Guelph Today Survey

How long have you lived in Guelph?

I have lived in the city for 12 years now. I moved to Ward 2 in May 2014 after spending five years watching the housing market and exploring the different neighbourhoods.

Do you reside in the ward you are running in?

Yes

Why are you running in this election?

I love Guelph! It is my chosen city. I am running to represent Ward 2 in this election to provide service to the greatest number of people at the level of government closest to the residents. Municipal government affects the day-to-day lives of every person in the city, and I want to collaborate with Ward 2 residents to create a more connected community that cares for the needs of all our neighbourhoods.

Why should people vote for you?

Over the past four years, I have been doing the work of council. I have been preparing for this role since 2020, and have delegated to council over 75 times since 2018. I know what is required and am ready to be a full time city councillor. My background as an administrative professional for over 30 years provides me with diverse knowledge across various industries. Developing forecasts for multinational wastewater treatment projects, implementing the "gold standard" in Compliance Protocol, and ensuring international export laws were followed are a few of the duties of one role.

Ward 2 residents consist of both homeowners and renters; who better to represent these  groups than someone who has been both?

When reaching conclusions, I combine the opinions I have heard with the hard facts available to reach a decision which represents the best possible outcome for those most affected by that decision. I believe that "changing your mind proves you have one" and will always remain open to change when new information becomes available.

What do you see as the three top issues facing Guelph residents right now?

1. Affordability / cost of living

2. Housing

3. Safety

What is the most important thing you want to see changed in Guelph?  

I want to bring a greater diversity of voices to how we govern in this City. Augmenting existing spaces and creating new spaces where more people feel safe to participate in how this city operates is necessary for democracy to be truly representative. My lived experience with housing precarity and food insecurity brings an underrepresented perspective to council. I respect the work that has been done over this past term of council that has brought good, necessary change, especially with regard to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and I believe we still have work to do.

What is the most important thing you don’t want to see change in Guelph?

The vibrant arts and culture in Guelph is what drew me here as a teenager, and I want this city to maintain its welcoming spirit for people who provide these necessary parts of life.

Is Guelph growing too fast, just the right amount, or not fast enough?

The rate of population growth in Guelph has been relatively steady for decades and that rate of growth had been maintained, until recently. We now have over 9,000 approved housing units waiting for developers to put shovels in the ground. Once those 9,000+ have been built and occupied, ask me again.

What makes Guelph great?

Guelph has people who care about one another, and show that care through so many grassroots organizations that make Guelph great.