big issues:the mayor and city council
The Know Your Vote T.O. "Big Issues" primers are meant to be starting points for readers to continue their own learning and investigation. Note: Sources include City of Toronto materials, Ontario legislation, and publicly available educational and media resources.
Candidate answers
councillor
Nathen Masri
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority is ending Etobicoke North’s status as Toronto’s “Forgotten North”: making life more affordable while bringing investment, safer streets and better services home. I’ll fight waste before raising taxes, challenge postal-code auto-insurance disparities, modernize constituency service, bring unified PRESTO, and attract development. As a technology CEO and published licensing scholar who has built businesses and worked internationally, I bring an outsider’s mindset: measure outcomes, embrace innovation and make government deliver.
councillor
Hard Parmar
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My biggest priority would be making City Hall more responsive and accountable to residents. People shouldn’t have to wait years for road repairs, safer streets, or basic neighbourhood improvements. With my civil engineering background and experience working on municipal infrastructure projects, I understand how these systems work and where improvements are needed. I’ve also spent years listening to residents in Etobicoke North. I want to bring practical solutions, clear timelines, and real accountability to City Hall.
councillor
Chloe Brown
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The most important thing I'd act on is establishing Community Benefit Agreements (CBAs) that support Community Wealth Building. CBAs are legal contracts that secure locals receive jobs, training, and improvements from new developments. My experience writing the CBA for the Woodbine Casino redevelopment showed me what's possible when Developers are held accountable as neighbours. I will use CBAs for contract bidding, securing apprenticeships and employment, and creating workplaces for entrepreneurs that provide essential and affordable services.
councillor
Kristian Santos
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The most important thing I would act on is making sure Etobicoke North, and Rexdale in particular, finally gets its fair share of attention and resources. For too long our community has been treated as an afterthought. I am not afraid to challenge that. My experience growing up and raising a family here, combined with my time in the Reserves, taught me to deal with problems directly and not back down when something needs to be fixed.
councillor
Ian Cunningham
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority will be addressing the mental health, addiction, and public safety challenges affecting communities across Ward 10. Too many people are suffering without the support they need, while residents are increasingly concerned about safety, cleanliness, and disorder in public spaces. We need more 24/7 care for people in crisis, expanded supportive housing, and dedicated case workers who can help individuals navigate services. At the same time, we need clean, safe, and accessible sidewalks, with zero tolerance for violence and drug dealing
councillor
Paul Nash
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I'll work to make our community safer. I'm a former volunteer director and crew member of a Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary Search and Rescue Unit operating in the Toronto Harbour, working alongside the Toronto Police and Fire Marine Units. As such, I share a deep commitment to public safety. I'm a strong supporter of First Responders, including the police, and the critical services they provide to our community.
councillor
Bashar Kassir
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My most important priority would be improving residents’ quality of life by making our streets, parks, public spaces, and neighbourhoods safer, cleaner, quieter, and better maintained. I would bring an engineering mindset, entrepreneurship, community and public service experience, and a practical, independent perspective to City Council. I believe government should be proactive, accountable, and focused on delivering better results and value for residents—not simply responding after problems become complaints.
councillor
Ausma Malik
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Toronto’s waterfront is a destination for millions of visitors, a place to work and learn, and a home for more people every day. I’ll continue to make it an incredible place. I secured the next phase of waterfront revitalization, including a new Waterfront East transit line and thousands more units of affordable and rental housing. I opened Love Park and Bathurst Quay Common, while leading the fight to protect our waterfront from Doug Ford. I’ll build new community spaces, including Toronto’s first waterfront library and a new aquatic centre.
councillor
Husain Neemuchwala
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I would bring empathy, accessibility and a commitment to turning residents’ concerns into action. With over 20 years of leadership in education and community initiatives, I know the importance of listening without assumptions. I would identify local priorities, develop realistic plans with measurable outcomes and report openly on progress. My experience building partnerships across education, business, communities and government would help me build consensus and deliver practical results.
councillor
Xue Ding
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?As City Councillor, my priority focus will be relief tax burden with efficient fiscal management and tackling the rising cost of living. I would like to bring my financial, technology and business cross-industry professional experience to Toronto’s Ward 10.
councillor
Andi Hoàng-Lefranc
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?As City Councillor, my focus will be tackling the rising cost of living. Growing up as a working-class kid, I know first-hand the economic challenges that residents face. I am committed to bold and decisive leadership that will lower the cost of essentials, from opening up a city-owned grocery store network to transitioning towards a fare-free TTC system. Through training as a lawyer and my public service work, I bring a rational and practical lens to City Hall that prioritises non-partisan collaboration to get results now rather than later.
