The Hamiltonian Expands Before the Ballot to Include School Board Trustee Candidates

The Hamiltonian is pleased to announce that our popular Before the Ballot series will now expand to include candidates seeking election as School Board Trustees.

While mayoral and council races often receive the greatest public attention, the role of a school board trustee is among the most important elected positions in our communities. Trustees help shape the educational experience of thousands of students, oversee significant public resources, establish educational policy, and make decisions that have a lasting impact on students, families, educators, and the future of public education.

Despite the importance of these responsibilities, trustee elections often receive only limited coverage. As a result, many voters arrive at the ballot box with little information about the individuals seeking these offices.

As part of our commitment to fair, balanced, and comprehensive election coverage, we will provide School Board Trustee candidates with the same opportunity we have long extended to candidates for Mayor and City Council: the opportunity to speak directly to voters through our Before the Ballot interview series.

Our objective remains simple—to help Hamilton-area voters make informed decisions by giving candidates an opportunity to explain who they are, what they stand for, and why they are seeking public office.

This expansion also serves as an open invitation to every candidate seeking election as a School Board Trustee, Mayor, or City Councillor.

While we will make every effort to contact candidates proactively, we recognize that, on occasion, someone may inadvertently be missed. If you are a registered candidate and have not yet heard from us, we encourage you to contact us at admin AT thehamiltonian DOT info to arrange your participation.

The Hamiltonian is committed to ensuring that every candidate—regardless of campaign size, budget, or public profile—has an equal opportunity to present their ideas to the community. Democracy is strengthened when voters hear directly from those asking for their support.

Every vote matters. Every elected office matters. Every candidate deserves the opportunity to be heard. We look forward to sharing your voice with the people of Hamilton.

Every Candidate Deserves to Be Heard

I am confident that The Hamiltonian continues to live up to its motto: Hamilton's Tastemaker for Local Politics and Community. The evidence is increasingly difficult to ignore, and with that recognition comes responsibility.

One of the things that distinguishes The Hamiltonian from many other media outlets is our commitment to giving every candidate an opportunity to speak directly to Hamiltonians. We remain completely agnostic about the size of a campaign's budget. Whether a candidate has raised $200,000 or is running on determination, volunteer effort, and modest resources is of little consequence to us.

What matters is that someone has stepped forward, put their name on the ballot, and invested the time, energy, and personal commitment required to seek public office. That alone deserves respect and an opportunity to be heard.

It has been difficult, however, to ignore that some of the more prominent campaigns have, at this stage of the election, chosen not to respond to our interview requests. The questions we ask are fair, relevant, and focused on issues Hamiltonians deserve to hear about. Leadership is not demonstrated by avoiding reasonable questions or by remaining silent. Nor is it demonstrated by failing to extend the simple courtesy of a response. Fairly or unfairly, such silence inevitably causes voters to wonder how accessible that candidate might be if elected.

At the same time, I sincerely hope our colleagues in the mainstream media and across Hamilton's growing network of independent news organizations make a conscious effort to provide meaningful coverage to all candidates—not just those with the highest profiles or the largest campaign organizations.

Hamiltonians deserve more than a choice between the candidates the media decide to feature. They deserve the opportunity to hear from everyone seeking their vote. Democracy is strengthened when voters are presented with a full menu of ideas, perspectives, and leadership styles.

Every media organization has the editorial right to decide whom it covers. I respect that. But if our shared goal is to help citizens make informed choices, then broad, balanced, and inclusive election coverage is not simply good journalism—it is good for democracy.

That is the standard The Hamiltonian will continue to strive for.

Cal DiFalco,

Publisher, The Hamiltonian

Where Horwath and Cooper Agreed—and Where They Didn't

Rob Cooper’s voting record as Ward 8 councillor begins with his October 8, 2025 inaugural Council meeting, following his September 2025 by-election win. From that point forward, the available recorded votes show a more complicated picture than campaign rhetoric might suggest.

This is not a simple story of Cooper always opposing Mayor Andrea Horwath. In fact, on many budget and Council housekeeping matters, they voted the same way. However, when they split, the pattern is revealing: Cooper most often broke from Horwath on questions of process, taxation, budget restraint, development charges, service cuts, and motions he appeared to view as requiring more scrutiny before approval.

