Wanting to get to know Windsor’s municipal election candidates better? CTV asked them questions to give you some more insight into their platforms. Mayor Benjamin Danyluk Danyluk has declined to provide written statements. Aaron Day Why are you running for Mayor of Windsor? I’m running for mayor because our Canadian Charter of Rights were violated and I wanted to campaign on a message of holding those accountable for violating our Charter of Rights. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the city and how will you address it? The most important issue is starting to be the drug epidemic. I would address it by introducing a framework called “The Clean Canada Act”. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My three top priorities would be to hold those accountable who violated citizens’ Charter of Rights, addressing the housing crisis, and addressing the drug epidemic. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I differ from other candidates because I’ve had experience leading people in the sports realm, as well as in the workforce. I have acquired a vast skillset as well as knowledge that would translate to any role. From the blueprints to the completed project, I not only know how to do the job, but I have done the job. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? One promise I can make to voters is I will protect their Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, regardless of situation or circumstance. You can hold me accountable for that not for four years, but forever. Drew Dilkens - Incumbent Why are you running for Mayor of Windsor? I want to finish the job I started. I have had the pleasure and privilege of serving as mayor for the past 12 years. Over that time, we have accomplished some incredible things together as a community. We established long-term goals for economic development that brought a $6 billion battery factory to Windsor; got our hospital project back on track, with construction officially underway; and saw the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge. I also led city council to ensure Windsor remains an affordable community in which to live, while rolling out the 50-year Sewer and Coastal Flood Protection Master Plan, Housing Solutions Made for Windsor to help address the national housing crisis, and the Strengthen the Core: Downtown Windsor Revitalization Plan to address the challenges we are facing downtown. I want to complete the critical required work to secure our economic and housing future by ensuring the Sandwich South area is funded and able to offer Windsor a strong economic future for the next 50 years. This election is about standing up for this community in every way. It’s about choosing experienced leadership that delivers results; the person with the proven track record to make a difference, and who is qualified and ready to lead from day one. I’m tried and tested, experienced and ready, and I’ve proven I deliver results that Windsorites expect and deserve. And that is really what this election is about. I love this job and I love my city – our city. I look forward to continuing to work with the folks gathered here today, and so many others in the years ahead. Because we are Windsor Strong. Together. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the city and how will you address it? At present, the most important issue facing the city is how global economic uncertainties are impacting every aspect of our daily lives. The tariff and trade war with the U.S. has implications for communities across Canada, but Windsor – as an international gateway between nations – is ground zero for these impacts. Our economy, industries, jobs, families, neighbourhoods are all at risk, and we need proven and experienced leadership that delivers results to safeguard our community and stand up for Windsor, Ontario and Canada when it matters most. That’s why my overall platform includes commitments and plans to: Protect affordability: Keep property tax increases at or below inflation; new committee for Finance and Economic Development. Attract jobs: 2,500 new jobs over four years; make Sandwich South ‘shovel ready’ for job creators; guarantee permit processing times; create a Health R&D district around the new hospital; support legacy employers; establish Windsor-Essex as a strategic location for defence manufacturing. Safeguard against uncertainty: Fight the trade war with “Buy Windsor” and “Buy Canada” plans; seek funding for hosting the Gordie Howe International Bridge; help small businesses with new programs & a trade-impacted CIP. Continue responsible city building: Stand firm against a four units as-of-right housing policy; deliver the roads, sewers & infrastructure to connect residents to the new hospital; upload E.C. Row to the province and invest savings in residential roads. Build more homes, faster: Reduce development charges by 70 per cent for the next three years; Facilitate 5,000 new homes in Sandwich South; complete downtown housing developments; create new Solidarity Tower and Meadowbrook-style projects to support affordable housing; expropriate land from Ambassador Bridge to revitalize Olde Sandwich Towne. Launch a safety first plan: Establish a new real-time operations centre for police; expand Project Greenlight through all BIAs; expand traffic calming and build towards Vision Zero; add sidewalks, bike lanes and lighting to collector roads; extend proactive by-law outreach with nursing supports citywide. Strengthen the Core downtown: Move the Downtown Mission off Ouellette and co-locate with an upgraded H4; create The Village at The Barn transitional supportive housing; advocate for involuntary treatment options; create the new Central Library at City Hall Square. Investing in parks and public spaces: Fund the largest parks and public spaces renewal program in Windsor’s history; open the Ojibway National Urban Park; preserve Peche Island; redevelop Sandpoint Beach & Festival Plaza; fund more public art; make Experience Windsor a free annual event. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? I am focused on creating and sustaining a Windsor that is a safe, affordable, vibrant, and thriving community, with opportunities, services and supports available for everyone. My top three priorities for the city for the next term, and the plans I have to implement them are: 1. Affordability and quality of life I’ve committed to keeping taxes at or below the rate of inflation for the next four years to protect affordability; invest record amounts in infrastructure, services, and quality of life; upload E.C. Row to the province and re-invest the approximately $7.5 million in savings into local roads; reduce and freeze development charges by 70 per cent for the next three years; create Solidarity Tower 2.0 and Meadowbrook 2.0 affordable and attainable housing developments; expropriate lands in Olde Sandwich Towne to revitalize the historic neighbourhood and spur affordable housing; make “Experience Windsor” permanent; investing in the largest parks and public spaces rehabilitation program in the City’s history; opening the Ojibway National Urban Park; saving Peche Island; and implementing the Sandpoint Beach Master Plan. 2. Economic development and job creation When it comes to economic development and job creation in an uncertain and hypercompetitive world, a target helps focus the mind and drive all players towards a common goal. That’s why I played the long game when leading the Windsor Works economic development strategy and working to attract NextStar. Residents know I’m a fighter when it comes to attracting investment and job creation in Windsor. The city cannot control international trade dynamics, but in areas where the municipality is responsible, I have plans to keep attracting and retaining investment in jobs right here at home. I’ve committed to helping create the conditions where entrepreneurs and businesses want to locate in Windsor, and I’ve targeted facilitating the creation of 2,500 new jobs over the next four years. I’m committed to moving forward with servicing the Sandwich South lands to create the shovel ready conditions for job creators; leveraging the new hospital we fought for to ensure a Health Research and Development district gets built to drive job creation in life sciences, biotech, medtech, and applied health research; launching a business expansion and retention program for legacy and current employers; and partner with Invest WindsorEssex to market our community as a strategic location for new defence production to align with the Government of Canada’s objective of more domestic production. 3. Community safety and wellbeing As a former auxiliary police officer and long-serving Chair of the Windsor Police Service Board,I know what is required to keep our community safe and secure. With my current campaign platform, I’m proposing a holistic approach to community safety and policing that reinforces crime prevention, addresses the root causes of security concerns, and sets bold targets for enhanced safety. I’ve committed to a “Safety First” plan that calls for establishment of a new Real-Time Operations Centre for Windsor Police Service; expanding Project Greenlight throughout all Business Improvement Areas; expanding traffic calming measures in all wards and building towards full implementation of Vision Zero; adding additional active transportation features like sidewalks and bike lanes to Windsor’s collector roads; extending proactive by-law outreach into all wards, including public health and nursing staff to address areas of concern in real time; and implementing a zero-tolerance initiative for hate, harassment, and intimidation, ensuring that hate-motivated crimes are treated seriously and consistently. The collaborative downtown revitalization plan I released expands on Strengthen the Core; identifies and incentivizes lands to create an economic development area and spur job creation; completes upgrades at H4; moves the Downtown Mission off Ouellette and co-locates its services at H4; seeks funding for The Village at The Barn transitional and supportive housing; redevelops Festival Plaza; revitalizes the downtown Windsor International Transit Terminal; and so much more. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I have led this community as its mayor for 12 years, after successfully serving residents of Ward 1 as their councillor. I have the education, qualifications, and leadership experience that delivers results for Windsor. My focus on the long game led to the development of strategic plans like Windsor Works, Strengthen the Core, Housing Solutions Made for Windsor, the Sewer and Coastal Flood Protection Master Plan, and more, that have paved the way to the future we have been working to build. When I promise to deliver, I do, and Windsorites have seen that time and again, across all opportunities and challenges. Most importantly, everything I’ve done to build up our city has happened while protecting affordability. I don’t have to suggest what I ‘might’ accomplish when it comes to affordability – the proof is there. In 2026, with affordability top of mind, I promised – and delivered – a 0 per cent municipal property tax levy increase, all while maintaining public services and increasing the capital budget for public infrastructure renewal, and launching the largest local road rehabilitation and repair program in Windsor’s history. Windsor has had the lowest tax levy increases of any city in Ontario. We’ve saved saved taxpayers a cumulative $1.57 billion from 2008-2026, which translates into $104 million in perpetual annual savings. Since 2006, Windsor residents have experienced a total increase in the tax levy of only 24 per cent against the provincial average of 87 per cent, with the average Windsor taxpayer paying approximately $5,402 annually in total residential charges, including water, wastewater, stormwater, and property taxes. That’s $1,300 less than the provincial average of $6,778. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? While protecting affordability, investments in infrastructure and quality of life, and focusing on neighbourhood safety, revitalization and housing, I will oppose four units as-of-right and protect neighbourhoods and the largest investment most people make – their homes. Four units as-of-right" is a federal housing policy that allows property owners to build up to four residential units (such as a fourplex or a main house with three extra rental suites) on a single residential lot without needing a special zoning change or public hearing. Almost two years ago, the government of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attempted to impose their ill-conceived ideology regarding four-by-right in communities across Canada. Windsor residents reacted swiftly and strongly and demanded Windsor city council oppose the move. As Mayor, I led the charge to oppose the scheme and won. Even if that meant declining to accept federal funding, the issue was just too important to back down on. At the doors and in conversations, I keep hearing this issue come up again and again. This election will bring about massive change at City Hall – four wards will have new councillors elected in October. Residents need to know where candidates stand. I called on all candidates for office, those running for mayor and those running for ward seats, to spell out where they stand on “four-by-right” zoning policies. I answered quickly and clearly: No. Period. Full stop. Their response to this question should be a simple one-word answer: “Yes” or “No”. Anything more – voters beware! Fred Francis Why are you running for Mayor of Windsor? I am asking for your vote because it is time for change in Windsor. Here is the truth. 12 years is a long time. Long enough to see what a leader can do, and what they cannot. If it has not been done yet, another four years will not make a difference. The same leadership with the same approach will bring the same results. That is why Windsor needs change. This election is about priorities and putting you first. Mine are simple, basics before vanity and you before politics. My plan will: • Revitalize our downtown • Create real affordability with more jobs and less taxes • Make our streets and neighbourhoods safer • End Strong Mayor powers I will measure our success the way you do, by what gets done. Now picture Windsor with a downtown full of life. A city council that listens and decides together. Your tax dollars reflecting your priorities. That is change that works for you. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the city and how will you address it? This election is about priorities and putting the people of Windsor first. My plan will revitalize our downtown, create real affordability with more jobs and lower taxes, make our streets and neighbourhoods safer, and end Strong Mayor powers. I have an extensive plan to revitalize our downtown that will make our streets safer, focus on building more affordable permanent housing, coordinate support in our community for those experiencing homelessness, and invest in initiatives that will make our downtown more liveable and successful. With respect to making Windsor more affordable, we need to consider the full city bill residents and businesses are paying and put an end to out-of-control spending at City Hall. My plan puts residents first by investing in our priorities, reducing our debt, increasing our reserves, and spending your tax dollars responsibly. Windsor’s neighbourhoods belong to our residents. They deserve to be safe, welcoming, and attractive, with modern infrastructure and amenities that families and residents can enjoy and take pride in. My plan focuses on safety, security, and crime reduction in all Windsor neighbourhoods. On my first day as mayor, I will end Strong Mayor powers. Windsor City Hall should be open, accessible, and accountable to the people it serves. City councillors must be empowered and more involved in the decision-making process that governs our city. More action will be taken to ensure residents are informed and active participants in the decisions that affect them. Finally, members of the media must have fair and appropriate access to elected officials in order to hold them accountable for the decisions they make and help keep the public informed. Please read more about my detailed plan at francisformayor.ca. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? • End Strong Mayor Powers. • Make Windsor more affordable, strengthen our local economy, and create more jobs. • Revitalize our downtown. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I bring political and real-world business experience to this mayoral race, and I am fully committed to the job. Having served three terms as a city councillor, I understand how City Hall works and where improvements are needed. I have extensive experience in both the for-profit and non-profit sector, including more role as executive director at the Multicultural Council of Windsor-Essex County. My expertise will allow me to hit the ground running on day one as mayor. I will not use Strong Mayor powers. My approach to leadership is collaborative, focused on building consensus, and grounded in working together to get things done. I have a clear plan to make positive change for Windsor. More details about my priorities and plan can be found at francisformayor.ca. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? To end the use of Strong Mayor Powers in the City of Windsor. Dylon Graves CTV News is awaiting a response. Tara Grayer Why are you running for Mayor of Windsor? Tara is running for Mayor of Windsor to ensure moving forward, the city reaches its best. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? Tara believes the largest issues facing the city is the safety of our borders, our residents, and our streets, mental health and wellness, and homelessness. Tara would address it by incorporating a strategy, a plan that includes and combines engagement with citizens and local resources that can improve the current state of the city’s existence. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? See above. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? Tara differs from fellow candidates as she does not have a political affiliation. Tara is not endorsed by any corporations and therefore does not have a conflict of interest. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I am the how, whereas they are the where, what, why, when and who. I promise that today I will put my best foot forward to improve this city. Nick Kolasky Why are you running for Mayor of Windsor? After 23 years of Dilkens and the Francis brothers, our city has decayed. It’s been a matter of dollars and sense. OUR DOLLARS, NO SENSE! Wasteful spending on multiple ‘vanity projects’ and building giveaways have been combined with cutbacks in services due to attrition and escalating fee increases. Infrastructure has taken a back seat to those vanity projects. I am running for mayor because Windsorites deserve better. We deserve a revitalized city, not a decaying city and an intelligent, fiscally responsible mayor who will put Windsor first. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? This is my third run as a candidate here in Windsor. All three times, the most important issue for me was the homeless. Thank you, Windsor. Now the polls show the homeless issue as Windsor’s number one issue of concern. Earlier this year, Dilkens and Agostino went to Minneapolis and came back with a plan to put 100 homeless at the barn at a cost of $55 - $60 million. Or, $600,000 each! It would be cheaper to buy them two condo units each, than house one homeless person under that plan. The building in Minneapolis is 6 years old. The barn is 101 years old. The barn would be a renovation nightmare! A few years ago, Peterborugh built homes for the homeless at $40,000 each. Dilkens’ plan for the barn is just bad business. I would house the homeless in smaller hubs around the city. There are many empty lots and vacant factories city-wide. The mayor stated at a debate we both attended last Thursday that he wanted to keep the homeless in the core. I believe the core, along with the manufacturing base, should be the economic engines of the city. I would disperse the homeless to smaller hubs throughout the city, instead of a much more expensive large centralized hub. The homeless could receive routine health care via an outreach-type van and mental health or substance abuse counseling onsite. Once a homeless person has a fixed address, it is much easier to conduct ongoing counseling. Housing the homeless would result in lower policing costs in the core. Windsorites and our neighbours would be more likely to go to, stay longer and shop in the core. Tourists would be more likely to stay longer and return. This would result in more businesses staying open and increased revenue, which would lead to increased tax revenue and an increase in commercial property values. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My top three priorities are: Regarding number two, there is a long list of reckless spending. Not just the choices, but also not bringing them in on budget. The skating rink and trolley were first approved by city hall at a cost of under $5 million. The final cost was over $27 million combined. The library was sold for $3.5 million. Two years later, it was announced we needed a new library at a cost of $25 million. Eight years later, the central library has been moved to temporary locations twice, probably eating up over half of the sale price. Other than another empty building, (the old library,) nothing has happened. Regarding number three, unfortunately, there is nothing any mayor could do about prices at the grocery store or the gas station. I would tax housing and empty residential lots at an escalating and potentially exponential rate after they’ve been empty for two or three years. Owners would be very strongly encouraged to fix up and sell or rent out their empty houses, and build on or sell their empty lots. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I am a retired businessman who studied Commerce in university. It is totally against my nature and work experience to your waste money. Also, I am very, very well traveled. I have a world of ideas to share with Windsor. I don’t have any school buddies or political supporters who I want to or am obliged to take care of in the future. For me, it’s all about improving Windsor for all of us. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I make two pledges. First, to clean up the core by housing the homeless. Second, to not waste your money. Windsor first! Tristan Ty Morencie Morencie provided the following statement: I’m running for mayor because I have a vision to “Make Windsor Great Again”. Draining the Swamp of the fraud & corruption Cleaning up the drug crisis & crime epidemic 1950’s Golden Era Capitalism That’ll save our economy. It’ll bring more factories & industrial jobs we’re supposed too be a Automotive Industry,vehicle manufacturing is a big part of this city’s economic development. Car companies should be getting created within Windsor Rose City will eventually, over time, become the next New York City. Kat Pasquach Why are you running for mayor of Windsor? I want Windsor residents to understand that I entered this race because I believe the municipal government can feel closer to the people it serves. I am not promising that one mayor can fix every problem in four years. We’ve seen that they can’t even with 12 years of leadership. I am promising that I will listen, ask difficult questions, work effectively with the councillors you elect and take responsibility for the decisions we make. My priorities come from what I have heard from residents: Housing people can afford, reliable services, safer streets, stronger neighbourhoods, responsible spending, and a City Hall that people can actually engage with. To build a culture at City Hall respects and listens to workers and their frustrations with decisions that affect their autonomy in the workplace. I have spent months working to advocate and fight to be the voice of residents that feel disenfranchised from City Hall. Residents that have not seen themselves represented in decision making, residents that have not seen the city meet their needs. I have built a campaign that brings us back down to earth with the day-to-day challenges residents face. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the city, and how would you address it? We must treat addiction and homelessness as the healthcare and social crises they are. We will leverage and rely on compassionate data driven solutions that help solve the root of the problem, rather than continuously support ineffective, inhumane bandaid ideas. Focusing on distributed daytime services and fund decentralized daytime hubs that provide basic human dignity: Bathrooms, showers, laundry, and meals. We need to allocate resources for vital community lifelines, like our shelters that are perpetually underfunded or not supported. Supervised consumption services are needed to keep overdoses to a minimum and protect both users and the public. We need to advocate for, pursue and seek the necessary provincial and federal approvals for evidence-based supervised consumption services, taking them away has created conditions for open and active drug use on our streets. Providing these private, safe spaces across the city will directly reduce open drug use, increase residents safety, and provide opportunities for one on one outreach and support. