Community Questions

As community members submit questions, I will put the most common here for all to read.

Q - Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so, by whom?

A - I have always had an interest in politics. I can remember as far back as 6th grade taking an interest in federal elections as well as the local races in my riding. Growing up I had a few family members that were politically active and we hosted higher level federal members of a particular party. Just being young and listening to the conversations around the yard in the summer piqued my interest. As I grew older, through my 20's and 30's I mostly kept up-to-date on provincial and federal politics but didn't go too in depth. During this time I also saw/felt a shift in my views from the party that introduced me to politics as a youth -- finding my own footing in life rather than being a product of my environment. Now that I'm in my 40's and have been in municipal government (again, reporting to council) in higher level roles, I'm more immersed in local politics. I won't lie, sometimes when directed by council, I'm torn by my duty of career and my view as a taxpayer of the city/region. I see the projects being undertaken and feel that there are more pressing items to spend money on at the municipal level. Hence the lead platform item of financial responsibility and transparency.

Given that last sentence, I thought about running 4 years ago and the timing just wasn't right. The notion of running has been top of mind for the past 2-3 years and here I am in 2026 running for office. I will say that I wasn't encouraged directly, but when I walk my dog around my neighbourhood and have conversations with my fellow dog-walkers, in recent years they typically close with something along the lines of "you should run for office". Maybe that slow drip of encouragement from various neighbours was enough to make sure I submitted my nomination this year.

Q - As an elected leader, would you be willing to consult with the <local association name here> regarding matters that directly impact us before finalizing your stance on any such issues?

A - Yes. I am not a subject matter expert in the field of <association purview here> and would consult a number of groups that specialize in the field before taking a stance on issues within the field. I believe elected officials should do this for any field of which they are not a subject matter expert. My background is in urban planning, transportation and public transit, so why would I take an immediate stance on anything outside of these areas without consulting folks with greater levels of understanding?

Q - I don't see any donate buttons on your website. How can I donate to your campaign?

A - I’m running to represent Waterloo and I don't believe the community I'm working to serve should fund my campaign. I'm not accepting financial donations but I would be truly grateful for your volunteer support. If you have a few hours to spare, reach out and let's build this together.