On the 2026 budget, the clearest evidence emerges. Cooper opposed receiving the Mayor’s budget memo and staff budget presentation, while Horwath voted in favour. He also opposed Horwath’s deferral on grass-cutting reductions and voted against her position on Council lunch-related procedural motions. However, they aligned on several major votes: both supported continuing commercial blue box collection, both opposed the Hamilton Public Library’s 5.25 per cent budget increase, both supported Farmers’ Market security funding, both opposed increasing the City Enrichment Fund, and both supported ending Council-funded meals once the final motion came forward.

The sharpest budget split came on financial strategy. Cooper supported motions aimed at reducing or deferring costs, including development-charge-related budget relief and the “Build Budget Better” motion. Horwath opposed those. That suggests Cooper’s voting posture leaned more aggressively toward immediate tax restraint, while Horwath’s position was more selective: willing to restrain some spending, but less willing to support certain deferrals or accounting moves that shifted costs into future years.

Outside the budget, the same pattern appears. Cooper and Horwath voted together on the LRT dispute resolution protocol and development charge relief. But they split on the private tree by-law consultation process, the LRT deferral motion, and Safari Road, where Horwath supported studying permanent closure costs while Cooper opposed the motion.

The record also undercuts any easy claim that Cooper is simply anti-development or simply pro-development. He supported development-charge relief, but also supported some planning and heritage-related items. Likewise, Horwath cannot fairly be described as simply pro-spending; she opposed the library increase, opposed increasing the City Enrichment Fund, and supported some cost-control measures.

The real distinction is this: Horwath’s record reflects a mayor managing a broad Council agenda under strong-mayor budget powers, while Cooper’s record reflects a councillor positioning himself as a fiscal and procedural challenger. When they agree, it is often on pragmatic service or budget items. When they disagree, Cooper is usually on the side pressing for more restraint, delay, review, or taxpayer protection.

Cooper and Horwath are not opposites on everything.  But their disagreements are politically significant because they cluster around the very issues likely to define the mayoral race: taxes, spending, development costs, infrastructure choices, and trust in City Hall’s decision-making process.

In short, Cooper’s voting record gives him a credible basis to argue that he has challenged Horwath’s fiscal direction. Horwath’s record gives her room to argue that she has not simply been a tax-and-spend mayor and has, at times, taken restrained budget positions herself. The question for voters is not whether they have always disagreed. They have not. The question is whether Cooper’s pattern of dissent represents responsible fiscal discipline, or whether Horwath’s broader approach represents more balanced governance.

That is where the campaign debate should be.

Before the Ballot- Questions for Hamilton's Next Mayor- with Mayoral Candidate Sasha Austin

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot- Questions for Hamilton's Next Mayor- with Mayoral Candidate Sasha Austin.  The Hamiltonian has asked the following questions to each Mayoral Candidate and will publish their responses upon receipt. Enjoy our discussion with Ms. Austin:

Hamilton taxpayers have seen taxes rise significantly while many residents field services and quality of life have declined what specific metrics would you use to measure your success as mayor and what results should residents expect to see within your first two years?

Aas mayor I will match taxes to quality of life ensuring every tax dollar is strictly tied to a measurable community benefit like clean, safe parks, modernized, accessible transit, bus shelters and stations and faster emergency response. Balance out food affordability, increase low cost senior citizen services, subsidized childcare for working families, minimal cost animal care for emergencies, and equal amount housing units for every individual in our City. I will breakdown the budget, so residents see exactly where the money goes.

As Mayor I will track outcomes like how many potholes were filled, the reduction in crime rates and improvements to our City streets.

Wasteful spending will be eliminated, no more lost tax revenue, dedicated, strict processes will be implemented to deliver consistent transparency to our constituents. When taxpayers ask where their money is going, clear answers will be mandatory and readily available. I will also match taxes to services by fighting for social and economic prosperity review commitments from upper levels of governments. I will argue that local property taxes were originally designed to fund roads, not extensive social programs, healthcare or housing. By successfully lobbying the federal and provincial governments, municipal tax dollars will be stretched at length and at every angle.

What is one issue facing Hamilton where you believe the majority of residents may disagree with you and why are you willing to take that position anyway?

