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

After 8- with Ward 8 Councillor Candidate Ralph Agostino

 

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

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

Ward 8 is a diverse, hard-working community with tremendous potential, but we are facing challenges that cannot be ignored. I believe the three greatest challenges we face are affordability, public safety, and the need for greater accountability and transparency at our City Hall. The first one I want to talk about is affordability it has become one of the most pressing issues for our residents. With the cost of living continuing to rise, where families, young people, and our seniors are all feeling the pressure. Property taxes go up outrageously year after year, Ward 8 residents feel they are not seeing improvements in the services to match the increases. Housing costs are out of reach, making it harder for both first-time home buyers and renters. I will advocate for responsible budgeting at City Hall that will focuses on the essentials and avoid reckless spending that is currently happening. I would also support housing solutions that can provide more options for Ward 8 residents at the same time not compromising the character of our existing neighbourhoods. This would mean smart, balanced growth, always with area residents’ input being at the forefront.

Next one I would like to talk about is public safety which is another serious challenge. Recent incidents of violence, including gun violence, have really shaken our community in Ward 8 and has raised serious concerns about whether our residents feel safe in their own neighbourhoods. Everyone deserves to feel secure walking on their streets, going to school, or raising a family. To address this, I will work closely with Hamilton Police Services, community organizations, and residents to strengthen crime prevention efforts, improve visibility and presence where it is needed, and invest in programs that provide youth with real opportunities and positive alternatives. Public safety must be approached with both enforcement and prevention, with equal weight given to both.

The third challenge which is important to residents of Ward 8 is accountability and transparency at City