Ideally, democracy is practiced as a conversation. In my campaign, as a candidate to represent the citizens of Kitchener to the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, I plan to keep that conversation open. Welcome to our blog, a shared space for the ideas that shape our vision for Waterloo Region.

Through my work as an environmental educator and advocate over the past five years, I have learned a great deal about the role of municipalities in the effort towards sustainability. Throughout our country and our world, we have many fine examples of policies and programs that are sustainable in economic, social, and environmental terms. Here in Waterloo Region, our public employees and visionary community members have brought us such wise improvements as bus-mounted bicycle racks, the efficiency-driven residential toilet replacement program, and the upcoming pilot project for curbside compost collection. Despite this collection of sustainable policies, we lack a common vision. By bringing together the bright ideas from our own community and beyond, we can forge a new movement towards a truly sustainable community. What I've learned from my work across our country and around the world, is that Canada needs a community to set an example. We in Waterloo Region are uniquely positioned to take on that leadership role.

The next four years will be a critical time in this effort. I plan, as a Regional Councillor, to hold that wider vision as the inspiration behind my work, while ensuring that each task along the way is managed efficiently and intelligently, with honesty and balance. Above all, I pledge to keep the conversation open, to make room for full public participation in our common effort.

So, I ask you to stay tuned to this website, participate fully in this election and the council term that follows it, and elect me as a Regional Councillor for Kitchener. I thank you, and look forward to working with you.