As mayor I would work with independent appointed boards and council to pass policies based on civic safety and use specific tools to enforce them. The enforcement process relies on several steps including board governance and bylaws. My position would be to implement permanent entry changes requiring members to check in at our Public libraries and Recreation Centres.

Physical entry systems will be modified to restrict Open Access, membership or library cards will be required at the turnstiles or front desk to unlock doors. Additional library and recreation staff will be hired for these positions; this will not be extra duties for the standing staff. Accountability membership requirements ensure everyone is identifiable, participants who violate facility rules can have their membership suspended and database checks will be automatic. There will be low barrier access to keep our spaces accessible for residents experiencing hardship or those without a permanent address. Alternative credentials would include cards issued such as a Hamilton public libraries inspire card which uses alternative verifications, which can include a letter from a shelter or a student card.

If elected mayor what is the first change you would make to how City Hall operates internally and why do you believe that the change is necessary?

The first change as mayor I would make is ordering an independent operational audit of the cities staffing and organizational structure. This will provide hard unarguable data to identify exactly which management layers are redundant, where public funds are wasted and how all decision making can be open to the public. I will have a clear map of City Hall structure so that targeted legal changes can be made to match actual workflow needs making it safe to cut overlapping or useless rules without breaking labour laws. Building public trust by having an outside expert do the review proves the mayor is not just making political choices but relying on facts. Next steps will be to combine jobs and merge department's that do similar things to save money and speed up city services. Then to hire an integrity commissioner to enforce strict rules of conduct and investigate public complaints. As well as create a public list that tracks exactly who meets with the city officials to influence policies.

Many residents feel Hamilton has tremendous potential but is not living up to it in your view what is holding Hamilton back and what would you do about it?

The open drug use, toxic waste, feces and disruptive behaviors on our public streets, parks, and shopping areas are holding back Hamiltons progression. Poverty stricken families, individuals, senior citizens and communities also are a direct result of our unhoused population. The affordability crisis forces people into desperation which results in property crime, theft, drug use and this cycle repeating itself. Vacant, boarded up stores, buildings, shopping and schools are a deterrent for external investors to be motivated to partner with the City of Hamilton. As the state of our city demonstrates our leadership are unable to run our region. We should never have reached the point where we are now having to reach full potential. In the 1980s and 90s, Hamilton was at its full potential and deteriorated. With a strong, focused, dedicated, passionate, loyal, fearless Mayor such as me, we will reach beyond our full potential. Our streets must be cleaned up first and foremost for our city to begin to recover and revitalize. 

Gaining trust with the public and proving to external potential investors that we can manage our own city will ultimately restart our revenue and growth. As mayor I'll be working with nonprofit organizations, public health, provincial and federal governments to implement my plan to revert shelters and repurpose abandoned buildings into health care facilities with wrap around supports. These services will include physicians, nurses, psychiatrist, social workers, mental health workers, outreach workers, personal support workers and law enforcement officers. Our facilities will provide all healthcare on site in one building. Patients will be admitted who are already registered into shelters or referrals will come from emergency room visits, police intervention, ambulance call referrals or neighbouring organizations. 

The Hamilton Core facilities may be looked at as a satellite extension of the hospitals or walks in centres providing on site diagnosis, treatment, stabilization and once deemed able participants will be transitioned into suitable permanent housing or relocated to a destination of their choice. Our city streets will ultimately be cleaned up completely leaving no unhoused individuals, elimination of open drug use and no further contamination from paraphernalia etc., This will save our hard-working taxpayers millions of dollars and reduce the strain on our resources. My plan will also remove the need for harm reduction.

How can our readers best reach you and or learn more about you?

My website has now been launched at: sashaaustin4hamiltonmayor.com
*Please note, I am still in the process of inputting my full platform details on my website. There will always be updated public information to view!
My email is: civicengagementhamillton@gmail.com
Please feel free to visit my public Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/sasha.austin.79
and https://www.facebook.com/saviourfirstaid/
As well as my Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/saviourfirstaid/
And my LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasha-austin-826b7a205?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_android  

 

Thank-you Sasha for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian! 

Media Release: City of Hamilton Announces City Manager Transition

HAMILTON, ON – The City of Hamilton announced today that City Manager Marnie Cluckie has accepted the position of Chief Administrative Officer for the Halifax Regional Municipality, marking the next chapter in her municipal leadership career. She will continue serving the City until September 22, 2026, working closely with the Mayor, Council and the senior leadership team to support a smooth transition while maintaining the high standard of service residents expect.

