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The following two questions were sent to all City of Waterloo candidates, the following provided answers as of September 9th.
Question 1: How would you describe your leadership style?
Question 2: What are the most important issues facing the City of Waterloo and how would you plan to deal with them?
Responses to the second set of questions are as follows.
Marty Rempel – Ward 5
I believe effective leadership is collaborative leadership. During my years as a principal, I learned that the best decisions rarely come from one person sitting alone in an office. I encouraged staff to bring forward their ideas, concerns and different perspectives, and I made staff meetings a place where issues could be discussed openly and respectfully before decisions were made.
I would bring that same approach to municipal politics in Waterloo. As a councillor, I would listen to residents, city staff, community organizations, businesses and my fellow councillors before forming my position. I don’t believe a councillor needs to have all the answers; I believe a councillor needs to be willing to observe, learn, ask questions and listen.
Collaboration does not mean avoiding disagreement. In fact, healthy disagreement can lead to better decisions when people are prepared to listen and consider evidence. I would be an independent voice on council, but I would also work constructively with others to find practical solutions.
My experience in education taught me that people are more likely to support a decision when they have had a genuine opportunity to contribute to the discussion. I would apply that principle at City Hall. My goal would be a council that listens before it acts, respects different viewpoints and makes decisions based on the long-term interests of Waterloo and its residents.
Marty Rempel
Jamie Hari - Mayor
Thank you for reaching out with your questions!
In the interest of transparency, I've replied to your questions publicly on my website:
Answers - Jamie Hari for Mayor
Please feel free to ask additional questions using my new form:
Ask Jamie - Jamie Hari for Mayor
Thanks again!
Sharron Weber - Mayor
Thank you for your messages, one on the 1st, and then this one on Friday. I apologize for the delayed response.
I'm helping Shannon get caught up on the inbox, while she focuses on canvassing.
To answer your questions:
Shannon talks about building consensus as a leader. In her speech at her launch party last week, she noted: "We deserve a leader that is open to listen, who’s grounded in community and can bring people together to achieve our full potential.
I’ve spent my career in this community - learning how decisions actually get made, how to build coalitions, how to get people who disagree into the same room and find a way forward."
Shannon is deeply concerned that costs like taxes and utilities are up at record rates in Waterloo, while service levels are declining. She firmly believes every tax dollar should work as hard for you as you did to earn it.
As noted on the campaign website, Shannon has identified the following as her priorities:
Thank you for your interest; I hope we will earn your vote on October 26.
With thanks and warm regards,
Debbie
Team Shannon Weber for Mayor
Andrew Portwine – Ward 5
I trust you've had a good long weekend and had a chance to recharge.
Q - How would you describe your leadership style?
A - Consensus builder. I like to try and hear viewpoints from around the table, consider and formulate a strategy to tackle the issue at hand. Even when in a position of leadership, I try to avoid imposing my viewpoint as the "correct" way to move forward. Further, if I'm not a subject matter expert in the current topic, I have no problem consulting those that are well versed in that area. My concern is to ensure the group functions as a team and that we are as informed as possible when moving forward with a project/issue.
Q - What are the most important issues facing the City of Waterloo and how would you plan to deal with them?
A - I believe we have a few issues that require our attention: affordability, housing stock, tax rates, water availability... I'm a believer that we need to address our capital assets immediately as many are in need of repair or replacement. While this may not be the most "sexy" budget item, it is the most critical. Our underground utilities are aging and not adequate for a growing city. A great example of this is our water situation. While we have a region-wide water shortage, even if we were to magically find a new source of water, our underground infrastructure is not able to transport the volume of water our citizens are in need of. This has a few facets to address: improved underground infrastructure to meet demands; programs/incentives to encourage citizens and industry to use less water and a program to incentivise citizens to replace aging home water fixtures with high efficiency replacement....and perhaps a mandate that all new developments must use high efficiency water fixtures.
While that is a single example, I hope it serves to outline that I try to think about the macro issues that impact all citizens (and should be prioritized within a budget process), and really are the key tasks to address before getting to the micro issues throughout the city. I don't want to sound dismissive of smaller issues in various wards, I just believe that without adequate water (to use the above example), the other issues almost become moot.
Once again, thanks for reaching out and always happy to answer more questions or have a chat if you have a group of folks that have interest.
