My name is Tony Phekoo, and I’m proud to be running for Councillor for Ward 3. New Tecumseth has been my home for two decades, and it’s where my wife and I have raised our three wonderful daughters. My academic qualifications include a Master’s degree in Education, Training, and Development, as well as an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Economics. My professional career has taken me through the federal, provincial, and municipal public sectors, as well as banking, finance, and now my work as a Mortgage Broker. These experiences have taught me the value of accessible, responsive local government. Whether addressing road safety concerns, supporting local businesses, or ensuring tax dollars are used wisely, I am committed to bringing a steady, community focused voice to the council table. Beyond my professional work, I am an active volunteer and supporter of several charitable and nonprofit organizations—another way I give back to the community that has given so much to my family
II am running for Ward 3 Councillor to ensure our local government remains responsive, transparent, and focused on the issues that directly impact your daily life. My vision for our community centers on five core priorities: Safer Roads & Traffic Management: Enhancing road safety, improving traffic flow, and managing speed in our residential neighborhoods and school zones are vital for protecting our families and pedestrians. Infrastructure First Growth should never outpace our roads, healthcare access, and essential services. I will push for development that only moves forward when our infrastructure is ready. As our community grows, growth must pay for growth. I am committed to ensuring that new developments cover their fair share of infrastructure costs so the financial burden doesn't fall on existing homeowners. 📐 Manage Growth Responsibly We need smart, balanced planning—not unchecked expansion. I will advocate for growth that fits our community and protects our quality of life. 🌿 Protect Rural & Community Character Ward 3 is unique. From rural properties to established neighborhoods, I will work to preserve the character and environment that residents value. ⚖️ Fairness & Accountability Residents deserve transparency and a strong voice at council. I will listen, respond, and ensure your concerns are represented. You deserve full visibility into municipal decisions. I will champion open communication, accessible council processes, and active community engagement so your voice is always heard before decisions are made. 💰 Respect for Taxpayers You should see real value for your tax dollars. I support responsible budgeting and ensuring new development contributes its fair share. Every tax dollar must be used wisely and efficiently. I will advocate for fiscal discipline and smart budgeting to deliver maximum value for your hard-earned money.
Asked by Melissa Marshall · 2 months ago
Funding for our new high school has been available since 2021, yet we are still years from breaking ground, while Ontario communities funded after us are already under construction. The Province did not create that delay, council vote did.
For the record: A 2023 closed-session decision delayed the project, with individual votes not readily available. In December 2024, the vote to advance the school was
YES: Norcross, Gabrek, Masters, Jacks and Foster;
NO: MacLellan, Cox and Harrison McIntyre.
Biss and Rapin recused.
Question:
If you were on Council or the Board when these decisions were made, how did you vote, and why?
That delay cost this community roughly two years. What did we gain that justified it? What materially changed about the site, plan or agreement between the 2023 decision and the eventual approval?
If elected, what specific steps will you take to move this project forward now?
Asked by Anonymous · 2 months ago
Asked by Anonymous · 2 months ago
Asked by Anonymous · 2 months ago
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