Since joining the city, Ms. Cluckie has led the organization through a period of significant progress, transformation and resilience. Shortly after beginning her tenure, the city faced a major cybersecurity incident, and she helped lead the organization’s recovery while advancing the Build Back Better program to strengthen systems, services and long-term organizational resilience. In collaboration with the Mayor, Council, City staff and community partners, she also helped advance key priorities related to housing and homelessness, infrastructure renewal, customer experience and service modernization, economic development and major city-building partnerships. Together, these efforts have strengthened the organization, improved service delivery and positioned Hamilton well for the future.

“On behalf of Council, I want to thank Ms. Cluckie for her dedicated service to the City of Hamilton,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath. “Leading a city as large and complex as Hamilton is no small responsibility and I appreciate Ms. Cluckie’s leadership and contributions to our community. Working together, we have advanced important priorities, strengthened our organization and positioned our city for continued success. We congratulate her on this exciting opportunity and wish her every success in the next chapter of her career.”

Mayor Horwath continued, “Hamilton has a strong leadership team and committed staff who will ensure a smooth transition while maintaining the high-quality services our residents rely on every day. My focus remains on working hard to deliver for Hamiltonians and that work will continue.”

“Serving the City where I was born and raised has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” said Ms. Cluckie. “I am incredibly grateful for the Mayor and Council, our dedicated employees and community partners for their support and collaboration. Together, we have built a strong foundation for the future. This is an exciting opportunity for my family and me, and I leave knowing the city is in exceptionally capable hands. I remain fully committed to supporting a seamless transition.”

Transition planning is underway and interim leadership arrangements will be announced in the coming weeks. The City’s experienced senior leadership team will continue working closely with the Mayor and Council to ensure continuity of operations and the delivery of municipal services throughout the transition.

Before the Ballot – The Candidate's Guide - Why Endorsements Rarely Decide Elections

As election campaigns begin to gather momentum, endorsements often become a source of excitement. A respected community leader announces their support. A former elected official appears beside a candidate at a campaign event. A local organization publicly backs someone seeking office. For many first-time candidates, endorsements feel like major victories.

They can certainly help generate attention. They may lead to media coverage, attract volunteers, or encourage some voters to take a closer look at a campaign. There is nothing inherently wrong with seeking endorsements from people whose opinions are respected.

However, candidates should be careful not to overestimate their value. At the end of the day, endorsements rarely decide municipal elections.

Unlike provincial or federal politics, municipal elections are intensely personal. Voters are not selecting a political party; they are choosing an individual they trust to represent their neighbourhood and make decisions on behalf of the community.

When residents step into the voting booth, they are not casting a ballot for the people who endorsed a candidate. They are deciding whether they have confidence in the candidate themselves.

An endorsement may introduce a candidate to new voters, but it cannot replace the hard work of earning their trust.

Many campaigns devote considerable time and energy trying to secure endorsements from prominent individuals. While that effort may produce a short-term boost, it is often far more productive to spend those same hours meeting residents, knocking on doors, attending community events, and listening to the concerns of voters.

Personal connections build confidence. Endorsements simply attract attention.

Candidates should also remember that endorsements can be a double-edged sword. Every public figure has supporters and critics. An endorsement that excites one group of voters may discourage another. Before accepting public support from any individual or organization, candidates should ask themselves whether that endorsement broadens their appeal or unintentionally narrows it. 

In the worse scenario, a voter may question why it is that the candidate has to resort to endorsements rather than convince the voter through his or her policies. The strongest campaigns are built on the candidate's own reputation—not someone else's.

A resident who has met you, asked questions, and felt heard is far more likely to become a supporter than someone who simply notices a familiar name on a campaign flyer. That is why successful campaigns focus less on collecting endorsements and more on earning them one conversation at a time.

Every handshake matters. Every doorstep conversation matters. Every community meeting matters. Those interactions create trust, and trust is ultimately what wins elections.

The most valuable endorsement you will ever receive will not appear in a news release or on a campaign sign. It will come from a resident who tells a friend or neighbour:

"I met that candidate and he/she impressed me I think they would do a good job.”

