The Grand Trunk is the most consequential decision on the council's agenda. The architect's report is unambiguous: $9 million to rehabilitate a $46 million asset. Whatever emerges on that site must preserve the industrial character, maintain the YMCA and UW campus presence, and anchor the western downtown core for generations.
Letting that asset sit vacant or selling it at a discount would be an irreversible mistake. Mixed use, heritage-led, affordable housing included—that's the framework. The financial case makes itself.
The Grand Trunk is the most consequential decision on the council's agenda. The financial case is unambiguous: $9 million to rehabilitate a $46 million asset. Whatever emerges must preserve the industrial character, maintain the YMCA and UW campus presence, and anchor the western downtown core for the next century.
"The Grand Trunk is a once-in-a-generation decision. The numbers are clear: $9 million to rehabilitate a $46 million asset. I want to see a mixed-use heritage hub that includes affordable housing, secures the UW campus, and creates a digital gateway at our new GO station. We have one chance to get this right. I have the heritage and planning background to make sure we do."
Actively support Heritage Stratford Committee. Push back against the province's erosion of heritage protections under Bill 23. Advocate for design guidelines that allow density without destroying character.
"Heritage Stratford Committee does vital work with limited resources. My uncle chaired its predecessor body for years—I know what the committee does and what it needs. I would push back hard on any provincial move that weakens local heritage review, and I would make Heritage Stratford's advisory role a first-term priority."
A living, walkable downtown with independent businesses is the city's most valuable non-renewable resource. Support the BIA and the Attainable Housing CIP to ensure the core remains vibrant for residents and workers, not just tourists.
"The downtown doesn't work for everyone right now. Housing costs, business vacancies, and wellness challenges are all connected. The BIA, the city, and social services need to be pulling in the same direction. I'd push for an integrated activation plan—not three separate strategies."
Heritage Stratford Committee and the Planning & Heritage Sub-committee are the natural home. Seeking appointment to Heritage Stratford Committee as a first-term priority.
"Heritage Stratford Committee is where my background is most directly applicable. My uncle chaired LACAC for years—I grew up around this work. I'd seek appointment in the first term and bring both the academic depth and the community relationships the committee needs."