What do you consider to be the #1 issue/challenge in this ward and what specifi…

I believe one of the biggest challenges facing Ward 2 over the next term will be responding to the increasing demand for social and community services. With the new ward boundaries, Ward 2 is home to a significant number of the organizations people turn to when they need help — including S.H.I.F.T., the Krasman Centre, FOCUS Employment Services, EarlyON and the Alliston Food Bank, among others.

These organizations are dealing every day with issues that are becoming increasingly visible in our community: homelessness and housing insecurity, addiction and mental health challenges, food insecurity, poverty and families struggling with the cost of living.

Many of these services fall under the responsibility of the County, provincial government or other agencies rather than the Town, but that doesn't mean the municipality doesn't have a role to play.

I would like to see stronger communication and coordination between the Town, County and the agencies doing this work on the ground. We need to understand where the gaps are, advocate to the appropriate levels of government for funding and resources, and make sure our own decisions around housing, planning, transportation and community spaces don't create additional barriers.

At the same time, we have to consider the impact on the surrounding neighbourhoods and businesses and make sure residents feel safe and heard. Compassion for people who need help and concern for the safety and quality of life of the broader community are not opposing positions. We have to be able to do both.

These issues aren't going away as New Tecumseth grows. I would rather acknowledge them, bring the right people to the table and work toward practical solutions than wait until the problems become more difficult to manage.