GuelphToday asked those running for city council in the Oct. 22 municipal election to supply a brief biography and outline their platform and/or why they are running.
THE PERSON: I was first elected in 1994 – yes a long time ago! In 2006 I decided not to seek re-election but came back to council in 2014. My eight years out of office certainly gave me a fresh perspective returning to my role as a councillor.
This past term I chaired the Public Services Committee of city council and am a member of the Town & Gown Committee and the U of G’s Homecoming Working Group. Also, I am a Board member with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and will continue if re-elected in October.
Over the years I have served on many committees and boards. These include Family & Children’s Services, Guelph Youth Music Centre, Heritage Guelph, Community Health Centre, City’s Committee of Adjustment and my local neighbourhood association – The Old University Neighbourhood. I am the recipient of the 2007 Women of Distinction Award in Public Service.
In my other life I work as a mediator – sometimes in my Council life too. I have an advanced certificate in mediation and conflict management from the University of Waterloo – Conrad Grebel Peace and Conflict Studies. In addition I have a chartered mediator designation from the ADR Institute of Ontario/Canada. I volunteer as a mediator and mediation coach at Community Justice Initiatives in Waterloo.
I am a long time resident of Ward 5 and have three cherished children, two adorable grandchildren, two friendly dogs, one mischievous cat and a charming husband, Bob.
THE PLATFORM: Community service is second nature to me! Being engaged with my community has always been my passion. In the past four years I have stayed connected with the residents of Ward 5 through town halls, newsletters, social media, neighbourhood meetings, responding to constituent concerns and actively reaching out to gather feedback.
On council I have taken a leadership role and have been influential on many issues with positive outcomes such as getting the new main library back on track, working in collaboration with the community to find alternatives solutions to the clear cutting of the hydro corridor in Silvercreek Park and advocating both locally and provincially for significant changes Ontario Municipal Board.
As I talk to many people about their priorities for the next four years, I hear a common theme about how Guelph can sustain community livability while facing today’s challenges and grow to accommodate the targeted population numbers dictated by the province. Guelphites want to live, work, study and play in an attractive, safe, accessible and affordable community that supports the wellbeing of everyone.
Community Livability is a priority for me and I am committed to:
- Environmentally sustainable development
- A range of safe and reliable transportation choices
- Economic diversity and innovation
- Excellence in urban design
- Community policing
- Active and passive recreational opportunities for all ages
- More affordable housing through collaboration and partnerships
- Diverse communities and neighbourhoods
- Vibrant public spaces for social connection
- Support for people in need of adequate housing, food and social services
- Protection of our natural and cultural heritage
- Meaningful, transparent and inclusive community engagement
- Infrastructure renewal with sustained budgeting
- City budgets that balance the needs of today with a view to tomorrow
As community leaders, we should listen first and then work in collaboration with community groups, businesses, the university, engaged citizens and city staff to leverage city resources to address current challenges and plan a livable community for future generations. This is an ongoing and ever evolving process.
It is our role as councillors to help facilitate and support conversations and actions that contribute to a community we collectively envision. The Community Plan, our ‘collective vision’, is currently being created through an extensive public consultation process. It will be one of the first items on the agenda of the new council. I am excited to see the aspirations of our community become a reality!
I have built positive relationships with fellow councillors, city staff, community partners and elected representatives from other municipalities. Different viewpoints are healthy and a reflection of our City.
Collaboration is essential for good decision making.
I have the experience and dedication to be an effective voice on council while being accessible and connected to those I am elected to serve. Working together we can enhance our quality of life and ensure Guelph continues to be a great city for generations to come. I want to continue to provide reasoned and balanced leadership that makes a difference.
For more information go to my website at cathydowner.ca or email me at [email protected]
