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The following responses to date are from candidates running for The City of Waterloo city council election . Where possible they include the link to their web sites.
Please review the information so you are informed about what each candidate stands for and plan to vote on election day October 26th.
Each candidate was asked the following 2 questions:
Question 1
Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
I know that I will be the kind of representative that I want for my ward. I have eight years of experience as a public school board trustee, during which time I fiercely advocated for students and their families as well as educators. I consistently delivered results, such as the pedestrian crossing signal that has been installed on Weber Street. With the recent changes in the role of trustee (limiting their involvement in budgeting and collective bargaining, for example), I feel that I can achieve more as a city councillor.
Question 2
Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?
I was encouraged to run by many people in the community (too numerous to single anyone out) who have appreciated my work both as a trustee and as a community volunteer.
Scott
Scott Piatkowski
Candidate for Waterloo City Council, Ward 5
https://www.scottpiatkowski.ca
scott@scottpiatkowski.ca
519-577-2554
Diane Freeman – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 4
Question 1
Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
I have been working as the Ward 4 Councillor for the City of Waterloo since 2006. I love what I do at City Hall and my reasons for running are much the same as they were in 2006. When I am not at City Hall, I work full time as an Environmental Engineer. I believe my engineering training helps improve decision making because of my analytical training. I also feel there is value in gender diversity at the decision-making table.
Over the past 20 years I feel I have accomplished a lot through good decision making, in Ward 4 these include the following:
- East Side Library
- BMX “pump track”
- Eastbridge Splash pad
- Hospice Waterloo
- Securing the First City of Waterloo Heritage Landscape Designation for portions of Colonials Acres, resulting in the resurfacing of roads in the neighbourhood
- Innovative Asset management planning that supports Strategic infrastructure renewal
- New affordable seniors housing at Parkwood Mennonite Community
- Build Now project which will house the largest habitat for humanity build in North America.
Question 2
Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?
I was encouraged to run for public office by my close friends and family. I am seeking re-election for public office because of their continued support.
To find out more about me please visit my website at: www.dianefreeman.ca
Kind Regards,
Diane
Victoria Robertson – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 3
Victoria
Joel Botter – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 1
For Question 1, I believe I can represent my community because I have lived here for almost my entire life and have a strong appreciation for what makes our community a great place to live. Like many people, I have ideas about how our community can continue to improve, and I believe that at a certain point, if you feel strongly about making a difference, you have to be willing to step forward and do something about it. That is ultimately what motivated me to run.
For Question 2, the decision to run was ultimately my own. However, when I discussed the idea with my family and friends, they were all very supportive and encouraged me to go for it. Their encouragement certainly gave me additional confidence in making the decision to run.
Once again I appreciate you taking the time to write with your questions and feel free to write again if you have any further questions. joelbotter@gmail.com
Joel
Marty Rempel – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 5
I’m out canvassing now Peter and just saw your email so just a short answer … I address these issues in my website. Martyrempel.ca at length.
I feel I can represent your community because I have the will, experience and passion to do so. However I’m not one to say vote for me because I’m the best. You can vote for me if you are well informed. Again my website. All I can pledge that as a retired high school principal it represents a full time challenge that involves positive ends. I was encouraged to run, also on my website, because of many unresolved issues over the last two decades such as water sustainability, high taxes, and social services. There is a great demand for food banks in a wealthy city, the city planners and council impinge on stable residential areas with unsuitable building projects. I would be but one voice but at least I could raise issue
Marty Rempel
Victoria Richardson – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 5
I decided to run as it was a natural progression of my community service. I started volunteering with my community association as a child, and I’ve sought out education in the arts and public health in order to learn more about thriving communities. As Councillor Jen Vasic decided not to run in this election, I decided to run. I want to serve my community with transparency and a listening ear.
As for question 2, I was asked about a year ago if I would consider running by a current sitting city councillor. Thanks for your inquiry. I hoped this provided the answers you seek.