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? Responsible spending and transparent government with a public accountability report showing information in easy to understand language that is accessible to residents. Safer streets and better maintained neighbourhoods that focus on road maintenance, traffic safety near schools, and high traffic areas. Implementing vision zero will decrease the reported incidents of collisions, eliminating traffic fatalities and severe injuries in our city. We have to expedite the adoption and implementation of it in our city and protect our neighborhoods. Looking at youth programming and build opportunities that are available throughout the city. I want to build new and increased engagement with youth in the 12-24 demographic. This will be through recreation, community centres and volunteer opportunities. We need to invest in our future. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I represent a genuinely different perspective in this race. I have experience in housing, business, administration, governance, the arts, and community building, but I am not attached to the political relationships that have shaped City Hall for the last 12 years. My time dedicated to volunteering to the community has been through other governance positions throughout Windsor. I have experienced what it’s like to live with the decisions made by City Hall and what it is like trying to work with the city when you hit barriers. I have been frustrated with processes and decisions made by the city. I feel I’ve experienced what a lot of residents actively experience in their day to day lives and I am here to bring the voice of change our city needs. This includes experience with facing the threat of being homeless myself and relying on social services. I am fortunate I had a network of support come through for me, that many unhoused do not have. I bring a perspective and lived experience that we have not seen in the mayor’s seat for a long time. We have not had a woman as mayor for over 40 years. I have spent my career bringing community together to make decisions collectively and I know how to run an organization empowering others. I know what it feels like to deal with City Hall as a resident and as a business owner and I can bring a different perspective of lived experience to leadership in our city. I am comfortable saying I do not have every answer, and that I look to work collaboratively with those who will help address those answers. Bringing in experts and elevating voices of workers who have first hand knowledge and experience running our city services. Elevating those around me who best understand the problems, listen to them, and put forward proposals based on evidence-informed practice. Most importantly I can take responsibility for what happens next. That is the kind of leadership I would bring to the mayor’s office, and this is the kind of leadership Windsor deserves. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? Access for residents to voice their concerns at City Hall and build a strong communication strategy that works both ways for residents. The opportunity to hear progress at City Hall and opportunities to engage with city committees, who will meet regularly or as needed. Committee work that is supported with the proper resources to move forward with recommendations. The city also needs to establish benchmarking reports or scorecards on priorities for residents to review. With respect to council meetings looking at best practices that ensure the voices of residents are heard and are able to actively participate by removing barriers that currently exist. Patrick Sutherland Why are you running for Mayor of Windsor? I am running for mayor for several reasons. Several people asked me to run against Drew in 2022 and again in 2026. Our city is getting worse for most people especially those in Ward 2, 3, and 4. The elderly are fed up. The youth are bitter. There is nothing for them to do. Drew is a great speaker but he has shortcomings. City employees cannot stand him. He is not easy to deal with. He lacks the interpersonal skills to welcome and facilitate economic development which could transform the Rose City into a Global Financial Centre and a Central Tourist Hub offering a diverse Cultural and Artistic base. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? If elected my top three priorities are: Bringing All Levels of Government, Police, Court Officials/Judges/ Corrections and Community Leaders To The Table Collaborating To Incarcerate and Eradicate the Several Hundred Drug Traffickers in the City. Housing The Homeless - Immediately Building Homes Across The City/County Offering Mobile Wrap Around Services Implementing the Housing First Model(Helsinki Finland) Incorporating a 25% Affordable Housing Mandate. Lowering All Building Fees and Commercial Property Taxes Removing any Obstacles to Economic Devopment, Global Investment and Job Growth. Incentives, Incentives, and More Incentives. The Property Taxes and Investment Into The Municipality will increase over time making up for Initial Losses. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? If elected my top three priorities are: Bringing All Levels of Government, Police, Court Officials/Judges/ Corrections and Community Leaders To The Table Collaborating To Incarcerate and Eradicate the Several Hundred Drug Traffickers in the City. Housing The Homeless - Immediately Building Homes Across The City/County Offering Mobile Wrap Around Services Implementing the Housing First Model(Helsinki Finland) Incorporating a 25% Affordable Housing Mandate. Lowering All Building Fees and Commercial Property Taxes Removing any Obstacles to Economic Devopment, Global Investment and Job Growth. Incentives, Incentives, and More Incentives. The Property Taxes and Investment Into The Municipality will increase over time making up for Initial Losses. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? Here’s one way to answer that... On my way to the Mayoral Debate at Caesars I met a young woman in the bushes. I asked her if she was ok. I asked if she wanted a coffee on my way back. She answered yes that would be nice. She then stated...You’re not like the others! I smiled and said, No I am not like them at all lol. If Elected I would be the first person of Colour and the first person in the Midfle to Lower Income Bracket. I have housed over 10 Houseless Persons myself. Most are now clean and living productive lives in their own place. This is God’s will. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? One thing I can promise the voters today and keep me accountable in four years is Total Transparency. They can see all my possessions and financials at any point. I have nothing to hide. I am willing to wear a video cam for four years while Mayor to see and hear everything. The voters are the boss. Power is in the hands of the people! Louis Vaupotic Why are you running for Mayor of Windsor? I remember when the Windsor Spitfires were looking for a new home, and I had assumed it would have been downtown. Then there was the Freedom Gondola proposal while the OLGC was planning the Casino expansion. I knew the Freedom Gondola plan would fail from the start since they were asking for land in the wrong places. I lived in Chicago during the time McCormick Place was under construction and read how it was designed to be the ideal convention facility. I developed a proposal in 2005 to hopefully make the casino more recession proof in the future. The proposal did include my proposed gondola and ferry. I sent a copy to the CEO of the OLGC and the City of Windsor. I guess the proposal was interesting enough for an invite to meet Ron Barbaro, CEO of the OLGC at the time. He said the planning process was too far along to be considered. I still have a copy of my original proposal and still feel Windsor would have been better off if my first plan was implemented. I then revised the plan to include the vertiport. The current plan is the most comprehensive and best plan ever proposed and there will never be a better opportunity for the City of Windsor. From the last election cycle I still am not sure if the city is open to allowing the gondola support tower on the riverfront. I went to a few ward meetings and the best response I could get was that there was no interest in a new U.S. Port of Entry and that was the best response I got. I decided to run again to ensure my vision is moved forward at this critical time. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? The most important current issue for Windsor within the next year will be if Windsor will choose to participate, and exponentially compound the economic return of the Redeveloped REN CEN for the entire region on both sides of the border. General Motors had spent $1 billion U.S. upgrading the REN CEN under expert management which did not work out well in the end. Money and experts do not always guarantee success. I go to the public REN CEN development meetings and have the opportunity to meet with Bedrock and GM executives. They plan to spend $2.24 billion U.S. and expect $3 billion U.S. in visitor spending over 30 years. The People Mover Stop will be separated from the REN CEN and redesigned, while the State of Michigan plans to rework Jefferson which provides a favourable opportunity for the gondola and vertiport landing which may never exist again. The ability for pedestrians to always move in a forward motion from the REN CEN then over to Windsor, then over the Gordie Howe Bridge and then back to the REN CEN will become a worldwide tourist attraction. A multi-ride day pass hopefully will be combined with Windsor and Detroit city bus services to help bring extra revenue to improve service and revitalize a broader area of both cities. The vertiport will enable all Windsor industrial businesses to be connected within minutes to local U.S. industry to create unmatched service. The vertiport will enable time sensitive research collaboration between educational and medical institutions on both sides of the border which will be unique to this area. Bedrock is now at least considering my proposal just because I presented myself in person and I suggested a way to make the project even better. I also suggested trying to tap into the U.S. directed Gordie Howe Bridge money to pay or finance the project. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? I would create a few conceptual drawings of my international multi modal transportation hub on both sides of the border including potential expansion capabilities on the U.S. side to create interest and have people demand it. I would question the Amtrak single daily train to Windsor and wanting Canadian Federal Government money to make it a reality. The maximum U.S. Amtrak ridership to Canada was only 125,000 passengers back in 1997 which indicates it wasn’t as popular as people believe it was. I would indicate that everyone would be better off if Amtrak trains just went past Pontiac, and connected to Toledo and Cleveland. This would result in more tourism for Windsor, and have Detroit pay for a study to prove me wrong. The perfect place for the downtown library would be on the second floor just below the gondola landing which is where I would place it. This would serve as both a waiting area and library and end up being the most well used library in the city of Windsor. The riverfront festival plaza renewal would wait until the new REN CEN designs are tested by the public and adjustments could be made here. The only guarantee to prevent someone from drowning is to lock the gate when there is no lifeguard on duty at Sandpoint Beach. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I am the only person that has proposed a viable new project that will create thousands of jobs. Just go to the website and take a look at detroitwindsorgondola.com. I am the only person at this point in time that will revitalize downtown Windsor and support the casino. I would try to fund the project with Gordie Howe Bridge profits that are destined for the U.S. My father rented furnished rooms as a side hobby and maybe I thought it was bad back then, but compared to today it’s just not worth it. I had young kids and the wife put a stop to renting rooms. You have to deal with not getting paid, people fall asleep with a cigarette and the unit catches on fire, police kicking down the door, mostly drunks passed out in the hall, suicide, attempted murder, and break ins and that was back then. The drugs have destroyed the core, and the first step would be to arrest more drug dealers. If they continue to get arrested you may have to publicly display their face on a platform of some type until they change their ways or leave town. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I would promise to trial test a future Private Owner Occupied Multi Unit Bridge Loan. The city would provide a short term temporary loan from vacant land until the project is complete and the owner is able to get a regular loan which is the goal. The city would work to get a better return than having cash in the bank. This would be a one time loan. The owner must live in the unit . Designed to be tested for one to eight units. The trade off is that one or two units would have geared to income rent for transitional tenants. If the homeowner can’t get a regular loan then the city will rent all units as subsidized except the owners unit until the loan is paid off. The owner would also be required to take a mentoring course for people in transition. The owner would be required to be present for a FaceTime meeting with the tenant and a social worker as needed, depending how the tenant is adjusting. There would have to be a common entrance to the building where the owner is always able to interact with the tenant. The owner would be guaranteed payment and support with the tenant. There would also be a tenant code of conduct. This concept could be spread across the city if successful. The close mentoring relationship between the owner and the tenant provides the best possible opportunity for success. Ward 1 Councillor Henry De Cordova Why are you running for councillor of Ward 1 in Windsor? Through my time as a City of Windsor employee in Finance Subsidies, and Housing, and Children’s Services, I saw firsthand how decisions made at City Hall land in real households. I am running for Ward 1 councillor because all our neighbourhoods deserve an objective, community-first advocate who refuses to get stuck in the political tunnel vision of the past. Too often, we see candidates and council members repeating the same safe scripts and falling back on recycled choices. Ward 1 needs fresh, practical problem-solving. My background in municipal data, subsidy administration, and private trust accounting means I bring rigorous fiscal oversight to the table. I will use my financial background to ask the right questions, protect your wallet, and deliver the fresh, real results that our neighbourhoods deserve. When you pull out the ballot: The first name listed is the best choice for Ward 1. Henry De Cordova! What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? The most important issue facing Ward 1 is protecting the safety and value of our neighbourhoods while building a thriving, complete city. We cannot isolate ourselves and ignore city-wide crises; when Ward 1 families avoid going downtown out of safety concerns, our local economy and our tax dollars suffer. I am addressing this head-on with a proactive approach to our most critical ward and city challenges: If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My top three priorities focus on practical, root-cause problem solving that breaks through traditional political tunnel vision: How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I differ from my fellow candidates because I refuse to get stuck in the traditional political tunnel vision that relies on safe, recycled scripts. Our challenges in Windsor are not unique; cities across the country face these exact same hurdles and have already engineered successful solutions. Instead of reinventing the wheel or stalling behind slow pilot projects, it is time we look past our borders, adopt what is actively working elsewhere, and implement those proven models right here. As a former City Hall finance and housing employee, I understand the practical mechanics of municipal data and subsidies. Because of that background, I am the only candidate who hasn’t just waited around for questions to be asked, I have already published fully fleshed-out, actionable strategies on my website, including a developer-incentive housing catalyst and a comprehensive homelessness work program. I will be your voice for positive, evidence-based change. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise to Ward 1 is a new standard of direct, measurable accountability. While a single councillor cannot guarantee how the rest of council will vote, I can completely guarantee how I will serve you. In four years, you can hold me accountable for this three-part commitment: I promise to use my municipal finance background to challenge the status quo on every single budget item. I will consistently bring forward proven, cost-saving solutions from other cities to tackle our local flooding, traffic safety, and infrastructure needs without waiting around for slow, expensive pilot projects.You will always know exactly where I stand, and I will always be your dedicated voice. When you pull out the ballot: the first name listed is the best choice for Ward 1. Henry De Cordova! Geoffrey D Guttmann Why are you running for councillor of Ward 1 in Windsor? I am running for councillor of Ward 1 in Windsor as I am concerned about how our tax money is being appropriated. Recently, money (approximately $30 million) for capital projects has been spent on “vanity” projects such as the trolley and its building and a water spray pad in front of City Hall. The water spray pad can also be a small skating rink when the weather is cold enough, however that was only a few days this last winter season. The City of Windsor has much bigger issues to deal with such as homelessness, road repairs, and the necessity for traffic projects, such as traffic calming to protect pedestrians, drivers and their passengers, and those riding bicycles, e-scooters, and e-bikes. We have had a recent increase in motor vehicle accidents. Other big issues that the city needs to handle are the lack of maintenance for city owned and managed facilities. An example of the lack of maintenance is the Roseland Golf and Curling Club House. The City of Windsor abdicated taking care of the Roseland Golf and Curling Club House by tearing it down to put in a condominium building and a smaller golf clubhouse, which we are still waiting to see. I am running because I have the skills to communicate to the voters of Ward 1 and receive their feedback on what they think is important and what issues they would like the City of Windsor to prioritise to make their lives better. I have been a firefighter-EMT-P(aramedic) and I lived with what first responders deal with. I returned to university and graduated with a B.Sc. in four major areas, physics, chemistry, mathematics, and nuclear engineering. Then, I went to graduate school to get my Ph.D. in Medical Physics from the University of California, Berkeley. I did a postdoctoral fellowship at Los Alamos National Laboratory followed by another postdoctoral experience at the University of Michigan. I have been a faculty member (professor) at several universities such as: University of Saskatchewan, Peninsula Medical School in Plymouth, England, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso. During my career, I have helped establish three new medical schools and one new dental school. I have also been a member of Faculty Senate and President of the Faculty Senate. I have been secretary-treasurer of an international professional association and Saskatoon Youth Soccer Inc. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward, and how would you address it? The most important issue facing Ward 1 is housing. Housing is really a complex issue involving several facets within the City of Windsor. One facet is the necessity of improving and enforcing the bylaws regarding monetary and performance requirements for developers to realize their projects or improvements to completion. In Ward 1, the intersection of North Talbot Road and Sixth Concession has two parcels of land that had been purchased and remained undeveloped for about 20 years. The land was once a wetland and has changed ownership a few times. In walking around Ward 1 and talking to the residents, they have mentioned some of the planning for new housing in their neighborhood does not fit within the profile of the neighbourhood. An example is placing an eight-plex within a neighbourhood of densely populated single family detached homes. The planning of housing should consider the fit of the proposed housing within the various neighborhoods. The other observation that residents have stated are that houses that are designed to be single-family homes have multiple units and renters and subtenants. The multiple units within a single-family home causes stress on the infrastructure and a huge parking issue among many other stresses on the neighbourhood. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My three biggest priorities as a councillor will be to ensure safe commuting within the City of Windsor, have performance standards for real estate developers to help bring projects to completion, and support EMS by implementing a Mobile Stroke ICU. Safe commuting means having safety standards for residents who use bikes, e-bikes, e-scooters, or other modes of transportation to go to work, recreation, shopping, and return home. Those using e-bikes, e-scooters, and bikes should wear appropriate helmets and safety gear and be mindful of the rules of the road as stated in the Ontario Highway Traffic Act. Walkers and runners should feel safe sharing the roads with commuters. Our neighbourhoods are growing and changing faster than the City of Windsor has planned. This puts a strain on the housing market and creates a demand for affordable living space that hasn’t been realized. I have seen speculators buy plots of land and then leave the land empty for years or even decades. We need performance goals and standards to ensure safe, energy efficient, affordable homes for our growing Windsor community. Performance standards will include financial requirements to ensure timely project completion. We need to make sure new housing units fit in within the neighbourhood. Windsor has a large aging community, especially seniors or retirees, that may require an enlarged EMS fleet and staff to handle medical events rapidly and support residents in their time of need. A possible solution would be the implementation and inclusion of a specialized unit, a Mobile Stroke ICU. The Mobile Stroke ICU could respond quickly to patients who have severe head trauma, caused by falls, motor vehicle accidents, stroke, and sporting activities. The quicker a stroke patient receives diagnostic care in the field, the better the recovery. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I have a varied background as I started my post-secondary work career as a firefighter-EMT-A, and then progressed to a firefighter-EMT-P(aramedic). Interestingly, I was trained just as the Paramedic program was just beginning in the State of Maryland. While working as a firefighter-EMT-P, I earned an associate’s degree in Fire Science. After being in the fire department in the Washington, DC area, I graduated with a B.Sc. and then went on to the University of California, Berkeley to graduate with a Ph.D. in Medical Physics. I have been an academic for my career. I have been a football (soccer) referee at the National level, and I have refereed at the international level and international tournaments. I have also been a football coach. So, what makes me different? I have had many different experiences and I have seen numerous ways of approaching a problem and providing the leadership to get team members to work together to achieve a goal. In being a councillor, I will work with the other councillors and the mayor to attain the best possible outcomes for the residents of Ward 1 and the City of Windsor. Let me be your councillor for Ward 1 and let’s put together a winning team to make Windsor a better place to live and work and retire. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? For me, I would consider my term to be successful when I see residents can travel safely on the roads within Ward 1. Traffic should be managed safely because we have traffic calming devices and increased awareness about bicycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters safety. I also see soccer fields with goalposts and nets being used by the community in the local parks. Shezi Jaffri Why are you running for councillor of Ward 1 in Windsor? In Windsor’s last municipal election, fewer than one in three eligible voters cast a ballot. Turnout has fallen in each of the last three elections. I hear the frustration when I’m out knocking on doors. A lot of people, especially younger residents, feel disconnected from local politics. They wonder whether their vote really changes anything, or whether anyone at City Hall is actually listening. I honestly understand why they feel that way and it’s a big part of why I’m running. I was born and raised in Windsor, went to the University of Windsor, earned my BBA in Marketing and Finance, and built a mental health clinic here. This is home for me. I’m not looking at Windsor from the outside, I live here, work here, and care about what happens in our neighbourhoods. I also think council needs people who are willing to ask questions before making decisions. What will this cost taxpayers? Who does it help? Who could be left behind? Is there a better way to do it? Those questions aren’t meant to slow the city down. They’re meant to make sure we’re getting things right. Windsor is dealing with rising housing costs, infrastructure pressures, and other basic needs that residents have been talking about for years. We can’t keep putting those conversations off and hoping they somehow sort themselves out. I encourage voters to do the same homework I’m asking myself to do. Look at every candidate. Read their plans. Compare what they’re actually promising, and ask yourself who you believe will still be there doing the work after the election signs come down. Oct. 26 shouldn’t be the end of the conversation; it should be the beginning. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? The most important issue is how the city spends residents’ money and what gets pushed aside when those decisions are made. Every dollar matters. It matters to the family trying to keep up with the cost of housing, to the homeowner waiting for work on their street, and to the resident wondering why a problem they’ve reported more than once still hasn’t been fixed. I don’t think responsible spending simply means spending less. It means being able to explain where the money is going, why we’re spending it, and what residents are getting in return. That’s especially important when we’re talking about the most recent budget. The city approved a zero per cent municipal tax levy increase, but that doesn’t mean there was no pressure elsewhere in the budget. The original process included 54 items for council’s consideration behind closed doors, and some of those items involved reductions in staffing and services. The final approved budget includes a $2.626 million reduction under Housing & Children’s Services, including a reduction related to homelessness and supportive housing. Residents deserve to know what this means for their families and should be able to understand these decisions without having to dig through hundreds of pages of budget documents. That’s where I would start. I would address this in three ways. First, open the books so residents can see exactly where their money goes. Second, fix what we already have before starting anything new. Third, when the city uses incentives to encourage new housing, I want those incentives tied to actual affordability. One approach I would look at is rewarding developments that make at least 20 per cent of their units genuinely affordable, using tools the City already has available. At the end of the day, this isn’t about being cheap with taxpayers’ money. It’s about giving it the respect it deserves. People work hard for what they have. They should be able to look at their government and understand where their money is going, and see that those dollars are being used to build neighbourhoods that people enjoy and want to stay. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My top three priorities are: Make City Hall easier to understand, deal with problems residents have been living with for too long, and make our neighbourhood streets safer. First, open the budget. Within my first six months, I would bring forward a budget transparency motion calling for a plain-English summary of the city’s budget, public explanations for items that are dealt with behind closed doors, quarterly updates on spending, and an annual resident survey before the budget is drafted, so council has a clear picture of what residents want their tax dollars focused on. I’d also push for Windsor to get back to approving its budget on time, starting with the 2028 budget cycle. Second, fix what’s been left behind. Flooding is a good example. Residents shouldn’t have to call 311 year after year about the same problem and wonder whether anything is actually changing. I would ask for Ward 1 flooding data, identify and map the homes that have experienced repeated flooding, make that information public where privacy allows, and use it when decisions are made about drainage and stormwater investments. I’d take a similar approach to development around Cabana and Roseland. Before another major development moves forward, I want the city looking at the bigger picture like traffic, parking, sewer capacity and the cumulative impact of development along the corridor, not treating every application like it exists in a vacuum. It’s better to identify a problem before construction than hand taxpayers the bill afterward. Third, safer streets around our schools. I would request speed and traffic-volume counts on high-risk streets, bring those results back to residents at a public meeting, and then take their feedback to Council. Those priorities all come back to the same idea of listening to residents, using the information we already have, and actually following through. I don’t think residents should have to keep asking the same question before City Hall takes notice. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I think what I bring is a combination of focus and energy, a finance background, and experience working directly with people who need someone to actually listen. My background in business and finance taught me to pay attention to the numbers, understand how money is being spent, and ask questions before a decision is made, not after the money has already been committed. That matters at City Hall. These are residents’ tax dollars, and I think councillors have a responsibility to understand the details before they vote. I’ve also put together a plan covering five issues that I believe deserve more attention: Jobs, housing, homelessness, mental health, and budget transparency. It’s made to be practical, with specific actions and timelines rather than broad promises. My work in mental health and with people with special needs has shaped me just as much. In that environment, you quickly learn that delays aren’t always harmless. For some people, waiting weeks or months for help can have a real impact on their lives. That experience has made me someone who wants to see problems addressed rather than simply passed from one meeting to the next. I’d bring that same approach to council. I want to be someone who speaks up for residents, especially when an issue isn’t getting the attention it deserves. Windsor has changed, but some of the problems we talk about today have been around for years. I don’t think we should keep doing something simply because that’s how it has always been done. Sometimes the answer is to take a step back, look at the problem differently, and try something new. That’s what I hope to bring to Ward 1, a fresh perspective, a strong work ethic, and the willingness to question things when they aren’t working. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is simple: open lines of communication and real answers. If you bring a concern to me, you deserve a response. If something is moving forward, I’ll tell you when. If it’s stalled, I’ll tell you why. If it isn’t going to happen, I’ll tell you why and explain what would need to change. No vague replies. No going quiet. No leaving residents wondering what happened after they reached out. I’ll also make accountability something you can actually measure. Every six months, I’ll publish a public update on the commitments I’ve made: what has moved forward, what hasn’t, where things stand, and why. If I said I would look into something, you should be able to see what came of it. I’ll keep answering residents directly and making myself available throughout the term, just as I have throughout this campaign. I don’t believe residents should have to go through layers of staff or wait for an election year to get their councillor’s attention. Four years from now, I don’t want voters to have to take my word for whether I kept my promises. I want there to be a record they can look at themselves. Brenda Juarez Why are you running for councillor of Ward 1 in Windsor? I am running for Ward 1 City Councillor because I want to serve our community, represent residents’ concerns, and help protect the quality of life that makes Ward 1 one of the most desirable places to live in Windsor. As a Ward 1 resident since 2015 and a mother of two daughters, I have a personal stake in our community’s future. I want our neighbourhoods to remain safe, welcoming, and well-maintained, and I want future generations to enjoy the same quality of life we value today. My professional background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in International Business and more than 25 years of experience in business, project management, customer service, logistics and cross-cultural communication. As a Spanish Language Instructor, I also see how education creates opportunities and strengthens communities. As councillor, I would focus on neighbourhood safety, reliable transportation, responsible development, environmental protection, and support for local businesses. I would listen to residents, bring their concerns to City Hall, ask questions, follow up on outstanding issues, and advocate for transparent decisions and responsible use of taxpayer dollars. Ward 1 deserves a representative who is accessible, accountable, and focused on practical results. I want to help our community grow while preserving what makes it special, so Ward 1 remains a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? I believe traffic safety and speeding, along with reliable transportation, are among the most important issues facing Ward 1. Residents should feel safe walking, cycling, driving, and getting their children to school. As our community grows, we must ensure that our streets remain safe and that transportation infrastructure keeps pace with residents’ needs. As city councillor, I would advocate for a practical, evidence-based approach by working with residents and city staff to identify problem areas, review traffic patterns, and prioritize measures such as speed enforcement, traffic calming solutions, safer pedestrian crossings, and improved signage where needed. I would also support reliable public transit and better transportation planning to help residents access schools, workplaces, and essential services. I would also recognize that traffic safety is connected to broader infrastructure challenges. I would advocate for proactive infrastructure maintenance and effective flood prevention, particularly in areas vulnerable to heavy rainfall. Responsible development is equally important: new housing should be planned alongside adequate infrastructure, while respecting the character of established neighbourhoods. Finally, parks and public amenities must be properly maintained so families can enjoy safe, clean, and welcoming public spaces. My approach would be to listen to residents, use local data to identify priorities, work collaboratively with city departments, and follow up to ensure concerns are addressed. My goal is to promote practical improvements that protect residents, preserve Ward 1’s quality of life, and help keep our community one of the best places to live in Windsor. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? 1. Safer Streets and reliable transportation I would work with residents and city staff to identify areas affected by speeding and traffic safety concerns, advocate for appropriate traffic-calming measures and safer pedestrian crossings, and support reliable public transit and better transportation planning for families, students, seniors, and commuters. 2. Infrastructure, flood prevention, and responsible development I would advocate for proactive infrastructure maintenance, effective stormwater management, and practical flood-prevention measures. I would also support responsible development that considers existing infrastructure capacity, respects established neighbourhood character, and ensures growth is balanced with residents’ needs. 3. Protecting Ward 1’s quality of life I would focus on maintaining parks, green spaces, mature trees, and public amenities while supporting safe, clean neighbourhoods and local businesses. I would work to preserve what makes Ward 1 a desirable place to live, work, and raise a family. Across all three priorities, I would be committed to listening to residents, promoting transparency, advocating for responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and following up on community concerns. My goal would be to deliver practical improvements while protecting Ward 1’s long-term quality of life. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I bring a combination of professional experience, a family-focused perspective, and a strong commitment to community engagement. As a Ward 1 resident since 2015, a mother of two daughters, and a Spanish Language Instructor, I understand how important safe neighbourhoods, education, transportation, and quality of life are to families. I have had the opportunity to live, study, and work in major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Ann Arbor, and Mexico City. These experiences have given me a broader perspective and a deeper appreciation for what makes Windsor special. They have also shown me how much potential our city has, given its strategic location, diversity, strong community, and opportunities for growth. I chose Windsor as the place to raise my family because I believe in its future and its potential to become an even better place to live, work, and do business. My Bachelor’s Degree in International Business and more than 25 years of professional experience across business, project management, administration, and cross-cultural communication have taught me how to solve problems, work with diverse people, manage competing priorities, and turn ideas into practical action. As a councillor, I would bring a collaborative, approachable, and accountable leadership style. I believe residents deserve to be heard, concerns deserve follow-up, and decisions should be transparent and reflect responsible use of taxpayers’ money. I am running because I care about Ward 1’s future. I want to help preserve what makes our community special while working toward a stronger, safer, and more vibrant Windsor for future generations. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is to be an accessible, accountable, and responsive representative for Ward 1. Throughout my four-year term, I will listen to residents, follow up on their concerns, and provide regular updates on the issues they raise and the progress being made. Whether it involves traffic safety, infrastructure, flood prevention, parks, or neighbourhood development, I will work to ensure residents’ concerns are brought forward, addressed with the appropriate City departments, and not simply forgotten. Four years from now, residents should be able to hold me accountable for how well I communicated, how consistently I followed through, and how transparently I represented their interests. I cannot promise that every issue will be resolved overnight, but I can promise to listen, take action, and keep residents informed. Frank Providenti Why are you running for councillor of Ward 1 in Windsor? I’m a lifelong Ward 1 resident, former Deputy Chief of Police in Windsor, proud husband and father, and someone who grew up in the ward and attended Massey High School. Ward 1 isn’t just where I live; it’s home. Throughout my career, I’ve dedicated myself to serving our community, solving problems, managing resources responsibly, and being accountable for results. I want to bring that same experience and commitment to City Hall. I believe Ward 1 deserves experienced, independent leadership that listens to residents, takes action, and delivers results. My priorities are affordability, neighbourhood safety, infrastructure investment, responsible growth, and quality of life. I understand the importance of building a safe, strong, and vibrant community where families can live, work, and thrive. I’m ready to put my decades of leadership, public service, and community involvement to work for Ward 1, bringing a community-first approach and always putting residents’ interests first. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward, and how would you address it? Affordability is the most important issue facing Ward 1. Families are dealing with rising costs for groceries, utilities, insurance, housing, and other essentials. City Hall must recognize these pressures and manage taxpayer dollars responsibly. If elected, I would work to: If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? 1. Keep Ward 1 affordable 2. Make neighbourhoods safer 3. Invest in essential infrastructure How do you differ from your fellow candidates? As a former Deputy Chief of Police in Windsor, I bring decades of leadership and public service experience to the table. I managed more than 600 employees, oversaw budgets exceeding $100 million, negotiated collective agreements, and worked collaboratively to address complex challenges while ensuring accountability and responsible use of public resources. I also helped implement innovative community-based initiatives, including the Nurse Police Team (NPT) and Crisis Response Team (CRT), strengthening partnerships and improving support for residents. My commitment to serving Windsor extends well beyond my professional career. Since 2019, I have volunteered on the Windsor Minor Hockey Association Board, and for the past four years, I have volunteered with the Holy Names Catholic High School hockey team. I believe strongly in investing in our youth, supporting local organizations, and building a stronger community. I have also spoken before the City Council on behalf of residents to advocate for the protection of the Par 3 course at Roseland Golf Course, demonstrating my willingness to stand up for our community, and the amenities that matter to residents. These experiences reflect the leadership, financial oversight, negotiation skills, community involvement, and commitment to accountability I would bring to the city council. I understand how to manage complex organizations, work with diverse stakeholders, make difficult decisions, and advocate for the people I serve. As Ward 1 councillor, I would bring that same practical experience, independent judgment, and community-first approach to representing residents and delivering results. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I promise to be an independent, accessible, and accountable voice for the residents of Ward 1. I believe the people who live in our ward should matter, their concerns should be heard, and their voices should be represented in every decision made at City Hall. My responsibility as councillor would be to listen to residents, understand their priorities, ask the tough questions, and make decisions based on what is best for our community and city. I am entering this race as an independent voice, with no personal or other affiliations with any of the other candidates seeking election. My commitment is to the residents of Ward 1, and I will make my decisions based on the issues, the facts, and the needs of our community, not personal relationships or outside loyalties. Four years from now, residents should be able to look at my record and know that I listened, stood up for their concerns, acted with integrity, and remained accountable for my decisions. My promise is simple: Ward 1 residents will have a voice at City Hall, and I will work every day to make sure that voice is heard. Darcie Renaud Why are you running for councillor of Ward 1 in Windsor? I’ve spent years following Windsor City Council, reading agendas, examining budgets, and watching how decisions are made. As I follow those discussions, I see opportunities to bring different perspectives to the table, ask questions that haven’t been raised, and consider other approaches. I’ve spent much of my career working to improve public services, asking questions like: What are we trying to accomplish? Is it working? What are we getting for the money we’re spending? Is there a better way to do it? I genuinely enjoy digging into complicated issues, asking questions, and solving problems. When I worked for an MPP, helping constituents resolve issues was one of the most rewarding parts of my job. I want to bring that same approach to Windsor City Council, whether it’s dealing with the big decisions affecting our city or helping Ward 1 residents with the everyday issues that matter to them. I also believe it’s important for qualified women to step forward and run for elected office. What do you believe is the most important issue facing Ward 1 and how would you address it? I think affordability is one of the biggest challenges facing residents of Ward 1 and Windsor as a whole. And affordability is about more than property taxes. It’s also water and sewer charges, transit fares, recreation fees, and the other costs residents pay for city services. We need to look at the total cost of municipal government and make sure residents are getting good value for their money. I’ve spent years examining city budgets and how Windsor compares with other municipalities. I’d like to put that experience to work modernizing how city hall operates, managing costs, and making sure we’re delivering the services residents need at a price they can afford. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? First, smarter fiscal management. Modernizing how Windsor budgets and operates, with a focus on managing costs and delivering better value for public money. Second, safer, stronger neighbourhoods. Improving neighbourhood safety and preventing property crime, expanding traffic calming options, addressing excessive vehicle noise and street racing, strengthening bylaw enforcement, protecting homes from flooding and sewer backups, addressing transportation inequities facing Windsor high school students, and helping residents get neighbourhood improvements done. Third, a more open, accountable City Hall. Pushing for fewer decisions behind closed doors, more transparency in appointments to city boards and committees, and clearer information about how public money is spent. I also want residents to have a meaningful opportunity to weigh in before important decisions are made, not after. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I can’t speak for the other candidates, but I can tell you what I would bring to council. I’ve spent my career working to improve public services, with a focus on evaluation, performance measurement, and accountability. I know how to dig into complex issues, understand the numbers, and ask whether government decisions are producing results. This is my third time running for Ward 1, but my involvement hasn’t been limited to election campaigns. I’ve stayed engaged, following council meetings, examining budgets, asking questions, and advocating for changes. Whether it’s fighting for fair transportation for Windsor high school students, pushing for greater fiscal responsibility and accountability, helping residents understand city budgets, or working alongside neighbours on petitions and local improvement projects, I’ve already been doing this work. In some cases, I’ve been following those neighbourhood issues and advocating for improvements for more than eight years. I also understand that having a good idea is only part of the job. I have a strong understanding of council’s procedural rules and the different ways a councillor can bring an issue or proposed solution forward. I know the importance of coming prepared with evidence, understanding the costs and financial implications, asking the right questions, anticipating obstacles, and building support around the council table. I know how to move an issue through the system, and that’s knowledge I’ll put to work for Ward 1 residents. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for? I promise that I’ll be responsive and follow through. If a resident contacts me with a concern, they’ll hear back from me. I won’t simply pass the issue along and consider my job done. If I don’t have an answer, I’ll work to find one and keep them updated. I can’t promise I’ll be able to solve every problem, but I can promise I’ll take their concerns seriously and do what I say I’m going to do. Linda Qin Why are you running for councillor of Ward 1 in Windsor? I am running for Windsor city councillor in Ward 1 because I care deeply about our community and want to continue serving the people who call it home. Ward 1 has been my home for the past 15 years. As a longtime resident, I understand the concerns of our neighbourhoods and want to help make our community a safer, stronger, and better place to live. Having served as a Public School Board Trustee for eight years, I have learned the importance of listening to residents, speaking up for their concerns, and standing up for what I believe is right, even when facing challenges. I believe public service requires courage, integrity, accountability, and a genuine commitment to the people we represent. My professional background as a business school professor and my experience in manufacturing management have strengthened my belief in responsible spending, effective management, and sound decision-making. I want to bring this experience to city council to help ensure taxpayers’ money is spent wisely and municipal services meet residents’ needs. My priorities include keeping property taxes affordable, improving municipal services, protecting established neighbourhoods, addressing traffic and road safety concerns, and supporting responsible development that benefits our community. Most importantly, I believe residents deserve a councillor who listens, cares, and is not afraid to speak up and stand up for them. I want to bring residents’ voices to City Council, ensure their concerns are heard, and work collaboratively to find practical solutions. Ward 1 is my home, and its residents are my neighbours. I am running because I want to continue making a positive difference in the community we share. