Editor’s note: As residents of Kingston gear up to vote in Ontario’s municipal elections on Monday, Oct. 26, The Whig will provide extensive coverage and analysis of the candidates looking to lead our community and the pressing issues at hand. Today, we share Elliot Ferguson’s overview of those running for election in Kingscourt-Rideau.
Once considered one of Kingston’s less wealthy neighborhoods, Kingscourt-Rideau has experienced notable gentrification, and its residents share concerns similar to those found throughout the city.
Michael Judd
Four years back, Michael Judd was preparing to run for city council.
After three weeks of campaigning, he contracted COVID-19 which disrupted his plans.
Now, he is returning for another attempt at a city council position.
“It’s not necessarily a bad thing that I had that bit of a false start,” Judd remarked while picking up litter around Shannon Park.
“I didn’t really get much exposure, so nobody knew who I am or what I stand for,” he said. “Through my time here now and that little setback, I’ve come to realize that I’m the product so I need to inform people about my intentions.”
Since the last election in 2022, Judd has been active on various boards including the local primary care network, Ontario Health Team Community Council, Resolve Counselling Services, Independent Living Kingston and Community Living Kingston.
“So I’ve been involved in housing many individuals and supporting those who utilize services like this,” he explained.
Judd stated if elected, he’d advocate for greater transparency and improved planning to prepare the city for future challenges.
“We don’t really engage in proper long-term planning in this city,” he noted. “Everything feels reactive rather than proactive. Councillors aren’t encouraged to conduct thorough research.”
Judd believes that being part of council would enable him to better assist the community with its challenges.
The Kingscourt-Rideau area shares problems common across other parts of Kingston but Judd emphasized it possesses a strong sense of community spirit.
“There’s definitely a powerful sense of community here-maybe more than other areas. People genuinely look out for one another.”
However, Judd pointed out there are areas needing improvement.
Waste management should be enhanced in certain spots and residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the bollards placed along some streets aimed at controlling traffic.
“These bollards down the middle of the road? Not a single person here or in Kingscourt thinks they work-not one. They might even create more danger,” he said. “Everyone wants speed bumps instead.”
Kevin Smith
A city council addressing homelessness should include someone who’s lived on the streets.
Kingscourt-Rideau District candidate Kevin Smith brings that experience as he’s previously been homeless and has volunteered on the city’s housing committee.
“I’ve been contemplating this for a while. My experience on the housing committee helped shape my perspective; then there was a fire last year where our response was woeful,” Smith shared.
“I thought if I’m going to keep voicing these opinions, then I need to step up.”
p>Smith faced homelessness himself for four weeks after an incident earlier this year on Queen Street; his campaign focuses on affordable housing. “There should always be at least one person sitting on every city council with lived experience because having even one such voice can enlighten others around them,” he stated. The city’s homeless population continues rising despite efforts by officials to expand shelter availability. According to Smith, key factors include who makes decisions during meetings. “A firsthand perspective is invaluable compared to merely having educated individuals who haven’t faced these situations themselves-there’s nothing wrong with education-but it lacks real-world context.”
Smith added complexity arises as homelessness rates climb. “There are increasing numbers relying on social assistance facing homelessness,” he observed. “Plus we’re seeing individuals typically not associated with being homeless-like seniors in their 60s or 70s.” “We need lower prices targeted toward low-income folks or those who have no option but seek shelter; it shouldn’t feel like an extreme challenge just trying to find basic help.”
Brandon Tozzo h2 >
Wrapping up his first term as Kingscourt-Rideau District incumbent candidate Brandon Tozzo says there’s still plenty left unfinished. “There remains significant work ahead. Many initiatives started during this term couldn’t reach completion,” Tozzo remarked. “We’re beginning proper infrastructure spending needed finally fix our local roads-and I’d like see it through.” “I’m satisfied with my record overall. I’ve responded promptly returned every call and email from constituents,” Tozzo asserted. “I’ve achieved considerable progress regarding all promises made during my initial term,” he continued. “We’ve seen more traffic calming measures implemented district-wise within four years than eight before! Accessibility improvements have also advanced.” Tozzo assisted community groups establish inclusive playgrounds Rideau Heights Shannon Park-an accomplishment he’s proud about during his tenure. Last year saw Tozzo resign from chairing Kingston Area Taxi Commission raising concerns financial management organization. His resignation triggered events leading City Council ultimately removing board directors start process bringing taxi regulation under municipal control by end 2025. Tozo’s called review agencies receiving funds operating independently. “I believe council ought conduct thorough evaluations arm’s length partner organizations given ongoing lack communication oversight finances public knowledge,” said Tozo. “In addition closer home advocacy investments parks community spaces remained priority throughout past four years.” Besides inclusive playground renovations Ronald Lavallee Park Fourth Avenue underway. “It’s truly fulfilling representing this area; needs strong voice council-I think I’ve provided over last four years,” concluded Tozo.”
Elliot Ferguson’s journalism career began decades ago delivering his hometown newspaper. A graduate of Carleton University’s journalism and Loyalist College’s photojournalism programs, Ferguson’s work has received provincial national awards. Ferguson is currently The Whig’s municipal affairs reporter but his true passion is photojournalism visual storytelling. p >