Victoria Richardson
victoria@victoriawaterlooward5.ca
Candidate for Waterloo City Councillor Ward 5
Andrew Portwine – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 5
Q – Why do you feel you should represent your community?
A – I moved to Waterloo in 2010 and fell in love with the community. Professionally, I worked for the Region in the Public Transit realm. I held roles that were in the background but directly impacted daily life for all those using public transit. I always hold public interest at the forefront when making decisions as I know GRT is a critical service for our community. On the volunteer front, I am a leader in the local sport landscape with a focus on providing safe opportunities for sport and elite competition in particular. Since moving to Waterloo, I’ve made a concerted effort to try and showcase Waterloo to the largest audiences I could. I did this primarily through sport by organizing bidding for and organizing the 2011 Canadian University Ultimate Championships (~800 athletes from across Canada), the 2014 Canadian Ultimate Championships (~1,400 athletes from across Canada in junior and adult play) and the 2018 World Junior Ultimate Championships (~1,400 athletes from across the globe).
I couldn’t imagine a better city to host these events, to showcase to the masses and to partner with local businesses to flaunt what we have to offer. I consistently use my external network to try and bring events to Waterloo, and when successful, I draw on my internal network to ensure they are world class.
On a more practical note, I have been working as a public servant for my entire 21+ year career. I’m well versed in the the staff side of municipal government (ie. Reporting to council) and feel that this experience could offer a unique perspective from the other side of the coin. Further, I have had the opportunity to work in small, medium and large municipalities so I have a good breadth of experiences over the years which has served me well in my leadership roles.
Q – Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so, by whom?
A – I have always had an interest in politics. I can remember as far back as 6th grade taking an interest in federal elections as well as the local races in my riding. Growing up I had a few family members that were politically active and we hosted higher level federal members of a particular party. Just being young and listening to the conversations around the yard in the summer piqued my interest. As I grew older, through my 20’s and 30’s I mostly kept up-to-date on provincial and federal politics but didn’t go too in depth. During this time I also saw/felt a shift in my views from the party that introduced me to politics as a youth – finding my own footing in life rather than being a product of my environment. Now that I’m in my 40’s and have been in municipal government (again, reporting to council) in higher level roles, I’m more immersed in local politics. I won’t lie, sometimes when directed by council, I’m torn by my duty of career and my view as a taxpayer of the city/region. I see the projects being undertaken and feel that there are more pressing items to spend money on at the municipal level. Hence the lead platform item of financial responsibility and transparency.
Given that last sentence, I thought about running 4 years ago and the timing just wasn’t right. The notion of running has been top of mind for the past 2-3 years and here I am in 2026 running for office. I will say that I wasn’t encouraged directly, but when I walk my dog around my neighbourhood and have conversations with my fellow dog-walkers, in recent years they typically close with something along the lines of “you should run for office”. Maybe that slow drip of encouragement from various neighbours was enough to make sure I submitted my nomination this year.
I hope that gives a little insight into my background, some of my views and maybe a little bit about myself as a person. Thank you for the questions and happy to field follow up should you have any. Andrew
Khaled Berbash – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 2
Thanks for reaching out. It is great to hear from you and your interest in our municipal elections. Here are the answers to your questions:
Question 1 Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
I wanted to share my diverse 35+ experience and make it available to my City as a Councillor. It is also time for me at this age (~60 years) to pay back to my community using my academic, professional, and business expertise, especially what related my credentials like asset/infrastructure management, urban planning, and utilization of smart technologies & optimization system to increase municipal services cost-effectiveness and improve quality of services without trading the levels and types of front line services. My CV is attached to this email.
Question 2 Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom? I ran last elections 2022, and I came second place. In addition to the support from my family and friends, my last election encouraged me too to run again as the incumbent isn't running.
I hope these answers help you.
Regards
Khaled M. Berbash, Ph.D.
Ward 2 Councillor Candidate
519-4987737
Asma Al-Wahsh – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 2
Thank you for reaching out and for taking the time to learn more about the candidates. I’m happy to answer your questions.
1. Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
Waterloo has been my home since 2012, and it is where my family and I have built our lives. This community has given me and my family so much, and running for City Council is one way I want to give back.
Through my years of community work, I have worked closely with residents, families, seniors, newcomers, community organizations, and different levels of government. This experience has taught me the importance of listening, bringing people together, and finding practical
solutions to the challenges people face.
I believe Waterloo is a great city, but I also believe we can do better. We can work together to make Waterloo an even better place to live, raise our families, work, and grow older. I want to bring residents’ voices to City Hall and make sure our decisions reflect the needs of the people and neighbourhoods we serve.
I am running because I want to give back to the community I call home and utilize my experience in community development and leadership to help make Waterloo the best place it can be.
2. Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom? People I have worked with in the community have encouraged me to consider public office. Friends, community members, and people who have seen my work and involvement encouraged me to take this step.
After many years of serving the community through the non-profit sector, I felt ready to serve in a different way and bring my experience, community connections, and perspective to City Hall.
Thank you again, for reaching out and for being engaged in our municipal election.
Warm regards,
Asma Al-Wahsh
Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
City of Waterloo
info@asmaalwahsh.ca
Ying Susan Jiang – City of Waterloo – Candidate – Ward 2
Thank you so much for reaching out and for your thoughtful engagement with the upcoming municipal election. I appreciate residents like you who take the time to learn about candidates and their motivations.
To your questions:
**Question 1: Why do you feel that you should represent your community?**
I believe I should represent our community because I have deep roots here and a genuine commitment to addressing the challenges we face together. Over the years, I've watched Waterloo Region grow and change, and I've also seen opportunities that we haven't fully seized—whether in housing affordability, sustainable infrastructure, support for families and seniors, or environmental protection.
I'm running because I believe elected officials should listen carefully to residents, work collaboratively with community organizations and advocates, and make decisions based on evidence and long-term thinking rather than short-term politics. I want to bring people together around shared values of fairness, sustainability, and investment in our community's future.
**Question 2: Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?**
Yes, I was encouraged by several people and groups. My family has been tremendously supportive, and I've received encouragement from friends and colleagues who believe in my vision for the community. I've also been approached by community members and organizational leaders who felt it was important for someone with my values and commitment to run for office.
That said, this decision ultimately comes from my own conviction that I can contribute meaningfully to our community's well-being, and a genuine desire to serve.
I would very much welcome the opportunity to continue this conversation with you. Please feel free to reach out anytime if you have additional questions.
Best regards,
Ying Susan Jiang
Eda Dede – City of Waterloo - Candidate – Ward 5
Thank you for your email and your questions. I apologize for the delay in getting back to you as I have been continuously knocking on doors and attending events.
Here are my short answers, and if you would like to discuss more, I am happy to hop on a quick call!
Question 1
Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
I currently manage a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) constituency office and am deeply involved in serving our community on a daily basis. Prior to this role, I served at what was then Canada’s largest refugee clinic. In both roles, my core focus has been listening to individual and community needs, cutting through red tape, and delivering practical solutions. I have a clean record of serving the best way possible, I do listen to all perspectives, I am creative when it comes to finding solutions.
Question 2
Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?
Yes! Throughout my time serving our community, both through local organizations and my daily work, I have had the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. Anyone who knows my commitment to community service and my focus on practical solutions has encouraged me to step up. I have received strong encouragement from local residents, community leaders, and my own social circles to take this step.
As I mentioned above, it is not so easy to put all the things I can offer in writing, and if you'd like to discuss further, just let me know when you would be available and I will be happy to give you a call!
Eda Dede
Councillor Candidate - Ward 5
edadede.ca
Please review the information so you are informed about what each candidate stands for and plan to vote on election day October 26th.
Each candidate was asked the following 2 questions:
- Why do you feel that you should represent your community, what are your election priorities?
- Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?
