What’s Happening in Ward 1?
Here’s what I’m hearing from residents…
On Community Safety
"The lighting in parts of Ward 1 just isn't good enough. There are stretches where it's hard to see who's around, especially in the winter. Something as simple as better lighting would make a big difference in helping people feel safer in their own neighbourhood."
-Kim
"I rarely see a police presence in our community anymore. When residents don't see officers out in the neighbourhood, it can feel like no one is paying attention to what's happening. We need more visible, community-based policing."
-Steve
"I've noticed more gang activity and more young people being drawn into the wrong crowds. That's concerning as a parent. We need to invest in prevention, give youth positive opportunities, and make sure our communities have the supports they need."
-Ward 1 Resident
"I take the bus regularly, and there are times when I don't feel safe walking to or waiting at the stop, especially after dark. Better lighting, more activity in public spaces, and a stronger safety presence would go a long way."
-Lawrence
"I moved to Ajax from a troubled neighbourhood in Scarborough because I wanted a safer place to raise my family. To be honest, there are times now when I feel more at risk here than I did before. That's not the direction our community should be heading."
-Ameena
What you said…
What I’ll do…
Real safety comes from strong, connected communities supported by visible and accountable policing. With more than 20 years of experience working alongside youth, families, schools, and community partners, I know that safer neighbourhoods are built through a balance of prevention, community engagement, and effective public safety measures. As your Ward 1 Councillor, I will work to strengthen neighbourhood connections, invest in programs that address issues before they become crises, and advocate for the resources needed to keep our communities safe.
What I'll do
Conduct a Ward 1 lighting review and publicly share priorities for improvements.
Work with Durham Regional Police and community partners to strengthen visible, community-based policing initiatives.
Invest in youth, family, and neighbourhood programs that prevent crime and build stronger community connections.
Host regular community safety forums so residents can share concerns, shape solutions, and stay informed.
On Homelessness and Housing Instability
What you said…
"I've lived in Ward 1 for more than 15 years, and the increase in homelessness is something I've never seen at this level before. My concern isn't just what we're seeing today, but what it says about the affordability challenges facing so many people in our community."
-Ward 1 Resident
"I see more people sleeping in parks, near public spaces, and around shopping areas than I did a few years ago."
-Jonathan
"As a parent, it's heartbreaking to explain to my children why more people are living on the streets. These are our neighbours, and we need leaders who will work with all levels of government and community organizations to find real solutions instead of just talking about the problem."
-Imran
"Homelessness isn't just a downtown Toronto issue anymore. It's here in Ajax, and it's becoming more visible in Ward 1 every year."
-Pritha
Homelessness is becoming more visible in Ward 1, and many residents are concerned about what they're seeing in our parks, public spaces, and neighbourhoods. This is not simply a housing issue; it's connected to mental health, addiction, affordability, and access to supports. Having worked for more than 20 years with youth, families, and vulnerable populations, I know that lasting solutions require compassion, collaboration, and practical action. As your Ward 1 Councillor, I will work with community partners, Durham Region, and all levels of government to address the root causes of homelessness while ensuring our neighbourhoods remain safe, welcoming, and vibrant.
What I'll do
Advocate for more supportive and affordable housing options that help people move from crisis to stability.
Strengthen partnerships with community organizations that provide mental health, addiction, employment, and housing supports.
Push for coordinated action between the Town of Ajax, Durham Region, service providers, and local residents to address homelessness effectively.
Ensure residents have opportunities to share concerns and help shape community-based solutions that balance compassion with public safety.
What I’ll do…