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Priorities of the People
Although it might be my campaign, the priorities are definitely set by the people because after all if elected, I will be serving the interests of the people. In no particular order these priorities are:
- Empowering our communities and neighbourhoods: The most immediate governance issue to be tackled, this involves a shifting from centralized decision making to more empowered neighbourhoods and community councils. I along with others have already proposed new solutions to this problem. An announcement in the media took place on October 12th. The proposal along with the media statement could be accessed here: A More Effective City Council.
- Investing in newcomers and business owners: Currently newcomers feel alienated right from the get-go because they don’t know how to access the basic services. The lack of sensitive and culturally appropriate services only adds to the problem. I am committed to improve access by creating spaces like the Storefront (a one stop shop) that would provide multi-lingual services to newcomers. For any business to succeed and for the economy to flourish business practices need to be reshaped to be more entrepreneur-friendly. We need to allow first-time businesses to be set up more easily in order to encourage budding entrepreneurs. A creative economy is the precursor to a successful one. If elected, I am committed to schemes that encourage entrepreneurship in order to promote greater flow of creative juices to spice up the local economy.
- Building a sustainable transportation system: No one would disagree with me when I say that the transportation system needs a major overhaul. As an avid user of public transit myself I am committed to make the system affordable, viable and efficient. People need initiative to be lured away from cars. We need something affordable and comfortable intercity transit on many latitudes of the GTA. Additionally, as a proponent of the active transportation plan I will support programs and infrastructure changes that promote cycling and walking as an alternative.
- Empowering our youth and elders (seniors): Without a shadow of a doubt, both youth and elders are a valuable asset to any community. If elected, I am committed to give young people the opportunity to work in my office (e.g. in an internship role) so that they can get engaged and learn about the political system/process at a young age. Additionally, as someone who is under 25, I will personally challenge assumptions about youth and their role in decision making. More ideas on how we can get young people involved can be accessed here: Response to Toronto Youth Cabinet’s Survey. We need to also ensure that the planning, implementation and delivery of the services for seniors reflect what they really want. I plan to work very closely with the Toronto Seniors Forum to ensure that the needs and priorities of the seniors are met.
- Bringing accessibility and accountability back to City Hall: If given the chance to serve you, I will lead by example. I will ensure that the information you need to access the system is at your fingertips and in a language that you can understand. Regular communication between you and me will happen by means of town hall meetings and newsletters. I am committed to restore your trust in municipal government.
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