councillor
Paul Viret
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The most pressing issue I, and most of my neighbours, are concerned with is the price of groceries. Affordable housing, creating a greener city, faster TTC; these are all important but when people are skipping meals and feeling hunger pains everyday these things are less important. My competitors have suggested things like community garden, useless in the winter, or co-ops, even more expensive then other grocery stores. i think it's time someone with real life experience get a say and not wealthy people who can only imagine what we live through
councillor
Mike Layton
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?We need serious investments to fully fund and implement TransformTO and to reach net zero by 2040: green bus and transit fleets and reliable affordable transit, mass retrofitting City and commercial properties, BikeShare, bike lane buildout and advocacy, solar and wind expansion, supports for renters and homeowners to green their properties and reduce energy use, responsible recycling and waste management. I have decades of experience in environmental advocacy both as a former Councillor and Head of Sustainability at York University.
councillor
Keenan Courtis
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Often rigid municipal policies block progress. As a Fortune 500 financial cybersecurity advisor who has spoken internationally on AI privacy threats, I routinely help executives navigate complex global regulations, high-stakes tech contracts, and regional bureaucracy. On city council, I will bring this IT strategy experience and a proven willingness to grind through municipal red tape. I will clear the civic blockers that currently slow down vital projects like street pedestrianization and the bike-share network.
councillor
Gian Pileri
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I want a proactive City that plans ahead, fixes problems early and sets clear service standards and public timelines. I’ve rented in Ward 11 for 15 years and raised concerns at City committees and the TTC Board. In higher education I work with colleagues to find innovative solutions, explain complex systems and improve them. As an independent councillor, I’ll listen to residents, consult experts and work with everyone involved, explain decisions and follow through. I’ll work for a proactive City Hall that listens, explains and delivers.
councillor
Alice Li
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?TTC. We need a City Councillor who truly cares about public transit, while bringing technical expertise. My nine years of experience with the TTC have given me unique insight into both the rider and worker perspectives. Transit should be reliable, affordable, safe, and accessible for everyone. As a CPA, CA, I would bring my background in accounting and audit to manage the City's budget and improve transit for all.
councillor
Diana Yoon
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?There is a housing crisis and we must act with urgency to end chronic homelessness. I will expedite shovel-ready projects and work towards creating at least 1,500 supportive and affordable homes in four years. This crisis affects everyone, from first-time buyers who are pushed out, to tenants being renovicted, to seniors falling into homelessness. I have secured $1.5 billion for co-op housing from the Government of Canada. I will use my experience as a housing professional to lock in funding and build more homes immediately.
councillor
Josh Matlow
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My top priority is making sure the city delivers core services well. That means reliable transit, safe communities, proper snow clearing and garbage collection, and well-maintained parks, and addressing congestion.
councillor
David Cottrell
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority would be restoring real representation and making City Hall more responsive to residents. My background in recruitment, business, management consulting and public service has taught me how to listen, assess problems, organize people and hold systems accountable. I would bring that practical experience to Council and focus on measurable results, clear communication and follow-through.
councillor
Mina Nadimi
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My background and Experiences both in profit and non profit organizations from Front Desk to Program Assistant, Salesclerk to Retail Management, Researcher, Former Director and Researcher to Economic Research Institute demonstrated between topics & trends of the economy and environment with significant issues and challenges we are experienced/ing. My Strengths are with track record I always successfully passed by giving Priority to my work assignment & focuses to other end satisfaction
councillor
Jenny Kalimbet
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My top priority is restoring public safety in Ward 12 while making Toronto safer, cleaner, and more affordable. With over six years of experience in provincial government, helping thousands of constituents, and my volunteer leadership with Toronto Police Service, I understand how to turn community concerns into action. I will focus on stronger public safety, reducing traffic congestion, responsible spending, working with all levels of government and ensuring residents' voices are heard at City Hall.
councillor
Chris Moise
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My top priority is keeping Toronto Centre safe, affordable, liveable, and commutable for everyone. As a lifelong public servant, former healthcare worker, and small business owner who has lived and worked in this ward for over 20 years, I know what it takes to get things done at City Hall. Over four years I delivered over 1,000 affordable units, reduced 911 wait times to 3 seconds, and built new democratic tools so residents have a real voice. I will keep showing up and delivering real results.
councillor
Tom Cai
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My experience in quantitative analysis allows me to pore through vast spreadsheets of individual city spendings and that allows me to micromanage and find exactly where the bureaucracy is causing backlogs.
councillor
Walied Khogali Ali
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I would prioritize safer, more affordable communities where residents can stay and thrive. As a community leader, I have helped tenants facing eviction, advanced resident-led development planning and worked with neighbours to address local concerns. I would bring that hands-on experience to City Hall, listen across Ward 13 and deliver measurable results on housing, public safety, youth opportunities and access to community space.
councillor
Morgan Harris
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Housing - affordable, deeply affordable, transitional and supportive housing must be created and funded to meet demand. Current waitlists RGI 100,000 Supportive 15,000. Experiences to bear: Fourteen years director of supportive housing agency Habitat Services. Three years board advisor at Housing Connections (waitlist for RGI subsidized housing). Five years director Winchester Park Residents Assoc. advocating to City and Provincial funders, deputation to executive committee and part of the South St. James Town Rooming House Working Group.
