text:
Canada's Parkdale—High Park (Ward 13) city council candidates speak

October 30, 2006

On November 13, Torontoians will be heading to the polls to vote for their ward's councillor and for mayor. Among Toronto's ridings is Parkdale—High Park (Ward 13). Two candidates responded to Wikinews' requests for an interview. This ward's candidates include Linda Coltman, David Garrick, Greg Hamara, Aleksander Oniszczak, Bill Saundercook (incumbent), and Frances Wdowczyk.

For more information on the election, read Toronto municipal election, 2006.

Linda Coltman
35-year-old Linda Coltman is a consultant and boards member.

Q: Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.
 * A:
 * Voter specific engagement (locally) leading to the new implementation of something citizen driven on an annual, in ward basis (& an increased citizenry interest in voting and voter engagement in general).

 * Identifying the social needs of our wards residents and seeking recommendations to such and working towards great new adventurous ways of addressing same.

 * Being open to inviting corporate development within our ward through the recognition of our strong cultural heritage and respect of such through a means of encouraging positive address of the social needs of the ward 13 constituency.

Q: What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?
 * A: Unifying the ward and increasing civic engagement throughout (increased participation, heightened voter turnout etc.) Unifying the ward by the institution of a comprehensive website accessible by all the ward's residents is a new, innovative potential means of accomplishing such alongside more tried and true methods of encouraging and fostering participation through regular open community consultation and the like.

Q: Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?
 * A: To pay equity to all issues and too to bring a different kind of representation to this ward.

Q: Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?
 * A: To represent the multiplicity of its diversity, which differs from that of other wards.
 * Too, this ward has been my home for 20+ years and I have been actively involved within such throughout, as such I feel well suited to representing the people living and working within and further engaging with them to identify their needs, thoughts, wants etc. and seeking to foster positive interactions and growth within this, my home ward, in keeping and adhering to the diversity of the wards constituents.

Q: How are you currently involved in the community?
 * A: As a leader and a participant within many community groups I currently spend and have spent much of the past two decades alongside the constituency working to address, react to and seek democratic solutions to the ward's needs. As a member of multiple local Boards, Committees, Executives and community groups, I strive to keep abreast of issues through continual personal interaction with the residents and too through multimedia sources.

Q: Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?
 * A: As far most proud of, there are multiple to choose from in respect to the total City perspective however, the May 2004 Implementation of pesticide bylaw in which Council decided on an implementation schedule for phasing in full enforcement of the bylaw is a decision that our incumbent councilor voted on behalf of the ward 13 constituents behalf in support of the pesticide ban and one that is of great importance on our ward level as citizen engagement in respect to environmental issues is strong within and listening to and supporting the opinions of the local citizenry is, in my belief, one of the key aspects to promoting further and increased citizen engagement in respect to all issues brought forth for discussion to City Council.

 * As far as least proud of, in respect to the views of our wards constituents, the Council decisions based in respect to financing, in September 2004 in respect to election financing and further tied in to such, in July 2006 in respect to compensation for elected officials. In July, Council approved a pay increase for members of the Council who will be elected in November, taking effect January 1, 2007 thereby increasing Councillors' current salary of about $87,000 annually to $95,000, a decision that while deemed to be reflective of bring the salaries in line with the average of large Ontario municipalities is not one that I see as being a desirable decision.  Locally within ward 13 our incumbent councillor voted against the ward's constituents in 2004 in respect to a vote taken to restrict election donors to individuals, banning corporations and trade unions from making campaign donations.  My views remain that citizen engagement is of paramount importance within our City and that the wishes of said citizenry should be reflected through individual Council member votes and the collective Council decision/outcome of such.

Q: If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, what would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?
 * A: I will bring new age thinking.

 * I will be productive and resourceful in developing new programs and not flogging dead horses.

 * I will not be willing to sit in unproductive community partnerships with groups seeking to develop the ward but instead would ask groups to each develop one solid idea for which I would work with them to lobby for full council implementation of such within ward 13.

Q: What does Toronto mean to you?
 * A: Toronto, being the largest City in Canada, has the potential to become a world class leader in engaging our diversity thereby prompting our City into becoming the best led, run and operated City in the world.

 * While already recognized as a world class City and among the best in the world, the potential for Toronto to lead in all aspects is there and waiting to be utilized.

 * Through engagement of our City's populous I foresee that Toronto can make the transition from greatness to becoming the recognized world's best if we act on and make use of our untapped local resources in a more effective manner.

Aleksander Oniszczak
39-year-old Aleksander Oniszczak is a freelance journalist.

Q: Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.

 * A: Taxes and Spending: Lawn signs, billboards, flyers - have you noticed that my opponents are spending a lot of money on their campaigns? Do you think they will stop spending a lot of money if they get elected? I believe fiscal responsibility is not just a phrase to drop in interviews. Intelligent and resourceful solutions are needed to get full value for our tax dollars. I don't just say it, I do it. Did I spend thousands of dollars on a flashy website? No, I created it myself. A can-do attitude can go far. Councillor wages need to be rolled back as well. We need to do our part. Of course, the flip side of the coin has Toronto paying a disproportionate amount of money in taxes compared to the services it receives. The Province, the Federal government and most importantly, the people of Canada need to have this made clear to them. It simply will not change until we have their support. Toronto is the economic engine of Canada and when that engine needs an oil change, it is best not to wait until it seizes up.

 * No More Ugly Buildings: Rampant uncontrolled overdevelopment needs to stop. We need to listen to the concerns of our citizens. Why is it that banks are allowed to build such monstrously ugly buildings in the area while other businesses like the McDonalds in Bloor West Village manage to be good corporate citizens and build to integrate with the neighbourhood? Why are condos being built where they are not wanted? Council needs a vision and a plan.

 * Traffic calming measures have backfired in the Ward. Traffic is worse than ever. We need a real integrated plan rather than a patchwork of band-aid solutions.

Q: What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?
 * A: Property Tax: It affects everyone in the area homeowners and tenants alike. Our taxes have gone up but our services have gone down. Although it is less expensive to service homes in our area for garbage collection than it is in the more spread out suburbs, we pay more. Our infrastructure is already built, but our taxes go to build new, less efficient suburban ones outside our ward. Long time residents are being forced to move due to spiraling cost increases. Common sense is needed to put an end to this injustice.

Q: Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?
 * A: Enough is enough. Our current Councillor seems invisible until election time. I have seen our ward decline in recent years with graffiti, reduced TTC service, ineffective traffic calming measures and inappropriate development. I've read the platforms of the other candidates, and they are just typical things politicians always say with no actual ideas to back them up. I want honesty in government. I believe in transparency. I believe in backing up every statement with a plan. Most of all, I don't see any vision in the other candidates platforms. For example, from Greg Hamara's web site we see under the heading " Building Safe and healthy neighbourhoods" that his big plan is "Better enforcement of traffic rules". Oh yes, very inspiring plan. That just gives me goose bumps. Compare that to my idea of Raised Bicycle Lanes as found in Amsterdam, eliminating graffiti as has been done by the New York subway system. The other candidates do not place the constituent first. Want proof? Check their websites and you'll see that I am the only one that actually lists and links to the websites of my competitors because I want to HELP constituents make the best choice.

Q: Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?
 * A: Although I have worked in Austin, Texas, San Francisco and other cities, I have lived in Parkdale – High Park for over 35 years and I consider it home. I have seen how great the area once was and how great it could be and I am inspired to make it a truly great place to live again.

Q: How are you currently involved in the community?
 * A: As a freelance journalist I write about issues that concern the community on many levels. I volunteer my time to charity and support local businesses. I have lived in the ward for over 35 years and participate in its activities. I attend the Arts festival and Ukrainian Festival because not for photo ops as some of the other candidates treat the events, but for the experience itself. I do not join a group to just pad my resume or add as a bullet point on campaign literature, I go out and try to effect change. For example, I personally sought the Mayor out to discuss my plan for a raised bicycle lane as discussed in http://www.oniszczak.com/index.html#1. I had a vision and I talked to someone that could get things done. I saw a need for more community interaction – so I designed and built a website ( vividpicture.com) that allows all residents to discuss, comment and vote on each others ideas. The others list groups they join – but ask yourself – what did this group do for the community lately? Did the candidate actually contribute anything, or did he or she join because it looks good in a list.

Q: What does Toronto mean to you?
 * A: Toronto means opportunity and the ability to be the best at what we do. We see the underlying greatness in our city's genes but do not promote ourselves enough. We need more pride. We have the tallest building in the world (CN Tower according to the Guinness Book of Records) but most people don't know this and would more likely guess " Chicago" or "Kuala Lumpur". We are considered the most multicultural city in the world, yet we don't promote this richness in restaurants, shopping and experience to tourists. Toronto is like its waterfront. Beautiful, but hidden.

Q: Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?
 * A: The council decision to raise the councillors' wages was the least desirable. Instead of being a role model for their voters, they have sent a clear signal that they feel superior to the electorate by increasing their own wages greater than any justified amount due of the cost of living. Have they earned the raise because they have solved the problems of the city of Toronto? I support a rollback in councillor wages.

