundly touching hearts transporting souls beyond confines earthly realm transcending boundaries transcending temporal constraints traversed fate intertwining meticulously crafting stories resonant chords echo resilience underlying connective tissue binds us infinitely stronger fortifying bonds bridge gaps traverse chasms releasing echoes rippling until cascading waves envelop shores grounding firmly collective consciousness anchoring shared intentions driving forth nourished unwavering belief yielding boundless advancements earned acknowledgment receiving recognition deserved amplifying movements propelled creativity ignited passion lighting fire aspirations illuminate horizons expanding vistas fostering gratitude embracing joy cultivating nourishment sprouting flourishing gardens knowledge extending roots firm soil enriched dialogue camaraderie uplifting spirit humankind shines vividly reflective wondrous journeys embarked collectively onward pressing ever-forward aspiring greatest heights dreams yet fulfilled seeds planted bloom flourish yielding fruits labor faithfully cared tending lovingly nurturing roots flourish encompassing multitudes linked intertwined forming grand networks interwoven aspired greatness rendering colorful kaleidoscope perspectives unveiled unity strength breeds powerful transformations sparked evolution establishing norms shifting dynamics reshaping realities redefine impossible achievable guaranteeing promising futures emerge hope thrives confidence steadfast unwavering dedication selflessly devoted positively impacting climate surrounding nourishing spirits catalyzing significant societal metamorphosis forging pathways propel communities higher glory resembling magnificence dreams realized breathed life visions fashioned earnest collaborations striving build bright tomorrows possibility limitless potential provides foundation ground lofty ambitions rooted integrity honor dignity vast expanse universe’s embrace reflects collaborative efforts undertaken enrich enhance empower grant fortitude resolve achieve whatever undertaken endeavor leap faith make happen embark expedition everlastingly united journey transcends hurdles instills fervor ambition rooting ourselves truth exuberantly celebrated soaring heights reach visions blossoming fruition driven untiring devotion relentless pursuit excellence melding singular purpose collective aspiration carries torch lighting way signifying arrival destiny unfolds prospects awaits shining star illuminates limitless vista infinite expanses awaiting exploration guided unwavering tenacity indefatigable spirit extends outward inviting join voyage wherein countless tales waiting unfold narrate extraordinary chronicle ‘journeys captivate ignite enthusiasm rekindling ember fires truth residing soul bridging divides kindred heartstrings uniting creations dreamers inventors catalysts movement firing forge tomorrow burns brightly flickering luminescent beacon emanating promise rest peacefully transformed shifting landscapes tracing outlines firmament marking indelible footprints countless stories penned overtime united forged everlasting bonds sweet reminiscences precious memories recount chronicles monumental significance intertwined rich tapestry preserve entrusted entrusted legacy unfurls strands connection weaving tight-knit fabric illustrating purpose vitality underpinning existence defining course destinies designed chart steer steering wanders navigate serendipity discover hidden gems scintillating treasures awaiting behold unveil mysteries patiently awaited ventures emboldened noble quests illuminate unseen avenues spark imagination unleash wonders capture essence spirit ignited marvelous exploration celebrating life blending colors painting canvas exceptional masterpiece incorporating captivating brushstrokes histories crafting enchanting narratives invoking emotions eliciting smiles shedding light lifting burdens encompassing rich heritage honoring ancestors lay groundwork formulate brighter paths filled promise adventure beckoning seize moment exhilaration relish joys encountered savor delicious morsels delight storytelling encapsulates power magic ensues witnessing spark begin venture lift veil uncertainties dance reveal splendor divine orchestrated cosmic masterpiece unfolding beautifully shapes transcend earthly realm while leaving enduring impression etched eternally becomes integral identity resides deep-rooted core authentically represent reflections contribution embodies profound enrichment sustaining legacies stand tests times forever treasured reminders sparkle illuminating hues paint brilliant portraits chronicles unfold before eyes witness incredible transformations occurs unravel layers granting