There is no endorsement more powerful than that.

Before the Ballot- Questions for Hamilton's Next Mayor- with Mayoral Candidate Ejaz Butt

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot- Questions for Hamilton's Next Mayor- with Mayoral Candidate Ejaz Butt The Hamiltonian has asked the following questions to each Mayoral Candidate and will publish their responses upon receipt.

Enjoy our discussion with Mr. Butt:  

Hamilton taxpayers have seen taxes rise significantly while many residents feel services and quality of life have declined. What specific metrics would you use to measure your success as Mayor, and what results should residents expect to see within your first two years?

I believe that success should be measured by the results people can actually see in their daily lives. Are roads being repaired? Are parks cleaner? Are permits being approved in a timely manner? Are emergency response times improving and citizens feeling safer? I want residents to see a City Hall that is both transparent and more efficient within my first two years. This means publicly reporting on key aforementioned measures and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Residents should not have to guess if our city is meeting its goals. The government should be able to regularly prove that things are getting better.

What is one issue facing Hamilton where you believe the majority of residents may disagree with you, and why are you willing to take that position anyway?

One area where residents may disagree with me is my belief that Hamilton should grow but in a controlled and responsible way. For example, unrestricted and unplanned growth can lead to issues such as traffic headaches and pollution. Or for example, shortcuts in building and infrastructure can lead to safety violations. I am not proposing anymore red tape that will delay investments and projects. However, I want to make it clear that responsible growth includes protecting our environment, farmland and established neighbourhoods while being open to working with community members and developers. Leadership is not about agreeing with everyone or making the easiest decisions. It should be based on what is best for Hamilton in the long term.

If elected Mayor, what is the first change you would make to how City Hall operates internally, and why do you believe that change is necessary?

The first change I would make to how City Hall operates would be creating a stronger culture of accountability. Each department should have clear priorities and regular updates that are easy for the public to understand. Residents should also be provided a straightforward explanation if something falls behind schedule. This also means that there needs to be better communication between departments. Projects are often slowed down as they get passed from

Before the Ballot- Questions for Hamilton's Next Mayor- with Mayoral Candidate Scarlett Gillespie

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot- Questions for Hamilton's Next Mayor- with Mayoral Candidate Scarlett Gillespie. The Hamiltonian has asked the following questions to each Mayoral Candidate and will publish their responses upon receipt.

Enjoy our discussion with Ms. Gillespie:

Hamilton taxpayers have seen taxes rise significantly while many residents feel services and quality of life have declined. What specific metrics would you use to measure your success as Mayor, and what results should residents expect to see within your first two years?

Success should be measured by outcomes that residents can actually see and feel in their daily lives - not by the number of reports produced or strategies announced.

Within my first two years, I would measure success by reducing permitting and approval timelines, increasing the number of affordable and non-profit, affordable, and co-operative housing units under development, improving infrastructure maintenance response times, reducing encampment-related displacement through stable housing placements, increasing transparent public reporting on major projects and spending, and improving resident satisfaction with and the accessibility of City services.

I also believe City Hall should publish measurable performance indicators that are easy for the public to understand. If something is not working, we should be honest about it, adjust course, and remain accountable to residents.

What is one issue facing Hamilton where you believe the majority of residents may disagree with you, and why are you willing to take that position anyway?

My belief, based on empirical medical evidence, that addiction is fundamentally a public health issue rather than solely a policing issue may not be shared by everyone.

Residents are right to be frustrated by visible disorder, open drug use,refuse like syringes and glass pipes, and concerns about safety. Those concerns deserve to be taken seriously. At the same time, decades of evidence have shown that enforcement alone has not solved the overdose crisis or reduced addiction.

I support a balanced approach that includes strong action against trafficking, violence, and organized crime while expanding access to treatment, recovery, supportive housing, and

Website Wars- How Mayoral Candidates are Selling their Messages

Note: This article has been republished. In error, The Hamiltonian did not include Scarlett Gillespie's campaign website. The initial article has thus been removed and replaced with this corrected version:

With Hamilton’s mayoral race now taking shape, campaign websites are becoming more than digital brochures. They are early signals about how each candidate wants voters to see the election.