 * The proudest decision was an agreement with the Region of York for the allocation of capital funding by Toronto and York as the municipal share of the proposed extension of Toronto's Spadina subway line. Now, this kind of decision is to be expected and is a basic common sense solution any good government would make for its electorate. However, it is sad that this is the proudest. Where are the grand visions? Where are the inspiring projects? We should be getting more for our tax dollars than this.

Q: If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?
 * A: Ideas and energy. While the incumbent may have had some good ideas in the past, the last ones were many years ago. Perhaps after 18 years he has become jaded, but whatever the reason, not much has been heard from him since the last election. I plan to use the "rookie" status to full effect. I have a vision for making the place I call home a great place. I have specific plans to make it happen and I have the energy to pursue them.


text:
Talk:Canada's Parkdale—High Park (Ward 13) city council candidates speak

RAW TEXT, Oniszczak
Hi Nicholas, Thanks for the questions. Here are my answers:

What is your name?

Aleksander Oniszczak

What is your age?

39

What is your current/most recent job/occupation? Freelance Journalist

What ward are you running in? (# plz) 13

(ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.

Taxes and Spending: Lawn signs, billboards, flyers - have you noticed that my opponents are spending a lot of money on their campaigns? Do you think they will stop spending a lot of money if they get elected? I believe fiscal responsibility is not just a phrase to drop in interviews. Intelligent and resourceful solutions are needed to get full value for our tax dollars. I don't just say it, I do it. Did I spend thousands of dollars on a flashy website? No, I created it myself. A can-do attitude can go far. Councillor wages need to be rolled back as well. We need to do our part. Of course, the flip side of the coin has Toronto paying a disproportionate amount of money in taxes compared to the services it receives. The Province, the Federal government and most importantly, the people of Canada need to have this made clear to them. It simply will not change until we have their support. Toronto is the economic engine of Canada and when that engine needs an oil change, it is best not to wait until it seizes up.

No More Ugly Buildings: Rampant uncontrolled overdevelopment needs to stop. We need to listen to the concerns of our citizens. Why is it that banks are allowed to build such monstrously ugly buildings in the area while other businesses like the McDonalds in Bloor West Village manage to be good corporate citizens and build to integrate with the neighbourhood? Why are condos being built where they are not wanted? Council needs a vision and a plan.

Traffic calming measures have backfired in the Ward. Traffic is worse than ever. We need a real integrated plan rather than a patchwork of band-aid solutions.

(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?

Property Tax: It affects everyone in the area homeowners and tenants alike. Our taxes have gone up but our services have gone down. Although it is less expensive to service homes in our area for garbage collection than it is in the more spread out suburbs, we pay more. Our infrastructure is already built, but our taxes go to build new, less efficient suburban ones outside our ward. Long time residents are being forced to move due to spiraling cost increases. Common sense is needed to put an end to this injustice.

(ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Enough is enough. Our current Councillor seems invisible until election time. I have seen our ward decline in recent years with graffiti, reduced TTC service, ineffective traffic calming measures and inappropriate development. I've read the platforms of the other candidates, and they are just typical things politicians always say with no actual ideas to back them up. I want honesty in government. I believe in transparency. I believe in backing up every statement with a plan. Most of all, I don't see any vision in the other candidates platforms. For example, from Greg Hamara's web site we see under the heading " Building Safe and healthy neighbourhoods" that his big plan is "Better enforcement of traffic rules". Oh yes, very inspiring plan. That just gives me goose bumps. Compare that to my idea of Raised Bicycle Lanes as found in Amsterdam, eliminating graffiti as has been done by the New York subway system. The other candidates do not place the constituent first. Want proof? Check their websites and you'll see that I am the only one that actually lists and links to the websites of my competitors because I want to HELP constituents make the best choice.

(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council? Although I have worked in Austin, Texas, San Francisco and other cities, I have lived in Parkdale – High Park for over 35 years and I consider it home. I have seen how great the area once was and how great it could be and I am inspired to make it a truly great place to live again.

(ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - How are you currently involved in the community? As a freelance journalist I write about issues that concern the community on many levels. I volunteer my time to charity and support local businesses. I have lived in the ward for over 35 years and participate in its activities. I attend the Arts festival and Ukrainian Festival because not for photo ops as some of the other candidates treat the events, but for the experience itself. I do not join a group to just pad my resume or add as a bullet point on campaign literature, I go out and try to effect change. For example, I personally sought the Mayor out to discuss my plan for a raised bicycle lane as discussed in http://www.oniszczak.com/index.html#1. I had a vision and I talked to someone that could get things done. I saw a need for more community interaction – so I designed and built a website ( vividpicture.com) that allows all residents to discuss, comment and vote on each others ideas. The others list groups they join – but ask yourself – what did this group do for the community lately? Did the candidate actually contribute anything, or did he or she join because it looks good in a list.

(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What does Toronto mean to you?

Toronto means opportunity and the ability to be the best at what we do. We see the underlying greatness in our city's genes but do not promote ourselves enough. We need more pride. We have the tallest building in the world (CN Tower according to the Guinness Book of Records) but most people don't know this and would more likely guess " Chicago" or "Kuala Lumpur". We are considered the most multicultural city in the world, yet we don't promote this richness in restaurants, shopping and experience to tourists. Toronto is like its waterfront. Beautiful, but hidden.

(ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?

The council decision to raise the councillors' wages was the least desirable. Instead of being a role model for their voters, they have sent a clear signal that they feel superior to the electorate by increasing their own wages greater than any justified amount due of the cost of living. Have they earned the raise because they have solved the problems of the city of Toronto? I support a rollback in councillor wages.

The proudest decision was an agreement with the Region of York for the allocation of capital funding by Toronto and York as the municipal share of the proposed extension of Toronto's Spadina subway line. Now, this kind of decision is to be expected and is a basic common sense solution any good government would make for its electorate. However, it is sad that this is the proudest. Where are the grand visions? Where are the inspiring projects? We should be getting more for our tax dollars than this.

(NON-INCUMBENTS ONLY) - If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?

Ideas and energy. While the incumbent may have had some good ideas in the past, the last ones were many years ago. Perhaps after 18 years he has become jaded, but whatever the reason, not much has been heard from him since the last election. I plan to use the "rookie" status to full effect. I have a vision for making the place I call home a great place. I have specific plans to make it happen and I have the energy to pursue them.

Aleksander Oniszczak oniszczak.com

RAW TEXT, COLTMAN
What is your name? - Linda Coltman

What is your age? - 35

What is your current/most recent job/occupation? Consultant & Boards Member

What ward are you running in? (# plz)

City of Toronto Ward 13, Parkdale-High Park

MAIN QUESTIONS

(ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.

1)    Voter specific engagement (locally) leading to the new implementation of something citizen driven on an annual, in ward basis (& an increased citizenry interest in voting and voter engagement in general).

2)    Identifying the social needs of our wards residents and seeking recommendations to such and working towards great new adventurous ways of addressing same.

3)    Being open to inviting corporate development within our ward through the recognition of our strong cultural heritage and respect of such through a means of encouraging positive address of the social needs of the ward 13 constituency.

(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?

Unifying the ward and increasing civic engagement throughout (increased participation, heightened voter turnout etc.)

Unifying the ward by the institution of a comprehensive website accessible by all the ward’s residents is a new, innovative potential means of accomplishing such alongside more tried and true methods of encouraging and fostering participation through regular open community consultation and the like.

(ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?

To pay equity to all issues and too to bring a different kind of representation to this ward.

(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?

To represent the multiplicity of its diversity, which differs from that of other wards.

Too, this ward has been my home for 20+ years and I have been actively involved within such throughout, as such I feel well suited to representing the people living and working within and further engaging with them to identify their needs, thoughts, wants etc. and seeking to foster positive interactions and growth within this, my home ward, in keeping and adhering to the diversity of the wards constituents. (ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - How are you currently involved in the community?

As a leader and a participant within many community groups I currently spend and have spent much of the past two decades alongside the constituency working to address, react to and seek democratic solutions to the ward’s needs. As a member of multiple local Boards, Committees, Executives and community groups, I strive to keep abreast of issues through continual personal interaction with the residents and too through multimedia sources.

(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What does Toronto mean to you?

Toronto, being the largest City in Canada, has the potential to become a world class leader in engaging our diversity thereby prompting our City into becoming the best led, run and operated City in the world.

While already recognized as a world class City and among the best in the world, the potential for Toronto to lead in all aspects is there and waiting to be utilized.

Through engagement of our City’s populous I foresee that Toronto can make the transition from greatness to becoming the recognized world’s best if we act on and make use of our untapped local resources in a more effective manner.

(ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?

