Why I’m Running
As a candidate deeply rooted in our community, I am committed to working towards a better future for Bedford. My platform is built on three key pillars that will drive progress and improve the quality of life for everyone: preventing property tax increases, improving transportation, and addressing housing needs.
Check out my conversation with Dan Alstrand on the Todd Veinotte Show on Monday, September 23, 2024.
Political Platform
Prevent Property Tax Increases
With rising costs affecting households, it's critical to keep property taxes in check. My plan focuses on ensuring that property taxes remain stable, providing financial security for homeowners.
Tax Stability: Implement measures to prevent unnecessary property tax increases, ensuring residents aren’t hit with sudden hikes that strain their budgets.
Fiscal Efficiency: Promote responsible municipal budgeting by cutting wasteful spending, streamlining services, and prioritizing essential infrastructure and community programs.
Support for Growth: Encourage smart growth in our economy and infrastructure to broaden the tax base, alleviating the pressure on individual homeowners and reducing the need for future tax hikes.
Improved Transportation
To build a modern, efficient, and sustainable transportation system, Halifax needs a bold vision. My plan includes the development of a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system that will serve as the backbone of our public transit network.
LRT Development: Establish a Light Rail Transit line connecting Bedford to downtown Halifax, providing a fast, reliable, and environmentally-friendly transit option that alleviates traffic congestion and improves commuting times.
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Encourage Transit-Oriented Developments at key stations along the LRT line, promoting walkable communities with a mix of housing, retail, and services close to public transit hubs.
Integrated Transit Network: Ensure that the LRT is seamlessly integrated with bus routes and other transit infrastructure, creating a comprehensive, efficient system that connects residents across the region.
Sustainability and Growth: Investing in LRT will reduce Halifax's carbon footprint while spurring economic development by attracting businesses and fostering vibrant, connected communities.
Housing Solutions
Access to affordable housing is essential for Halifax’s growth. I will focus on policies that address both the immediate and long-term housing needs of our community.
Affordable Housing Development: Partner with private developers and non-profits to increase the supply of affordable housing, ensuring that everyone has access to safe, stable homes.
Zoning Reform: One of the few things the city has unlimited authority over is land use and zoning laws. We need to modernize zoning laws to allow for more diverse housing options like duplexes, townhouses, and low-rise apartments and to speed up the process, making it easier to build affordable homes.
Support for Renters: Work on initiatives that protect renters from unfair rent increases and improve tenant rights, creating a fairer housing market for everyone.