councillor
Victoria Davis
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I will vote to expand on programs such as RentSafeTO to hold landlords accountable and homes safe. I would also support grassroots organizations such as Toronto Unhoused and Homelessness Union to improve on the shelter system. Expansion and mentorship of the MURA program will also help organizations get involved with housing solutions.
councillor
Norman MacLeod
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Victory for People voting to elect Norman MacLeod, myself, Councilor Ward13. Federal Liberal Government told me I am highly trusted regarding my intent to bring anti gang choices for People young and old. For the way Ward 13 street is, and my remaining there to serve and learn issues, I was rewarded with choice. Fix yourself after sobatical into council and I did the first half now half the rest. I will clean this Ward to Ward 19 standards of safty and opportunities. Culture from LGBTQ, FirstNations and Everything Elictric Concert Productions.
councillor
Nicki Ward
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I bring authentic experience, three decades of grassroots advocacy, and the executive track record of running Canada’s largest housing co-op. City Hall suffers from neglect, mismanagement, and arrogance. The challenges are clear: endless studies, performative politics, and unforced errors are wrecking our quality of life, affordability, and safety. I am qualified to manage capital budgets and deliver results at scale. I have the political experience to cut through the institutional talk, fix broken services, and deliver the change we need.
councillor
Curran Stikuts
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority is making our parks, streets and neighbourhoods safe, welcoming and cared for. That means better maintenance and programming, alongside housing and support for people in crisis and action on violence and trafficking. I bring more than 15 years of experience in Toronto Centre, working in housing co-ops, community services and advocacy. I know how to bring residents, small businesses and governments together to solve problems and turn budgets into services that improve daily life.
councillor
Joe Cadeau
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The most important thing is Toronto's complex budget - this impacts affordability, safety & security, and city services. My years as as a Vice President for a international company taught me how to maintain ongoing budgeting priorities, oversee multifaceted projects on time/on target, and navigate competing objectives. My training in mediation & conflict resolution allows me to work easily with people who hold different ideas and views, and develop solutions that work for all parties - keeping Toronto safe, affordable, accessible and clean.
councillor
George Fawcett
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My top priority will be working to restore trust, optimism, and participation in our municipal politics, which has suffered from concerningly low voter turnout in recent years. This would include engaging at the local level with community leaders, non-profit organizations, Business Improvement Areas, and other neighbourhood groups to involve them more in the decisions that shape our communities. The more people we can inspire to become involved, the stronger our voices will be in fighting together for real progress on the issues we care about.
councillor
Maria Voutsinas
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The province and the city have often had an adversarial relationship. We need to repair that relationship so that we can get things done that are needed to improve the livability of the city such as investments in housing, public transit and bike lanes. In my years as Executive Director of the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada I have worked with all levels of government to build consensus and advocate for my members. This experience has shown me how transparency and accountability will guide my work at Council
councillor
Maqsood Ahmad
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My most important action would be to make housing more affordable for renters, homeowners and families. With 20 years in real estate and experience in construction, I understand the pressure people face from high rents, mortgage payments, utility bills and building costs. I would work to lower permit fees and delays for duplexes, triplexes, legal basement units and multi unit rentals. I would promote CMHC MLI Select for affordable rentals and seek more municipal land transfer tax relief for first time buyers with insured high ratio mortgages.
councillor
Dianne Saxe
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Ward 14 has the biggest opportunity in North America to build transit-oriented affordable & workforce housing in the Portlands and at Ontario Line stations. Getting this right requires proven ability to master details, get hard things done, build innovative partnerships, defend Toronto’s waterfront and find practical, win-win solutions. I bring that track record as a Toronto Councillor, TTC Commissioner, Ontario Environmental Commissioner, PhD, mediator and lawyer, with strong relationships with City staff, residents, and businesses.
councillor
Michael Mitchell
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I've already talked about housing in an earlier question so I won't say it again. Next would be crime. Major crime numbers are up all over the City even if the murder rate is down. As a lawyer I understand that there is no single cause of crime and no single solution. However, a greater police presence would certainly provide greater deterrence.
councillor
Devyn Stackhouse
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I have a specific place-making project in mind: shade sails for Danforth. We have no covered streets in Toronto and the 4pm sunlight driving/walking west on Danforth is blinding. Shaded public spaces are integral to extreme heat health challenges. I want the Council I sit with to to seek greatness. I want Danforth to be the envy of the world. I'm an artist. Artists make the best politicians; we have practiced moving ideas into reality. I'm also incredibly persistent ;)
councillor
Caryma Sa'd
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?For the past two decades, I've built a career across law, journalism, education, and small business, developing the skills Toronto-Danforth currently needs at City Hall. My top priority is restoring public safety and ensuring accountability. Toronto’s systems are failing on both fronts— we have visible disorder with minimal consequence, and institutions that don’t answer to the people they serve. I'd push for real investment in recovery pathways for people struggling with mental health and addiction issues, not just crisis management.
