Compass News Responses
Question:
Why are you running for councillor in Ward 2?
Answer:
I am running because I believe Ward 2 deserves leadership that is present, engaged, and willing to do the hard work. Our downtown is the heart of Barrie, but too many residents and business owners feel like it has been neglected, dismissed, or left behind. I've lived in Barrie for 20 years and I'm concerned that it's getting worse.
I am running because I want to help restore safety and vibrancy to our downtown while making sure families, seniors, youth, small businesses, and vulnerable residents all have a voice at City Hall. I care deeply about this community, and I believe Ward 2 has incredible potential when we lead with compassion, accountability, and action.
Question:
What makes you the best candidate to represent Ward 2 residents?
Answer:
I have spent years doing the work on the ground, building programs, supporting youth and families, working with community partners, and listening to residents who often feel unheard. I understand the challenges facing our downtown because I experience them every day.
What sets me apart is that I am both compassionate and results-driven. I believe in helping people, but I also believe in accountability and practical solutions. Ward 2 deserves someone who will show up, ask hard questions, challenge the status quo, and work with residents to get real results.
Question:
What would be your top priority during your first year in office?
Answer:
My 5 Point Plan includes downtown revitalization with a strong focus on safety, cleanliness, small business support, and community engagement. Residents should feel comfortable walking downtown. Business owners should feel supported. Families should feel excited to spend time in the heart of our city.
In my first year, I would push for a clear downtown action plan that includes better communication, stronger partnerships, improved maintenance and beautification, with measurable steps to make downtown more lively, welcoming, and clean.
Question:
How should the City of Barrie address homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges?
Answer:
We need to approach these issues with both compassion and structure. Homelessness, addiction, and mental health are human issues, and people deserve dignity, support, and access to the right services. Residents and businesses also deserve to feel safe in their neighbourhoods. I work closely with the County, service providers, police, health partners, and community organizations to create coordinated solutions and as councillor will continue to do so. That means more supportive housing, better access to mental health and addiction services, and stronger outreach, but also clear expectations around public safety, encampments, and the use of public spaces.
We cannot continue to be reactive, it's time we build a proactive approach to this ever growing public health issue. We need a plan that is humane and results driven.
Question:
How do you balance the need for new housing with protecting existing neighbourhoods?
Answer:
Barrie needs more housing, but growth must be thoughtful. We need housing that is affordable, accessible, and appropriate for different stages of life. At the same time, existing neighbourhoods matter. Residents should have a meaningful voice in how development happens. Growth should reflect the essence of our community. I support responsible development that meets housing needs and respects people who already live here.
Question:
What is your assessment of the current direction of Barrie City Council?
Answer:
I believe Barrie has potential, but many residents feel disconnected from the decisions being made at City Hall. People want leadership that listens, communicates clearly, and follows through. Right now, I think there is an opportunity for the council to be more responsive, more transparent, and more willing to challenge decisions that are not working. Barrie needs councillors who are not afraid to ask tough questions and who will put the needs of residents ahead of political theatre.
Question:
If elected, what would success look like at the end of your first term?
Answer:
Success would mean Ward 2 residents feel heard, respected, and happy to gather in our Downtown. It would mean our Ward 2 streets feel cleaner, safer, and more alive. It would mean small businesses feel supported, families feel welcome, and vulnerable residents are connected to real pathways of support. At the end of my first term, I want people to be able to say: she showed up, she listened, she fought for us, and things are better for it.
