FAQ
Why are you running for Councillor?
I believe in public service and giving back. My interest in public service started in middle school when I participated in a fundraiser for a new MRI machine for the Joseph Brant Hospital. Later, in grade 8, I served as a Legislative Page in the Ontario Legislature. That experience – seeing how ideas and dedicated people make changes – influenced me deeply.
At 33 years old, a new father, I want to use my academic and legal skills to make a difference. I understand the self-discipline, accountability and energy it takes to get the job done. I believe my insights and knowledge will be an asset to fellow Councillors and the City.
This sums the answer to the question: a desire to deliver change for the better, willingness to step forward and the energy to do it.
Why did you choose Ward 5?
Ward 5 is home and where I grew up. I played in the parks, jogged the streets and understand the community.
Top priorities for you?
Burlington needs vision. The future is not tomorrow; it is 5, 10, 20 and 30 years out. Looking at the state of the City’s affairs, we have serious areas for improvement: traffic congestion, high-rise developments in the wrong places and affordability problems for both the young and ageing populations.
Crime is also an issue with increasing instances of home break-ins and car thefts. With dozens of recently reported car thefts in the Ward, the current solutions are clearly inadequate.
I am concerned with the successive years of high property tax increases in Burlington. I worry about the impact of the recurring annual 10% property tax increases for the past four consecutive years. This kind of taxation is unsustainable. It will at some point price-out many Burlingtonians. I have spoken to other City Council candidates in other Wards who are saying the same things. I have the skills to help us manage better future budget outcomes. City spending and budgeting will be different if I am elected with other like-minded fresh voices.
How do you feel running against Burlington’s longest serving (16 years) incumbent?
Respectful and humbled. I admire the incumbent and he has been supportive of me over many years. However, my message is simple: after 16 years and four terms in office, residents deserve the opportunity to consider a fresh perspective.
Experience and institutional knowledge are valuable, and I respect the contributions he has made to our community. At the same time, Burlington is facing new challenges that require new ideas, long-term thinking and leadership that reflects the future we are building. I believe public service is strongest when new voices have the opportunity to step forward while benefiting from the wisdom and experience of those who have served before us.