councillor
Susan Chapelle
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority is making growth work for Ward 14. We are adding housing and density, but transit, infrastructure, energy capacity, parks and local services must keep pace, while we protect our employment lands and small businesses. I live and work here, and I know these neighbourhoods. I also served two terms on municipal council, working with complex budgets and chairing transit and public services. As a researcher and operator, I use evidence, collaboration and practical experience to make policy work for my neighbours and colleagues.
councillor
Mary Fragedakis
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority would be making City Hall work better for people and getting the basics right. I would push for clear service standards so residents know what to expect from the City and when, whether it’s fixing a pothole, maintaining a park or responding to a service request. I spent eight years on City Council and the past eight working directly with businesses, neighbourhoods and community organizations. I know how to turn good ideas into results and am ready to deliver from day one.
councillor
Jason Stevens
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?elected 8 times to national and local roles and a familiarity with council in 2026 i can be effective for toronto Danforth
councillor
Denise Walcott
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My first priority would be easing the financial pressure residents feel every day. I grew up in Toronto-Danforth and understand what is at stake for our community. I have managed substantial budgets, led major projects and developed cost-control strategies. As a business owner serving on two condominium boards, I have negotiated contracts, planned major repairs, questioned expenses and worked directly with residents. I will bring that practical, accountable leadership to City Hall.
councillor
Sara Ehrhardt
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The most important thing for me would be to ensure that the residents of Toronto-Danforth feel that they have a City Councillor who listens to them, advocates for them, and is their voice at City Council. For the past four years as TDSB Trustee I have advocated for parents, students, and teachers against the Doug Ford government's cuts to education, and in support of important community programs in schools. Before that I organized with other parents to save the pool at SH Armstrong.
councillor
Sheena Sharp
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?This summer we have seen the sky turn orange from wildfires, a heatwave above 35 degC, and a storm with 60% more rain than ever before. Toronto needs to prepare to electrify the city to stop the climate from getting worse, and to prepare for the effects of existing climate change. We can use climate action to drive better housing and transportation. For 18 years, I have designed energy efficient affordable housing, and volunteer for Toronto 2030, an advocate group promoting affordable electrification. I know we can make a difference
councillor
Rachel Chernos Lin
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The #1 issue I hear about at the door is congestion. It costs residents time, and costs our City more than $40B annually in lost economic productivity. The solutions are multifaceted. While there will always be a need for cars, we need to encourage the use of all modes of transportation and build complete, walkable communities. I believe the City must adopt a“build from the inside out” approach to development to keep construction off our roads. Major cities like Tokyo and NYC successfully use this model - Toronto should do the same.
councillor
Didi Moffat
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Priority: Protect housing stability and fix core infrastructure in Don Valley East. I will enforce tenant protections against bad-faith evictions, secure one-to-one rental replacements, protect fixed-income homeowners from tax spikes, and upgrade strained transit and stormwater networks. Also, I bring strict oversight to city spending, ensuring tax dollars deliver visible results.
councillor
Sinan Erdemir
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?After knocking on many doors and speaking with residents in our neighbourhood, I've come to realize that many (myself included) have lost faith in city services. It is easy to see why, just look around to see how neglected our streets have gotten. I will prioritize city services such as making the TTC much more reliable; ensuring that our streets are regularly cleaned and maintained, which includes proper green spaces and proper snow removal; holding our city-run programs to a higher standard.
councillor
Jeffery Adamson
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?TTC. My key strength is execution. Toronto does not just need more plans, it needs projects completed and results delivered. I have managed complex initiatives with difficult stakeholders, competing priorities and significant risks. My experience in project leadership and collaboration has taught me how to bring people together, solve problems and keep work moving.
councillor
Hassan Mubarak Noor Mohamed
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority is making Don Valley North a safer, more connected and affordable community, while ensuring residents’ concerns are heard at City Hall. With 20+ years of experience in education, leadership, partnerships and community engagement, I bring a collaborative, practical approach to problem-solving. I hold an MBA in Finance, am a professionally qualified Management Accountant, an ATIO Certified Translator, and a local school council co-chair. I understand the importance of working collaboratively with families and our community.
councillor
Jethro Adir Kavod
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?As a City Councillor, my priority would be supporting Toronto’s young entrepreneurs — over a third of high-potential startups now leave Canada, often because they can’t find capital or affordable space here. I started entrepreneurship at age 10, and that hands-on — not theoretical experience taught me the resilience and resourcefulness it takes to build something from nothing. I’m putting that expertise to work for Toronto’s young entrepreneurs: a municipal startup fund, faster permits, and real access to space and capital so they build here,
councillor
Shelley Carroll
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority is making Toronto’s neighbourhoods safer, stronger and more affordable, and making sure residents see results for the taxes they pay. That means investing in the parks, libraries, community centres, roads and public spaces people rely on every day, while managing the City’s finances responsibly. As a two-time Budget Chief and Chair of the Toronto Police Services Board, I bring experience turning priorities into action, finding savings and working across governments to get results for Toronto.