As far most proud of, there are multiple to choose from in respect to the total City perspective however, the May 2004 Implementation of pesticide bylaw in which Council decided on an implementation schedule for phasing in full enforcement of the bylaw is a decision that our incumbent councilor voted on behalf of the ward 13 constituents behalf in support of the pesticide ban and one that is of great importance on our ward level as citizen engagement in respect to environmental issues is strong within and listening to and supporting the opinions of the local citizenry is, in my belief, one of the key aspects to promoting further and increased citizen engagement in respect to all issues brought forth for discussion to City Council.

As far as least proud of, in respect to the views of our wards constituents, the Council decisions based in respect to financing, in September 2004 in respect to election financing and further tied in to such, in July 2006 in respect to compensation for elected officials. In July, Council approved a pay increase for members of the Council who will be elected in November, taking effect January 1, 2007 thereby increasing Councillors' current salary of about $87,000 annually to $95,000, a decision that while deemed to be reflective of bring the salaries in line with the average of large Ontario municipalities is not one that I see as being a desirable decision. Locally within ward 13 our incumbent councillor voted against the ward’s constituents in 2004 in respect to a vote taken to restrict election donors to individuals, banning corporations and trade unions from making campaign donations. My views remain that citizen engagement is of paramount importance within our City and that the wishes of said citizenry should be reflected through individual Council member votes and the collective Council decision/outcome of such.

(NON-INCUMBENTS ONLY) - If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, what would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?

I will bring new age thinking.

I will be productive and resourceful in developing new programs and not flogging dead horses.

I will not be willing to sit in unproductive community partnerships with groups seeking to develop the ward but instead would ask groups to each develop one solid idea for which I would work with them to lobby for full council implementation of such within ward 13.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/


text:
Talk:Canada's Davenport (Ward 18) city council candidates speak

RAW TEXT, McMILLAN
What is your name? Jim McMillan

What is your age? 39 & holding

What is your current/most recent job/occupation? Currently self employed in sales

What ward are you running in? (# plz)18

MAIN QUESTIONS

(ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - Describe the three most important issues in your campaign. 1) Elevators or ramps in Lansdowne, Dufferin, Ossington subway stations now                                                2) Turning the contaminated 640 Lansdowne Ave - the police rejected it, the city & the T.T.C. are left neither wanting to pay the clean  up                                                         costs (60,000,000.00) sixty million dollars It should be capped with afoot of concrete and trees planted every t20 feet to suck out contaminates and the site used for a multi use park 3) Split the 14 Division police force into two groups, leave one group in the old                                                  Dundas/Dovercourt Sts. site with the administrative staff remaining there, the other                                                  half to set up a large satelite station at Bloor/Lansdowne Sts.saving gas reducing                                                      pollution                                                  and putting police in the face of the hoodlums who terrorize Lansdowne/Bloor area                                                  residents. (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?                                                Rolling back the 9% pay increaseto councillors and mayor (ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? I of the wdecided to involve myself in the political process because: 1) Adam Giambrone voted for the 9% pay increase                                               2)Adam Giambrone voted for the extension of using city finances/resourcesfor 2 extra months. 3)Adam Giambrone believes ward 18 ends at Dufferin St. and ignores the needs of the                                                  west part of the ward, (Dufferin St. to the C.N. Line (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council? I want to represent my ward to clean up Adam's mess in our ward. (ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - How are you currently involved in the community? I have been involved in a clean up campaign for the last 17 years. I believe that cleanliness is next to Godliness. (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What does Toronto mean to you? Toronto means so much to me that I composed a Toronto song. (ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable? 1) The 9.7% salary increase.                                              2)The untendered 710 million dollar subway car contract with Bombardier.. (NON-INCUMBENTS ONLY) - If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent? I feel I could add many years of life experience & that of a family provider, to                                              council & not that of a single recently school grad, with none of "the school of hard knocks experience"

Other candidates
Why is there only 1 candidate in this article? 65.92.155.19 02:36, 22 October 2006 (UTC)

RAW TEXT, ADAM
> What is your name?

Adam Giambrone

> What is your age?

29

> What is your current/most recent job/occupation?

Toronto City Councillor, Ward 18 Davenport

> What ward are you running in? (# plz)

18

> ==MAIN QUESTIONS==

>

> (ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.

1. Some of our neighbourhoods have struggled with crime and community safety for more than a generation. We have begun to change that, but there's still much to do.

2. Our streets and public spaces have cleaner. We must redouble the effort to make them beautiful and attractive--and yes, cleaner--so people will use them.

3. The people of our city depend on reliable infrastructure--both physical and social--and we move by transit. We must continue to protect and invest in these priorities if we are to build a city we can continue to be proud of.

> (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?

Continued investment in crime reduction and safer neighbourhoods.

> (ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?

For our government to work, it needs direction from problem-solvers with a strong dedication to public service and accountability, and an energetic optimism about the good things we can do together. I admire the work of these people, and I have a strong drive to contribute in the same way.

When these people have not provided this kind of leadership, I have considered it my responsibility to take up the challenge.

I have also felt the need to have the voices of younger people represented at City Hall. Being the youngest member of Council, I have encouraged other young leaders to take up the challenge of political responsibility as well.

> (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?

I've lived in this ward all my life and feel a strong personal attachment to the people here. The sense of community here is very strong, but we have not always been well represented at City Council in the past, and we know it. I want to continue to give it the high level of care and attention it rightly deserves.

> (ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - How are you currently involved in the community?

Before I was the city councillor, I was actively involved in community groups and our parks associations. Our previous councillor was not responsive to the community, so with research and hard work with others, I was able to provide the kind of service we were lacking.

When I arrived at City Hall, I opened and have since maintained a community office, so people have ready access to their councillor. I have continued to work with community groups across the ward and provided ALL residents with the kind of information in correspondence and newsletter that they were not accustomed to getting.

In a very culturally diverse community, I have also worked with many cultural communities in many languages to ensure that everyone, regardless of background or language, is well served by City Hall.

I have worked successfully with the community to establish 3 Business Improvement Areas so that our struggling main streets have a fair chance to grow and succeed.

I have increased local democracy by not only consulting, but often balloting neighbourhoods about very local decisions.

> (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What does Toronto mean to you?

Toronto is a city that has a proud history of distinct neighbourhoods and cultural diversity. We are a city that has occasionally struggled against a Provincial instinct to cut back and destroy the things we have built together over generations. I think many people who don't know Toronto would be surprised at the progressive, community-minded nature of our people. It's a city I'm intensely proud of.

> (ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?

This is a community that cares about the health of our environment. Of the decisions Council made this term, I think it’s unfortunate that we didn’t get to our goals in adding recycling and “green bin” facilities in apartment buildings.

I think this Council should be proud that we made a very responsible decision to keep our Transit plan on track by establishing the St. Clair Right-of-Way. There was a lot of fear-mongering about it, but in the end, Council made the right decision.

> (NON-INCUMBENTS ONLY) - If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?

N/A.

Typo
editprotected "satelite" => "satelite [sic]" Van der Hoorn (talk) 18:57, 13 March 2009 (UTC)

 * ✅ ♪Tempo di Valse ♪ 19:10, 13 March 2009 (UTC)


text:
Canada's Davenport (Ward 18) city council candidates speak

November 3, 2006

On November 13, Torontoians will be heading to the polls to vote for their ward's councillor and for mayor. Among Toronto's ridings is Davenport (Ward 18). Two candidates responded to Wikinews' requests for an interview. This ward's candidates include Lloyd Ferguson, Adam Giambrone (incumbent), Nha Le, James McMillan, and Simon Wookey.

For more information on the election, read Toronto municipal election, 2006.

Adam Giambrone (incumbent)
29-year-old Adam Giambrone is the incumbent councillor for Ward 18, Davenport, Ontario Canada. Q: Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.
 * A:
 * 1. Some of our neighbourhoods have struggled with crime and community safety for more than a generation. We have begun to change that, but there's still much to do.
 * 2. Our streets and public spaces have cleaner. We must redouble the effort to make them beautiful and attractive--and yes, cleaner--so people will use them.
 * 3. The people of our city depend on reliable infrastructure--both physical and social--and we move by transit. We must continue to protect and invest in these priorities if we are to build a city we can continue to be proud of.

Q: What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?
 * A: Continued investment in crime reduction and safer neighbourhoods.

Q: Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?
 * A: For our government to work, it needs direction from problem-solvers with a strong dedication to public service and accountability, and an energetic optimism about the good things we can do together. I admire the work of these people, and I have a strong drive to contribute in the same way.

 * When these people have not provided this kind of leadership, I have considered it my responsibility to take up the challenge.

 * I have also felt the need to have the voices of younger people represented at City Hall. Being the youngest member of Council, I have encouraged other young leaders to take up the challenge of political responsibility as well.

Q: Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?
 * A: I've lived in this ward all my life and feel a strong personal attachment to the people here. The sense of community here is very strong, but we have not always been well represented at City Council in the past, and we know it.  I want to continue to give it the high level of care and attention it rightly deserves.

Q: How are you currently involved in the community?
 * A: Before I was the city councillor, I was actively involved in community groups and our parks associations. Our previous councillor was not responsive to the community, so with research and hard work with others, I was able to provide the kind of service we were lacking.