Question 1
Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
I know that I will be the kind of representative that I want for my ward. I have eight years of experience as a public school board trustee, during which time I fiercely advocated for students and their families as well as educators. I consistently delivered results, such as the pedestrian crossing signal that has been installed on Weber Street. With the recent changes in the role of trustee (limiting their involvement in budgeting and collective bargaining, for example), I feel that I can achieve more as a city councillor.
Question 2
Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?
I was encouraged to run by many people in the community (too numerous to single anyone out) who have appreciated my work both as a trustee and as a community volunteer.
Scott
Scott Piatkowski
Candidate for Waterloo City Council, Ward 5
https://www.scottpiatkowski.ca
scott@scottpiatkowski.ca
519-577-2554
Diane Freeman – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 4
Question 1
Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
I have been working as the Ward 4 Councillor for the City of Waterloo since 2006. I love what I do at City Hall and my reasons for running are much the same as they were in 2006. When I am not at City Hall, I work full time as an Environmental Engineer. I believe my engineering training helps improve decision making because of my analytical training. I also feel there is value in gender diversity at the decision-making table.
Over the past 20 years I feel I have accomplished a lot through good decision making, in Ward 4 these include the following:
- East Side Library
- BMX “pump track”
- Eastbridge Splash pad
- Hospice Waterloo
- Securing the First City of Waterloo Heritage Landscape Designation for portions of Colonials Acres, resulting in the resurfacing of roads in the neighbourhood
- Innovative Asset management planning that supports Strategic infrastructure renewal
- New affordable seniors housing at Parkwood Mennonite Community
- Build Now project which will house the largest habitat for humanity build in North America.
Question 2
Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?
I was encouraged to run for public office by my close friends and family. I am seeking re-election for public office because of their continued support.
To find out more about me please visit my website at: www.dianefreeman.ca
Kind Regards,
Diane
Victoria Robertson – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 3
- I feel that I should represent Ward 3 because I care strongly about the community and want to make it better. As a young renter, I know how challenging life can be and my experience in academics and life gives me the skills and knowledge to work towards improving that. There are many renters and young families in the area and through knocking on doors in the last 4 months, I know they, along with the community broadly, share many of the same concerns I do. Social isolation, concerns about safe and useable streets, and the affordability of life are top of mind for nearly everyone I speak with, and I am living through that with them. In addition, I'm presently a city employee with Cambridge and understand what that work looks like and the impacts city governance has on both the staff and our ability to deliver effective services.
- I have a fantastic support system in friends and family behind me as I do this work, and I am very glad for them. But no, no one specific reached out to suggest the idea.
Victoria
Joel Botter – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 1
For Question 1, I believe I can represent my community because I have lived here for almost my entire life and have a strong appreciation for what makes our community a great place to live. Like many people, I have ideas about how our community can continue to improve, and I believe that at a certain point, if you feel strongly about making a difference, you have to be willing to step forward and do something about it. That is ultimately what motivated me to run.
For Question 2, the decision to run was ultimately my own. However, when I discussed the idea with my family and friends, they were all very supportive and encouraged me to go for it. Their encouragement certainly gave me additional confidence in making the decision to run.
Once again I appreciate you taking the time to write with your questions and feel free to write again if you have any further questions. joelbotter@gmail.com
Joel
Marty Rempel – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 5
I’m out canvassing now Peter and just saw your email so just a short answer … I address these issues in my website. Martyrempel.ca at length.
I feel I can represent your community because I have the will, experience and passion to do so. However I’m not one to say vote for me because I’m the best. You can vote for me if you are well informed. Again my website. All I can pledge that as a retired high school principal it represents a full time challenge that involves positive ends. I was encouraged to run, also on my website, because of many unresolved issues over the last two decades such as water sustainability, high taxes, and social services. There is a great demand for food banks in a wealthy city, the city planners and council impinge on stable residential areas with unsuitable building projects. I would be but one voice but at least I could raise issue
Marty Rempel
Victoria Richardson – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 5
I decided to run as it was a natural progression of my community service. I started volunteering with my community association as a child, and I’ve sought out education in the arts and public health in order to learn more about thriving communities. As Councillor Jen Vasic decided not to run in this election, I decided to run. I want to serve my community with transparency and a listening ear.