Andrew
Moraa Mochama – Ward 2
Aug 26 Email
Question 1: Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
I immigrated to Canada from Kenya as a young child, and I still remember what it felt like to be the 'new kid' searching for a place to fit in. This is a feeling I hear echoed by many residents struggling to find their footing in Waterloo. As our city grows, I think it vital that everyone who calls Waterloo home feels truly included. Having lived in Waterloo for 13 years, I am in a unique position to connect our communities as I understand the perspective of the long-term resident while deeply empathizing with the experience of the newcomer. If elected city councillor, I am committed to fostering stronger connections among all neighbours, ensuring our city remains a welcoming place where every voice is heard and valued.
Question 2: Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?
I’ve always been drawn to civic issues because I see how much they shape our everyday lives. I love giving back to our community—whether that’s volunteering at the Food Bank, writing for The Waterloo Record, or helping out at my kids' school. Getting involved like that really opened my eyes to the voices that aren't currently being heard at City Hall. I felt the pull to do more, but moving from volunteer to candidate felt like a big leap, especially while balancing the demands of raising a young family.
Attending the Women’s Municipal Campaign School earlier this year was a real game-changer. Meeting so many other women—especially other moms—was eye-opening. They helped me realize that our real-world experience isn't a distraction; it's actually our greatest strength in local politics. The encouragement I got from the leaders and the other attendees there was incredible, and I’m so grateful they pushed me to go for it.
Sep 4 Email
Question 1: How would you describe your leadership style?
When it comes to my leadership style, I’m a big believer in working with people, not just for them. I’ve been in positions where I felt unheard, and I’ve made it a priority to make sure I never put others in that same position. For me, leadership is all about listening—being transparent and truly accountable to the people I serve. I don’t believe in handing down top-down directives; instead, I want to ensure the decisions we make are shaped by the actual needs and real-life experiences of our community. My goal is always to build consensus and make sure that every single resident feels like they have a real seat at the table.
Question 2: What are the most important issues facing the City of Waterloo and how would you plan to deal with them?
Waterloo is currently navigating a real affordability crisis, and I hear from residents across the city that they are feeling the pressure. It’s clear that the value of our tax dollars isn’t always matching the quality or reliability of the services we rely on every day.
To address this, I am focused on three key priorities:
Diane Freeman – Ward 4
The following is provided for your consideration related to your additional two questions:
Question 1 - How would you describe your leadership style?
I would describe my leadership style as collaborative. As a member of Council, I strive to work with like-minded colleagues with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome for the citizens of Waterloo.
Question 2 - What are the most important issues facing the City of Waterloo and how would you plan to deal with them?
The City of Waterloo, like many municipalities, needs to find a balance between advancing the strategic goals of a growing City with the financial affordability. The following are 3 top priorities:
1. Infrastructure Reinvestment: The City of Waterloo is committed to reducing the infrastructure deficit. Through the strategic use of a world class asset management system and dedicating an annual 1 per cent tax increase the City is advancing infrastructure repairs and replacements annually over all departments.
2. Fire Services: With the growth of the City of Waterloo, there is a need to increase the fire services to include the equivalent of another station. This requires both a capital investment and an increase in the operating budget to cover the cost associated with wages for another station. Even with phasing in the operational impacts, this will result in continued tax increases. The need for fire services is critical. If the City did not undertake this investment then the Fire Safety Rating for the municipality would decrease and homeowners would see a rise in household fire insurance rates.
3. Planning and Development: With the downloading of all planning decisions to lower-tier Governments, the City of Waterloo planning department is very busy. The staffing situation is compounded by the Region of Waterloo water allocation policy which is stalling growth and development in the City of Waterloo. This situation requires significant attention both on the part of City Staff and Council. I am committed to ensuring the City of Waterloo is focused on supporting continued growth and development and will lean into my Professional Civil and Environmental Engineering skills to achieve this goal.
Further information about me can be found at www.dianefreeman.ca
Kind Regards,
Diane
Question 1: How would you describe your leadership style?
Question 2: What are the most important issues facing the City of Waterloo and how would you plan to deal with them?
Responses to the second set of questions are as follows.
Marty Rempel – Ward 5
I believe effective leadership is collaborative leadership. During my years as a principal, I learned that the best decisions rarely come from one person sitting alone in an office. I encouraged staff to bring forward their ideas, concerns and different perspectives, and I made staff meetings a place where issues could be discussed openly and respectfully before decisions were made.
I would bring that same approach to municipal politics in Waterloo. As a councillor, I would listen to residents, city staff, community organizations, businesses and my fellow councillors before forming my position. I don’t believe a councillor needs to have all the answers; I believe a councillor needs to be willing to observe, learn, ask questions and listen.