 * When I arrived at City Hall, I opened and have since maintained a community office, so people have ready access to their councillor. I have continued to work with community groups across the ward and provided ALL residents with the kind of information in correspondence and newsletter that they were not accustomed to getting.

 * In a very culturally diverse community, I have also worked with many cultural communities in many languages to ensure that everyone, regardless of background or language, is well served by City Hall.

 * I have worked successfully with the community to establish 3 Business Improvement Areas so that our struggling main streets have a fair chance to grow and succeed.

 * I have increased local democracy by not only consulting, but often balloting neighbourhoods about very local decisions.

Q: Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?
 * A: This is a community that cares about the health of our environment. Of the decisions Council made this term, I think it's unfortunate that we didn't get to our goals in adding recycling and "green bin" facilities in apartment buildings.

 * I think this Council should be proud that we made a very responsible decision to keep our Transit plan on track by establishing the St. Clair Right-of-Way. There was a lot of fear-mongering about it, but in the end, Council made the right decision.

Q: What does Toronto mean to you?
 * A: Toronto is a city that has a proud history of distinct neighbourhoods and cultural diversity. We are a city that has occasionally struggled against a Provincial instinct to cut back and destroy the things we have built together over generations.  I think many people who don't know Toronto would be surprised at the progressive, community-minded nature of our people.  It's a city I'm intensely proud of.

Jim McMillan
Aged "39 & holding" Jim McMillan is currently self employed in sales.

Q: Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.
 * A: 1) Elevators or ramps in Lansdowne, Dufferin, Ossington subway stations now.
 * 2) Turning the contaminated 640 Lansdowne Ave - the police rejected it, the city & the T.T.C. are left neither wanting to pay the clean up costs (60,000,000.00) sixty million dollars. It should be capped with afoot of concrete and trees planted every 20 feet to suck out contaminates and the site used for a multi use park.
 * 3) Split the 14 Division police force into two groups, leave one group in the old Dundas/Dovercourt Sts. site with the administrative staff remaining there, the other half to set up a large satelite [sic] station at Bloor/Lansdowne Sts.saving gas reducing pollution and putting police in the face of the hoodlums who terrorize Lansdowne/Bloor area residents.

Q: What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?
 * A: Rolling back the 9% pay increase to councillors and mayor.

Q: Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?
 * A: I have decided to involve myself in the political process because:
 * 1) Adam Giambrone voted for the 9% pay increase
 * 2) Adam Giambrone voted for the extension of using city finances/resources for 2 extra months.
 * 3) Adam Giambrone believes ward 18 ends at Dufferin St. and ignores the needs of the west part of the ward, (Dufferin St. to the C.N. Line)

Q: Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?
 * A: I want to represent my ward to clean up Adam's mess in our ward.

Q: How are you currently involved in the community?
 * A: I have been involved in a clean up campaign for the last 17 years. I believe that cleanliness is next to Godliness.

Q: Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?
 * A: Since the 2003 election, nothing was done to be proud of, but both the salary increase of 9.7%, and the untendered contract for the subway cars, were least desirable.

Q: If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?
 * A: I feel I could add many years of life experience & that of a family provider, to council & not that of a single recently school grad, with none of "the school of hard knocks experience".

Q: What does Toronto mean to you?
 * A: Toronto means so much to me that I composed a Toronto song.


text:
Talk:Canada's Don Valley West (Ward 25) city council candidates speak

RAW TEXT, BLAIR
48-year-old John Blair is a high school English teacher.

Q: Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.
 * A: First, I propose a personal property tax freeze. After three consecutive years of increases above the inflation rate, homeowners need some breathing space. Many are in danger of losing their homes due to higher taxes (just as tenants are being evicted from their apartments because of rising rents at a record levels in Toronto). We need to apply the breaks.

Second, developers, who (inspired by nothing other than optimum profit) ignore the wishes of communities in all wards, need to be taken to task. Public appeals to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) are almost never successful while appeals by developers are disproportionately successful. Nothing short of dismantling the OMB will start to solve this situation. Third, the Toronto Council pay raise is inexcusable and I will invest my 8.9% raise in worthwhile Ward 25 causes. Elected officials need to earn the respect of the electorate by showing leadership in their own finances.

Q: What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?
 * A: Definitley, over-development and intensification. Real two-way communication is necessary between neighbourhoods and the developers who propose to transform a given area. Ward 25 residents like their living spaces and any new development has to "make sense" to the people currently living in the proximity, not just dollars for developers. There must be a vision -- a "fitting in" with the existing character of a community.

Q: Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?
 * A: For some time, I have thought about being more involved in the challenges that face Toronto. I want to live to a higher standard than just to live for myself. Public service is an honourable calling. With the demolition of the former Don Mills Centre indoor mall (to be replaced by an outdoor lifestyle centre (courtesy of the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan and its instrument, Cadillac Fairview), I finally made my decision. The Don Mills Centre was already more than a shopping mall -- it was a freindly village for old and young alike, and now it has been levelled to satisfy the greed of a ruthless developer and its owner.

Q: Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?
 * A: Since I was five years old, I have spent a lot of my time in places such as Wilket Creek Park, Edwards Gardens, the Don Mills Centre, the Yonge and Lawrence area and many others. Ward 25 is where I grew up. I feel I know this ward and its varied neighbourhoods as well as anyone.

Q: How are you currently involved in the community?
 * A: Practically all the services I make use of (entertainment and numerous other ammenities) are located in Ward 25. My breakfast club and many other friends live in Ward 25. If elected I will make the short move to Ward 25.

Q: What does Toronto mean to you?
 * A: Toronto is a culturally diverse and lively place to live in. Compared to other major North American cities, it is relatively safe and clean. We need to work hard to make it continue to be regarded as such. The city must resist the current trend to intensify development without taking into consideration the "existing character" of any given neighbourhood. Our past is as important as our future. Hopefully, we can be a model to the world of what a progressive and environmentally conscious city can and should be.

Q: Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?
 * A: A very recent council decision (the vote against condominiums at the intersection of Fairlawn and Avenue Road) was a good one -- of course the developer has appealed this ruling to the OMB. The city should be least proud of its decision to increase their salaries by 8.9%.

Q: If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, what would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?
 * A: I am not a "business" person. I bring to council a fresh new perspective on things. I'm very serious about transparency and moral and ethical conduct. The public has a right to know many things that are apparently hidden from it at present. I really want to "open things up." After all, we are supposed to be the representatives of the people. We should strive to earn the respect of those who have elected us.

RAW TEXT, BOYLE
> What is your name?

Robertson Boyle

> > What is your age?

46

> What is your current/most recent job/occupation?

Management Consultant: Marketing/Business Development for businesses in the Professional Services.

> > What ward are you running in? (# plz)

WARD 25 > > > ==MAIN QUESTIONS== > > (ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - Describe the three most important issues in > your campaign.

Managing the City's phenomenal Growth with a focus on those areas that impact on Ward 25.

Urban Development pressure and its impact on the neighbourhood, infrastructure, and environment.

Accountability, transparency and responsible fiscal management at City Hall with a focus on increasing efficiency and reducing spending to alleviate upward pressures on property taxes.

Greater interaction between councillor and community with a view to engaging the community in decisions that effect the community and ensuring top quality customer service.

> > (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What one election issue do you feel is most > relevant to your ward in this election?

Intelligently managing the City's growth with its incumbent challenges relating to real estate development, traffic congestion, and environmental pollution.

> > (ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Why have you chosen to involve yourself in > the political process?

I have always had an interest in the democratic process and now, the timing is good. I am in the prime of life and so is Toronto: it's a good mix. > > (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - Why do you want to represent this particular > ward on council?

It is the ward in which I have lived for the past 17 years. > > (ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - How are you currently involved in the > community?

I have been involved in charity work with such organizations as Big Brothers, the church to which I belong, and fundraising for other health related causes. I am a avid fan of the arts in Toronto and have volunteered with a number of community groups that provide theatre to seniors and moderate income families. And I am past president of the Upper Canada Tenants Association.

> > (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What does Toronto mean to you?

Home Sweet Home, the greatest city in the world.

> > (ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Which council decision (since the 2003 > election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, > and which was least desirable?

Most proud of: The Toronto Green Development Standard. It is time to put it into effect.

Least proud of:  Wasteful spending habits - which impact directly on our property taxes and the City's debt.

> > (NON-INCUMBENTS ONLY) - If you were elected as a "rookie" > councillor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?

I am a man who prefers to get out into the community and meet the people and I now work very hard to do that. It amazes me that most people I speak to in the Ward, have no idea who their representative is and have never heard from him - this, to me, is an abrogation of a councillor's duty to her or his electorate. I want to know their concerns, first hand, and make every effort to provide the means by which they can communicate their concerns and also hear their suggestions for solutions. I will forge effective partnerships with the leaders of the residential and business associations as well as representatives of the police, health and environmental bodies, religious groups, and others, in order to have their input and work together to get things done for the benefit of our community. Furthermore, I would be a strong voice at City Council in advocating for those issues at City Hall which directly impact Ward 25: development, taxes, solid wastes issues. I believe the incumbent has not met the expectations of the community in these regards. Furthermore, I have 18 years' experience in managing a successful business working within strict budgets and tight timelines and would bring that experience to the position of City Councillor.