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? I believe one of the most important issues facing Ward 1 is balancing affordable property taxes with the need to maintain quality municipal services and protect our established neighbourhoods. With the rising cost of living, many families, seniors, and homeowners are concerned about their financial future. Residents deserve a city council that respects taxpayers’ hard-earned money, controls unnecessary spending, and makes responsible financial decisions. As a former business school professor with manufacturing management experience, I understand the importance of financial accountability, efficient operations, and responsible resource management. I believe the city should carefully examine its spending priorities and look for opportunities to improve efficiency before asking residents to pay more. If elected, I will carefully review municipal budgets, question unnecessary expenditures, advocate for greater transparency, and work to keep any required property tax increases below the rate of inflation. At the same time, I will support maintaining and improving essential municipal services, including road maintenance, public transportation, and neighbourhood safety. Responsible spending also means making development decisions that protect existing communities. I support responsible growth, but new developments should not compromise the safety, character, and quality of life of established neighbourhoods. I will advocate for meaningful consultation with affected residents and appropriate infrastructure improvements to address traffic, pedestrian safety, and other neighbourhood concerns. I will also seek greater provincial and federal financial support for infrastructure and transportation challenges, particularly those associated with international truck traffic along Huron Church Road, so local taxpayers are not left carrying an unfair share of the costs. My goal is simple: Protect taxpayers’ money, improve municipal services, and preserve the quality of life in our neighbourhoods. I believe responsible financial management and strong communities must go hand in hand. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? 1. Responsible spending and affordable property taxes My first priority is to protect taxpayers’ hard-earned money through responsible spending, greater transparency, and stronger financial accountability. I will carefully review municipal budgets, question unnecessary expenditures, and advocate for more efficient city operations. I will work to keep any required property tax increases below the rate of inflation while maintaining essential municipal services. Residents deserve better value for their tax dollars. 2. Protect established neighbourhoods and promote responsible development I believe we must protect the safety, character, and quality of life of our established neighbourhoods while supporting responsible development that benefits Windsor. I will carefully review development proposals, listen to affected residents, and advocate for meaningful public consultation. New developments should not compromise neighbourhood safety or place unreasonable pressure on existing infrastructure. Where development affects surrounding communities, I will advocate for fair community benefits, improved traffic and pedestrian safety, better infrastructure, and appropriate neighbourhood amenities. 3. Improve municipal services and address community challenges Residents deserve reliable, efficient, and responsive municipal services. I will advocate for better road maintenance, improved public transportation, safer streets, and stronger neighbourhood services. I will also work to address homelessness through compassionate but accountable solutions, including seeking additional provincial and federal funding so Windsor taxpayers are not left carrying the financial burden alone. For Huron Church Road, I will advocate for stronger enforcement of designated truck routes, improved traffic safety, noise reduction, and increased provincial and federal funding for road repairs and neighbourhood improvements. International trade should mean shared responsibility, not an unfair burden on Ward 1 residents. Throughout my first term, I will listen to residents, bring their concerns to city council, and stand up for their interests. My goal is to ensure Ward 1 remains a safe, affordable, and welcoming community where residents’ voices are heard and taxpayers’ money is respected. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? What distinguishes me is my unique combination of public service experience, professional management expertise, academic background, and a strong commitment to standing up for residents. I have served our community as a Public School Board Trustee for the past eight years. During that time, I have learned firsthand how public institutions operate, how decisions affect families, and how important it is to listen to residents and hold decision-makers accountable. I am not afraid to speak up and stand up for what I believe is right, even when doing so is difficult. My experience has taught me that public service requires courage, integrity, independence, and a willingness to ask tough questions. Professionally, I have eight years of manufacturing management experience and have taught management and administration courses as a business school professor. My educational background includes degrees in Management Engineering and Computer Software, and I am a Ph.D. candidate in Manufacturing Management. These experiences have given me a strong foundation in financial accountability, organizational efficiency, problem-solving, and responsible decision-making. I have also lived in Ward 1 for 15 years. I am not only seeking to represent this community; I am part of it. I understand the importance of protecting our established neighbourhoods, maintaining quality municipal services, and keeping property taxes affordable. I believe being a councillor is not simply about making promises. It is about listening carefully, asking difficult questions, making responsible decisions, and having the courage to stand up for residents. My approach is simple: I listen, I care, and I stand up for the people I represent. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is simple: I will always listen to residents, speak up for their concerns, and have the courage to stand up for what I believe is right, even when it is difficult. During my eight years as a Public School Board Trustee, I believe I have demonstrated that I am a responsible public official with integrity, courage, and strong principles. I have faced challenges for speaking up, but I have never given up on standing up for the people I represent. If elected, I will bring that same dedication to city council. I will listen carefully to residents, ask tough questions, make responsible decisions, and protect taxpayers’ hard-earned money. I will never forget that I am there to serve the people of Ward 1, not myself. I cannot promise that I will win every debate or achieve everything I fight for. But I can promise that I will never be afraid to speak up, never stop listening, and never compromise my integrity simply because standing up for what is right is difficult. Four years from now, residents can judge me by my actions, my voting record, and whether I have kept my commitment to them. I have spent eight years standing up for our community. My promise is that I will continue to do so with the same integrity, courage, and determination. Ward 2 Councillor Frazier Fathers - Incumbent Why are you running for councillor of Ward 2 in Windsor? After winning the 2025 Ward 2 by-election, I am fulfilling my promise to run for a full term. Less than a year simply isn’t enough time to move the needle on many of the critical issues facing Ward 2. Over the past year, I have been laying the groundwork: Building stronger community relationships, asking difficult questions at council, helping residents navigate City Hall, and learning where we can push the system to work better. Now, I want to build on that momentum. My focus is on the little things that matter in people’s everyday lives while advancing a longer-term vision of neighbourhood renewal for West Windsor. I want Ward 2 to be a place where families want to live, invest, work and play — and where residents know their councillor will show up, listen, and report back. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? There isn’t one single issue facing Ward 2. Housing, property standards, infrastructure, traffic, affordability, and neighbourhood renewal are all interconnected. However, one issue that continues to have an outsized impact on West Windsor is the unresolved legacy of the Ambassador Bridge’s activities in West Windsor. There is no quick fix, but progress is possible. Boarded up homes are finally coming down, and I support strategically using tools, such as expropriation where necessary, to assemble properties and catalyze new housing and neighbourhood renewal. We also need a long-term solution for the Forster area, where housing, heritage, transportation, and neighbourhood challenges intersect. The steel currently stored along Indian Road should be relocated to an appropriate storage facility until the Ambassador Bridge has satisfied the requirements necessary to proceed with its plaza project. I have also filed a Freedom of Information request to the provincial government regarding CTC Concrete and its plans. That request has received initial approval, and I intend to publicly release the documents once they are received. Residents deserve transparency about decisions that could shape their neighbourhood. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? 1. Strengthen neighbourhood standards and proactive enforcement. Move city services toward a more proactive model for bylaw, property standards, rental housing, dumping, rodents, overgrown properties, and other neighbourhood issues. Residents should not have to repeatedly complain before chronic problems receive attention. 2. Advance neighbourhood renewal across West Windsor. Build a coordinated vision for areas including Sandwich Town, the Ambassador Bridge properties, Huron Church Road, and the Benson neighbourhood. That means addressing boarded and derelict properties, protecting important heritage assets, investing in parks and infrastructure, and creating the conditions to attract families and new investment back into established neighbourhoods. 3. Make progress on housing, affordability, and homelessness. Windsor needs to invest more locally in affordable housing, homelessness prevention, and supportive housing while making better use of provincial and federal funding. I will continue pushing for practical tools that help non-profits build housing, keep people housed and increase the supply of affordable and accessible homes. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? Setting aside incumbency, I believe my track record in the community and my professional experience distinguish me. I led the community consultation that helped form the foundation of the Gordie Howe International Bridge Community Benefits Plan. I spent more than six years at United Way working directly on some of the most difficult social and economic challenges facing Windsor-Essex. Today, my work as an affordable housing and community development consultant takes me into municipalities and housing organizations across Ontario and Canada. That gives me the opportunity to see what other communities are doing, identify approaches that are working, and bring those ideas back to Windsor. I also understand that good municipal government must operate at two levels at once. We need to deal with the systemic issues housing, infrastructure, neighbourhood decline, and affordability while never losing sight of the little things that matter to residents on their street, in their park or next door to their home. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is that Ward 2 will have a more proactive approach to neighbourhood issues four years from now than it does today. Residents should see a city that identifies chronic problems earlier and acts on property standards, rental conditions, dumping, rodents, neighbourhood cleanliness, and other quality-of-life issues instead of relying almost entirely on complaints. There are many larger goals in my platform that will take partnerships, funding, and decisions by council as a whole. But voters can hold me accountable for whether I consistently pushed City Hall toward a more proactive neighbourhood-based approach, whether measurable progress was made, and whether I continued to show up and report honestly on what was and was not accomplished. Anthony Jabbour Why are you running for Ward 2 councillor of Windsor? I am running to bring independent, grassroots, and accountable leadership to Ward 2. My campaign is focused squarely on the day-to-day needs of working families, renters, and long-time residents—prioritizing affordable housing, reliable public transit, and robust infrastructure rather than top-down prestige projects. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? The most critical issue is aging infrastructure coupled with housing and flood vulnerability — particularly in lower-lying historic areas like Sandwich Town. I would address this by directing capital investments into aggressive stormwater and flood mitigation, combined with zoning reform to promote missing-middle housing along transit corridors. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? First, championing missing-middle housing density and stronger municipal tenant protections against renovictions. Second, securing funding for active transportation and vital flood/sewer infrastructure upgrades in Ward 2. Third, increasing municipal transparency through regular ward town halls and accountable, community-first governance. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? Unlike candidates backed by traditional political machines or corporate interests, my campaign is strictly grassroots and labor-aligned. I am deeply committed to direct, hands-on constituent engagement, transparent decision-making, and prioritizing the practical needs of everyday residents over developer profits. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I commit to holding regular monthly ward town halls and open office hours across community hubs, and releasing clear public pre-vote summaries to ensure my votes and decisions remain transparent and directly tied to community input. Nick Markham Why are you running for councillor of Ward 2 in Windsor? I am running for councillor of Ward 2 in Windsor because I’ve grown up here my entire life, and have become deeply concerned with how it has been neglected and ignored over the past 12 years. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? I believe the most important issue facing Ward 2 is housing, in more ways than one. Lack of available housing due to increased international student enrollment (including cases where a house was occupied by more students than it had room to accommodate), derelict housing that has become a draw for homeless people, and otherwise perfectly good housing that sits unused for no reason. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? If elected, my top three priorities during my first term would be to table proposals to deal with absentee landlords, look into ways to provide improved access to public transit, and advocate for increased big box and small business investment in Ward 2. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I know Frazier Fathers cares as much about the well-being and future of Ward 2 as I do. I don’t know enough about the other candidates to confidently say how I differ from them. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? The one promise I can make today is to keep an open dialogue with Ward 2 residents and, to the best of my ability, work towards making Ward 2 as safe and successful as possible. Cynthia Van Vrouwerff CTV News is awaiting a response. Ward 3 Councillor Renaldo Agostino – Incumbent Why are you running for councillor of Ward 3 in Windsor? I am running for re-election to Windsor City Council in Ward 3 because there is still more work I want to accomplish. Over the past four years, we have made many positive improvements, but there is more to be done. I care deeply about our ward, our downtown, and the people who live, work, play, and stay here. I am committed to building on the progress we have made and continuing to work toward a stronger, more vibrant community for everyone. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? The most important issue facing Ward 3 is our unhoused population. We need to provide transitional housing with wrap around supports, we can no longer expect shelters to carry this burden. We must step in with support from the province and the federal government to provide safe dignified living spaces with the full supports. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? How do you differ from your fellow candidates? What sets me apart from other candidates is my hands-on experience as your Ward 3 councillor. I understand the role, the challenges we face, and what it takes to turn ideas into real results. I bring practical, attainable solutions, along with established relationships at all three levels of government. My ability to work collaboratively with the mayor and members of city council is a valuable asset in moving priorities forward and delivering meaningful progress for our community. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? The [Downtown] Mission will be moved off of Ouellette Avenue. That is the promise I make to Ward 3 voters, this will get done. Rabia Kirma Why are you running for Ward 3 councillor of Windsor? I am running because Ward 3 needs real action, accountability, and leadership that puts residents first. For more than 17 years, I have operated businesses and served the community in Ward 3. As Executive Director of We Care Associations of Windsor, I work directly with seniors, struggling families, youth, and vulnerable residents. I see the challenges people face every day, from homelessness and addiction to rising living costs, unsafe streets, and deteriorating neighbourhoods. I am not entering politics to build a career. I am running to bring my business experience, community involvement, and practical problem-solving approach to City Hall. 2. What is the most important issue facing Ward 3, and how would you address it? The most urgent issue is the interconnected crisis of homelessness, addiction, mental health, and public safety. My proposal is called 100 PEOPLE. 100 PLANS. ONE YEAR. We would begin with a pilot program supporting 100 vulnerable individuals over 12 months, using existing housing opportunities, addiction treatment, mental-health services, employment training, and individualized recovery plans. We must measure results, including housing stability, successful treatment connections, and reduced pressure on emergency services. I also support developing a coordinated recovery and support centre offering medical care, treatment referrals, temporary accommodation, and employment assistance. We must restore safety to our streets while treating vulnerable people with dignity. Doing nothing is not an option. What are your top three priorities during your first term? First: Public safety and homelessness. Implement practical recovery and housing initiatives, improve coordination with police and social services, and address open drug use and unsafe public spaces. Second: Affordable housing and neighbourhood improvement. Encourage the conversion of vacant commercial buildings into affordable apartments, review development incentives, improve property standards, and address garbage, rodents, and neglected alleys. Third: Responsible spending and better city services. Review municipal spending, improve Transit Windsor’s efficiency, advocate for better bus service and restoration of the Tunnel Bus, and protect taxpayers from unnecessary costs. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I bring a combination of hands-on community service, business management, and direct experience working with residents facing difficult circumstances. I manage businesses, create jobs, pay taxes, and understand the financial pressures experienced by both residents and small business owners. Through We Care, I have helped organize food assistance, seniors’ programs, youth training, and community services. I also believe residents deserve detailed proposals rather than general political promises. My approach is to identify a problem, develop a realistic plan, measure progress, and report results publicly. I respect my fellow candidates, but I believe my practical experience and willingness to challenge the status quo offer Ward 3 a different kind of representation. What is one promise voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is accountability and measurable action. If elected, I will publish regular progress reports showing residents what I have proposed, what has been accomplished, what remains unfinished, and how I have voted on major council decisions. I will continue listening to residents, responding to their concerns, and advocating for safer streets, stronger neighbourhoods, and responsible use of taxpayer dollars. After four years, residents should not have to guess whether I worked for them. They should be able to see the results. Randal Saccucci Why are you running for councillor of Ward 3 in Windsor? We have what is for sure the worst downtown in the province for a city with the unlimited potential Windsor has. A border city across a river from a metropolis like Detroit should be booming. I truly believe the Windsor/Essex County area could be one of the best areas to live in all of Ontario. Our downtown has a poor reputation and all conversations start with the homeless issue. Not addressing this issue for the last few years is something I cannot understand. It is something people are begging administration to do something about and I can assure the residents if I am elected, the downtown will be my top priority for the next four years. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? Cleaning up the downtown area. Relocating the homeless outside of the downtown core is imperative. The Downtown Mission is not the first thing people should see when entering the city. This is by far the most important issue facing this ward and why... Because this is what the people of Windsor say is the most important issue. We need to listen to the residents. I can say that I have had conversations with realtors regarding professional offices including accounting firms, law offices, insurance agencies that have either opened offices in Windsor or are relocating and all have stated openly the downtown is not even an option for their offices. Why... The only answer they ever give is they will not consider downtown until the homeless issue is addressed. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? Top priorities are not really limited to three, but a list that I think is important starts with getting local developers to invest in the downtown through a partnership with the city. In the next four years I would want to see an influx of investment in the downtown: Retail stores, coffee shops, bars and restaurants, a movie theatre, and more housing. I want the downtown to become the hub of the city. A vibrant downtown where people want to live and people look forward to visiting and where businesses want to locate. Over the last few years there has been a max exodus of professional offices out of the downtown area because no one wants to be downtown - lawyers, financial advisors, accountants, etc. have all left the downtown to move to the Rhodes Drive area and Walkerville. This has to change right now. Also, bringing the Spitfires back downtown should be something that gets discussed and what this would mean financially to the city. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I am not sure. I don’t know the views of the other candidates, but if their primary goal isn’t getting the downtown cleaned up so we can get a viable plan in place for major investment in the downtown, then this is where we will differ. An example I can tell you is I would never support a safe injection at the old Windsor Arena. I would be looking at how we could repurpose this site for the residents of Windsor... Doing something that will improve the downtown and bring people back down here. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? If I get elected, I promise my major focus for the next four years would be to create a bustling downtown. This would include: 1. Concentration of offices and retail stores. 2. A pedestrian friendly downtown that could even include things such as pedestrianized streets: Closing vehicular traffic on Ouellette from... let’s say Wyandotte to the River, for example, could be an option. 3. Dining and culture with a downtown filled with diverse restaurants, cafes, theatres and entertainment, and a public square that hosts year-round events. Spiro S. Spiliadis Why are you running for Ward 3 councillor of Windsor? I’m running because I believe Windsor needs more than promises. It needs people who know how to assess a problem, develop a plan, and make sure it gets done. I’m bringing over 25 years of business and management experience into public service because I believe I can make a difference. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? Homelessness and the impact it’s having on our community. We need compassion for the people struggling, but we also need accountability for the services receiving public money. We need to stop measuring activity and start measuring results. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? Improve oversight and accountability in our shelter system. Improve safety, cleanliness, and quality of life in Ward 3. Push for smarter spending, better service delivery, and measurable results from our investments. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? As a management consultant I understand the problem before proposing a solution by using frameworks and processes that actually create measurable outcomes. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I promise to push for transparency and measurable results, especially when it comes to how public money is spent. Four years from now, judge me by what actually improved, not by what I promised. Ward 4 Councillor Mike Burton CTV News is awaiting a response. Catherine Gariepy-Schulze Why are you running for councillor of Ward 4 in Windsor? I am a proud resident who loves this community and willing to work hard to protect its history, diversity, and vibrancy. Looking at this through a fresh lens, I look forward to addressing the opportunities and challenges we all face daily. I will continue listening and communicating with my neighbors in Walkerville. We all see the beauty within our neighbourhood, but also some of the challenging issues that need to be addressed. In an environment where politicians often disappoint, or seem unreachable and unresponsive, I understand your distrust in the system. I will do everything in my power to listen to and fix your concerns. Talk to me. I will always be available to you. I realized at a very early age that you can advocate and initiate change for the better through my passion and commitment simply using your voice. If you don’t speak out you will not be heard. I am here as your sounding board and will escalate your concerns as far up the political chain that I can. With my three decades of being on several levels of government consultation, I know policies are made at the top levels, but need to be introduced from the grassroots and pushed up through the chain. A flower, a tree, nor a policy can grow without a seed. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? The most pressing issues that have been raised as I have walked and talked the streets of Walkerville predominantly have been safety. Many of our streets, alleys, and parks need more lighting and be cleaned up of the garbage that is consuming our neighbourhood. Homelessness and drug addiction, which go hand in hand, our transportation system barely has any ridership as it is too expensive and often have to deal will intoxicated riders, and vacant businesses and buildings which need to be utilized. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? Fiscal responsibility – your tax dollars need to be respected. We all work hard for our money. We are facing significant, increasing affordability challenges and are living in a very uncertain, economic climate. Every dollar will be spent wisely, with accountability and your input. I will work together with you to determine the ‘needs’ vs. ‘wants’ for our community and through consultation with Ward 4, we will find a way to ensure your priorities are represented. Safer neighbourhoods and strengthened cooperation between police and our court system – I understand the challenges that we all face in terms of safety on our streets, alleys, parks, properties, and the impact on our local businesses. These issues are larger than our policeforce who are working hard to address them. These major concerns (mental health, homelessness, drug abuse and resulting violence) require provincial and federal partnership and support. I will continue to seek input from residents and lobby for support to eradicate the catch and release systems in our overburdened courts. This ideology does NOT WORK. We need to speak up in order to resolve this issue. Realizing our potential – our streets and alleys are a major concern, and they should represent our community. Instead of the unsightly and frustrating amount of garbage that litter our streets and alleys, we have the opportunity to work together to make them a proud part representation of our neighborhood. We need to unlock our potential and create positive safe spaces that we can collectively enjoy as residence and proudly share with those who visit Walkerville. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? This is the commitment, tenacity, and determination I will apply to advocating for Ward 4. Chris Holt Why are you running for councillor of Ward 4 in Windsor? I still have the energy, connections and know how to accomplish some improvements to our community. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? Traffic fatalities of vulnerable road users is the most pressing issue we’re facing today, and nobody is even mentioning it. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? Improvements to road safety through implementation of Vision Zero, affordability through changes to our transportation priorities and the way we develop our land, and more directly, restore alley garbage collection. Most of my priorities are high-level incremental policy changes that happen with every decision made at committee and council level. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I have a record I can be judged on. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I will get our garbage collection moved back into the alleys, rescuing our sidewalks from being overtaken by bins and unclogging our residential roads from garbage trucks. Xsander Moisenko Why are you running for Ward 4 councillor of Windsor? Windsor has been good to my family, and it’s where I chose to stay, work and build a life. I’m not a career politician. I’m a lifelong Ward 4 resident, an autoworker and a business and economics student at the University of Windsor. I’m running because I want Windsor to stay a good place to live for the next generation, and that won’t happen by accident. Residents deserve a councillor who focuses City Hall on the basics and respects their tax dollars. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? The most important issue is reclaiming our city core and restoring public safety. Our downtown is in bad shape, and the effects are spreading into Ward 4. Unchecked drug addiction, public homelessness, and open antisocial behaviour. This can’t continue without accountability or deterrence. I will push for consistent enforcement of our bylaws and the law. I will also demand real, measurable results for the tax dollars we already spend, including from the organizations we fund to deliver services. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I bring a practical, common sense approach that comes from working people, not from politics. I believe less government is better government, and that City Hall should do its core jobs well before taking on anything else. I drive a car and ride an e-bike on Ward 4 streets regularly. I also rely on Windsor Transit, so I know firsthand where the service works and where it needs to improve. I see the problems residents deal with because I deal with them too. My focus is simple: Restoring order, security, and value for money. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I promise never to vote for a budget that doesn’t put core services first, and to judge every program by its results, not its intentions. In four years, voters can check my record and see that I pushed for the lowest possible tax increases and fought for real accountability on every dollar spent. Rasha Zaid Why are you running for councillor of Ward 4 in Windsor? Ward 4 has been my home for 26 years. I am running because I care deeply about our community and believe constituents deserve consistent communication, meaningful opportunities to participate, and a representative who follows through on their concerns. I know the importance of being heard because, for the longest time, I personally did not feel heard. I felt I had neither a voice nor representation at the Council table. That experience strengthens my commitment to ensuring every constituent feels heard, respected, and represented. I have always encouraged people to be the change they want to see in the world. When I wasn’t seeing the changes, I also wanted for our community. I asked myself, “Why don’t I become a starting point for that change and run?” I have the leadership experience and qualifications, and I genuinely care about ensuring all people are heard, served, and cared for. As a single mother, educator, small-business owner, and community organizer, I understand how municipal decisions affect everyday life, from neighbourhood safety and reliable services to opportunities for youth and the strength of our local businesses. I bring 23 years of leadership and management experience across different professional environments. My education and experience have taught me to listen, ask difficult questions, examine root causes, and make informed decisions while remaining accountable to the people affected. I want to bring leadership rooted in compassion, integrity, and service to the Council table. Every constituent deserves to feel heard, respected, and represented. It is truly time to see representation at our Council tables that reflects the diversity seen in Windsor, and it is also time for people who care for the people to lead the people. I want to bring leadership rooted in compassion, integrity, and service to the Council table. Every constituent deserves to feel heard, respected, and represented. It is truly time to see representation at our Council tables that reflects the diversity seen in Windsor, and it is also time for people who care for the people to lead the people. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward, and how would you address it? From my perspective as a Ward 4 constituent for 26 years, homelessness is the most pressing issue facing our ward, alongside neighbourhood safety. People experiencing homelessness need stable housing and appropriate support, and all constituents deserve to feel safe in their neighbourhoods. Addressing both requires compassion, accountability, and practical solutions. I would advocate for affordable and supportive housing, coordinated outreach, and accessible mental health and addiction services, working with the council, administration, community organizations, and other levels of government. I would also push for targeted neighbourhood safety improvements, including safer crossings, appropriate lighting, and well-maintained public spaces. However, my perspective alone should not determine the direction of my advocacy. Knocking on doors and speaking directly with constituents helps me understand the different challenges people experience and what they believe deserves attention. Priorities can differ from one neighbourhood, street, or household to another. That is why consistent monthly Ward 4 meetings are central to my platform. I want these meetings to be a place where constituents help shape their councillor’s work by identifying concerns, discussing solutions, and following up on the changes they want to see. I would bring those concerns to the Council table and, where needed, request administrative reports examining relevant statistics, service gaps, costs, feasibility, and potential impacts. This would help ensure that the motions I put forward are informed by both constituents’ lived experiences and evidence. My role would be to listen, advocate, and follow through while keeping constituents informed about what is progressing, what faces barriers, and why. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? Across these priorities, I would scrutinize spending, request relevant statistics and administrative reports, and work with Council and administration to pursue practical, financially responsible solutions informed by constituents’ needs. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I can speak best to what I bring: 26 years of living in Ward 4, 23 years of leadership and management experience, and a background spanning education, small-business ownership, and community organizing. Working across different fields has taught me to manage competing priorities, adapt to challenges, build relationships, and remain accountable for decisions. As a small-business owner, I understand budgeting and the responsibility of keeping an operation running. As an educator, I understand that people have different needs and that effective leadership begins with listening. My activism has taught me to be vocal when change is needed, challenge the status quo, and persist when solutions are difficult. I pair that determination with a willingness to learn, examine evidence, and collaborate. As a Palestinian-Canadian Muslim woman and single mother, I also bring lived experiences that shape my commitment to inclusion. My responsibility would be to represent every constituent fairly, with consistent care and respect. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I promise to establish and maintain a consistent monthly Ward 4 meeting schedule throughout my term. These meetings would rotate among neighbourhoods and local businesses, giving constituents regular opportunities to raise concerns, ask questions, and hear updates. We need an active councillor who stays connected to the people they represent. How can a councillor advocate for the changes constituents want without hearing directly from them about the changes they desire to see? These meetings would help ensure that constituents’ voices shape the concerns and priorities I bring to the council table. I cannot guarantee that every proposal will receive council’s approval, but I can commit to making myself accessible, bringing concerns forward, and explaining decisions and outcomes. I would publish meeting dates and follow-up summaries so that, in four years, constituents can look at that public record and judge whether I kept this promise. The most important responsibility in a position of public service is accountability for the promises made. Constituents deserve to see those promises followed by action, and I expect to be held to that standard. Ward 5 Councillor Ken Acton Why are you running for councillor of Ward 5? I am running for City Council because I want to give back to the community that has shaped me, and help build a stronger Windsor where neighbourhoods are vibrant and future generations have the opportunity to succeed. For me, this is personal. Ward 5 is not simply the area I hope to represent; it is my home, my history, and the community I have been part of my entire life. As a lifelong, third-generation resident of Ward 5, I have lived on the same street, in the same community, all my life. My roots run deep. My maternal grandparents immigrated from what is now Slovakia and settled in the neighbourhood in the early 1920s, building two houses while my grandfather worked as a janitor at the Ford Motor Plant. My paternal grandparents immigrated from England and settled just outside the ward on Lincoln Road. Their stories reflect the hard work, sacrifice, and determination that helped build this community. These are my roots, these are my neighbours, and these are the neighbourhoods I love. Having witnessed Ward 5 grow and change, I have seen firsthand what makes it special: Hardworking residents, dedicated families, and neighbours who take pride in supporting one another. These lifelong connections have given me a genuine understanding of our community, its strengths, and the importance of preserving its character while embracing its future. Throughout my career and the work I’ve done in education, architecture, the labour movement, community building, and housing, I’ve focused on a common goal: Creating stronger communities and greater opportunities for people to succeed. These experiences have given me a broad perspective on how the built environment, economic opportunity, and community well-being intersect. They have taught me the importance of looking at the bigger picture, bringing people together, and finding practical, long-lasting solutions for the challenges facing Windsor. I believe public service is about listening, turning ideas into action, and ensuring Windsor grows thoughtfully and inclusively. I am ready to put my experience to work, build on the strengths of our communities, and help create a city where all residents have the opportunity to thrive. What is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? It’s the need to improve and maintain our existing infrastructure while making our neighbourhoods safer and more sustainable. Our streets are some of our most important public spaces. They help define our culture and reflect who we are as a community. Investing in improvements and the maintenance of the main roads, our residential side streets, and outdoor spaces can improve service, reinforce public safety, and introduce solutions that are environmentally friendly. A key priority must be traffic calming initiatives to reduce vehicular speeds in our neighbourhoods, alongside investments in public transit that provide residents with more effective and sustainable transportation options. To implement these investments, I would advocate for land value capture techniques, such as land banking, special assessment districts, tax increment financing, Ontario Infrastructure Grant Programs, and funding in the form of corporate sponsorships to support the delivery of an enhanced public transit model. I believe that with these strategies, we can make the essential investments achievable and work toward a more livable, sustainable, and well-connected community. If elected, what are your top three priorities? Traffic calming/infrastructure, investments in public services and housing are my top three priorities. As I previously mentioned, our streets/infrastructure have significant impact on our culture. They also work alongside public services and housing to create a holistic approach to community building. Addressing the shortfall in public services is a second priority. Investments in our parks, libraries, community centres, and schools, as well as city and retail services, would help strengthen our neighbourhoods. A strong sense of community and pride in place can be achieved by ensuring that equity exists for all. Investments in youth, senior programming and those who face mobility challenges would help promote social inclusion, economic resilience, and community vitality. Enhancing community services helps to create value in neighbourhoods, and private investment by attracting amenities that improve our everyday lives. Think of cafes, grocery stores, diners, theatres, dry cleaners, pharmacies, and childcare, all local. Safe, clean mixed-use neighborhoods with community services, and options for housing and transit promote social connectivity, breakdown barriers, and promote healthy lifestyles. A third priority would be housing. The places we call home should be well-designed, safe, energy-efficient, and provide affordable options that encourage long-term residency within neighbourhoods. A broad range of options at varying prices can create diversity while allowing residents to raise a family and remain in their neighbourhood as they age. Housing is the building block of our cities. Planning for its various forms is one way that we can begin to address some of our urban concerns and provide for the different requirements of residents in a respectful manner. To achieve this I would promote the City of Windsor Intensification Guidelines to develop the downtown as well as the transportation corridors within the wards, with forms of housing that support mass transit, increase contributions to the tax base, and ensure that mixed use/demographic developments are strategically located and designed to enhance neighborhood culture. These in-fill developments must be carefully planned and designed to ensure they align with the neighbourhood’s form, and that gentrification does not take root and cause the displacement of long-term, working-class residents and minority families who can no longer afford the rising cost of living in those neighbourhoods. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? What distinguishes me from my fellow candidates is that my vision for Windsor is backed by 30 years of professional experience, institutional knowledge, and a broad comprehensive understanding of how cities operate. I have taught, researched, championed, and implemented initiatives tied to city building, while also having the honour of serving as an elected leader and representing a number of diverse groups tied to neighbourhood interests and community building. Alongside my professional background, I’ve always made time to volunteer to do the work on the ground. Whether it’s packing and distributing food bags for families facing food insecurity, rolling up my sleeves in the kitchen to cook and wash dishes for heritage programs, or unloading equipment and setting up tables to support free community events and fundraising initiatives, I believe in hands-on grassroots service. For over 20 years I’ve had the honor to serve as an executive within the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) Local 138, and held the positions of Steward, Executive Secretary, Chief Steward, and currently hold the office of the First Vice President, representing college faculty. I’ve also recently been appointed to the Windsor & District Labour Council’s Executive Committee as a Member at Large. My work in the labour movement has grounded me with values, insight, a strong commitment to worker well-being, and the protection of good-paying, stable jobs. These experiences have allowed me to gain a true appreciation of how to address an individual’s concerns, and work with them to gain a resolve. Furthermore, this work goes beyond the workplace and into advocacy for the broader community. Working with such a diverse community has given me an understanding of social justice issues, informed directly by those with life experiences including non-union workers, those struggling to find employment, and families and individuals facing systemic barriers daily. I’ve also served as the elected Executive Secretary for the Windsor Region Society of Architects (WRSA) since 2007. Under that umbrella I’ve worked to align community interests, with initiatives tied to architecture and building better communities. I’ve worked in the best interests of our community as a Board Member for the Windsor Essex Community Housing Corporation from 2019 to 2023 and sat on its Development and Regeneration Committee, as well as the Submission Awards Committee. As a past member of the Windsor Bicycle Committee, I contributed to the creation of an action plan tied to Vision Zero, a Windsor City Council initiative meant to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries on Windsor streets. In addition to these positions, I’ve represented both the Windsor Region Society of Architects and St. Clair College as a stakeholder providing input on environmental issues tied to the National Urban Park – Ojibway Prairie Complex. I’ve served as an elected Board Member for the Michigan Chapter of the Congress for the New Urbanism since 2017. An organization whose mission is to champion walkable urbanism and provide resources, education, and technical assistance to create socially just, economically robust, environmentally resilient, and people centred places. My career has allowed me to shadow some amazing individuals. My experiences in education, architecture, the labour movement, community building and housing have all helped to shape me. Throughout my career, I have built a reputation for being progressive, responsive, and always making time to follow up with people. I truly feel that I am ready to bring that exact same energy and dedication to City Hall, as I ask for the community’s support to represent the group that I hold in such high esteem. To me, it’s about lifting each other up and providing pathways and avenues to betterment. I understand that true economic development, social equity, and thoughtful city building cannot be separated, and I am committed to addressing municipal issues holistically and not in isolation. It’s about continuing to build a community that strives for excellence while supporting our youth to ensure that their future is bright. It’s about the services, jobs and development that become the foundation of that betterment. What’s one promise voters can hold you accountable for in four years? Transparency, communication, and true public engagement, as well as in person discussions and honest answers, even if we agree to disagree. I’ve learned over the years that honest respectful communication typically leads to solutions that work for everyone. My decisions will always be guided by the real, everyday issues affecting my neighbours. In four years hold me accountable for the promise I’m making today, I will remain accessible and hold face-to-face meetings. I will host community roundtables for local issues and maintain avenues for one-on-one chats to address residents’ specific concerns. They will be honest, open meetings where we work together to get things done. Farah Ahmed Ahmed has provided his priorities in response: My top priorities are strong infrastructure and better city services, along with creating more service and community opportunities for residents. Windsor needs reliable roads, well-maintained infrastructure and responsive city services that residents can count on. I would advocate for responsible, long-term infrastructure planning and better accountability for how city services are delivered. I also want to expand opportunities for residents to participate in and contribute to their communities, while supporting programs and services that make our neighbourhoods stronger and more connected. Finally, accountability and responsible spending are essential. Residents deserve transparency about how their tax dollars are being spent. I would work to ensure city spending is carefully prioritized, value for taxpayers is considered in major decisions, and council remains accountable to the people it serves. Alessandro Didone CTV News is awaiting a response. Natasha Elizabeth Feghali Why are you running for councilor of Ward 5? Ward 5 has been my home for nearly 30 years. I’ve been encouraged many times to run because of my background in education, leadership, business, and community service. I’m ready to bring that experience — and a diverse perspective — to City Hall while being an accessible voice for Ward 5. What is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? Infrastructure and quality of life. At the doors, I hear concerns about roads, sidewalks, traffic, development, and city services. I would support proactive infrastructure planning, appropriate traffic calming, responsible development, and ensuring Ward 5 receives its fair share of city investment. If elected, what are your top three priorities? My top three priorities are improving Ward 5’s roads and infrastructure, strengthening neighborhood safety and community connections, and improving transparency and resident engagement at City Hall. I want residents to see practical improvements in their neighborhoods and have a stronger voice in the decisions that affect them. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I wish to begin by celebrating everyone who came forward. I bring a different combination of local and international experience. I am a bilingual educator, entrepreneur, union member, and community leader with academic studies in political science and a Stanford fellowship focused on democracy, development, and the rule of law. Having lived and worked in different parts of the world and served on more than 20 boards and committees, I bring a diversity lens and a broader perspective to City Hall, while remaining grounded in nearly 30 years of living in Ward 5. What’s one promise voters can hold you accountable for in four years? To remain accessible and present — not just during an election. I intend to support regular community meetups and use a portion of my councilor salary to help fund Ward 5 neighborhoods watch initiatives and community gatherings. In four years, residents should be able to ask whether I showed up, listened, communicated, and kept them involved. Shane Potvin Why are you running for councillor of Ward 5 in Windsor? Running for Ward 5 councillor is the natural extension of the work I’ve already been doing. As Ford City BIA President, community ambassador, and business owner on Drouillard Road, I’ve spent nine years investing in this neighbourhood and its neighbours. I’ve seen what’s possible when you show up consistently, and I want to do that at a larger scale for all of Ward 5. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? Safety and how we think about it. I want to audit Ward 5 lighting, expand environmental design approaches, invest roads and parks, and implement Vision Zero to protect pedestrians and cyclists. Real safety comes from built environments and supported people. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? 1. Invest more in transit and active transportation: Implement Vision Zero and push for a connected bike lane system. 2. Housing: Support gentle density and additional dwelling units by cutting red tape and streamlining city processes. 3. Accessibility: City processes and city council should be easier to navigate so residents be more informed and have a greater access to essential services. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I’ve already been doing this work and have been training for this position. The BIA, organizing Dropped on Drouillard, operating my businesses, and my investments in Ward 5. I know what it takes to move a neighbourhood forward because I’ve done it one block at a time. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I will show up. Office hours, town halls, accessible council meetings, one-on-one conversations. Ward 5 will always know where I stand and how I voted, and they’ll always be able to reach me. Ward 6 Councillor Nick Jirgens CTV News is awaiting a response. Denis Marier Why are you running for councillor of Ward 6 in Windsor? I grew up in Riverside. Some of my earliest lessons about community and service started here, and they stayed with me as I lived, learned, and worked in communities across Canada and around the world, including five international medical relief missions. After all that travel, I have never found the kind of community spirit we have in Windsor. When people here are hurting, whether through illness, hardship, or severe weather, neighbours rally around them. Riverside has always been home, and I came back. I’m running because I care deeply about this community, and I believe I have something useful to offer at City Hall. My background is in healthcare, education, governance, and community service. Municipal office would be new to me, but governance isn’t. I’ve served on regulatory and community boards where decisions require preparation, evidence and putting the public interest first. My approach is simple: Listen, collaborate and deliver. Good representation starts with hearing from the people who live here. A councillor can’t accomplish anything alone, so it means bringing residents, city staff, community groups, and other levels of government together around practical solutions. And all of that only matters if it leads to results. I won’t pretend one councillor can do everything. What I can promise is that I’ll show up, do my homework, ask the hard questions, and keep Riverside’s voice at the table. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? In my view, the most important issue facing Ward 6 is helping seniors age at home, and making sure good resources are in place for the primary caregivers who make that possible. I recently walked both of my parents through their end-of-life experiences over 14 months, each in their own homes. I know how important this is to seniors themselves, and to the people caring for them. Riverside is home to many seniors who have lived here for 50 years or more. Some of them have been Riverside residents for so long, they almost qualify as seniors twice. Healthcare decisions belong to the provincial government, not City Hall. But that shouldn’t stop us from lobbying for grants for specific projects in our ward that support the health and wellbeing of our seniors. That means pursuing funding from the provincial and federal governments, as well as from private institutions such as the big banks and large insurance companies. This isn’t new territory for me. Between 2008 and 2011, I secured a grant from a large insurance company for a pilot project at the Hospice of Windsor and Essex County. It brought naturopathic services on site, along with visits to community hospice patients at the end of life. That work grew out of my master’s research on end-of-life care. It led me to found the Canadian Clinic for Integrated Medicine and to co-author a peer-reviewed research paper on integrative treatments for patients with cancer. So, I know these grants can be won, and I’m committed to winning them for Riverside. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My platform is built around three promises for Riverside, each with five commitments. Those three promises are my priorities. First, Ward 6: A Community for Life. Live well. Age well. Belong. This means helping seniors stay independent in their own homes, supporting their caregivers, building a memory-supportive Riverside, and creating ways for neighbours, including young people, to help one another all year round. One idea I’m excited about is Safe Chairs: Easily recognizable royal blue (or green, or red) chairs at participating businesses and community spaces. Anyone who is feeling unwell, overwhelmed, lost, or unsafe would know they can sit down and ask for help, whether that’s a senior who has become disoriented, a parent at the end of their rope, or someone in sudden pain. Staff would be trained to help without rushing or embarrassing anyone. People should be able to stay part of their community with dignity. In my first term, I’d ask city staff to identify the practical barriers to aging at home in Ward 6, then pilot low-cost ideas like this with community partners. Second, Building a Resilient Riverside. Protect. Prepare. Preserve. Flooding remains a real concern here. I’ll press for clear priorities and timelines on sewer and stormwater work, with sustained attention to Little River and surrounding flood basins. This promise also covers safer, more walkable streets, understanding environmental impacts before major projects begin, better emergency preparedness after recent severe weather, and finding the right site for a Riverside dog park. Third, A Riverside voice at City Hall. History. Health. The Future. This means being accessible, knowing the files and explaining my votes. It also means supporting responsible growth that our infrastructure can handle, protecting Windsor’s heritage, demanding measurable results on housing and homelessness, and making sure major healthcare and infrastructure decisions serve Windsor for decades to come. One councillor can’t do all of this alone. But with residents, city staff and other levels of government at the table, these are priorities we can move forward together. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? Ward 6 has seven candidates this election, and we’re a remarkably diverse group. That matters because when you look around the table at Windsor City Hall, we definitely need more diversity. Part of me wishes several of us could serve together. I’ve met most of my fellow candidates, and I’ve been genuinely impressed by their dedication, their work ethic, and the time they’ve spent listening to residents. I wouldn’t even call this a race. It’s an election and a chance for voters to look at what each of us brings. What sets me apart is my governance experience. I got involved in student leadership as a teenager, and I always felt I would return to that kind of work. Since then, I’ve served for five years as a board member of the Sexual Assault Crisis Centre of Windsor, and for the past five years as a board member of the College of Naturopaths of Ontario, where I’ve held several governance committee positions, including the last three years on the Executive Committee. Regulatory governance means making decisions that protect the public, sometimes against the interests of my own profession. It requires preparation, evidence, respectful disagreement and putting the public interest ahead of personal preference. That’s exactly the discipline city council needs. For almost 30 years, I’ve also been a naturopathic doctor. My job has been to sit with people, listen to their stories, repeat them back to make sure I heard them correctly, and then find the root cause of what’s making them unwell, then help remove obstacles to cure, all while supporting their own innate ability to self-heal. That’s how I’d approach the problems facing Ward 6. Along the way, I’ve lived and worked well beyond Riverside. I studied at McMaster on a scholarship, trained as a teacher at the University of Windsor, taught high school in Tokyo, and have taught and supervised medical interns at colleges and universities in Canada and the U.S. I’ve done five international medical relief missions and spent a month volunteering at Mother Teresa’s Home for the Dying Destitute in Calcutta. I was born and raised in Riverside. After all those years and all those places, I could have lived anywhere, and I chose to come back. This is home, and this is where I want to be of service. I believe my whole life has been training me for this job. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is Safe Chairs. Within four years, I want to see easily recognizable royal blue – based on the easily recognizable handicapped parking colour, but they can be green or red chairs – at participating businesses and community spaces in Ward 6, where anyone who feels unwell, overwhelmed, lost, or unsafe knows they can sit down and ask for help. By the end of my first term, there will be at least 20 Safe Chairs in place across the ward. And I won’t bring this idea to City Council asking for money. I’ll bring it with the money to pay for it. The big banks and insurance companies in our region set aside funds every year for community investment. Why not have one of them sponsor Safe Chairs in Ward 6? I know how to make that case, because I’ve done it before. I secured funding from a large insurance company for a pilot project at the Hospice of Windsor and Essex County, and I can do it again. Ward 6 is the right place to start. A pilot here lets us test the idea, learn what works, and fix what doesn’t. If it succeeds, it can expand across Windsor, and from there to train stations, bus terminals, and transit hubs across the province and beyond. It’s a simple idea that can be reproduced almost anywhere, and if it makes a difference for even one person, it’s worth it. I’m so committed to this that I’ll keep working to make it happen whether I’m elected or not. Hold me to it. Hiral Munim Why are you running for councillor of Ward 6 in Windsor? Driven by a deep commitment to public service, I am running to champion the needs of Ward 6 through collaborative, transparent, and results-focused leadership. I believe the best solutions come from listening to residents and working together to get things done. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? Neighborhood safety: Safe neighborhoods rely on visible streets and sensible traffic flow based on real resident input. I will work to install high-visibility flashing crosswalks near schools, shopping centers, and key intersections to safeguard school children, cyclists, and seniors. In sensitive areas, speed bumps must be installed, and/or auxiliary police foot patrolling is required. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? Smart Infrastructure and timely completion of the Riverside Vista Project: There are many bylaws which are obsolete about how much space around houses, corner lots, and fencing. As new technology and equipment evolve, assessments should be done on a one-on-one basis to assess underground utilities regarding how much space can be given back to the residents. The assessments can be optional and generate revenue to fund further initiatives. The Riverside Vista Project is currently pending and requires continued advocacy to be completed. Supporting local businesses, arts, cultural and community events: Many public spaces can be used for arts, culture, community events and farmers markets, such as the WFCU Centre parking lot and many parks in our Ward 6. This can be done in collaboration with the Olde Riverside Business Improvement Association and local vendors, including youth, to help empower them and boost our local economy. Pedestrian safety and street lighting: Safe neighborhoods rely on visible streets and sensible traffic flow based on real resident input. I will work to install high-visibility flashing crosswalks near schools, shopping centres, and key intersections to safeguard school children, cyclists, and seniors. In sensitive areas, speed bumps must be installed, and/or auxiliary police foot patrolling is required. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? After studying Electronics Engineering in India, I moved to Canada two decades ago working from entry-level jobs to different positions in different organizations. After, I have led several ventures in different provinces in Canada before moving to Windsor. My journey gives me an edge in analytical skills, adaptability, people skills, as well as to lead for the causes our community believes in. Living and working in different sizes of cities has shaped my perspective on how strong communities are built through collaboration and shared purpose. My experience across multiple industries has equipped me with the analytical thinking, financial understanding, and real-world business experience needed to serve on City Council. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I am committed to being accessible, transparent, and accountable, working closely with residents to deliver practical solutions. I will be a responsive representative who returns your calls, listens to your concerns, and holds regular ward meetings. Your voice matters, and it will be my responsibility to ensure it is taken seriously. Wendi Nicholson Why are you running for councillor of Ward 6 in Windsor? Why am I running? Simple fact: We need more women on the city council. I had decided before Jo Anne Gignac announced her retirement. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? New construction, taxing sewer infrastructure, and speeding on main and residential streets, scooter and EV regulations. Working with the proper entities and organizations to bring answers to the residents of Ward 6. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? New construction, taxing sewer infrastructure, and speeding on main and residential streets, scooter and EV regulations. Working with the proper entities and organizations to bring answers to the residents of Ward 6. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? How do I differ? I was raised blue collar but also how to sit as an equal with the white collars. I have sat on many boards of directors and committees. I have sat with everyday people, to MPPs, and MPs. I have 20+ years of volunteer work under my belt. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? The only promise I can make today is I will be front and center for our community. I will listen to your issues and act accordingly. I will be your voice on city council. Jeremy Renaud Why are you running for councillor of Ward 6 in Windsor? I am running because: • Riverside needs new leadership; someone who has been a resident, that has grown with the community, and understands the foundation of its tradition; • Someone who has been tried, tested, and true to his principles and the community that has demonstrated experience not only living within it but working towards its vibrancy i.e. where that has been the case in (for eg.) I, as the Coordinator for the Olde Riverside Business Association (BIA) through to advocating for Farrow Riverside Miracle Park and so much more (for more information, visit votejeremyrenaud.ca); • Someone who is running to give his dad hope as well as community while creating a long-term vision for the development of Riverside over a 20-year period to ensure residents of today and tomorrow have complete pathways to work, rest, learn, and play. Quite simply, I am running to represent Riverside because our community deserves proactive, accountable, and accessible leadership at City Hall — a councillor who listens, acts, and gets real results for our ward. Secondly, Windsor is at a critical turning point. As our city grows, Riverside needs a strong voice to ensure that growth is managed responsibly and that our local neighborhood priorities aren’t left behind. My decision to run is rooted in a deep commitment to service and a vision built around key community priorities: • Protecting our neighborhoods and infrastructure: Upgrading our storm and wastewater systems to mitigate flooding risks, ensuring safe streets through traffic calming, and fixing crumbling roads and sidewalks. • Investments in parks and public spaces: Enhancing our community parks, and trails so families, youth, and seniors have vibrant, safe places to gather and stay active • Fiscal responsibility and smart growth: Ensuring every tax dollar is spent wisely, focusing investment where it matters most, and supporting sustainable economic development that creates good jobs while preserving the residential character of our ward. • Strong, accessible leadership: Being a visible, hands-on representative who is directly available to residents, advocates tirelessly for community concerns, and brings people together to solve problems. Riverside (Ward 6) is where we live, learn, work, rest, and play while raising our families. I am running to deliver transparent governance, champion our neighborhood’s fair share of municipal investments, and ensure our voice is heard loud and clear at council. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? Safety & Infrastructure: Roads through to Flood Mitigation – in terms of the former, I look forward to creating a specific project plan as part of the greater Vision Zero initiative in Windsor; specifically for Ward 6 by seeking a provincial grant to support road safety while working in collaboration with council, city staff (engineers), community partners, BIAs, school boards, and residents towards developing a Vision Zero Riverside Road Safety Strategy (inclusive of a school safety strategy). The strategy will yield traffic calming measures that we can utilize to identify tactics that can be implemented towards ensuring safety of our residents along a number of streets including not limited to (for eg.) Wyandotte Street (Pilette to Riverdale) through the Olde Riverside BIA and towards a newly proposed BIA (see details within this questionnaire further below); on key residentials streets (eg. Janisse and Raymond), near schools (eg. backside of Suzuki from Jefferson to Janisse along Raymond or Pilette through Ontario via Raymo Road ‘The RAYMO RUSH’) or arterial roads (eg. St. Rose and Lauzon) into the resident ones that pass through Laporte to the backside of Riverside to name but just a few. With regards to the latter, I am committed to keeping projects on track towards the delivery of St. Rose and St. Paul Pumping Stations with continued work on our dikes. Vision: Proactively develop a Long-Term 20-year Strategic Plan in collaboration with residents, businesses/BIAs, community organizations, and school boards to enable pathways to success for our community leading into and through 2046. I’m deeply interested in developing a vision for our community to ensure health and vibrancy of all residents; both new and existing. Collaboration: Execution of the long-term 20-year strategic plan through the introduction and development of the Riverside Community Collaborative, which supports a new Ward model (Ward Advisory Committee) envisioned through a ward-specific non-profit organization that is governed by a Board of Directors (Ward Advisory Committee) and driven by working committees, with a simple vision of ‘Advancing Riverside’. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? Safety and Infrastructure (Roads to Flood Mitigation): • Completion of St. Rose and St. Paul Pumping Stations (2026) plus Riverside Vista Improvement Project (2027) alongside continued improvements to dikes, while addressing issues of the 1984 Little River Drain project • Stage #1/4: Project funding and support towards the proposed development of the Vision Zero Riverside Road Safety Strategy while championing Vision Zero throughout the municipality; Our Shared Responsibility. Vision and Collaboration: • Phase #1/4: Development of Riverside Long-Term Strategic Plan; that will be executed through the delivery and introduction of the Riverside Community Collaborative. • Collaboration: Steering committee formation of the Riverside Community Collaborative Business Development & Growth: • Steering committee formation of the East Riverside BIA ‘Crossroads’. • Special Note: Name is subject to change and is to be considered a placeholder for communications purposes only until such time that a steering committee can review and have it reviewed, modified, or approved in collaboration with the city and local business community. Geographic boundaries to be determined through the initial stages of its development but am personally hoping that we can capture Janisse to Riverdale along Wyandotte and Riverside to Tranby along Lauzon; hence ‘Crossroads’. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? Candidate Differentiation: I have 25 years experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors as well as 16 years board governance experience. From helping under-resourced children, through to youth with physical and intellectual disabilities, post-secondary students, adults suffering from addiction on the road to lifelong recovery, through to seniors, I am a dedicated community leader, non-profit professional, and lifelong community advocate with a deep, proven track record of bringing people together not only in Windsor but throughout the nation and beyond. My career has been defined by service, executive leadership, and community development and along the way I have managed projects as a small as $5 million though the introduction and daily operation of the Novelletto Rosati Sports & Recreation Complex at Mic Mac Park to direct oversight of a national sport organization (NSO); a $17.5 million responsibility. I have even led national teams to the highest apex of the medals podium at the World Championships in 2022 having managed Dodgeball Canada. Through these experiences my transferable skills included governance, key partnership/stakeholder management, and a direct-centered focus towards enabling the communities that I have served. I have represented my schools and my country, I am ready to represent my backyard and the community I love, Riverside. Through the introduction of the Riverside Community Collaborative, my promise to residents, community organizations, businesses/BIAs, and school boards that reside and/or operate within Ward 6 is that you will have a fully transparent and authentic community voice with direct input into decision-making process that will drive engagement, collaboration, mobilization, and activation of our community, Together, we will be realize the long-term development of a 20-year strategic plan, which enhances quality of life for new and existing residents both today and tomorrow for years to come. Khassan Saka Why are you running for Ward 6 councillor of Windsor? I am running because I believe our residents deserve a councillor who listens, respects taxpayers, and takes action. For more than 20 years, I have been involved in community service, working with families, seniors, newcomers, businesses, and local organizations. These experiences have taught me that leadership is not about making promises. It is about understanding people’s concerns and working to deliver results. Ward 6 is a wonderful community with hardworking families and strong neighbourhoods. I want to protect what makes Riverside special while bringing fresh ideas, responsible leadership, and a stronger voice for residents to City Hall. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? One of the most important issues facing Ward 6 is protecting our neighbourhoods as Windsor continues to grow. Residents are concerned about flooding, aging infrastructure, rising property taxes, traffic safety, and development that could put additional pressure on existing services. I support responsible growth, but development must be supported by proper infrastructure. Before approving major changes, we need to understand the impact on sewers, drainage, roads, and neighbourhood safety. I also want to recognize councillor Jo-Anne Gignac’s 23 years of dedicated service and her contributions to flood protection and infrastructure improvements. I am committed to continuing that important work while introducing fresh ideas based on listening directly to residents. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? First: Protect our homes and neighbourhoods. I will advocate for continued investment in flood prevention, sewer improvements, road safety, and infrastructure maintenance. Residents deserve safe streets and reliable municipal services. Second: Respect taxpayers and encourage responsible spending. Families are already facing financial pressures. I will carefully review municipal spending, question unnecessary expenses, and support economic development that strengthens our tax base without placing an unfair burden on homeowners. Third: Improve public safety and quality of life. I will work toward safer neighbourhoods, stronger enforcement of municipal bylaws, better responses to residents’ concerns, and practical solutions to homelessness that balance compassion with public safety. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I respect everyone who has stepped forward to serve our community. Each candidate brings different experiences and ideas. What I bring is a combination of more than two decades of community involvement, organizational leadership, international experience, and direct work with people from different backgrounds. I have worked with community organizations, businesses, seniors, and families, and I understand the importance of building relationships and finding practical solutions. My approach is simple: Listen first, understand the problem, and work toward results. I am not interested in political arguments or making promises that cannot be delivered. I believe in cooperation, accountability, and putting residents ahead of politics. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is simple: I will never forget who I work for — the residents of Ward 6. If elected, I will remain accessible, listen to concerns, communicate openly, and provide regular updates about the issues affecting our community. Four years from now, residents should be able to judge me not by how many speeches I delivered, but by how hard I worked, how responsive I was, and what progress we made together. I cannot promise to solve every problem, but I can promise to listen, be honest, and work tirelessly to represent our community. Owen Smith Why are you running for Ward 6 councillor of Windsor? I am running for city council because I have lived in this city all my life and seen nothing but mismanagement and inaction by local government in addressing the issues that most affect our community. My platform advocates for necessary changes that can and already should have been done to solve or alleviate the suffering caused by the housing crisis, drug epidemic, and our excessively high unemployment rate. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? The most important issue facing our ward is that of housing. The average house price in this city rose from approximately $300,000 to $650,000 in just three years, and it is currently hovering around $590,000. This is not sustainable for our community. We must do all we can to increase supply to meet demand and thus lower prices. Without this, new adults will have no choice but to leave our city and thus weaken our community. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My top three priorities are housing, jobs, and the drug epidemic. If elected, I will expropriate the 250-500 vacant homes in this city to put them back on the market. I will also rezone certain areas for multi-unit housing with community approval so as to meet demand. I will also use a small portion of these vacant homes to create sober-living homes, which are proven to work in conjunction with 12-step programs in addressing addiction. They will also provide jobs in the security and social-work-related fields, which have related programs at St. Clair College and the University of Windsor. For creating even more jobs, I will seek to diversify our industries away from being primarily focused on the automotive sector, which is over-reliant on highly volatile international trade. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? My competitors are platforming on plans they believe they can enact, which they think will help. I am advocating for solutions I know will work and that I am certain I can implement. Everything I explicitly advocate for can be done by city council without requiring intervention from the federal or provincial government. Additionally, my plans do not cost a great deal. An example of this is my plan to reprogram traffic lights. This costs nothing more than hiring someone to write some computer code. I share this with you to emphasize that the primary differences between myself and my competitors are that my plans are effective and feasible. You should not waste your vote on a plan that can’t be done and/or won’t work. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My platform is my promise. If elected, I will accomplish all I have set out to do. I firmly believe I am the only candidate who can say that honestly. Ward 7 Councillor Angelo Marignani – Incumbent Why are you running for councillor of Ward 7 in Windsor? I am running because I love and care deeply about the community where I live, work, and play. I want to ensure Ward 7 remains a safe, vibrant, and thriving place for all families and residents. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward, and how would you address it? The most critical issue facing our community is our infrastructure, particularly our parks and roads. I will address this through focused investments in infrastructure improvements and enhanced public engagement, ensuring residents have a direct voice in how neighborhood developments and repairs are prioritized. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your second term? Investing in road and local infrastructure improvements. Enhancing parks and public spaces, with a dedicated focus on Sandpoint Beach safety and upgrades. Fostering improved communication and transparency between City Hall and Ward 7 residents. Working Together as a community How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I bring four years of direct council experience to the table. This proven track record means I understand how city hall operates from day one and know how to effectively navigate municipal decisions to deliver real results for our ward. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I promise to be fully accountable and always be there for the residents of Ward 7, maintaining open lines of communication and serving as an accessible, transparent voice for our community every single day Beth Ann Prince Why are you running for councillor of Ward 7 in Windsor? I’m running because Ward 7 deserves strong, experienced representation and a councillor who listens to residents, communicates with them, and gets things done. Over the past several months, I’ve spoken with residents throughout Ward 7, and I consistently hear concerns about affordability, neighbourhood safety, aging infrastructure, traffic, the condition of our parks, and the future of important community assets such as Sandpoint and Stop 26. Ward 7 is one of the fastest-growing areas of Windsor, and I believe we need to make sure our infrastructure, services and neighbourhood amenities keep pace with that growth. I bring nearly 30 years of experience building partnerships, managing projects, working with large budgets, and serving on community and governance boards. I understand how to bring people together, ask the right questions and move projects from discussion to results. Most importantly, I believe a councillor should be accessible and accountable throughout the entire four-year term — not just during an election. I’m running because I have listened to Ward 7 residents, I know we can do better, and I’m ready to be a strong voice for our community at City Hall. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? The biggest issue is making sure Ward 7 receives the attention and investment it needs and deserves, as our community continues to grow. That affects almost everything residents talk to me about — roads, traffic, flooding, parks, neighbourhood safety, and infrastructure. Growth cannot simply mean more homes and more residents. The infrastructure and services supporting those neighbourhoods have to grow as well. As councillor, I would push for Ward 7 to receive a fair share of infrastructure investment based on population growth, road conditions, safety needs, and future development. I would work with administration to identify priorities early rather than waiting until problems become urgent. I would also communicate those priorities clearly to residents. People should know what projects are planned, when they are expected to happen and where Ward 7 stands in the City’s capital budget. This is ultimately about planning ahead. Ward 7 residents pay property taxes like everyone else in Windsor, and they deserve safe roads, well-maintained parks, reliable infrastructure and neighbourhood services that reflect the needs of a growing community. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My first priority is affordability and responsible spending. Residents are facing increasing costs everywhere — property taxes, water and wastewater, utilities, transportation, and recreation. I will scrutinize spending, look for efficiencies, and work to keep municipal tax increases at or below the rate of inflation. My second priority is safer neighbourhoods and stronger infrastructure. That means addressing speeding and traffic concerns, improving lighting and safety in parks and trails, advocating for appropriate policing resources, and making sure Ward 7 receives its fair share of investment in roads, sidewalks, drainage, and other infrastructure. My third priority is accountability and communication. Residents should not have to wonder what their councillor is doing or whether their concerns have been forgotten. I will hold regular Ward 7 town halls, provide consistent updates, and introduce a system to track resident concerns from the day they are received until they are addressed. I also want to see real progress at Sandpoint and Stop 26. Residents have waited long enough. We need a clear plan, funding strategy, timeline, and measurable results. Those priorities all come back to one thing: making sure Ward 7 residents are heard, respected and represented every day at City Hall. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I believe the clearest difference is the experience and approach I would bring to the council table. My background is not simply about politics. For nearly 30 years, I have worked with community organizations, financial institutions, hospital leadership, and major governance boards. I have experience understanding budgets, building partnerships, raising funds, managing projects, and bringing different groups together to achieve results. I also believe strongly that being a councillor is about more than attending council meetings. It is about being present in the community, listening to residents, and following through when someone raises a concern. Throughout this campaign, I have spent a great deal of time at residents’ doors and attending community meetings. Those conversations have shaped my priorities. I’m not running to tell residents what they should care about. I’m running because I have listened to what they already care about — affordability, safe neighbourhoods, infrastructure, parks, Sandpoint, and having a councillor who is accessible and accountable. Residents have a clear choice in this election. I am offering experience, a detailed plan, and a commitment to actively represent Ward 7 rather than simply occupying the council chamber seat. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is that Ward 7 residents will always know where I stand, what I am working on and what progress is being made. If elected, I will create a much more consistent system of communication and accountability for the ward. That includes regular Ward 7 town halls, monthly updates on council decisions and neighbourhood projects, ongoing use of social media and resident surveys, and a constituent management system to track concerns and follow them through to resolution. At the end of four years, residents should be able to look back and clearly see what issues were raised, what I advocated for, what investments came to Ward 7, and what was accomplished. Not every issue can be solved overnight, and no councillor can promise that every vote will go their way. But I can promise to show up, do the work, keep residents informed, and fight for Ward 7 every day. That is a commitment voters can measure — and one they should hold me accountable for. Victoria Soulade Why are you running for councillor of Ward 7 in Windsor? I am running because I believe Ward 7 residents deserve representation that listens, follows up, and keeps them informed. My background as a small business owner, Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, Political Science student, mother, immigrant, and community advocate has taught me the importance of listening carefully, understanding complex systems, and helping people navigate challenges. As I have spoken with residents, I have heard concerns about youth opportunities, transit, infrastructure, flooding, neighbourhood services, and communication from City Hall. I am not running to make promises that one councillor cannot personally deliver. I am running to listen, ask the right questions, advocate for residents, work constructively with others, and report back on what is being done. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? One issue that has stood out to me is the need for more places where young people can belong, particularly safe and welcoming indoor spaces and year-round opportunities for teenagers and young adults. I would begin by looking at how existing community centres, libraries, recreation programs, schools, and community organizations can be used more effectively. I would also want young people themselves involved in identifying what they would actually use. This does not mean ignoring other important issues such as transit, roads, flooding, or neighbourhood safety. It means recognizing that a growing community also needs places where young people can connect, learn, participate, and feel that they belong. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My three priorities would be: More places for youth to belong: Supporting safe, welcoming, year-round spaces and programs for teenagers and young adults. Reliable transit closer to home: Reviewing routes, connections, frequency, and access so transit keeps pace with where people live, work, study, and access services. Infrastructure that keeps pace with growth: Focusing on roads, sidewalks, sewers, drainage, flood protection, and making sure residents receive clearer information about planned projects and timelines. Accountability would run through all three. Residents should know what concerns have been raised, what action has been taken, and what remains outstanding. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I believe each candidate brings different experiences and perspectives, and voters should make that comparison for themselves. What I can speak to is the approach I would bring to the role. I place a strong emphasis on communication, follow-up, and accountability. If elected, I would provide regular Ward 7 updates explaining what residents have raised, what I have brought forward, what response has been received, what has been resolved, and what remains outstanding. I also bring experience as a small business owner, immigration professional, student, mother, immigrant, and community advocate. Those experiences have shaped how I listen to people, work through complex systems, and follow issues through. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is that residents will not have to wonder whether their concerns disappeared after they contacted their councillor. If elected, I will provide regular Ward 7 updates showing the issues residents have raised, what action I have taken, what response has been received, and what remains outstanding. I cannot promise that every problem will be solved or that every request will be approved. Council decisions involve budgets, evidence, competing needs, and cooperation with others. But I can be held accountable for listening, following up, communicating honestly, and keeping residents informed. Ward 8 Councillor Gary Kaschak – Incumbent Why are you running for councillor of Ward 8 in Windsor? I am running for city councillor re-election as I have lived in the community for many years. I love our area and want to continue to make our community a better place to live. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? I believe affordability, remaining fiscally prudent, and keeping property taxes as low as possible is the most important issue. So, many residents have reached out to say how strapped they are financially and anything City Council can do to make place affordability at the forefront is paramount. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? Top three besides the affordability issue stated above: How do you differ from your fellow candidates? As a longtime resident, public sector worker, hockey and baseball coach, and community advocate, I bring the knowledge, know-how, and experience to get progress and improvements. A family man with two sons and two granddaughters has provided so much perspective and life experience to be an effective representative. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I promise to be available to discuss matters affecting the residents. I’ve proven that I am accessible and respond back to residents promptly during my previous eight years as the Ward 8 councillor and will continue to do just that. I care so much about my ward, community and the City of Windsor and always will. Kevin Racine Why are you running for councillor of Ward 8 in Windsor? I have lived in Ward 8 for 48 years. I have worked at WF Herman Secondary as a Youth Worker, working directly with youth and their families in very difficult situations. I was eligible for early retirement in March of 2026. Being elected as a city councillor would be a natural transition, letting me continue the work I love on a larger scale and help the entire city through Ward 8 as a full-time councillor. If you ask me whether I’ll retire to become a full-time city councillor, the answer is yes. I will need a little time to tie up loose ends and make sure my students get the transition they deserve, not an abrupt departure, as teens often have that in their daily lives, and I will not do that to them. I’m running for councillor because Ward 8 deserves strong, accessible leadership focused on practical results. I care deeply about our community and want to ensure residents feel safe, heard, and confident that City Hall is addressing the concerns I bring forward. My priorities include safer neighbourhoods, responsible development, improved roads and traffic enforcement, and reliable city services that deliver value for taxpayers. I also want to bring residents, Windsor Police, school boards, healthcare providers, local businesses, and community organizations together to create a satellite hub in Ward 8 to address challenges before they become crises — especially those affecting youth violence. Some services are already available; collectively, we need a united front among all stakeholders to implement programs for our youth, seniors, and others. Community centres fall short of providing real services. Ward 8 needs and deserves a community hub, like the Youth Wellness Hub, right in our neighbourhood to build a stronger, safer, more engaged community across Ward 8. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? The most important issue facing Ward 8 is neighbourhood safety. At the doors, residents are concerned about speeding, dangerous driving, property crime, and violence involving young people. Many have also raised concerns that the new Transit Windsor bus terminal on Tecumseh and Lauzon Parkway left seniors and people with mobility issues as an after thought, with little regard for their safety planning. They must cross a six-lane street to access the mall. Windsor police have deemed this intersection one of the most dangerous east-end intersections. We need to do better for our seniors and people with mobility issues. The Seniors of Fontaine Bleau Towers 2455 also have many concerns that I will address as your Ward 8 city councillor. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their home, on their street, and in local parks. I would address this by advocating for stronger traffic enforcement, targeted road-safety improvements, and a visible, responsive police presence in areas experiencing repeated problems. Many traffic calming signs are just warnings without proper enforcement. If you have ever gotten a speeding ticket, you remember exactly where it was because enforcement creates long-lasting behavioural change; signs have minimal effect, are costly, and don’t deliver the safety we need and deserve in all the neighbourhoods of Ward 8. I will also address street safety concerns by installing more appropriate solar lights on streets and in parks as a cost-effective solution. I will also bring Windsor Police, school boards, healthcare providers, probation services, community organizations, parents, and young people together to improve prevention and early intervention. Enforcement is necessary, but lasting safety also requires addressing problems before they escalate, keeping residents informed, and ensuring City Hall promptly follows up on their concerns. My approach would combine accountability with prevention. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? How do you differ from your fellow candidates? What sets me apart and how I differ is my deep community involvement for over 30 years at WF Herman Secondary as a youth worker, a frontline staff member doing the real work, directly with positive, life-changing results, working with thousands of families right here in this community, including many of your own grandchildren, you, and your own children. I am very well known and respected by the community as Mr. Racine. I work out of room 116. I pride myself on always standing up for my community, and now they are standing up for me. The community knows what I stand for and has seen it with their own eyes, and that has brought excitement to this election in our community. I am known for getting things done through passion, compassion, and determination like no one else when it comes to helping people. My real world experience with some of the most troubling situations youth and their families face has prepared me to make a direct impact from day one as your Ward 8 city councillor and will eventually benefit the entire city. I have worked directly with the unhoused, those experiencing drug addiction and substance abuse, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, and repeat offenders. I have created and delivered conflict resolution and mediation programs, breakfast and lunch programs, and food and clothing drives to meet the needs of our community, your neighbours. I have lived in Ward 8 for 48 years. I understand our neighbourhood, and I know how important early intervention, collaboration, and consistent follow-through are. This has been my life’s work long before it was ever a campaign. I am prepared to transition to full-time city councillor, accessible, visible, and responsive. I’ll deliver practical results on neighbourhood safety, traffic enforcement, responsible development, infrastructure, and reliable city services. I will do my best to improve our community. I will get back to residents quickly and effectively. I will bring the same commitment I’ve shown in the community for the last 30 years. I promise that my brand is Windsor, Ont. Ward 8 city councillor fighting for you. If you stand up for me and vote Kevin Racine, I will keep standing up for you. I will not seek higher office or run for MPP while I am your seated Ward 8 city councillor, which could leave residents with no voice at City Hall. Ward 9 Councillor Kieran McKenzie – Incumbent Why are you running for councillor of Ward 9 in Windsor? Public service is a profound calling, and my experience as a two-term councillor has only deepened my commitment to Ward 9. For over 12 years, my work has been driven by continuous, meaningful conversations with the residents of Windsor’s Southeast. In addition, as a representative for our city, I am incredibly proud to advocate for our community across diverse forums. I’m proud of our ward, our city, and the people in it. Together, through these strong personal connections, we have successfully built safer neighbourhoods and improved vital city services. This shared bond shapes our collective vision for Ward 9 — I am running to have the opportunity to continue to build on the progress we’ve made working together. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? Sustainable urban development is the most critical issue facing Ward 9. As the epicentre of Windsor’s growth for the next 20 years, our ward is seeing historic investments — including the NextStar Energy battery plant, the new mega-hospital, and the development of the Sandwich South lands. To address this, I am committed to managing this expansion responsibly, ensuring we build a prosperous community while aggressively protecting the quality of life in established surrounding neighbourhoods. By maintaining this balance, we can leverage new economic growth to directly upgrade infrastructure and enhance city services for all residents in Windsor’s southeast. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? If re-elected, I’ll be entering my third term. My top three priorities focus on scaling up the collaborative successes we have achieved together over the last eight years: How do you differ from your fellow candidates? What sets me apart is a proven track record of over 20 years of public service, spanning both federal and municipal levels. Before serving the residents of Ward 9 as city councillor for the past eight years, I spent over a decade working as political staff in the Parliament of Canada. This unique background allows me to understand big-picture national issues while executing practical, neighbourhood-level solutions. Through this work, I have earned the trust of colleagues across all levels of government and administrative lines. Most importantly, I have built deep, direct relationships with Ward 9 residents through years of genuine collaboration and transparent advocacy. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? In four years, voters can hold me accountable for ensuring that the massive developments in our ward — including the new mega-hospital and the Sandwich South lands — progress through a framework of strict sustainable urban development. I promise that this historic economic growth will not come at the expense of our established neighbourhoods. Instead, I will ensure it is directly leveraged to fund next-phase stormwater resiliency upgrades and local infrastructure improvements right here in southeast Windsor, protecting our properties while expanding our city’s future. Soham Patel Why are you running for councillor of Ward 9 in Windsor? I am running because I believe Ward 9 deserves a councillor who is accessible, accountable, and focused on getting practical things done. As a Windsor resident, realtor, and Canadian Armed Forces Naval Reservist, I have learned the importance of service, teamwork, responsibility, and listening to the people I represent. Those are the same principles I want to bring to City Hall. Ward 9 is growing, and that growth brings opportunities, but it also creates responsibilities. Residents should not have to choose between growth and the quality of their neighbourhoods. We need infrastructure, transportation, roads, sidewalks, parks, and community amenities to keep pace with development. I am running to be a strong voice for residents while also working collaboratively with council, city staff, and the community to find practical solutions. Most importantly, I want residents to feel that their councillor is someone they can reach, someone who listens before making decisions, and someone who follows through after making commitments. One thing I have heard repeatedly during my communication with the residents that they see their councillor only before each election, and I promise I won’t be that one. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? I believe the biggest issue facing Ward 9 is making sure infrastructure and transportation keep pace with growth. Ward 9 is experiencing significant development, and that growth needs to be matched with the roads, drainage, sidewalks, pedestrian connections, traffic management, transit, and community amenities residents need. My approach would be to focus on planning infrastructure before problems become emergencies. That means stronger long-term transportation planning, better coordination between development and infrastructure, and clear timelines for projects. I also want to improve connectivity within the ward. Residents should be able to safely walk, cycle, drive, or take transit to the places they need to go. Areas such as 6th Concession and other growing neighbourhoods need safe and connected pedestrian infrastructure. I would also make resident consultation a regular part of the process. People living in a neighbourhood often know exactly where the problems are. City hall should be listening to them before decisions are made, not only after problems occur. Growth can be positive for Windsor, but it has to be managed responsibly and accompanied by the infrastructure needed to support it. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My three priorities would be: 1. Infrastructure and transportation that keep pace with growth. I would focus on roads, drainage, sidewalks, pedestrian safety, traffic management, and long-term transportation planning so that infrastructure does not fall behind development. 2. Better connectivity and accessible community services. I want Ward 9 residents to have reliable transportation options and safe access to parks, recreation, community facilities, and neighbourhood amenities. I would also advocate for better transit frequency and stronger connections across Windsor-Essex. 3. Accountability and meaningful resident engagement. Residents should know what their councillor is working on, what progress has been made, and where projects stand. I would prioritize regular communication and consultation, particularly on major developments and infrastructure decisions. My goal would not simply be to announce priorities. It would be to establish measurable objectives, communicate progress, and remain accountable to residents throughout the four-year term as resident’s concerns may change. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? Every candidate brings different experiences and perspectives to an election, and I respect everyone who puts their name forward to serve the community. What I bring is a combination of community perspective, private-sector experience, and a background in military service. My experience as a Canadian Armed Forces Naval Reservist taught me the value of discipline, teamwork, preparation, and service. My work as a realtor has given me a close understanding of housing, development, neighbourhood growth, and the decisions that affect homeowners and families. I also bring a fresh perspective as a younger Windsor resident. I am not running simply to criticize what has been done before. I want to listen to residents; understand the challenges they are experiencing and work with council and city staff to find practical solutions. For me, representation means being accessible, explaining decisions clearly and following through on commitments. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is that residents will always know what I am working on and where I stand. If elected, I will establish clear priorities for Ward 9 and regularly report back to residents on the progress being made, including what has been completed, what is still underway, and where there are delays or challenges. I also want residents to have meaningful opportunities to provide input before major decisions affecting their neighbourhoods are made. Four years from now, I want voters to be able to look at my record and judge me based on results, not promises. If I cannot deliver something because of a decision outside the councillor’s authority, budget limitations, or another legitimate constraint, I will explain that honestly rather than make excuses or disappear. My commitment is simple: Listen, communicate, work collaboratively, and be accountable for the issues I have committed to addressing. Ward 10 Councillor Wally Chafchak Why are you running for Ward 6 councillor of Windsor? I owe it to the almost 1,000 votes last election and those who will consider me this election to stay committed, the residents in Ward 10 deserves the best representation and they do have concerns that were completely ignored, I will be their voice. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? The basics: Windsor the city of roses have lost its status, deteriorated and neglected, the once beautifully Downton Windsor is the home of homeless, is that difficult to fix, they say if there is a will, there is a definitely a way. “I have a dream and a vision.” If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? Security and safety, parks and recreation, lower taxes, and assistance to elderly. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? Candidate Adam should be looking after his own Tecumseh town. Candidate Jim should learn how to return calls and appreciate those who voted for him. Candidate Mark, look at his profile limited knowledge to a specific area that is already controlled by a system. Candidate Wally, job creation definitely proven, brought many businesses to the city, self-build business person, principal insurance broker that deals with people from complex legal issues and contracts to basics of client services, extensive community involvement that is continuous such as serving on the Windsor Police Services Board, local resident of Ward 10 and work in Ward 10. I have the ability to listen, analyze, find solutions, recommend and implement. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I am only a phone call away that will returned and cared for. City Hall be aware. Adam Ibrahim Why are you running for councillor of Ward 10 in Windsor? I am running because I want to give back to the community that helped shape who I am. I may not have all the answers, but I am willing to listen, learn, work hard, and push for practical solutions that make a real difference. If I can help bring positive change to Ward 10, improve our neighbourhoods, and make Windsor a better place for our children, then I will know that I have made a meaningful contribution to the community I call home. The reason I’m running for city councillor in Ward 10 is that I believe there is a disconnect between our community and City Hall. Residents deserve to feel heard and that their concerns are being taken seriously. Our parks and recreational spaces need attention, our infrastructure needs improvement, and we need a strong voice at City Hall advocating for the priorities of the people who live here. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? After canvassing Ward 10 three times and speaking with many residents at their doorsteps, I have found that safety is the most common concern in our community. I would address this issue by bringing this concern directly to the mayor and city council, advocating for meaningful action, and ensuring Ward 10’s needs remain a priority. I would also work to establish open and ongoing discussions with local law enforcement and the Chief of Police to better understand the safety challenges and explore practical solutions. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? If elected, my top three priorities would be directly connected to the concerns I have heard from Ward 10 residents. First, I would advocate for a dedicated left-turn signal on Labelle Street. Residents have raised concerns about traffic and safety, and I believe this is an issue that deserves attention. Second, I would make neighbourhood safety a priority. Many residents I have spoken with want to feel safer in their own neighbourhoods and have concerns about crime and the security of their homes and vehicles. Third, I would focus on responsible spending and keeping property taxes affordable. Many families in Ward 10 are feeling the pressure of the rising cost of living, and the last thing they need is unnecessary increases to their household expenses. I would advocate for careful budgeting, greater efficiency, and a thorough review of expenditures to ensure taxpayer dollars are being used wisely. These priorities reflect what I have heard directly from Ward 10 residents. My commitment is to bring the community’s concerns to City Hall, push for practical solutions, and make decisions that put residents first while keeping our neighbourhoods safe and our city affordable. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? What sets me apart from other candidates is my passion for the community, my experience in government, and my willingness to speak up and advocate for residents. I have worked in both the federal and provincial governments, which has given me a strong understanding of how government operates and the importance of building relationships across all levels of government to get things done. I understand that meaningful progress often requires persistence and the ability to bring people together around common goals. I also serve on the boards of St. Clair College and the Ontario Trillium Foundation, where I have gained valuable experience in strategic decision making and overseeing multimillion dollar budgets. In addition, I work in my family’s local business, where I understand firsthand the importance of budgeting and making responsible financial decisions. These experiences have taught me the importance of accountability, responsible financial management, and ensuring that public resources are used effectively to benefit the communities we serve. I would bring that same approach to City Council, making sure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and that decisions reflect the needs and priorities of Ward 10 residents. I am a hard worker who is not afraid to ask difficult questions or speak up when I believe something needs to change. I would bring a fresh, younger perspective to city council, along with the energy and willingness to learn that I believe the role requires. Being a younger candidate also gives me a different perspective on the challenges facing young families, working people, and the next generation of Windsor residents. Most importantly, I believe effective representation starts with listening. I have made an effort to speak directly with residents, hear their concerns, and understand what they want to see change in their neighbourhoods. I am running because I want to make a difference, and help build a safer, more affordable, and better maintained community. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? One promise voters can hold me accountable for four years from now is that I will always advocate for them. I do not want to make unrealistic promises or pretend that I can solve every problem or deliver everything residents ask for. What I can promise is that I will listen, take their concerns seriously, and bring those concerns directly to city council. I will also be honest when there are limitations or challenges. Not every decision is within a councillor’s control, and not every issue can be resolved overnight. However, residents should never feel that their concerns have been ignored or that their councillor has stopped fighting for them. Four years from now, I want residents to be able to say that I showed up, listened to them, followed through on my commitments, and was never afraid to speak up for our community. My job is to be their voice at City Hall, and I will take that responsibility seriously. Ultimately, I want to earn the trust of Ward 10 residents through my actions, my honesty, and my commitment to putting the community first. Mark Masanovich Why are you running for councillor of Ward 10 in Windsor? I am running for Ward 10 City Council because I believe our community deserves focused attention, practical solutions, and a clear path forward. My family and I have lived in Ward 10 for more than 20 years. Windsor is where I was raised and where I chose to raise my family. This is home, and I want to give back to a community I know and care about. Through conversations with residents, I have heard consistent concerns about open ditches, incomplete sidewalks and trails, deteriorating roads, speeding, and the need for clearer timelines and communication on city projects. These issues affect our daily lives, our safety, and our neighbourhoods. Residents deserve to understand what is being planned, how public funds are being used, and when they can expect progress. With more than 20 years of experience in facility management, I understand the importance of sound planning, responsible budgeting, setting priorities, and making the best use of resources. My teaching experience at St. Clair College and coaching at the University of Windsor have also reinforced the value of listening, communicating clearly, and working collaboratively. If elected, I will work with residents, city administration, and council colleagues to advance infrastructure improvements, pursue the comprehensive Mobility and Safety Plan, and establish clear public reporting on project priorities, funding, costs, and timelines. I will strive to be accessible, keep residents informed, and ensure their concerns remain part of the decision-making process. My goal is to bring a practical, collaborative, and accountable approach to city council that turns community priorities into action and helps build safer streets, stronger neighbourhoods, and greater confidence in local government. I want Ward 10 residents to know they have a representative who listens, works hard on their behalf, and remains committed to the community between elections. For more information, please visit masanovichward10.ca. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? The most important issue is unfinished and aging infrastructure, along with the lack of a clear public plan for addressing these needs. Ward 10 residents still face open ditches, missing sidewalk links, deteriorating roads, incomplete neighbourhood connections, unsafe crossings, speeding, congestion, and safety issues. Many residents do not know where their street ranks, what work is planned, what the work will cost, or when work will begin. My approach is practical. It starts with facts. I will press for a renewed engineering and planning review of Ward 10’s road and transportation network. The review examines traffic volumes, collisions, vehicle speeds, pedestrian activity, transit movement, major intersections, unfinished road connections and other data. From there, I will establish a public priority list. Each major project would show the problem, proposed solution, anticipated cost, funding source, and expected timeline. When a road is rebuilt, the city should examine drainage, water and sewer work, sidewalk connections, lighting, and intersection safety at the same time. When we re-build, we must finish the job. Grand Marais Road and Dominion from Totten to Ojibway are immediate examples, but they are not the entire list. Residents across Ward 10 deserve the same level of clarity. I would also report publicly twice a year on what has been approved, delayed, rejected, or completed. While better infrastructure is important, so is reliable open communication. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My three priorities are interconnected, and I encourage residents to visit masanovichward10.ca for complete details. First, reliable infrastructure: I will push for the engineering, funding, and clear timelines needed to advance urgent road, drainage, sidewalk, and neighbourhood connectivity projects. Grand Marais Road has funding allocated, but residents need clarity on which sections will be addressed and when. The unfinished stretch of Dominion between Totten and Ojibway also needs to be completed, alongside improvements to other roads and infrastructure throughout Ward 10. Second, safe and efficient movement: I am advocating for a comprehensive Ward 10 Mobility and Safety Plan addressing speeding, major intersections, pedestrian crossings, school zones, cycling gaps, transit access, and traffic signal coordination. Ward 10 sits at the centre of Windsor’s road network, and congestion and unsafe conditions here affect residents across the city. We need practical, coordinated solutions that make getting around safer and easier for everyone. Third, transparency and public accountability: I will publish a clear list of Ward 10 infrastructure priorities and provide public progress updates twice a year, outlining which projects have been approved, delayed, rejected, or completed, along with their expected costs, timelines, funding sources, and the reasons behind their ranking. My commitment is simple: safe streets, reliable infrastructure, complete neighbourhoods, and straightforward communication. Windsor must support growth and attract new investment while properly maintaining the neighbourhoods, roads, and public assets residents already depend on. I will work to ensure Ward 10 receives focused attention, responsible planning, and honest accountability. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? My difference is in my practical, operations-based approach. It is true I will bring a new energy to our ward but keep in mind my work in facility management requires planning, budgeting, prioritizing, and careful stewardship of resources. My years teaching at St. Clair College and working in sport and recreation have strengthened my communication and leadership skills. I am not asking residents to accept broad promises. I am presenting a process voters will be able to measure by providing updates twice each year. I will tell residents what was approved, delayed, rejected, or completed. I will not call a street or neighbourhood a priority and then leave residents guessing. I will not promise projects without explaining how it is paid for. I also believe leadership means sharing credit and accepting responsibility. When a project succeeds, I will acknowledge the residents, workers, businesses, public servants, and governments involved. When progress stalls, I will explain why. I respect every person willing to put their name forward. My campaign focuses on what I offer: Consistent presence, practical management, transparent decisions, and measurable follow through. I want residents to judge me by commitments and results, not election season slogans. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I will publish a Ward 10 progress report twice every year. Over a four-year term, residents should receive eight public updates. Each report will show Ward 10’s infrastructure priorities and the status of every major item. Residents will see what was approved, delayed, rejected, or completed. For active projects, I will identify the planned work, anticipated cost, funding source, and expected timeline. When progress stalls, I will explain why and outline the next steps. If priorities change, residents will receive an explanation. Ward 10 residents should not need to search through capital budgets, engineering reports, and council documents to learn what is happening in our ward. Clear information should come directly from their councillor. After four years voters will have a public record, and voters should hold me accountable. Jim Morrison – Incumbent Why are you running for councillor of Ward 10 in Windsor? I have represented Ward 10 residents for the last eight years. I’m very proud of the accomplishments we have made. These include extensive work on Dominion Boulevard and $3.3 million investment on local roadways this year. We have installed new playgrounds and have six more planned for next year. We have built some beautiful trails in the ward and are just starting a scenic trail around South Cameron Woodlot. In the city, I have been a strong voice on council making decisions like approving a record $317 million in infrastructure this year and approving thousands of new housing units. But there is still so much more to do. I love my job making the City of Windsor a much better place to live, work, and play. We are a growing city, due to decisions that have helped us attract new good paying jobs like the NextStar Battery Plant and suppliers like Minth. A new acute care hospital is coming, we need more industrial land, and we need to build the infrastructure to support these projects as well as planning for 5,000 new houses in the near future. I want to be at the table planning for what is coming. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? Ward 10 is in the center of the city touching six different wards. We don’t have any available land like in the east and the south. However, we do have the South Cameron woodlot and wetlands. I will continue to monitor this beautiful and sensitive land to safeguard it from development. I am the vice chair of ERCA and chair the Development Standing Committee, so I am well positioned to ensure that we retain this jewel, the heart of our city. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? We have city owned land that could be sold to developers at below market prices and the homes on Indian Road could be turned over to Habitat for Humanity. We can help lower housing costs by reducing the development charges by 70 per cent, something we are pursuing, with the builder passing along the savings. And as previously mentioned, continue to keep tax increases low. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I am the only candidate that has watched over and contributed to eight budget cycles. You can trust me to be fiscally responsible, making tough decisions, and using common sense. We don’t know what 4 new councillors will want to spend money on and some will have expensive ideas they advocate for. I will use my vote to make sure everything is reasonable. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? The bottom line is managing your tax dollars wisely. I’ve already said that I will keep any increases very reasonable. We need to spend record amounts on infrastructure because we are a growing city. I have the financial background to manage these costs in a way that does not put the costs on your tax bill. In four years, you can trust me to say again, that we have held tax increases below that of other Ontario cities. These responses have been edited grammatically only.