As of June 30, 2026, the City of Hamilton lists eight registered mayoral candidates: Sasha Austin, Ejaz Butt, Rob Cooper, Paul Fromm, Scarlett Gillespie, Keanin Loomis, Pamela Mitchell, and Nathalie Xian Yi Yan.

At this stage, the most developed campaign websites found are those of Keanin Loomis, Rob Cooper, and Scarlett Gillespie.

Loomis’ campaign is built around the phrase "Building A Better Hamilton." His message is broad, polished, and leadership-focused. The website speaks of bringing people together, moving Hamilton forward, restoring accountability, improving roads and infrastructure, delivering value for taxes, improving community safety, building housing, growing the economy, and "getting City Hall working again."

Cooper’s campaign uses a different tone. His site opens with "Your Hamilton. Your Voice. Your Future," followed by the declaration that it is time to "bring City Hall back to the people." His central message is "People Over Politics. Real Results." Cooper’s website leans heavily into affordability, fiscal responsibility, safer communities, housing, infrastructure, and economic growth. It also directly criticizes what it calls too much "political ideology" at City Hall.

Scarlett Gillespie's website presents yet another perspective. Rather than leading with organizational performance or fiscal management, her campaign places people and communities at the centre of its message. The site emphasizes affordable housing, accessibility, tenant protections, community safety, climate action, arts and culture, transparency, and building a more inclusive Hamilton. The tone is optimistic and community-focused, portraying City Hall as a partner in improving residents' quality of life. While Loomis concentrates on leadership and Cooper on reform, Gillespie's messaging is rooted in advocacy, collaboration, and ensuring that all Hamiltonians have a voice in shaping the city's future.

The contrast is useful. Loomis is presenting himself as the consensus builder: experienced, civic-minded, and ready to repair confidence in City Hall. Cooper is presenting himself as the practical disruptor: taxpayer-focused, results-oriented, and prepared to push back against what he sees as a City Hall that has become disconnected from residents. Gillespie positions herself as the community advocate, emphasizing inclusion, accessibility, and policies designed to improve everyday life for Hamilton residents.

For the remaining registered candidates, no comparable full campaign website was readily located during this review. That does not mean they are inactive; some may be relying on social media, community events, direct contact, or informal campaigning.

Looming over the campaign is the possibility of Mayor Andrea Horwath entering the race, along with the potential for other prospective candidates to declare before nominations close. Such developments could significantly reshape both the field and the messaging of the campaigns already underway.

AfterDark Bonus – click here

Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, featuring Ward 7 Councillor Candidate and Incumbent. Esther Pauls

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, featuring Ward 7 Councillor Candidate and Incumbent Esther Pauls.

The Lawnchair question: You are given a billboard visible to every Hamiltonian for one week. You may put only six words on it. What do you write?

Ms. Pauls' reply: Ready to listen, poised to advocate

Thank-you Esther for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!

Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, featuring Ward 7 Councillor Candidate Mark Daly.

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, featuring Ward 7 Councillor Candidate Mark Daly.

The Lawnchair question: You are given a billboard visible to every Hamiltonian for one week. You may put only six words on it. What do you write?

Mr. Daly's reply: Serve others. Speak truthfully. Be grateful.

Thank-you Mark for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!

Media Release: The Hamilton Police Service Board

June 30, 2026

Confidential Public Survey Deadline Extended Respecting Revisions to The Hamilton Police Service Board's Strategic Plan  

The Hamilton Police Service Board (Board) is extending the deadline by which it is inviting residents, community organizations, businesses, and stakeholders to provide confidential feedback on its Strategic Plan, which is currently under review.

Our confidential survey, managed by Consilum Public Sector Services, will remain open until July 31, 2026.

The Strategic Plan establishes the Board's priorities and goals for policing in our community. It helps guide decisions about governance, public safety priorities, community engagement, accountability, and the delivery of effective policing services.

Community input is an essential part of the strategic planning process. The Board recognizes that the people who live, work, and visit our community have valuable perspectives on local priorities, emerging issues, and opportunities to strengthen public safety.

"We want to hear directly from all sectors of our community," said Board Chair Don Robertson. "Your feedback will help ensure our Strategic Plan reflects the needs, expectations, and priorities of the people we serve."

