After 8- with Ward 8 Councillor Candidate Joshua Czerniga

As we continue with our After 8 coverage of Ward 8 Councillor candidates, enjoy our chat with Joshua Czerniga.

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

When I speak with residents in Ward 8, I hear about the same challenges again and again. Families are struggling with affordability, seniors are worried about staying in the homes they have built their lives in, and parents want safer streets for their children. At the same time, people feel frustrated that City Hall has stopped working for them. Too often, developments are approved without proper consultation and do not fit the character of our neighbourhoods. People also see millions of dollars going to outside consultants, while the talented and capable staff already at City Hall are overlooked.

As councillor, I will advocate for responsible growth. That means making sure new developments include affordable housing while also respecting the scale and needs of the surrounding community. It means putting safety first by prioritizing crosswalks, speed controls, and school-zone protections using the budgets we already have. And it means getting the most out of our existing resources, like turning libraries and community centres into true neighbourhood hubs for seniors, youth, and families. My approach is simple: focus on real results that improve daily life, cut unnecessary spending, and restore City Hall to its

purpose of working for the people of Ward 8.

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 of those problems?

City-wide, Hamilton is facing major challenges with homelessness, mental health, transit, and supporting small businesses. Too often, City Hall tries to solve these problems by throwing money at consultants or projects that do not get results. I believe we need a more compassionate but fiscally responsible approach.

On homelessness, I will push for partnerships with local non-profits and community organizations to create supportive housing. This is more affordable and far more dignified than relying on shelters or encampments. On mental health, I will support outreach teams made up of trained professionals who can respond to people in crisis, saving money while also treating people with care instead of stigma.

Supporting small businesses is also critical. They are the backbone of our neighbourhoods, yet too many owners feel weighed down by red tape. I will champion a pilot one-window program for small business support at City Hall so that instead of being sent from department to department, business owners can get help in one place. This would start as a pilot using existing staff and resources, and if successful, expand city-wide. Healthy small businesses keep dollars in Hamilton, create jobs, and make our communities stronger.

Transit is another top concern. Residents tell me they cannot rely on the bus to get to work, school, or appointments. Rather than spending money on flashy new projects or endless consultant reports, we should focus on the basics: reliable service, accessible stops, and safer shelters. These practical investments make life easier and show residents their tax dollars are being spent wisely.

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

What sets me apart is my experience, my heart, and my persistence. This is my third time running to serve this community. In my first election, I was the runner-up to longtime councillor Terry Whitehead. In my second, I came fourth. Each time, I listened, I learned, and I grew stronger in my resolve to make City Hall work for the people of this ward.

Some might see running three times as a challenge, but I see it as a strength. It proves resilience, determination, and a deep love for Ward 8. I’m not a career politician. I’m a neighbour, a teacher, and a lifelong Hamiltonian who refuses to give up until Ward 8 is truly heard at City Hall. In the classroom, I never give up on a student, no matter how tough the challenges may be. That same persistence and commitment to people drives my campaign.

My teaching experience has also given me the skills that City Hall desperately needs. As a teacher, I communicate clearly, solve problems creatively, and make tough decisions with limited resources; always putting people first. I know how to balance competing needs, bring people together, and find practical solutions that make a real difference. These are exactly the skills I will bring to council to make sure Ward 8’s voice is heard and respected.

Over the years, I’ve been on the doorsteps, in the parks, and in the community, centres listening to what people need. And what I’ve heard is clear: residents are tired of being ignored, tired of developments that don’t fit our neighbourhoods, and tired of seeing taxpayer dollars wasted on expensive consultant reports while city staff are sidelined. I want to restore trust by being a councillor who is accessible, who respects every dollar spent, and who makes sure people feel heard. My persistence proves I will never stop fighting for this ward, because I believe Ward 8 deserves nothing less.

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

This campaign is about restoring trust and accountability at City Hall. Too many people feel like their voices no longer matter, and I believe it is time for that to change. I will be a councillor who listens, who answers your calls and emails, and who makes decisions based on the needs of residents, not consultants or politics.

I will fight for safe streets, housing that reflects the needs of our neighbourhoods, reliable and affordable transit, thriving small businesses, and more effective use of existing services. I will also push back on the city’s overreliance on expensive consultant reports and put trust in the capable staff we already have.

You can always reach me directly at czerniga4ward8@outlook.com or connect with me on Facebook at Czerniga4Ward8. I will make it a priority to respond quickly and personally. My promise is simple: I will respect your concerns, I will respect your tax dollars, and I will put people ahead of politics. Together, we can build a Ward 8 and a Hamilton that is safe, affordable, and truly serves the people who call it home. We are Stronger Together!

Joshua Czerniga, OCT., M.Sc.Ed., B.A (He/Him) Candidate Ward 8 , Hamilton