Collaboration does not mean avoiding disagreement. In fact, healthy disagreement can lead to better decisions when people are prepared to listen and consider evidence. I would be an independent voice on council, but I would also work constructively with others to find practical solutions.
My experience in education taught me that people are more likely to support a decision when they have had a genuine opportunity to contribute to the discussion. I would apply that principle at City Hall. My goal would be a council that listens before it acts, respects different viewpoints and makes decisions based on the long-term interests of Waterloo and its residents.
Marty Rempel
Jamie Hari - Mayor
Thank you for reaching out with your questions!
In the interest of transparency, I've replied to your questions publicly on my website:
Answers - Jamie Hari for Mayor
Please feel free to ask additional questions using my new form:
Ask Jamie - Jamie Hari for Mayor
Thanks again!
Sharron Weber - Mayor
Thank you for your messages, one on the 1st, and then this one on Friday. I apologize for the delayed response.
I'm helping Shannon get caught up on the inbox, while she focuses on canvassing.
To answer your questions:
Shannon talks about building consensus as a leader. In her speech at her launch party last week, she noted: "We deserve a leader that is open to listen, who’s grounded in community and can bring people together to achieve our full potential.
I’ve spent my career in this community - learning how decisions actually get made, how to build coalitions, how to get people who disagree into the same room and find a way forward."
Shannon is deeply concerned that costs like taxes and utilities are up at record rates in Waterloo, while service levels are declining. She firmly believes every tax dollar should work as hard for you as you did to earn it.
As noted on the campaign website, Shannon has identified the following as her priorities:
- A CITY WE CAN AFFORD: Creating a Waterloo where young people can put down roots, families can thrive and seniors can age in place.
- RESPONSIBLE GOVERNMENT: Accessible leadership, reliable city services and accountability to taxpayers.
- VIBRANT, LOCAL ECONOMY: Strategic partnerships, strong local businesses & more employment opportunities.
- STRONG, CONNECTED NEIGHBOURHOODS: Safe, thriving communities with great public spaces and opportunities to belong.
Thank you for your interest; I hope we will earn your vote on October 26.
With thanks and warm regards,
Debbie
Team Shannon Weber for Mayor
Andrew Portwine – Ward 5
I trust you've had a good long weekend and had a chance to recharge.
Q - How would you describe your leadership style?
A - Consensus builder. I like to try and hear viewpoints from around the table, consider and formulate a strategy to tackle the issue at hand. Even when in a position of leadership, I try to avoid imposing my viewpoint as the "correct" way to move forward. Further, if I'm not a subject matter expert in the current topic, I have no problem consulting those that are well versed in that area. My concern is to ensure the group functions as a team and that we are as informed as possible when moving forward with a project/issue.
Q - What are the most important issues facing the City of Waterloo and how would you plan to deal with them?
A - I believe we have a few issues that require our attention: affordability, housing stock, tax rates, water availability... I'm a believer that we need to address our capital assets immediately as many are in need of repair or replacement. While this may not be the most "sexy" budget item, it is the most critical. Our underground utilities are aging and not adequate for a growing city. A great example of this is our water situation. While we have a region-wide water shortage, even if we were to magically find a new source of water, our underground infrastructure is not able to transport the volume of water our citizens are in need of. This has a few facets to address: improved underground infrastructure to meet demands; programs/incentives to encourage citizens and industry to use less water and a program to incentivise citizens to replace aging home water fixtures with high efficiency replacement....and perhaps a mandate that all new developments must use high efficiency water fixtures.
While that is a single example, I hope it serves to outline that I try to think about the macro issues that impact all citizens (and should be prioritized within a budget process), and really are the key tasks to address before getting to the micro issues throughout the city. I don't want to sound dismissive of smaller issues in various wards, I just believe that without adequate water (to use the above example), the other issues almost become moot.
Once again, thanks for reaching out and always happy to answer more questions or have a chat if you have a group of folks that have interest.
Andrew
Moraa Mochama – Ward 2
Aug 26 Email
Question 1: Why do you feel that you should represent your community?
I immigrated to Canada from Kenya as a young child, and I still remember what it felt like to be the 'new kid' searching for a place to fit in. This is a feeling I hear echoed by many residents struggling to find their footing in Waterloo. As our city grows, I think it vital that everyone who calls Waterloo home feels truly included. Having lived in Waterloo for 13 years, I am in a unique position to connect our communities as I understand the perspective of the long-term resident while deeply empathizing with the experience of the newcomer. If elected city councillor, I am committed to fostering stronger connections among all neighbours, ensuring our city remains a welcoming place where every voice is heard and valued.
