Fund new public infrastructure
More choice is better. This is especially true when it comes to how we move around our ward and city, not just by car but by transit and everything else in between. Choice will make our communities more resilient, prosperous and vibrant. With this in mind, it is unfathomable that very little has been done in the past 4 years to move public transit projects (LRT/BRT) forward in the newer communities of Ward 5, areas that so desperately need it.
Strengthen public safety
Safety is necessary to any healthy society and it can be improved upon in a number of ways. As Councillor, I will work to ensure additional resources are invested in the Calgary Police Service while also utilizing other complimentary institutions/organizations in order to ensure a reduction in crime but with a more proactive approach.
Provide better public services
Public services such as snow removal, maintenance of public spaces and lack of appropriate public lighting are just some of the concerns that keep popping up in my conversations with residents of Ward 5. This is for good reason, as many corners of the NE have been neglected and fallen in disrepair over the years.
Build sustainable neighbourhoods
For too long the city has developed based on a short sighted vision, building new districts without access to basic services while allowing existing neighborhoods to decline. This approach to development is not sustainable. We can no longer afford to build communities in ways that dilutes limited resources, leaving both existing and new neighborhoods under-served and lacking the most basic services.
Invest in community-led regeneration
The key to healthier communities is engaging our citizens on topics that are most important to them and empowering them to shape their future. More community participation in budgeting and spending is important not only for the NE but for the city at large. In the old neighborhoods of Ward 5, what was built in the 1980’s is simply outdated and we must work together in order to modernize these legacy neighborhoods of our ward. In the newer neighbourhoods of our quadrant, what we build today will dictate how we live in the next 30 years. As a result, we have to make sure that what is planned and built today is done right and this can only happen if we involve our local residents and avoid the mistakes of the past.
Ensure smart and responsible spending
As every person aims to get the most out of their money so too should the city. Unfortunately, past and current administration’s approach on spending has lead to City Hall demanding higher property taxes while delivering sub-par public services. With every new project, with every new contract, I will do my very best to make sure that the money being spent by City Hall is in the best interest of our community and our city as a whole, not just in the short term, but more importantly in the long term.