councillor
Roy Samathanam
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I’d make accountability and responsible use of taxpayers’ money my top priority. I would scrutinize every budget, identify unnecessary spending and reduce waste wherever possible. My operations experience and focus on efficiency would help me examine how the City spends money and look for practical savings. I would even be prepared to reduce my own annual salary by 30% to demonstrate that accountability starts with Council itself.
councillor
Sabrina Zuniga
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My first priority would be a Core Service Review of spending and performance. I would end wasteful or ineffective programs and redirect savings to law enforcement, affordable housing, addiction treatment, TTC and infrastructure. My goal is competent, accountable delivery of services residents need. As an entrepreneur & board member, I have built organizations, managed priorities and measured results. Especially in this time of economic uncertainty, Toronto needs to get its finances under control. I have the political will to do the job.
councillor
Hamid Shakeri
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?It's time to change priorities at City Hall and focus on ordinary residents. For too long, the city has been subservient to corporate bosses and big construction companies dictating our development. It should be the other way around: the Municipal Government must tell them what kind of development our communities actually need. With my strong background in engineering, management, and planning—plus firsthand experience supporting those facing hardship and trauma—I bring both the professional expertise and empathy needed to put people first.
councillor
Nathan Yusifov
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My top priority would be making Willowdale more affordable, with a focus on housing, responsible development, and reliable local services. I would listen closely to residents, work collaboratively to find practical solutions, and ensure decisions are transparent and accountable. My strengths in communication, problem-solving, and community engagement would help me represent Willowdale residents and turn their concerns into meaningful action.
councillor
David Magazzinich
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority would be restoring confidence in the basic services residents rely on—safe streets, well-maintained roads, reliable snow clearing and responsible spending. As a small-business owner, I understand budgets, accountability and solving problems quickly. I also spend countless hours speaking directly with Willowdale residents, and I would bring that same accessibility and practical, results-focused approach to City Hall.
councillor
Adam Smith
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?As councillor I will always represent residents and be available to residents, and do my best to give them their own voice at city hall. I have a long history of serving the public already and would continue to do so, for example 14 years of Meals on Wheels, 11 years at the Beach Community Edible Garden growing for our local food bank, and 6 years on the Beach BIA helping small businesses.
councillor
James Dann
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The most important thing I would act on is making sure our services and infrastructure keep pace with the growth coming to our neighbourhoods, so schools, transit, parks and community spaces do not fall behind the new housing. I am suited to this because I have done it. I spent 25 years at the City of Toronto running parks, the waterfront and public infrastructure, delivering multi-million-dollar projects with federal and provincial partners. I know how City Hall actually works from the inside, so I can get things done on day one.
councillor
Jennie Worden
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?As councillor, I will ensure that residents get their questions answered, and their problems addressed. This sounds really generic, I know, but it’s about untangling bureaucracy, dismantling silos, and relentlessly pursuing answers. As a community organizer and a non-profit administrator, that’s what I do: I bring people together to identify challenges, solve problems. I’ve run an orchestra, I’ve run neighbourhood groups, I’ve run an office, and I can run a responsive, accountable councillor’s office that supports residents when they need it.
councillor
Nate Erskine-Smith
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Building housing and delivering excellent city services, from transit to safety to snow removal. I served as the MP for Beaches-East York for over a decade, including a stint as the Housing & Infrastructure Minister. I have a track record of principled and effective advocacy, working across party lines to get things done. As the Housing Minister, I worked well with Mayor Chow to deliver for Toronto. We got a lot done together and I hope we can get even more done together on council.
councillor
Syeda Jaana Ali
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority would be making housing more affordable and secure for residents. I would focus on building and preserving affordable housing, protecting tenants, and preventing homelessness. For more than 15 years, I have led commercial strategy and organizational growth for global organizations, managing finances, using data to make decisions, building partnerships and delivering results. I would bring that same strategic, accountable & results-focused approach to City Council—listening to residents, and turning priorities into action.
councillor
Mohammad Shabani
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My absolute priority is building permanently affordable housing by creating the Toronto Community Investment Bank (TCIB). Instead of waiting for developers, the city will build directly, block corporate renovictions, and fast-track transit co-ops. As a long-time local resident, my strength is combining community roots with my business management background and public finance experience. I will bring practical management skills and public safety advocacy to implement global models that protect tenants and cut costs.
councillor
Jennifer Alexander
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The most important thing I’d act on is connecting Etobicoke Centre; across neighbourhoods, generations and communities, and with City Hall. I’ve spent years listening to residents, bringing people together and turning local concerns into action. Through The Etobicoke Voice, community advocacy and my work in communications and project management, I’ve learned how to build relationships, find common ground and follow through. I’d bring that same approach to City Council.
councillor
Katie Andrachuk
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority is making Etobicoke Centre the best place in Toronto to live at every stage of life. I want beautiful, green neighbourhoods, safer streets, more housing choices, and great places for people to gather. I've spent 17 years working with residents, governments, and decision-makers to improve public spaces and deliver major city-building projects. I know how to listen, navigate competing priorities, and turn good ideas into real improvements. Great neighbourhoods don't happen by accident. They take people willing to put in the work.