Hello Nick,

Earlier I sent responses to your survey. There was a glitch. I meant to add a bit to why I am running, before sending it:

In answer to the question, (ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?, please substitute:

We live in a very exciting time and Toronto is a very exciting place that is growing at a phenomenal rate. I am a well rounded individual and in the prime of life, energetic and dedicated to civic duty. I want to use my experience, knowledge, and intelligence to serve the people of Ward 25 and to engage them more fully in decisions that affect them in their community. I also want to influence and inspire the direction of the growth of this wonderful city in a positive way.

RAW TEXT, CLIFF
What is your name? Cliff Jenkins

What is your age? 60

What is your current/most recent job/occupation? Currently: City Councillor for Ward 25, Don Valley West.

Formerly: Client Executive, IBM Canada, leading a team of information technology professionals to meet the business needs of a large client.

What ward are you running in? (# plz) I am running for re-election in Ward 25.

MAIN QUESTIONS
(ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.

1. Managing Toronto’s density explosion: The population of Toronto is increasing at about 15,000 people per year. New residents require additional infrastructure – increased sewer capacity, more TTC buses, increased solid waste capacity, extension of our subway service to York University and beyond, increased policing capability. Just about every municipal service has to be ramped up to meet the increased demands - and ramping up generates significant complexity and increases costs. The best estimate of the amount new capital infrastructure required by each new person is $20,000. Unfortunately, we receive only about $4,000 per person in development charges. As a result, we’ve had about a $240,000,000 capital shortfall every year – which we’ve “solved” by increasing debt and seeking handouts from other orders of government. This is unsustainable and unacceptable. Increasing development charges is the first step towards solving the infrastructure shortfall. 2. Protection and preservation of neighbourhoods: The density explosion puts great pressure on our stable residential neighbourhoods. The City’s Official Plan directs growth to specific places in the City – particularly those serviced by rapid transit. But the development industry continues to seek growth in those areas of the City which are NOT targeted for intensification, as well as over-intensification in those areas identified for growth. This has immediate negative impacts on neighbouring single-family homes. While we have made gains in improving policies of the Official Plan to protect these neighbourhoods, it will be the job of the next Council to ensure that Planning Staff interpret and enforce these policies to really protect them. 3. Election Finance Reform: While Council has indicated its intent to reform how candidates raise money for election campaigns, it does remain a serious problem that must be fixed. VoteToronto, an independent organization, has documented the problems at www.votetoronto.ca of the influence that can result from election contributions of special interest groups. The new City Council must finish the job of election finance reform.

(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?

In Ward 25, the key issue is protection of neighbourhoods. For most people, their investment in their homes is their single biggest investment. Intrusive nearby development can have major negative effects. For example, at 1000 Mt. Pleasant Road, an application for a 13-storey apartment building which would tower over and impact neighbouring single-family homes was deemed, by City planners, to be contrary to the City’s Official Plan and should be refused. City Council did refuse the application. But, on appeal, the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) overturned the City’s decision. City Council must re-enforce policies and processes which protect our stable residential neighbourhoods and must demand OMB reform from the provincial government.

(ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?

As President of a community association for 12 years, I saw the threats and challenges faced by one stable residential community. They ranged from inappropriate and intrusive development to a property assessment system which resulted in unstable annual reassessments. Through my colleagues, presidents of other community associations, I learned that the problems were not isolated in my community. They were systemic across the ward, the City – and indeed, across the province.

I saw cases of unfair impact on homeowners who had previously believed that the Official Plan and the zoning by-law would protect their quiet enjoyment of their homes, apartments and their investment in the community. In every case, I felt there were ways for governments – particularly Toronto City Council – to protect our stable residential communities. In conversation and discussion with people in Ward 25, I found it resonated. Many people were and are impacted by inappropriate development. People want a planning process which serves them.

I developed an election platform in 2003 around protection of our stable residential communities. Once elected, I set out to implement it, against entrenched interests – with considerable success in many aspects, for example: Official Plan amendments, changes in the Committee of Adjustment, and new freedom for people to access previously withheld building permits.

There is more to do. The new harmonized zoning by-law coming before Council will require provisions to close existing loopholes. The planning process reform must be completed – to ensure that people are engaged earlier and meaningfully consulted on development applications in their community.

(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?

My wife Liz and I have lived in Ward 25 for 21 years, raising our three sons, Neil, Scott and David here. Ward 25 is a vibrant, wonderful place to live, work and enjoy life. Ward 25 residents are proud and protective of their neighbourhoods. Our employment areas on Leslie and Scarsdale and our commercial areas are thriving - but some are at risk from purchase and conversion to residential uses. Our parks and natural areas are magnificent. The ravines of the Don Valley are life-giving ribbons of green that benefit the entire City. Ward 25 is a jewel in Toronto. I want the best for it. (ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - How are you currently involved in the community?

To be a conscientious Councillor is to be deeply involved in the community. It requires very frequent attendance at local events and meetings. It is critical for a Councillor to hear what people have to say about matters affecting their communities, about their hopes and desires for their communities. I attend many evening meetings with ratepayer groups, with tenant groups, with school organizations and with other community groups. Doing that is more than a full time job. Consequently, I’ve temporarily deferred most voluntary activity – particularly my long-time involvement in my own ratepayer association where I was President for twelve years. I’ve also been a junior boys’ baseball coach and junior boys’ curling team advisor. My wife Liz, however, maintains her volunteer work. For many years she was active in Home and School associations as our kids worked their way through school – serving as President from time to time. As well, she was a volunteer for many years at Tennis Canada – rising to the position of Volunteer Co-ordinator for the annual men’s/women’s Canadian Open Tennis Championship. And now, she is a volunteer at Sunnybrook Hospital.

And lastly, it runs in the family – all three of our sons have had and continue to have volunteer activities. (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What does Toronto mean to you?

Toronto truly is a city of wonderful neighbourhoods. It is an economic engine that must continue to create jobs. While creating these jobs and as Toronto continues to grow, we need to ensure that our infrastructure and services support that growth. We must provide infrastructure and services in a resilient and cost-effective manner. And we must never forget who we are seeking to serve – the residents of Toronto who live in our wonderful neighbourhoods. We must provide them with a safe, robust and clean city – one where they can continue to live, work and enjoy life. (ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?

Council’s least desirable decision was its failure to increase development charges to the maximum permitted under provincial law. Development charges are intended to pay for new infrastructure required to support the population growth of the City. While Council did increase development charges to achieve annual revenues of approximately $50million - $60million. Our need, on the other hand, is estimated at about $300 million per year. We currently fund this shortfall by several unsatisfactory means: increased debt, starving our capital repairs budgets, raiding reserve funds and hand-outs from other orders of government. The next Council must reconsider this decision.

What the City should be most proud of is Council’s decision to recommend that corporations and unions no longer be permitted to make contributions to candidates for election to City Council. The provincial government, however, did not implement it. But, under the new City of Toronto Act, Council will soon have the power to do so itself. I was co-leader, with Councillor Michael Walker, on this initiative. When finally implemented, it will reduce the influence of special interest groups – particularly those with an interest in City business – on elected City Councillors. And more importantly, over time it will result in the election of more community-oriented Councillors.

(NON-INCUMBENTS ONLY) - If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?


text:
Canada's Don Valley West (Ward 25) city council candidates speak

November 3, 2006

On November 13, Torontonians will be heading to the polls to vote for their ward's councillor and for mayor. Among Toronto's ridings is Don Valley West (Ward 25). Three candidates responded to Wikinews' requests for an interview. This ward's candidates include John Blair, Robertson Boyle, Tony Dickins, Cliff Jenkins (incumbent), and Peter Kapsalis.

For more information on the election, read Toronto municipal election, 2006.

John Blair
48-year-old John Blair is a high school English teacher.

Q: Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.
 * A: First, I propose a personal property tax freeze. After three consecutive years of increases above the inflation rate, homeowners need some breathing space. Many are in danger of losing their homes due to higher taxes (just as tenants are being evicted from their apartments because of rising rents at a record levels in Toronto). We need to apply the brakes.
 * Second, developers, who (inspired by nothing other than optimum profit) ignore the wishes of communities in all wards, need to be taken to task. Public appeals to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) are almost never successful while appeals by developers are disproportionately successful. Nothing short of dismantling the OMB will start to solve this situation.
 * Third, the Toronto Council pay raise is inexcusable and I will invest my 8.9% raise in worthwhile Ward 25 causes. Elected officials need to earn the respect of the electorate by showing leadership in their own finances.

