A shrinking labour force over the next 30 to 40 years, mainly because of our aging population, will impact Hamilton’s economy, tax base and workforce.

We must strengthen Hamilton’s ability to attract and hold on to businesses and to attract and retain workers.

I will seek new and innovative ways for the city to stay competitive and grow the local economy.

I’m committed to:

• • Pursuing a housing strategy that enables and encourages a full range of affordable, quality housing choices throughout the city.
  • Delivering better transit and more choices. Thriving, competitive cities have more transit, not less, and are walkable and cycle-friendly. Forcing car dependency adds significantly to the cost of living, can limit access to employment and diverts disposable income from local businesses. I will work to end area rating for transit, maximize the many community benefits of Hamilton LRT, accelerate Hamilton’s commitment to the BLAST network,  prioritize safe public transit and expand and connect active transportation networks. 
  • Being a city that is welcoming, views diversity as a strength and is committed to creating and sustaining a culture of inclusion with no tolerance for hate will have greater success in attracting and retaining talent. 
  • Creating connected and accessible green spaces, treasured public parks, and a safe and clean city serve as both magnets and glue in attracting and retaining talent.
  • Supporting our city’s vibrant art and culture scene, which can significantly drive workforce recruitment and retention. 
  • Ensuring Hamilton is a living wage city. There is a moral and economic imperative for supporting a living wage. It is never okay for people who work full time, including our youth, to not be able to afford decent housing and to put nutritious food on their tables. Living wages reduce turnover, costs associated with retraining and recruiting, and incomes are spent locally.
  • Being a city that is welcoming, views diversity as a strength and is committed to creating and sustaining a culture of inclusion with no tolerance for hate will have greater success in attracting and retaining talent. To this end I will maintain my commitment to the City’s Hate Prevention, Mitigation and Community Initiatives Action Plan, the Urban Indigenous Strategy and the Community Safety and Well-being Plan.
  • Recognize our City’s competitive advantage must be rooted in justice, care, equity, and resiliency.