councillor
Kevin Rupasinghe
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I am laser focused on affordability and I will prioritize measures to improve the cost of living in Toronto. As a Cities engineer, I know how to build great cities where people can afford to live and move around easily. I want to build more affordable housing options and make transit more frequent and faster to get people moving and get cars off the road. I will bring my engineering skills and advocacy experience to ensure this is a city where everyone can find a home they can afford and move around safely and quickly.
councillor
Naser Kaid
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My first priority is tackling the housing crisis in our community. I will fight for safe, affordable housing and protect TCHC tenants. If a housing building is sold to a private investor, I will advocate for the city and developer to contribute 50% of the purchase price of a new home for eligible residents who have lived there for 10 years or more and are displaced. Everyone deserves fairness, dignity, housing security, and the opportunity to own a home and build a stronger community.
councillor
Ariel-Rachel Karokis
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The first thing I would act on would be Public Safety. We have experienced a rise in crime across the board. Assaults, Burglaries, Vandalization, Stabbings and Shootings, Gang Activities, as well as Street Drugs finding there way to our Schools, Playgrounds and our Communities. I will work with the Toronto Police Department to put an end to that immediately. I will fight to properly fund the Police Department, and advocate for harsher punishments for the criminals.
councillor
Taiba Ahmed
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Due to a technicality in the way minors are prosecuted under the criminal code, gangs recruit minors to do their dirty work in return for payment and a guaranteed soft sentence. Youth who get wrapped up in organized crime can sometimes be trafficked out of the province and country. I have experienced this indirectly in my family, and I know the damage it can do to friends, family, and loved ones. My #1 commitment will be to protect our youth and stamp out gang activity in our communities once and for all.
councillor
Madura Shanmugaratnam
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority is strengthening community engagement and creating more opportunities for residents, especially youth, to be involved in their neighbourhoods. Through my experience on parent council, I have seen what can happen when people work together toward local goals. I want to support neighbourhood committees and build partnerships with local businesses, schools, and community organizations to create opportunities for youth and address issues that are specific to each community.
councillor
Akina Lalla
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?There are many issues that residents face on a daily basis involving housing, food security, transportation delays, traffic congestion, garbage collection, parks and public safety. I will propose motions, participate in budgets and committee decisions, raise local issues, and help residents navigate City services to achieve visible short and long term improvements. As a mom of four school aged children with multi-faceted skills and high a level of dedication to family and community work I will be equipped to fight tirelessly as a City Councilor
councillor
Willie Reodica
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Eliminate MLTax for houses below $1.3M. Banks to wave fees & pay for appraisal and lawyer's fees, low or waive CMHC Fees, Restore Interest Free & Forgivable Loans. New mixed-Uses developments for retirements & affordable homes.
councillor
Krissan Veerasingam
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The most important thing I’d act on is combating social isolation. When neighbours know and trust each other, they are better able to support one another and organize around the broader challenges we face. From climate change to the affordability crisis, it all starts with building resilient communities.
councillor
Nisha Kumari
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My top priority is transit equity for Scarborough Centre. Since Line 3 closed, Ward 21 commuters face overcrowded buses on jammed roads while paying equal taxes. I’ll fight to fast-track the Eglinton East LRT and repair local roads. My strengths to deliver: Coalition Building: I know how to secure 23-vote Council majorities for East End transit funding. Budget Oversight: I’ll target consultant waste to fund real service. Local Organizing: Mobilizing residents to hold City Hall accountable. Scarborough can’t wait.
councillor
Stella Kargiannakis
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?No tax hike. I will not support a property tax increase or any stormwater charge. Note that tax on commercial property is passed on to consumers. Residential tenants of private property pay the property tax indirectly through their rent which may increase by AGI when tax increases. I understand budgets – household budgets, business budgets, and municipal budgets. The City must focus on its municipal responsibilities and stop usurping the rights and responsibilities of others thereby burdening the City with extra costs.
councillor
Sindia Vijayarajan
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Early last year, our current Councillor voted for an increase in property taxes which has resulted in an almost 20% increase since 2023. I will vote against another increase if such a motion comes forward. A Scarborough City Councillor Candidate said, "Scarborough already sends more property tax revenue downtown than it gets back in service and capital spending. New city revenue has a long history of funding projects in other parts of Toronto. Voting for a tax increase without first fixing that math means Scarborough pays twice." I fully agree.
councillor
Rakhee Kotecha
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority would be making City Hall more accountable and responsive. My work as a support manager involves investigating complex problems, identifying root causes, coordinating across teams, communicating with those affected and following issues through to resolution. Ten years on my condo board has also given me experience with budgets, contracts and resident concerns. I would bring that same approach to City Hall: listen, investigate, communicate and follow through.