Q: What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?
 * A: Definitely, over-development and intensification. Real two-way communication is necessary between neighbourhoods and the developers who propose to transform a given area. Ward 25 residents like their living spaces and any new development has to "make sense" to the people currently living in the proximity, not just dollars for developers. There must be a vision -- a "fitting in" with the existing character of a community.

Q: Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?
 * A: For some time, I have thought about being more involved in the challenges that face Toronto. I want to live to a higher standard than just to live for myself. Public service is an honourable calling. With the demolition of the former Don Mills Centre indoor mall (to be replaced by an outdoor lifestyle centre (courtesy of the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan and its instrument, Cadillac Fairview), I finally made my decision. The Don Mills Centre was already more than a shopping mall -- it was a friendly village for old and young alike, and now it has been levelled to satisfy the greed of a ruthless developer and its owner.

Q: Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?
 * A: Since I was five years old, I have spent a lot of my time in places such as Wilket Creek Park, Edwards Gardens, the Don Mills Centre, the Yonge and Lawrence area and many others. Ward 25 is where I grew up. I feel I know this ward and its varied neighbourhoods as well as anyone.

Q: How are you currently involved in the community?
 * A: Practically all the services I make use of (entertainment and numerous other amenities) are located in Ward 25. My breakfast club and many other friends live in Ward 25. If elected I will make the short move to Ward 25.

Q: What does Toronto mean to you?
 * A: Toronto is a culturally diverse and lively place to live in. Compared to other major North American cities, it is relatively safe and clean. We need to work hard to make it continue to be regarded as such. The city must resist the current trend to intensify development without taking into consideration the "existing character" of any given neighbourhood. Our past is as important as our future. Hopefully, we can be a model to the world of what a progressive and environmentally conscious city can and should be.

Q: Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?
 * A: A very recent council decision (the vote against condominiums at the intersection of Fairlawn and Avenue Road) was a good one -- of course the developer has appealed this ruling to the OMB. The city should be least proud of its decision to increase their salaries by 8.9%.

Q: If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, what would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?
 * A: I am not a "business" person. I bring to council a fresh new perspective on things. I'm very serious about transparency and moral and ethical conduct. The public has a right to know many things that are apparently hidden from it at present. I really want to "open things up." After all, we are supposed to be the representatives of the people. We should strive to earn the respect of those who have elected us.

Robertson Boyle
46-year-old Robertson Boyle is a management consultant (marketing/business development for businesses in the professional services)

Q: Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.
 * A: Managing the City's phenomenal growth with a focus on those areas that impact on Ward 25.
 * • Urban development pressure and its impact on the neighbourhood, infrastructure, and environment.
 * • Accountability, transparency and responsible fiscal management at City Hall with a focus on increasing efficiency and reducing spending to alleviate upward pressures on property taxes.
 * • Greater interaction between councillor and community with a view to engaging the community in decisions that effect the community and ensuring top quality customer service.

Q: What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?
 * A: Intelligently managing the City's growth with its incumbent challenges relating to real estate development, traffic congestion, and environmental pollution.

Q: Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?
 * A: We live in a very exciting time and Toronto is a very exciting place that is growing at a phenomenal rate. I am a well rounded individual and in the prime of life, energetic and dedicated to civic duty.  I want to use my experience, knowledge,  and intelligence to serve the people of Ward 25 and to engage them more fully in decisions that affect them in their community.  I also want to influence and inspire the direction of the growth of this wonderful city in a positive way.

Q: Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?
 * A: It is the ward in which I have lived for the past 17 years.

Q: How are you currently involved in the community?
 * A: I have been involved in charity work with such organizations as Big Brothers, the church to which I belong, and fundraising for other health related causes. I am a avid fan of the arts in Toronto and have volunteered with a number of community groups that provide theatre to seniors and moderate income families. And I am past president of the Upper Canada Tenants Association.

Q: What does Toronto mean to you?
 * A: Home Sweet Home, the greatest city in the world.

Q: Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?
 * A: Most proud of: The Toronto Green Development Standard.  It is time to put it into effect.
 * Least proud of: Wasteful spending habits - which impact directly on our property taxes and the City's debt.

Q: If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?
 * A: I am a man who prefers to get out into the community and meet the people and I now work very hard to do that. It amazes me that most people I speak to in the Ward, have no idea who their representative is and have never heard from him - this, to me, is an abrogation of a councillor's duty to her or his electorate.  I want to know their concerns, firsthand, and make every effort to provide the means by which they can communicate their concerns and also hear their suggestions for solutions.  I will forge effective partnerships with the leaders of the residential and business associations as well as representatives of the police, health and environmental bodies, religious groups, and others, in order to have their input and work together to get things done for the benefit of our community. Furthermore, I would be a strong voice at City Council in advocating for those issues at City Hall which directly impact Ward 25: development, taxes, solid wastes issues.  I believe the incumbent has not met the expectations of the community in these regards. Furthermore, I have 18 years' experience in managing a successful business working within strict budgets and tight timelines and would bring that experience to the position of City Councillor.

Cliff Jenkins (incumbent)
60-year-old Cliff Jenkins is the incumbent for Ward 25, Don Valley West. Previous to that, Jenkins was a client executive for IBM Canada, leading a team of information technology professionals to meet the business needs of a large client.

Q: Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.
 * A:

Q: What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?
 * Managing Toronto's density explosion: The population of Toronto is increasing at about 15,000 people per year.  New residents require additional infrastructure – increased sewer capacity, more TTC buses, increased solid waste capacity, extension of our subway service to York University and beyond, increased policing capability.  Just about every municipal service has to be ramped up to meet the increased demands - and ramping up generates significant complexity and increases costs.  The best estimate of the amount new capital infrastructure required by each new person is $20,000.  Unfortunately, we receive only about $4,000 per person in development charges.  As a result, we've had about a $240,000,000 capital shortfall every year – which we've "solved" by increasing debt and seeking handouts from other orders of government. This is unsustainable and unacceptable.  Increasing development charges is the first step towards solving the infrastructure shortfall.
 * Protection and preservation of neighbourhoods: The density explosion puts great pressure on our stable residential neighbourhoods. The City's Official Plan directs growth to specific places in the City – particularly those serviced by rapid transit.  But the development industry continues to seek growth in those areas of the City which are NOT targeted for intensification, as well as over-intensification in those areas identified for growth.  This has immediate negative impacts on neighbouring single-family homes.  While we have made gains in improving policies of the Official Plan to protect these neighbourhoods, it will be the job of the next Council to ensure that Planning Staff interpret and enforce these policies to really protect them.
 * Election Finance Reform: While Council has indicated its intent to reform how candidates raise money for election campaigns, it does remain a serious problem that must be fixed. VoteToronto, an independent organization, has documented the problems at www.votetoronto.ca of the influence that can result from election contributions of special interest groups.  The new City Council must finish the job of election finance reform.
 * A: In Ward 25, the key issue is protection of neighbourhoods. For most people, their investment in their homes is their single biggest investment.  Intrusive nearby development can have major negative effects.  For example, at 1000 Mt. Pleasant Road, an application for a 13-storey apartment building which would tower over and impact neighbouring single-family homes was deemed, by City planners, to be contrary to the City's Official Plan and should be refused.  City Council did refuse the application.  But, on appeal, the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) overturned the City's decision.   City Council must re-enforce policies and processes which protect our stable residential neighbourhoods and must demand OMB reform from the provincial government.

Q: Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?
 * A: As President of a community association for 12 years, I saw the threats and challenges faced by one stable residential community. They ranged from inappropriate and intrusive development to a property assessment system which resulted in unstable annual reassessments.  Through my colleagues, presidents of other community associations, I learned that the problems were not isolated in my community.  They were systemic across the ward, the City – and indeed, across the province.

 * I saw cases of unfair impact on homeowners who had previously believed that the Official Plan and the zoning by-law would protect their quiet enjoyment of their homes, apartments and their investment in the community. In every case, I felt there were ways for governments – particularly Toronto City Council – to protect our stable residential communities.  In conversation and discussion with people in Ward 25, I found it resonated.  Many people were and are impacted by inappropriate development.  People want a planning process which serves them.

 * I developed an election platform in 2003 around protection of our stable residential communities. Once elected, I set out to implement it, against entrenched interests – with considerable success in many aspects, for example:  Official Plan amendments, changes in the Committee of Adjustment, and new freedom for people to access previously withheld building permits.

 * There is more to do. The new harmonized zoning by-law coming before Council will require provisions to close existing loopholes.  The planning process reform must be completed – to ensure that people are engaged earlier and meaningfully consulted on development applications in their community.

Q: Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?
 * A: My wife Liz and I have lived in Ward 25 for 21 years, raising our three sons, Neil, Scott and David here. Ward 25 is a vibrant, wonderful place to live, work and enjoy life.  Ward 25 residents are proud and protective of their neighbourhoods.  Our employment areas on Leslie and Scarsdale and our commercial areas are thriving - but some are at risk from purchase and conversion to residential uses.  Our parks and natural areas are magnificent.  The ravines of the Don Valley are life-giving ribbons of green that benefit the entire City.  Ward 25 is a jewel in Toronto.  I want the best for it.

