What do you believe are the greatest challenges that face Ward 8, and what will you do to address them?
At the doors I hear two concerns over and over: rising taxes without visible improvements, and safety on our streets. Residents are paying more but still navigating pothole-ridden roads and cancelled projects. I will push for a reprioritization of infrastructure spending so tax dollars are felt in our neighbourhoods. On safety, Division 30 police are stretched too thin. I will use my experience and strong relationships with Hamilton Police to advocate for the long-planned Division 40 and for more immediate local coverage. I will also press for better lighting and maintenance of our pathways so families feel safe using them.
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?
The LRT project has ballooned from $1 billion to more than $3.5 billion while many small businesses and mountain commuters see no benefit. I believe those funds should go toward priorities like hospital upgrades, repurposed buildings for affordable housing, and a true north–south transit corridor connecting the airport and downtown. Hamilton faces a severe housing shortage, a deteriorating core, and growing number of unhoused. I will work with all levels of government and local agencies to create longer-term solutions while ensuring short-term needs like warming centres are met.
There are many people running for the position of Ward 8 Councillor. What do you offer that makes you the best pick?
In a word: experience. I’ve lived on West 3rd Street for 40 years, walked every neighbourhood, and understand the real issues beyond gated communities. For 30 years I’ve volunteered with programs like Hamilton Out of the Cold, which served over 33,000 meals last winter. As Executive Assistant in the Ward 8 office for 11 years, I managed budgets, community outreach, and worked directly with city staff to solve problems. My role on the Police Superintendent’s Advisory Committee gave me insight into frontline safety issues. No other candidate combines lived experience, community service, and City Hall know-how like I do.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you , your campaign and how to reach you?
There are many people running for the position of Ward 8 Councillor. What do you offer that makes you the best pick?
In a word: experience. I’ve lived on West 3rd Street for 40 years, walked every neighbourhood, and understand the real issues beyond gated communities. For 30 years I’ve volunteered with programs like Hamilton Out of the Cold, which served over 33,000 meals last winter. As Executive Assistant in the Ward 8 office for 11 years, I managed budgets, community outreach, and worked directly with city staff to solve problems. My role on the Police Superintendent’s Advisory Committee gave me insight into frontline safety issues. No other candidate combines lived experience, community service, and City Hall know-how like I do.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you , your campaign and how to reach you?
If elected, I will “Bring City Hall to the People” through monthly Saturday meet-and-greets, community BBQs, movie nights, and winter events to reconnect neighbours. I will also work to launch breakfast programs in Ward 8 schools—no child should start the day hungry. I believe in open, transparent, and accessible leadership, and I welcome residents to reach me anytime at wicken4ward8@yahoo.com or at 905-289-7255 between 5 to 9 p.m.
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