All feedback received during the consultation period will be carefully compiled and categorized by Consilium Public Sector Services. Feedback will be considered alongside legislative requirements, policing priorities, and operational information to help finalize the Strategic Plan before it is formally adopted by the end of 2026.

The Board urges everyone to participate in this confidential community feedback survey – every voice matters.
 

Board Members: Chair Don Robertson, Vice Chair Esther Pauls, Cameron Kroetsch, Shaun Padulo, Mike Spadafora, and Robin St. Jean

Administrative Team: Executive Director Kirsten Stevenson, Executive Assistant Lucia Romano, and Board Assistant Jordana Shainbach

Phone: 905-546-2727
Email: kirsten.stevenson@hamilton.ca
Address: 155 King William Street
Hamilton, ON L8R 1A7
Website: www.hamiltonpsb.ca 

Before the Ballot- The Candidate's Guide -Tell Voters What You're For

One of the quickest ways for a campaign to lose momentum is to become defined by what it opposes rather than what it proposes. It happens every election. Candidates spend weeks criticizing City Hall, attacking incumbents, or pointing out everything that is broken. They may be right. Hamilton has no shortage of issues worthy of criticism. But criticism rarely inspires confidence.

Voters are looking for leadership, and leadership requires more than identifying problems and more than just listening . It requires offering credible solutions.

If your entire campaign message is that taxes are too high, roads are in poor condition, downtown needs attention, or residents are frustrated, you've simply described what most voters already know. You haven't told them why they should trust you to make things better.

Successful campaigns answer a different question. "What will Hamilton look like if you are elected?” Can you paint a picture of the city four years from now? Can voters imagine safer neighbourhoods, more responsive local government, stronger fiscal management, cleaner parks, improved transit, or more vibrant business districts because of your leadership?

People don't follow complaints. They follow vision and they also look for know-how. That doesn't mean making unrealistic promises. Experienced voters are skeptical of grand announcements that cannot possibly be delivered. A thoughtful, achievable plan often carries more credibility than an ambitious wish list.

Every campaign should be able to answer three simple questions:

What problems are you trying to solve?
How will you solve them?
Why should voters trust you to get it done?

If those answers are clear, your campaign has direction. If they aren't, no amount of advertising, lawn signs, or Facebook posts will compensate. 

Wan't to see the full Candidate's Guide series? Click here

The Difference Between Campaigning...and Leading

Recently, our Publisher wrote about political photo opportunities and questioned whether they are really the best way to campaign. A fair question followed: If not photo ops, then what should candidates be doing instead?

There is certainly nothing wrong with attending community events. Candidates should be visible, meet residents, and become familiar with the people and organizations that make Hamilton what it is. But visibility should never be confused with engagement.

If a candidate truly wants to earn votes—and, more importantly, demonstrate they are prepared to serve—their time is probably better spent doing things that reveal substance rather than simply create optics.

Here are just a few examples.

Debate. Debate often. Perhaps no campaign activity is more valuable than participating in debates.

Candidates should not wait to be invited. They should actively seek opportunities to debate. Reach out to community organizations, business groups, residents' associations, media outlets, podcasts, and anyone willing to host a respectful public discussion. Better yet, invite your opponents to debate you.

Debates allow voters to compare candidates side by side. They reveal how well candidates understand the issues, how they think under pressure, how respectfully they disagree, and whether they possess the temperament expected of someone seeking public office.

Just as importantly, candidates should accept debate invitations regardless of who extends them or how politically advantageous they believe the event may be. It should not matter whether the invitation comes from a major media outlet, a neighbourhood association, an online publication, a community group, a local podcast, or even another candidate. Nor should a candidate decide to participate based on a "threat assessment" of the other candidates on stage.

Thank-you!

The Hamiltonian would like to extend its sincere thanks to the many Hamilton Facebook neighbourhood groups and their dedicated administrators who have welcomed our election coverage by allowing it to be shared, read, discussed, and debated within their communities.

An informed democracy depends upon informed and engaged citizens. Every article read, every thoughtful comment shared, and every respectful discussion helps strengthen our city and encourages greater civic participation.

Community Facebook groups have become today's digital town squares. They connect neighbours, foster local conversations, and ensure important issues reach residents where they are. Their contribution to civic engagement should not be underestimated.