As for question 2, I was asked about a year ago if I would consider running by a current sitting city councillor. Thanks for your inquiry. I hoped this provided the answers you seek.
Victoria Richardson
victoria@victoriawaterlooward5.ca
Candidate for Waterloo City Councillor Ward 5
Andrew Portwine – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 5
Q – Why do you feel you should represent your community?
A – I moved to Waterloo in 2010 and fell in love with the community. Professionally, I worked for the Region in the Public Transit realm. I held roles that were in the background but directly impacted daily life for all those using public transit. I always hold public interest at the forefront when making decisions as I know GRT is a critical service for our community. On the volunteer front, I am a leader in the local sport landscape with a focus on providing safe opportunities for sport and elite competition in particular. Since moving to Waterloo, I’ve made a concerted effort to try and showcase Waterloo to the largest audiences I could. I did this primarily through sport by organizing bidding for and organizing the 2011 Canadian University Ultimate Championships (~800 athletes from across Canada), the 2014 Canadian Ultimate Championships (~1,400 athletes from across Canada in junior and adult play) and the 2018 World Junior Ultimate Championships (~1,400 athletes from across the globe).
I couldn’t imagine a better city to host these events, to showcase to the masses and to partner with local businesses to flaunt what we have to offer. I consistently use my external network to try and bring events to Waterloo, and when successful, I draw on my internal network to ensure they are world class.
On a more practical note, I have been working as a public servant for my entire 21+ year career. I’m well versed in the the staff side of municipal government (ie. Reporting to council) and feel that this experience could offer a unique perspective from the other side of the coin. Further, I have had the opportunity to work in small, medium and large municipalities so I have a good breadth of experiences over the years which has served me well in my leadership roles.
Q – Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so, by whom?
A – I have always had an interest in politics. I can remember as far back as 6th grade taking an interest in federal elections as well as the local races in my riding. Growing up I had a few family members that were politically active and we hosted higher level federal members of a particular party. Just being young and listening to the conversations around the yard in the summer piqued my interest. As I grew older, through my 20’s and 30’s I mostly kept up-to-date on provincial and federal politics but didn’t go too in depth. During this time I also saw/felt a shift in my views from the party that introduced me to politics as a youth – finding my own footing in life rather than being a product of my environment. Now that I’m in my 40’s and have been in municipal government (again, reporting to council) in higher level roles, I’m more immersed in local politics. I won’t lie, sometimes when directed by council, I’m torn by my duty of career and my view as a taxpayer of the city/region. I see the projects being undertaken and feel that there are more pressing items to spend money on at the municipal level. Hence the lead platform item of financial responsibility and transparency.
Given that last sentence, I thought about running 4 years ago and the timing just wasn’t right. The notion of running has been top of mind for the past 2-3 years and here I am in 2026 running for office. I will say that I wasn’t encouraged directly, but when I walk my dog around my neighbourhood and have conversations with my fellow dog-walkers, in recent years they typically close with something along the lines of “you should run for office”. Maybe that slow drip of encouragement from various neighbours was enough to make sure I submitted my nomination this year.
I hope that gives a little insight into my background, some of my views and maybe a little bit about myself as a person. Thank you for the questions and happy to field follow up should you have any. Andrew
Khaled Berbash – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 2
Thanks for reaching out. It is great to hear from you and your interest in our municipal elections. Here are the answers to your questions:
Question 1 Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
I wanted to share my diverse 35+ experience and make it available to my City as a Councillor. It is also time for me at this age (~60 years) to pay back to my community using my academic, professional, and business expertise, especially what related my credentials like asset/infrastructure management, urban planning, and utilization of smart technologies & optimization system to increase municipal services cost-effectiveness and improve quality of services without trading the levels and types of front line services. My CV is attached to this email.
Question 2 Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom? I ran last elections 2022, and I came second place. In addition to the support from my family and friends, my last election encouraged me too to run again as the incumbent isn't running.
