Issues

The Merger

Although Jan has a plan to work with our neighbours to better our community, he is committed to keeping Waterloo independent. An independent Waterloo means lower costs and taxes, increased accountability and preserving our unique identity. It's time to focus on the issues, not the merger. Find out more by visiting dailly.ca/merger.asp

Fiscal Responsibility and accountability

In 2003, in the wake of the RIM Park fiasco, Jan chaired the Finance Committee that cleaned up the city's finances and brought our fiscal house back to order. He took the role as chair of the committee not only because he had the skills and experience to address these types of issues, but because he understands that your hard earned dollars must be treated with the respect that they deserve. As mayor, he will continue to be a good financial steward, strive to keep your taxes as low as possible and spend your tax dollars on programs that are essential.

Environmental Sustainability

Since first being elected to council in 2003, Jan has been a champion of the environment. In dealing with the west end land developments, Jan lead the effort to protect the moraine from future development, keeping his campaign promise. As mayor, Jan will ensure that our 'environment first' policy will be applied to all decisions made by council and staff and continue to promote a community that values clean air, water and soil. 

Arts and Culture scene

As a councillor, Jan has been a champion for the arts and culture in our community. A lot of work has been done by the private sector Prosperity Council, and some fundamental decisions have to be made on how to develop and execute a regional and local art and culture strategy. Issues of funding and organizational structure and responsibilities need to be addressed. Jan has led the effort to ensure the doors of the Clay and Glass Gallery remained open based on a sustainability plan with an emphasis on outreach into the community. The Clay and Glass gallery can serve our artists and the community as one of the major cultural institutions in our region. As mayor, Jan will continue to be a champion of the arts.

Strong and Vibrant Neighbourhoods

Jan believes that strong neighbourhoods lead to safer and more vibrant neighbourhoods and a safer Waterloo. Jan proposed and passed the innovative Special Area Levy program to provide sustainable funding for community programs on a pilot basis. The pilot program was a success, and the model is being expanded to other nieghbourhood associations. As mayor, Jan will continue to fight for strong neighbourhood associations and ensure stable funding supports these essential community hubs.

A comprehensive plan for student housing

Jan has been on the forefront of addressing student housing issues. Rather than just increased by-law and policing, Jan is addressing the core of the issues. He championed a comprehensive Land Use Study and the proposed Rental Licensing by-law. As a board member of Town and Gown Association of Ontario, he has taken the time to understand the complexity of the issues and learn from the best practices of other communities.

Better Infrastructure

As councillor Jan has been troubled by the upcoming impact of our infrastructure deficit, the lack of funding to be able to properly maintain our roads, sewers and buildings over the next decade. Jan recognizes that Waterloo is not alone with these issues and that solutions will have to include provincial and federal cooperation.   New leadership is needed address this issue. Jan has a plan to address these issues.

Pause on LRT

I believe we are not ready to press the "go" button. For the region to prosper and to accommodate the enormous growth that is expected in the next twenty years (an increase of 250,000 on top of the current 500,000) rapid transit will be required. However, there are many questions that need to be answered with the proposed light rail transit, including impact on taxpayers, impact on future development and integration with the rest of the public transit system. There is a lot of public opposition and the issues need to be addressed first.