In an effort to promote discussion on key issues during the current election period, we are giving candidates the opportunity to answer a number of questions that may be of interest to local voters.
Everyone receives the same questions, and their answers are presented with minimal editing for format purposes only.
Here is the candidate profile for Belleville Council Ward 2 (Thurlow) Kathryn Brown
Election day is October 26th.
First and Last Name
Kathryn Brown
What position are you seeking in the upcoming municipal election on October 26?
Councillor Ward 2
Question 1 – Why are you running and what are your main priorities if elected/re-elected?
I am running for re-election. My main priorities include 1) prudent stewardship of our tax dollars and City assets. 2) Continue to hold Alto HSR accountable for transparency, a proper business case and resistance to a route that impacts our Ward 3) Capacity building and fostering economic growth in my Ward and the City as a whole 4) Achieving results that speak to the residents through regular communication and being accessible both daily and continuing the Ward town halls.
Question 2 – How do you balance budgetary restraint with continuing increases in many areas of the municipal budget?
I will continue consultation with residents prior to each Council budget discussion, so I’m aware of what is a priority for them. I will also balance “needs vs wants” by understanding the City’s Levels of Service documentation against the Asset Management plan so I understand where shifting priorities can affect financial decisions. Taxation directly affects every homeowner; therefore they deserve better value from their local government through prudent financial expertise.
Question 3 – Infrastructure projects are a huge strain on local budgets, especially when it comes to water/wastewater. How can we address/reduce these costs moving forward and mitigate the impact for ratepayers/taxpayers?
This is where the “teeter-totter” balancing is needed in every budget discussion. The City has an Asset Management Plan that outlines the urgent & important requirements and a 10 year plan with those priorities, identifying the funding needed and in what year. For growth to pay for growth, we also needed the development charges (particularly non-residential DC’s) to create the cash flow and reserves needed to fund those projects. It is a continuous cycle that must be continuously monitored by staff and councillors alike.
Question 4 – What measures can the municipality take to address the issues of affordability and housing security?
Affordable / Geared-to-Income Housing and continued development of “Mixed Middle” type housing will broaden our impact on the housing continuum. It’s important that it’s understood that the City doesn’t build houses; therefore, facilitating incentives and new planning outcomes should continue to be a consideration.
Question 5 – Homelessness has become a major issue for most local communities. What would you do to address this issue and what needs to happen to have a meaningful impact?
I will continue to partner with Hastings County Community & Human Services (who is the provincially designated Service Manager) regarding allocation of provincial & federal funding. As well, municipally we should continue to advocate with our MPs and MPPs regarding the future funding needs by offering a sound business plan. What the City of Belleville can & should offer is to designate land specifically to build geared-to-income housing in different areas of the City. We need to be anticipating on behalf of those precariously housed, to reduce the occasions when homelessness becomes the only remaining option.
Question 6 – What message do you want the voter to know about you and your campaign and your priorities for the next four years?
I have and will continue to put residents first. I’ll seek their feedback, use it to guide how I vote and ensure my votes are fair, fact-based and well researched. I have the experience and a track record proving I don’t hesitate to speak on behalf of the people who live in Ward 2 on every important decision.