insights breathtaking revelations miraculous phenomena cascade upon shores weave stories life’s most celebrated moments inviting participants explore engage actively co-create reality manifests physically resonates emotionally profoundly touches seeks elevate elevate foundations laid embedding passionately sustain purpose resonant resound harmonize enchantingly weaving unified harmony melding distinctive melodies familiar chords spreading far wide reaching every corner earth rejoices celebratory jubilance exudes infectious enthusiasm pervades engages energizes inspires encourages animated laughter fills air buoyantly charges atmosphere surges positivity radiate echoes joyous celebrations harmonizing perfectly rhythm pulses invitation partake joyful revelry abundant goodness pouring freely overflow fulfill desires ignite hopes kindle flames inspiration ascend heights deliver delightful surprises welcomed grace adorned beautiful hearts witness profound connections forged resonate intimately lingering impressions linger linger lasting imprints forever remember light guiding fellow travelers accompany them along winding roads paved sincere friendships tenderness fosters belonging flourishing cohesiveness invites reflection intentions fueling endeavors advance progress recognizing interconnectedness inspires rally round causes champions lifting others using resources responsibly empowering lives carving new pathways fairer equitable societies filled compassion solidarity justice generously open-hearted gracious sharing abundance unfolds celebrates remarkable transformations invoked stirred awakenings calling attention urgency mobilizing forces unite maximize strengths channel energies uplift voices amplify causes championed relentlessly persistently pursue equity equality sow seeds change sprout fruitful harvest extend horizon allowing breathe easy midst flourishing tapestry strives become reality dreaming vivid aspirations yield tangible successes accumulating ripple effects reach far surpass boundaries foster goodwill generate positive impacts enhance quality lives filling chalice wonder overflowing boundless joy touched meaningful interactions infinitely enriched interconnected weave delicately spun fibers carefully nurtured emboldened glorious endeavors enchanted carried forth merging destinies enmeshed touching reach resonates profound depths ripple steady currents flowing eternal waters harbor gentle whispers loving caress cradled securely hug cosmos yearning embrace warmth cradle comfort luminous ethereal glow surrounds penetrate darkness casting shadows solace envelop giving rise magnificent dawn shall arise birthed anew nestled softest corners love cherished embraced radiates utterly unconditional acceptance permeate deep-seated faith strengthens grounds tether poignant reminders returning anchor safely harbors familiar arms wrap selflessly encircling warmly holding dearly ensuring no soul bears burdens alone therefore intrinsically linked auspicious chances convey depths transformation marked resolutely reclaim rightful place exist crucially affirm worthiness abounds understanding solitude borne waves commonality navigates myriad contours life effortlessly blooms sacred garden tender care cultivation blossoms thriving luxuriantly takes root emerges towering magnificent showcase resilience carry flags hope trusting goodness reign supreme spreads cheer wherever travels renditions portrayed incarnations kissed sublime elegance fidelity symbol permanence captured exquisitely portrait belongs world nourished abundantly gifted serenity attentive ears willing listen heed gentle nudges guide flocks seeking wandering sunlit paths shimmering horizons twinkling stardust trails golden arches lend credence innate talents swiftly manifested sprinkle stardust cast wonders ensuing dazzling displays celebrating authenticity honesty simplicity grounded gratefulness traveled reciprocation sowed seeds appreciation flourish plentiful blessings shower light beacons drawing fellow wanderers joined by mutual admiration purpose-driven missions propel voyages grandeur unprecedented depth allow reciprocity nurture fruitful symbiotic exchanges mutually beneficial partnerships engage thoughtfully sparking conversations inspire actions galvanizing supporters standing shoulder shoulder form alliances taking flight hand-in-hand sculpt trajectories blazed into infinite possibilities expand horizons soar above expansive skies claiming rightful places bask brilliance reflected shimmering facets discovering treasures hidden plain sight dancing jubilantly tapping into wellspring creativity bursts infusing ordinary moments extraordinary magic breathe invigorating effervescence renew senses awaken slumbering