After 8- with Councillor Candidate R. Alex D. Ballagh

As we continue with our After 8 coverage of Ward 8 Councillor candidates, enjoy our chat with R. Alex D. Ballagh

What do you believe are the greatest challenges that face Ward 8, and what will you do to address them?

Ward 8 is a strong and growing community, but too many residents feel disconnected from the decisions being made at City Hall. The biggest challenges I hear about at the door are housing affordability, safe and reliable transit, and the need for better support for local infrastructure like roads, parks, and community services.

I want to tackle these challenges by making City Hall more accessible and responsive. That means fighting for more affordable housing options across Hamilton, including mixed-use developments and co-op models, so families and young people can stay in the community. It means improving transit connections in Ward 8 by prioritizing frequent bus service, safer pedestrian routes, and stronger cycling infrastructure. And it means investing in our neighbourhood amenities so that residents feel proud of their community.

Above all, I will work to ensure residents’ voices are genuinely heard and acted upon, not just during elections, but throughout the term.

Beyond the needs of Ward 8, what are some city-wide initiatives or problems the city is facing more broadly, that you hope to help address? How would you contribute to the resolution to those problems?

Hamilton is at a turning point. City-wide, we face three major issues: housing affordability, community safety, and building a more sustainable future.

I will push for policies that protect renters and homeowners alike, ensuring new developments are actually affordable and not just luxury units. I will also support the firm urban boundary that protects our farmland from sprawl, focusing instead on smarter density and infill housing within our existing city footprint. And I will advocate for investment in public transit, active transportation, and green infrastructure to ensure Hamilton is a city that works for everyone now and for future generations.

My approach is rooted in collaboration and evidence-based decision-making. I believe in working with community groups, city staff, and my fellow councillors to build solutions that are both practical and ambitious.

There are many people running for the position of Ward 8 Councillor. What do you offer that makes you the best pick?

I bring a unique mix of diverse experience, determined energy, and consistent community focus. I’ve lived, studied, worked, and volunteered in Hamilton my entire adult life, and I’ve dedicated that time to building partnerships, advocating for fair policies, and creating opportunities for others.

Professionally, I have a background in research, project management, and community development. Politically, I’ve shown I can organize, bring people together, and fight for change—even when it’s difficult. What sets me apart is that I’m not backed by entrenched interests. I’m here because I believe City Hall should belong to all of us, not just the well-connected few.

Residents can trust me to be accountable, transparent, and proactive. I will always be a councillor who listens and takes action.

Is there anything else you would like people to know about you, your campaign and how to reach you?

I want residents to know that I’m committed to being present and accessible. This campaign isn’t just about winning a seat, it’s about building stronger connections across Ward 8 and making sure those connections continue at City Hall.

I encourage residents to reach out with their ideas, concerns, and hopes for our community. You can learn more about my campaign at aballaghforward8.com, follow along on social media https://linktr.ee/alex.ballagh, or email me directly at aballaghforward8@gmail.com.

Together, we can make Ward 8, and Hamilton at large, a more affordable, sustainable, and connected city.