Question 2: Were you encouraged to run for public office and if so by whom?
I’ve always been drawn to civic issues because I see how much they shape our everyday lives. I love giving back to our community—whether that’s volunteering at the Food Bank, writing for The Waterloo Record, or helping out at my kids' school. Getting involved like that really opened my eyes to the voices that aren't currently being heard at City Hall. I felt the pull to do more, but moving from volunteer to candidate felt like a big leap, especially while balancing the demands of raising a young family.
Attending the Women’s Municipal Campaign School earlier this year was a real game-changer. Meeting so many other women—especially other moms—was eye-opening. They helped me realize that our real-world experience isn't a distraction; it's actually our greatest strength in local politics. The encouragement I got from the leaders and the other attendees there was incredible, and I’m so grateful they pushed me to go for it.
Sep 4 Email
Question 1: How would you describe your leadership style?
When it comes to my leadership style, I’m a big believer in working with people, not just for them. I’ve been in positions where I felt unheard, and I’ve made it a priority to make sure I never put others in that same position. For me, leadership is all about listening—being transparent and truly accountable to the people I serve. I don’t believe in handing down top-down directives; instead, I want to ensure the decisions we make are shaped by the actual needs and real-life experiences of our community. My goal is always to build consensus and make sure that every single resident feels like they have a real seat at the table.
Question 2: What are the most important issues facing the City of Waterloo and how would you plan to deal with them?
Waterloo is currently navigating a real affordability crisis, and I hear from residents across the city that they are feeling the pressure. It’s clear that the value of our tax dollars isn’t always matching the quality or reliability of the services we rely on every day.
To address this, I am focused on three key priorities:
- Delivering Value for Taxpayers: We need to be excellent stewards of our city’s budget. I will push for a thorough review of our spending to identify operational bottlenecks in core services (e.g. snow removal and business registration), ensuring our processes are streamlined to deliver the real results that residents expect.
- Building More Reliable Infrastructure: Too often, the city’s approach to issues like traffic congestion and road repairs feels reactive. I will advocate for a data-driven, proactive approach to infrastructure management, so we can address these common headaches before they escalate and ensure our streets remain safe and efficient.
- Strengthening Community Belonging: As Waterloo grows, our city infrastructure needs to be matched by the strength of our social connections. I want to move beyond simply 'accommodating' newcomers to actively integrating them into our civic life. This means ensuring our community centers, local programming, and municipal events are accessible to all, and creating formal feedback loops that capture the voices of those who haven't traditionally been at the table. My goal is to transform Waterloo from a collection of neighborhoods into a cohesive community where every resident, regardless of how long they’ve lived here, feels a deep sense of ownership and connection to our city’s future.
Diane Freeman – Ward 4
The following is provided for your consideration related to your additional two questions:
Question 1 - How would you describe your leadership style?
I would describe my leadership style as collaborative. As a member of Council, I strive to work with like-minded colleagues with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome for the citizens of Waterloo.
Question 2 - What are the most important issues facing the City of Waterloo and how would you plan to deal with them?
The City of Waterloo, like many municipalities, needs to find a balance between advancing the strategic goals of a growing City with the financial affordability. The following are 3 top priorities:
1. Infrastructure Reinvestment: The City of Waterloo is committed to reducing the infrastructure deficit. Through the strategic use of a world class asset management system and dedicating an annual 1 per cent tax increase the City is advancing infrastructure repairs and replacements annually over all departments.
2. Fire Services: With the growth of the City of Waterloo, there is a need to increase the fire services to include the equivalent of another station. This requires both a capital investment and an increase in the operating budget to cover the cost associated with wages for another station. Even with phasing in the operational impacts, this will result in continued tax increases. The need for fire services is critical. If the City did not undertake this investment then the Fire Safety Rating for the municipality would decrease and homeowners would see a rise in household fire insurance rates.
3. Planning and Development: With the downloading of all planning decisions to lower-tier Governments, the City of Waterloo planning department is very busy. The staffing situation is compounded by the Region of Waterloo water allocation policy which is stalling growth and development in the City of Waterloo. This situation requires significant attention both on the part of City Staff and Council. I am committed to ensuring the City of Waterloo is focused on supporting continued growth and development and will lean into my Professional Civil and Environmental Engineering skills to achieve this goal.
Further information about me can be found at www.dianefreeman.ca
Kind Regards,
Diane