Q: How are you currently involved in the community?
 * A: To be a conscientious Councillor is to be deeply involved in the community. It requires very frequent attendance at local events and meetings.  It is critical for a Councillor to hear what people have to say about matters affecting their communities, about their hopes and desires for their communities.  I attend many evening meetings with ratepayer groups, with tenant groups, with school organizations and with other community groups.  Doing that is more than a full time job.  Consequently, I've temporarily deferred most voluntary activity – particularly my long-time involvement in my own ratepayer association where I was President for twelve years.  I've also been a junior boys' baseball coach and junior boys' curling team advisor.  My wife Liz, however, maintains her volunteer work.  For many years she was active in Home and School associations as our kids worked their way through school – serving as President from time to time.  As well, she was a volunteer for many years at Tennis Canada – rising to the position of Volunteer Co-ordinator for the annual men's/women's Canadian Open Tennis Championship.  And now, she is a volunteer at Sunnybrook Hospital.

 * And lastly, it runs in the family – all three of our sons have had and continue to have volunteer activities.

Q: What does Toronto mean to you?
 * A: Toronto truly is a city of wonderful neighbourhoods. It is an economic engine that must continue to create jobs.  While creating these jobs and as Toronto continues to grow, we need to ensure that our infrastructure and services support that growth.  We must provide infrastructure and services in a resilient and cost-effective manner.  And we must never forget who we are seeking to serve – the residents of Toronto who live in our wonderful neighbourhoods.  We must provide them with a safe, robust and clean city – one where they can continue to live, work and enjoy life.

Q: Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?
 * A: Council's least desirable decision was its failure to increase development charges to the maximum permitted under provincial law. Development charges are intended to pay for new infrastructure required to support the population growth of the City.  While Council did increase development charges to achieve annual revenues of approximately $50million - $60million.  Our need, on the other hand, is estimated at about $300 million per year.  We currently fund this shortfall by several unsatisfactory means:  increased debt, starving our capital repairs budgets, raiding reserve funds and hand-outs from other orders of government.  The next Council must reconsider this decision.

 * What the City should be most proud of is Council's decision to recommend that corporations and unions no longer be permitted to make contributions to candidates for election to City Council. The provincial government, however, did not implement it.  But, under the new City of Toronto Act, Council will soon have the power to do so itself.  I was co-leader, with Councillor Michael Walker, on this initiative.  When finally implemented, it will reduce the influence of special interest groups – particularly those with an interest in City business – on elected City Councillors.  And more importantly, over time it will result in the election of more community-oriented Councillors.


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Talk:Canada's Trinity—Spadina (Ward 20) city council candidates speak

RAW TEXT LOWRY
What is your name? Doug Lowry

What is your age? 48

What is your current/most recent job/occupation? Settlement Officer, Money Market Operations, TD Securities

What ward are you running in? (# plz) Ward 20

(ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - Describe the three most important issues in your campaign. The 3 more important issues in main campaign are 1. we have to be competitve against Markham and Mississauga so the concentration of work remains in the downtown area, by supporting our business community. Work is changing fast and jobs that used to have to be in the downtown area, do not necessarily have to be, I do not believe Council gets it. 2. we need a Problem Properties Committee which is proactive to fix properties and improve neighbourhoods. 3. we need to encourage people to continue to reinvest in their buidlings, one method is to have solar panels on homes

(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election? The Problem Properties Committee (which can easily exist in every Ward) to tackle problems before they reach crisis and drag on for months. The committee is made up of the Councillor, the police, and city regulation staff, the Councilor is to provide the political will. In this fashion, neighbours can do what neighbours do, enjoy their property.

(ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? In Ward 20, there is no incumbent, I have served on a number of committees in the neighbourhood which allows me to have been exposed to many issues, and I live here and I believe I would do a good job.

Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council? Most of my activities are involved with the Ward, I live in the middle of it, I walk to work through the Ward. My interest in the Ballet - their office is in the Ward, (on the waterfront), although the Four Seasons is just outside. I am the Treasurer of provincial and federal political associations which ecompass the Ward. My doctor(s) are on one side of the Ward, a community centre which I am involved with is on the other side and I try to shop throughout the Ward. This all means I regularly go through the Ward, I am familar with its history and tend to know it the best.

(ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - How are you currently involved in the community? I have active membership in the CLPC - 14 Division, Scadding Court Community Centre, the Waterfront Residents Association, a resident association just outside the Ward, representative of the my building at TCHC, plus I like gardening. These memberships besides going to community meetings, (and holding executive positions) means looking at many types of issues and having links to other groups. These groups means looking at the many different viewpoints on a regular basis, although I have biases, being exposed is good. I (ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What does Toronto mean to you? Toronto to me is both myth and reality, although it pretends it is an open city, it is much more closed than one thinks it should be. Toronto is place to learn and to work and that is why people come here. When I first came to Toronto to study at Ryerson, having the Blue Jays was beneficial to me liking the city. Upon liiving in the City for a couple years, it was time to explore it and that lead to a lifelong appreciation of ballet. Toronto is also opportunity because it is so big, but to see it, you must bring it to a size you are comfortable with. (ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable? Best Council Decision was something that did not make large headlines, but it could have a large impact, Council decided to takeover a derelict property in Parkdale and convert it to housing. Worest Council Decison was a plan by the Nuns in Scarbourgh to convert some of their land to housing and it was turned down.

(NON-INCUMBENTS ONLY) - If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent? Because I believe Toronto is more of a closed socieity, where innovaton happens all to infrequently, I would hope to change this by voting for innovative things. I would hope that I would be able to back those that try to do something better by allowing a degree of failure, to be quickly fixed. I would also, continually thank people for trying to make this city better, most in small ways, but as a group what a difference!!


text:
Canada's Trinity—Spadina (Ward 20) city council candidates speak

November 3, 2006

On November 13, Torontoians will be heading to the polls to vote for their ward's councillor and for mayor. Among Toronto's ridings is Trinity—Spadina (Ward 20). One candidate responded to Wikinews' requests for an interview. This ward's candidates include Desmond Cole, Helen Kennedy, Douglas Lowry, Chris Ouellette, Carmin Priolo, Devendra Sharma, Joseph Tuan, and Adam Vaughan.

For more information on the election, read Toronto municipal election, 2006.

Doug Lowry
48-year-old Doug Lowry is a settlement officer, Money Market Operations, at TD Securities.

Q: Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.
 * A: The 3 more important issues in main campaign are
 * 1. we have to be competitive against Markham and Mississauga so the concentration of work remains in the downtown area, by supporting our business community. Work is changing fast and jobs that used to have to be in the downtown area, do not necessarily have to be, I do not believe Council gets it.
 * 2. we need a Problem Properties Committee which is proactive to fix properties and improve neighbourhoods.
 * 3. we need to encourage people to continue to reinvest in their buildings, one method is to have solar panels on homes

Q: What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?
 * A: The Problem Properties Committee (which can easily exist in every Ward) to tackle problems before they reach crisis and drag on for months. The committee is made up of the Councillor, the police, and city regulation staff, the Councilor is to provide the political will. In this fashion, neighbours can do what neighbours do, enjoy their property.

Q: Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?
 * A: In Ward 20, there is no incumbent, I have served on a number of committees in the neighbourhood which allows me to have been exposed to many issues, and I live here and I believe I would do a good job.

Q: Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?
 * A: Most of my activities are involved with the Ward, I live in the middle of it, I walk to work through the Ward. My interest in the Ballet - their office is in the Ward, (on the waterfront), although the Four Seasons is just outside. I am the Treasurer of provincial and federal political associations which ecompass the Ward. My doctor(s) are on one side of the Ward, a community centre which I am involved with is on the other side and I try to shop throughout the Ward. This all means I regularly go through the Ward, I am familar with its history and tend to know it the best.

Q: How are you currently involved in the community?
 * A: I have active membership in the CLPC - 14 Division, Scadding Court Community Centre, the Waterfront Residents Association, a resident association just outside the Ward, representative of the my building at TCHC, plus I like gardening. These memberships besides going to community meetings, (and holding executive positions) means looking at many types of issues and having links to other groups. These groups means looking at the many different viewpoints on a regular basis, although I have biases, being exposed is good.

Q: What does Toronto mean to you?
 * A: Toronto to me is both myth and reality, although it pretends it is an open city, it is much more closed than one thinks it should be. Toronto is place to learn and to work and that is why people come here. When I first came to Toronto to study at Ryerson, having the Blue Jays was beneficial to me liking the city. Upon living in the City for a couple years, it was time to explore it and that lead to a lifelong appreciation of ballet. Toronto is also opportunity because it is so big, but to see it, you must bring it to a size you are comfortable with.

Q: Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?
 * A: Best Council Decision was something that did not make large headlines, but it could have a large impact, Council decided to takeover a derelict property in Parkdale and convert it to housing.