I hope these answers help you.
Regards
Khaled M. Berbash, Ph.D.
Ward 2 Councillor Candidate
519-4987737
Asma Al-Wahsh – City of Waterloo Candidate – Ward 2
Thank you for reaching out and for taking the time to learn more about the candidates. I’m happy to answer your questions.
1. Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
Waterloo has been my home since 2012, and it is where my family and I have built our lives. This community has given me and my family so much, and running for City Council is one way I want to give back.
Through my years of community work, I have worked closely with residents, families, seniors, newcomers, community organizations, and different levels of government. This experience has taught me the importance of listening, bringing people together, and finding practical
solutions to the challenges people face.
I believe Waterloo is a great city, but I also believe we can do better. We can work together to make Waterloo an even better place to live, raise our families, work, and grow older. I want to bring residents’ voices to City Hall and make sure our decisions reflect the needs of the people and neighbourhoods we serve.
I am running because I want to give back to the community I call home and utilize my experience in community development and leadership to help make Waterloo the best place it can be.
2. Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom? People I have worked with in the community have encouraged me to consider public office. Friends, community members, and people who have seen my work and involvement encouraged me to take this step.
After many years of serving the community through the non-profit sector, I felt ready to serve in a different way and bring my experience, community connections, and perspective to City Hall.
Thank you again, for reaching out and for being engaged in our municipal election.
Warm regards,
Asma Al-Wahsh
Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
City of Waterloo
info@asmaalwahsh.ca
Ying Susan Jiang – City of Waterloo – Candidate – Ward 2
Thank you so much for reaching out and for your thoughtful engagement with the upcoming municipal election. I appreciate residents like you who take the time to learn about candidates and their motivations.
To your questions:
**Question 1: Why do you feel that you should represent your community?**
I believe I should represent our community because I have deep roots here and a genuine commitment to addressing the challenges we face together. Over the years, I've watched Waterloo Region grow and change, and I've also seen opportunities that we haven't fully seized—whether in housing affordability, sustainable infrastructure, support for families and seniors, or environmental protection.
I'm running because I believe elected officials should listen carefully to residents, work collaboratively with community organizations and advocates, and make decisions based on evidence and long-term thinking rather than short-term politics. I want to bring people together around shared values of fairness, sustainability, and investment in our community's future.
**Question 2: Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?**
Yes, I was encouraged by several people and groups. My family has been tremendously supportive, and I've received encouragement from friends and colleagues who believe in my vision for the community. I've also been approached by community members and organizational leaders who felt it was important for someone with my values and commitment to run for office.
That said, this decision ultimately comes from my own conviction that I can contribute meaningfully to our community's well-being, and a genuine desire to serve.
I would very much welcome the opportunity to continue this conversation with you. Please feel free to reach out anytime if you have additional questions.
Best regards,
Ying Susan Jiang
Eda Dede – City of Waterloo - Candidate – Ward 5
Thank you for your email and your questions. I apologize for the delay in getting back to you as I have been continuously knocking on doors and attending events.
Here are my short answers, and if you would like to discuss more, I am happy to hop on a quick call!
Question 1
Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
I currently manage a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) constituency office and am deeply involved in serving our community on a daily basis. Prior to this role, I served at what was then Canada’s largest refugee clinic. In both roles, my core focus has been listening to individual and community needs, cutting through red tape, and delivering practical solutions. I have a clean record of serving the best way possible, I do listen to all perspectives, I am creative when it comes to finding solutions.
Question 2
Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?
Yes! Throughout my time serving our community, both through local organizations and my daily work, I have had the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. Anyone who knows my commitment to community service and my focus on practical solutions has encouraged me to step up. I have received strong encouragement from local residents, community leaders, and my own social circles to take this step.
As I mentioned above, it is not so easy to put all the things I can offer in writing, and if you'd like to discuss further, just let me know when you would be available and I will be happy to give you a call!
Eda Dede
Councillor Candidate - Ward 5
edadede.ca
