Waterloo is a great city to live and work in. However, like my favourite novel says; “If we want things to stay as they are, things will have to change.” Our city is facing drastic disruptions, from inflated housing prices – pricing our children out from living in the same neighbourhoods they grew up in, to climate change, and the shock waves of global disruptions. The time of easy answers and delayed responses is over. It is time for those of us serious about tackling the issues of our day to step forward. Together, we can face the moment and Renew Waterloo.
About me
I was born and raised in the Waterloo Region and, except for a year in Toronto during my undergrad, I’ve lived my whole life here.
Throughout my undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto and Waterloo, I’ve been drawn to politics. As such, when I began to pursue my Masters degree, I chose as my topic the intersection of business and politics in the United States of America. As a student of history I understand the impact of world events on individuals, businesses, and cities.
I’m not just a political candidate or student though. I’m a person. In my free time I’m an avid fisherman, reader, and cook. My favourite novel is Giuseppe Di Lampedusa’s The Leopard while my favourite dish to make is Coq au Vin. Though, I often tend towards reading nonfiction of the historical, political, and biographical fashion.
My Values
Walkable – A city which can be easily navigated without the need for a car is the crown jewel of my vision for Waterloo. There are many ways to make this a reality without compromising our neighbourhoods or making it harder to navigate with a car. More options for getting around, rather than wholesale replacing cars, is the core of this vision. Increased funding for public transit, encouraging cycling, and expanding our transit routes are all easy and realistic ways to get this done. In addition, taking notes from bigger cities like Toronto, Paris, and Vienna will allow us to preserve the nature of our city while it expands. Taking what works from other cities while avoiding what didn’t will be crucial in the decades to come.
Affordable – The biggest issue I hear talked about in the streets, living rooms, and dining rooms of our neighbourhoods is the issue of affordability. Affordability is a significant issue in Waterloo, as rising housing, transportation, and everyday living costs make it increasingly difficult for many residents to meet their basic needs. At the municipal level, the City can help by encouraging more affordable and diverse housing options, reducing barriers to new housing development, supporting public transit and active transportation, and providing incentives for projects that benefit lower and middle income residents. Municipal policies that prioritize affordable housing and make better use of available land can help ensure that Waterloo remains a community where people of different income levels can not just survive, but live.
Beautiful – There is more to a city than just a place to live. Waterloo should be a city that is not only successful and growing, but also beautiful, welcoming, and enjoyable to live in. At the municipal level, this means protecting green spaces and mature trees, investing in attractive parks and public spaces, maintaining clean and well-kept streets, and ensuring that new developments are thoughtfully designed. As city councillor I will also encourage more trees, landscaping, public art, and pedestrian-friendly areas throughout the community. By making beauty and quality of life an important part of planning decisions, Waterloo can continue to grow while preserving the character and natural features that make it a great place to live.
My Vision for Ward 1
However, what you see above is only a few of the core values of my campaign. To find my position on AI, municipal services, policing, and more, you can check out my full platform.
You can find out more about my platform here:
For more information, clarification, questions, and or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me with the contact information below.
Joel Botter | Candidate - Ward 1 City Council 