councillor
Donny Morgan
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I’d make affordability and accountability the priority. I want residents to know their tax dollars are being spent wisely and that City services are actually working for them. As a small business owner and a father of four, I understand the pressure families are facing. I’m used to managing budgets, solving problems, and most importantly, listening to people. I’d bring that same approach to City Hall: listen, find solutions, and follow through.
councillor
Dan Lovell
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Everything I do will be to make Scarborough-Agincourt a more affordable place to live for working people while improving city services. Don't let them tell you it isn't possible! We just need to shift the burden of taxation from working-class people onto the ultra-wealthy.
councillor
Jackson Ho
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Toronto should prioritize spending on residents and the essential services they rely on. Scarborough–Agincourt still has no subway or LRT station and relies heavily on buses. Meanwhile, millions are spent on initiatives like renaming Yonge-Dundas Square and hosting major events such as FIFA. These events can benefit our economy, but our priorities should be clear: residents come first. People should be able to put food on the table, afford a roof over their heads, and have reliable transit before anything else.
councillor
Han Dong
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Safety. People in Scarborough North are checking their driveways at night and their doors before bed. In my first 101 days I will complete a lighting audit of every park, path and street, post the fix dates, and hold the first Ward 23 safety table with 42 Division, plazas, condo boards and Toronto Community Housing, meeting monthly on auto theft and home invasions. I am the only candidate who has worked at both Queen's Park and Ottawa, where the money comes from. I speak English, Cantonese and Mandarin, and I return calls.
councillor
Sajawal Javed
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My top priority would be making City services work better for residents, safer streets and parks, reliable transit, cleaner neighbourhoods, and better support for local businesses. My experience in security services, paralegal studies, and community work has taught me to listen, stay calm under pressure, solve problems, and follow through. I would bring that practical, hands-on approach to Council and I want residents to judge me by measurable results, not promises.
councillor
Jamaal Myers
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The most important thing I would act on as a City Councillor is to advocate for Toronto's first-ever seniors' hub in Ward 23. Roughly 1 in 3 residents in my ward are seniors and a seniors' hub would be a space specifically designed for seniors to access programming, services and opportunities to socialize to help them maintain their independence. My strength and experience in helping to make this happen, is that I successfully opened two youth hubs in Ward 23 (Agincourt and Woodside) and one just on the border in the Malvern library.
councillor
Ronald Phen
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I would like to work with the mayor and other city councils to reduce waste of the city's budget while still keeping the essential services that the city needs.
councillor
Shaun Chen
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?For 20 years, I have served the people of Scarborough North as their local public school Trustee and most recently as their local MP. I am a lifelong resident of Scarborough. I am proud to call home the CD Farquharson neighbourhood in Scarborough North. Scarborough deserves its fair share, and I will continue to fight for Scarborough's needs, including the much-needed Sheppard Subway Extension that should extend Line 4 Sheppard eastward to Agincourt GO, Sheppard and McCowan station, and the Malvern community.
councillor
Paul Ainslie
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Housing affordability remains one of Toronto’s greatest challenges, and my priority would be expanding housing options across the city. We need a range of housing choices that help residents find and keep homes that meet their needs. I support initiatives that increase supply, strengthen neighbourhoods, and improve affordability while respecting the character and design of local communities. By working with other governments and community partners, we can secure investments that help more people access stable and affordable housing.
councillor
Ashan Fernando
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My top priority would be making Ward 25 safer, more connected and responsive to residents. I will advance our 7-point platform, including traffic safety, new traffic lights, speed alerts, stronger community services, and accountability. As a 26+ year Ward 25 resident, I understand our community firsthand. I’ll bring a practical, neighbourhood-first approach: listening to residents, working with City staff and getting results. Neighbours First. Results Always.
councillor
Zakir Patel
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority would be making City Hall more accountable and ensuring Scarborough gets its fair share of investment and services. My experience in public service, community advocacy, and governance has taught me how to listen to residents, ask tough questions, work with others, and push for practical solutions. I would bring that same approach to City Council.
councillor
Neethan Shan
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Affordability, public services, and housing. Families and seniors are squeezed by rising everyday costs. The need for affordable housing and a real path to homeownership keeps growing. Residents want reliable public services available in their communities. I will make sure Scarborough gets the services and resources it needs so people can afford to live, move, and thrive here. I can make it happen because I have a track record of getting results. In only 10 months as City Councillor, I advanced $48.4 million in capital projects across the ward.
councillor
Vane Stavrev
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I would advocate for Grocery Benefits to help alleviate the cost of food. I was a self employed Financial Advisor with Sunlife. I would use my sales skills to make it happen.
councillor
Jannette Lumley
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?The most important thing that I would act on as a City Councillor is dealing with safety issue like removing snow after heavy snow fall . With the winter months approaching and with the expectation of a snowfall, it is important that the residents or citizens driveway are safe for them to enter their home. The excessive snow in their driveway is a safety concern especially for the residents who are very working and seniors. This is an accountable concern and must be dealt with ensuring safety measures are taken care of at all times.