 * Worst Council Decision was a plan by the Nuns in Scarborough to convert some of their land to housing and it was turned down.

Q: If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?
 * A: Because I believe Toronto is more of a closed society, where innovation happens all to infrequently, I would hope to change this by voting for innovative things. I would hope that I would be able to back those that try to do something better by allowing a degree of failure, to be quickly fixed.

 * I would also, continually thank people for trying to make this city better, most in small ways, but as a group what a difference!!


text:
Canada's Toronto—Danforth (Ward 29) city council candidates speak

November 3, 2006

On November 13, Torontonians will be heading to the polls to vote for their ward's councillor and for mayor. Among Toronto's ridings is Toronto—Danforth (Ward 29). One candidate responded to Wikinews' requests for an interview. This ward's candidates include Diane Alexopoulos, Andrew James, Case Ootes (incumbent), John Richardson, Darryl Smith, and Hamish Wilson.

For more information on the election, read Toronto municipal election, 2006.

Hamish Wilson
49-year-old Hamish Wilson is a writer, consultant, does house repair and is a candidate for Ward 29, Danforth, Toronto.

Q: Describe the three most important issues in your campaign.
 * A: We're heading towards a very nasty changed climate and aren't doing much here to reduce both our emissions nor to alleviate impacts. Transport sector emissions lead our emissions growth yet the slim majority of NDP councilors are persisting with the Front St. Extension project, which hasn't looked at transit options, nor harm to transit from this $255 million 2 km roadway. We have to look at transit instead of cars, and not just on this waterfront project.
 * I'm also very keen on making much safer passage for bikes east-west through the core. Bikes are a real part of solving many ills, though there are dork cyclists. Ensuring safe east-west passage on Bloor St. beside the subway is an important thing to do in all core wards; and it would be cheap to do. See takethetooker.ca. More safety for bikes might ease morning crowds on the Bloor subway a bit too. The incumbent doesn't like bike lanes and is fouling up our progress. Housing affordibility and conditions is another important thing.

Q: What one election issue do you feel is most relevant to your ward in this election?
 * A: Actual leadership towards sustainable transportation, instead of reacting against bike lanes and trying to remove them. Peak oil, climate change, smog are all resulting from our inability to provide other options beyond the mobile furnace.

Q: Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?
 * A: We are all climate criminals to some degree, and to spend over a quarter billion on a road folly while lots of other things fall apart is wrong. The Feb. 21/05 21-19 council vote to keep alive the Front St. Extension and not to explore transit options meant we couldn't trust the NDP to be as progressive as they claim to be. Over time one person can make a difference and one can drag the debate towards certain issues and perspectives.

Q: Why do you want to represent this particular ward on council?
 * A: It's where I live, though I'm recently in the area and the area deserves more aware and constructive representation to try to deal with the problems of the area. It's not simple, there's an awful lot of work and responsibility in such a position.

Q: How are you currently involved in the community?
 * A: I've been deputing over the last four years about the Front St. Extension which is big tax money, I'm on the Toronto Cycling Committee (again - I took off a couple of years, but it's been nearly a decade of bike work, and I'm quite involved in the TaketheTooker.ca effort. I also have had a lot of time with transit groups, and previous volunteer community radio work led to numerous links to environmental and civic groups, such as C4LD, fighting the destructive "amanglemation" deemed by the Harristocracy. And I try to read some papers.

Q: What does Toronto mean to you?
 * A: It's been a home, yet it's also been uncomfortable given housing costs and how gargantuan our energy and resource consumption is though there are many good people trying to do good things. It's a useful place, yet it's also frustrating.

Q: Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least desirable?
 * A: That's a good question - likely working on the waste reduction side of things, but I've been very focussed on deflecting the Front St. Extension, so the 21-19 vote in Feb 21/05 stunk, moreso as most "progressives" kept this Dumb Growth alive.

Q: If you were elected as a "rookie" councilor, What would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent?
 * A: A strong love, not hatred, of bicycles. I'd also be more willing to be harder on automobility but we also have to promote options - I have some ideas and am propositional, not reactionary. With the FSE, I proposed optional transit routes, not just saying No to Dumb Growth. I also have a deep understanding of all the environmental ramifications of our built environment and would try to turn back the thermostat and slow the throughput. I also have a degree of awareness of the political processes at City Hall and many of the politicians too, though part of me wants most of them tossed.


text:
Talk:Canada's Toronto—Danforth (Ward 29) city council candidates speak

RAW TEXT, HAMISH
>What is your name? Hamish Wilson > >What is your age? 49 > >What is your current/most recent job/occupation? >writer/consultant/house repair

>What ward are you running in? (# plz) 29 > > >(ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - Describe the three most important issues in your >campaign. > We're heading towards a very nasty changed climate and aren't doing much here to reduce both our emissions nor to alleviate impacts. Transport sector emissions lead our emissions growth yet the slim majority of NDP councillors are persisting with the Front St. Extension project, which hasn't looked at transit options, nor harm to transit from this $255million 2km roadway. We have to look at transit instead of cars, and not just on this waterfront project. I'm also very keen on making much safer passage for bikes east-west through the core. Bikes are a real part of solving many ills, though there are dork cyclists. Ensuring safe east-west passage on Bloor St. beside the subway is an important thing to do in all core wards; and it would be cheap to do. See takethetooker.ca. More safety for bikes might ease morning crowds on the Bloor subway a bit too. The incumbent doesn't like bike lanes and is fouling up our progress. Housing affordibility and conditions is another important thing.

>(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What one election issue do you feel is most relevant >to your ward in this election? >Actual leadership towards sustainable transportation, instead of reacting >against bike lanes and trying to remove them. Peak oil, climate change, >smog are all resulting from our inability to provide other options beyond >the mobile furnace.

>(ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the >political process? >We are all climate cariminals to some degree, and to spend over a quarter >billion on a road folly while lots of other things fall apart is wrong. The >Feb. 21/05 21-19 council vote to keep alive the Front St. Extension and not >to explore transit options meant we couldn't trust the NDP to be as >progressive as they claim to be. Over time one person can make a difference >and one can drag the debate towards certain issues and perspectives.

>(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - Why do you want to represent this particular ward on >council? >It's where I live, though I'm recently in the area and the area deserves >more aware and constructive representation to try to deal with the problems >of the area. It's not simple, there's an awful lot of work and >responsibility in such a position.

>(ALL, 300 WORDS MAX) - How are you currently involved in the community? >I've been deputing over the last four years about the Front St. Extension >which is big tax money, I'm on the Toronto Cycling Committee (again - I >took off a couple of years, but it's been nearly a decade of bikework, and >I'm quite involved in the TaketheTooker.ca effort. I also have had a lot of >time with transit groups, and previous volunteer community radio work led >to numerous links to environmental and civic groups, such as C4LD, fighting >the destructive "amanglemation" deemed by the Harristocracy. And I try to >read some papers.

> >(ALL, 100 WORDS MAX) - What does Toronto mean to you? >It's been a home, yet it's also been uncomfortable given housing costs and >how gargantuan our energy and resource consumption is though there are many >good people trying to do good things. It's a useful place, yet it's also >frustrating.

>(ALL, 200 WORDS MAX) - Which council decision (since the 2003 election) do >you feel the city/your ward should be most proud of, and which was least >desirable? >That's a good question - likely working on the waste reduction side of >things, but I've been very focussed on deflecting the Front St. Extension, >so the 21-19 vote in Feb 21/05 stunk, moreso as most "progressives" kept >this Dumb Growth alive.

>(NON-INCUMBENTS ONLY) - If you were elected as a "rookie" councillor, What >would you bring to the table beyond the incumbent? A strong love, not hatred, of bicycles. I'd also be more wlling to be harder on automobility but we also have to promote options - I have some ideas and am propositional, not reactionary. With the FSE, I proposed optional transit routes, not just saying No to Dumb Growth. I also have a deep understanding of all the environmental ramifications of our built environment and would try to turn back the thermostat and slow the throughput. I also have a degree of awareness of the poltical processes at City Hall and many of the politicians too, though part of me wants most of them tossed.


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Template:TorontoElection2006

 * Etobicoke North (Ward 1)
 * Etobicoke Centre (Ward 3, 4)
 * Etobicoke—Lakeshore (Ward 5)
 * York West (Ward 7, 8)
 * Parkdale—High Park (Ward 13, 14)
 * Eglinton—Lawrence (Ward 16)
 * Davenport (Ward 17, 18)
 * Trinity—Spadina (Ward 19, 20)
 * St. Paul’s West (Ward 21)
 * Don Valley West (Ward 25, 26)
 * Toronto—Danforth (Ward 29, 30)
 * Beaches—East York (Ward 32)
 * Don Valley East (Ward 33)
 * Scarborough—Agincourt (Ward 39, 40)
 * Scarborough East (Ward 43, 44)

To write, edit, start or view other Canada articles, see the Canada Portal

A infobox for the 2006 Toronto election; New articles not showing?

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