councillor
Amber Morley
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Healthy & connected public services and spaces. I see how our public systems, services and institutions work, and where they can improve. Good outcomes and continuous improvement requires regular attention and clear intention. I’ve shown both. I know our shared systems always evolve and must include and reflect the people they are meant to serve to be most effective. I understand my role as a leader, a connector, and an advocate to keep our society healthy, functional and delivering on its promise through public service.
councillor
Mihaela Andrei
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Ensuring growth in our Ward 3 comes with affordable housing, transit that moves & safer streets. I'm not a career politician, I live here. As board president, I have done the work. A community of 1,285 households: budgets, contractors, reserve funds & resident needs. Reviewing & negotiating contracts, questioning quotes & ensuring services are delivered. I've been an Ontario educator since 2009 & a realtor for 12+ years, so I know how housing costs hit families. I've lived in Montreal, Lyon & Madrid; we need to look at what works elsewhere.
councillor
Steve Yuen
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I am Steve Yuen & I AM asking for your VOTE -the right to VOTE is the Privilege of our Democratic Society & All Canadiens. I have worked for 10+ years with the Federal Government, over 6 years with the City of Toronto including Nuit Blanche, Toronto Police Services, Metro Linx, Toronto Humane Society & The province. My Strengths: 37+ years of business/city experience, business owner in Ward 4, UWO Biz Grad - Passion to promote GOOD Neighbourhoods for our Children, Pets & Seniors Always SUPPORTING our LOCAL Businesses!
councillor
Bridget Ogundipe
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?My priority would be strengthening economic and community stability by addressing affordability pressures on residents and local businesses. Growing up in Regent Park public housing taught me how financial security shapes communities. Through business, non-profit and humanitarian work, I've secured hundreds of thousands of dollars for infrastructure projects, managed budgets and delivered initiatives with limited resources. I'd bring that experience to City Hall, reducing bureaucracy, spending responsibly and focusing on residents' needs.
councillor
Adam Pham
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?I offer practical, solution-focused leadership - grounded in real-life experience, not ideology. I want to make life safe and affordable for everyone. You can't enjoy life if you are too preoccupied with your budget and safety. A local business owner, lived in 6 countries, visited over 70 nations. I have a PhD from Moscow. Parkdale-High Park deserves a talented, passionate, motivated councillor who fights every day to prioritize the needs of residents, to help all our neighbours realize their dreams. Bring positive energy back to Ward 4.
councillor
Holly Weber
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?In order to address the many needs of Ward 4 and Toronto, we need to ensure our funds are being used effectively and responsibly. My professional background in procurement has given me the tools to solve problems, bring people together and hold organizations accountable. This experience I will bring to City Hall is well-suited to ensure the city's contracts and vendor relationships are cost competitive, effective, and drive value for the residents of our city. I want to ensure that we are delivering better results and real value for residents.
councillor
Diana Chan McNally
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?As a long-time advocate, I have made substantial wins from all orders of government — including from Doug Ford's government. Ford continues to encroach on our local democracy, and Council members must stand up to his overreach and ensure that local communities have input and control over issues and infrastructure like our waterfront and bike lanes. As a civilian, I have fought the province to make sure we continue to have rent control, and won $54 million from the Ford government in rent supplements. I will continue this work as a Councillor.
councillor
Debbie King
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?In 2022, I was elected to the Toronto District School Board with a mandate to get our schools working for everyone. I secured mentorship for underserved students, increased access to programs through the planning process, and advocated to maintain vital staff positions despite provincial underfunding. As socio-economic challenges grow, so do disparities across our ward and city. I bring a community-rooted approach and governance experience focused on closing gaps to build a more equitable, safe and sustainable city where everyone can thrive.
councillor
Vanessa Raponi
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Homelessness. My Dad was unhoused on the streets of Toronto for a decade, losing limbs and eventually his life to homelessness. I have been working on a documentary about his journey, as well as taken continuous education courses at TMU directly focused on Homelessness in Canadian Society. This closely overlaps with Food Insecurity, as I have spent time working for the Daily Bread Food Bank on the 2026 Who's Hungry report. I will focus on addressing the root causes of poverty (Affordable Housing, Income Supports and Decent Work).
councillor
Andy Potega
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Public safety. In 2025 I spoke before the City’s Budget Committee and Chair of the Toronto Police Service about a plan I believe could successfully stop auto theft crises within 6 to 9 months and help get illegal guns off our streets. If elected I will push to put it into action and measure the results, because the people who were suppose to safeguard us had different core standards and priorities. I kept working. Toronto has seen thousands of vehicles being stolen, police officers injure, I know my ideas will improve safety and save millions.
councillor
Chiara Padovani
What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?Housing is a human right. It’s also the biggest expense for most people living in this city. The lack of affordable and adequate housing is also holding so many people back in our city, and fixing this unlocks so much potential. We need to take the profit out of housing by limiting the power that corporate landlords and big developers have. As the founder of our tenant union, I’ve already stopped hundreds of evictions, saved thousands of tenants money on their rent and got repairs done — and I’m not even the councillor yet!