To every administrator who volunteers their time to manage these groups, and to every resident who takes part in the conversation, thank you. Together, you are helping shape a stronger, more informed Hamilton.

These groups are changing the texture of Hamilton—and that is something worth celebrating.

With our appreciation to:

Hamilton Ontario
Hamilton Neighbourhood N.E.W.S.

Photo Ops and the Years Between

I understand why candidates for political office attend community events, shake hands, meet people, and have their photographs taken. Campaigns are, after all, about introducing yourself to voters.

But does it impress me? Not particularly.

What often strikes me is how carefully staged many of these moments appear. A candidate standing with volunteers at a food bank, smiling with seniors at a community centre, or posing beside a local charity can sometimes feel more like a campaign photo opportunity than a genuine act of community engagement. Voters are perceptive. They can usually tell the difference between someone who showed up because an election is around the corner and someone who has been showing up all along.

It also raises another question. Where were these candidates during the previous four years?

Were they volunteering in the community long before they decided to seek office? Were they attending neighbourhood events when there were no cameras? Were they advocating for causes that mattered, helping local organizations, and building relationships simply because they cared?

The most meaningful photographs are rarely the ones taken during an election campaign. They are the ones that reflect years of consistent involvement, quiet service, and genuine commitment to the people and communities a candidate hopes to represent.

Campaigns come and go. Character is built in the years between elections.

Cal DiFalco

Publisher

The Hamiltonian

(Republished from After Dark) 

Did You Know? Things We Learned from Hamilton's 2022 Mayoral Campaign Financial Statements

Municipal election financial statements rarely attract attention, but perhaps they should. They tell an important story about the cost of running for public office, how campaigns are built, and the financial realities facing anyone who hopes to become Hamilton's next mayor. As another municipal election approaches, these documents offer voters an opportunity to look beyond campaign slogans and gain a better understanding of the machinery behind modern local politics.

Most voters never see what happens after election signs come down. Once the votes are counted, every municipal candidate is required to file a detailed financial statement showing where campaign money came from and how it was spent. The Hamiltonian reviewed the official filings from the 2022 mayoral race and discovered some interesting facts that help explain the realities of modern municipal politics.

Did you know that it took approximately $200,000 to mount a truly competitive campaign for Mayor of Hamilton? The two leading candidates, Andrea Horwath and Keanin Loomis, each raised and spent roughly that amount, while every other candidate who filed a financial statement operated on a tiny fraction of those budgets.

Did you know that campaigning doesn't always end on election day? Both Andrea Horwath and Keanin Loomis finished election night with campaign deficits and extended their campaigns under Ontario's Municipal Elections Act to continue fundraising and pay off outstanding expenses before filing their final financial returns.

Did you know that advertising—not lawn signs—was one of the biggest campaign expenses? Modern mayoral campaigns invest heavily in advertising, digital communications, voter databases and campaign technology, reflecting how municipal campaigns have evolved over the past decade.

The Mayoral Race Is Growing: Eight Candidates Now Registered

Hamilton's mayoral race continues to take shape.

As of June 26, eight candidates have officially registered to run for mayor in the October municipal election. They are Sasha Austin, Ejaz Butt, Rob Cooper, Paul Fromm, Scarlett Gillespie, Keanin Loomis, Pamela Mitchell and Nathalie Xian Yi Yan.

With several months remaining before nomination day, additional candidates could still enter the race. Nevertheless, the growing field already offers Hamilton voters a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives and priorities.

What is particularly interesting at this early stage is that campaigns are beginning to distinguish themselves. Some candidates are actively releasing policy positions and attending community events, while others are quietly building their organizations behind the scenes. As the election approaches, voters can expect campaign signs to become more visible, neighbourhood canvassing to increase, fundraising events to accelerate, and candidates to sharpen their messages on issues such as affordability, housing, public safety, transportation and economic development.

One thing is already clear: Hamilton's mayoral contest is becoming increasingly competitive, and the campaign is only just beginning. There could be additional surprise candidates. 

The Cost of Running for Mayor

If the 2022 Hamilton mayoral election proved anything, it is that winning City Hall has become an expensive business.

The Hamiltonian has reviewed the official financial statements filed with the City of Hamilton following the last municipal election, and the numbers reveal a campaign landscape divided into two very different worlds. At one end were Andrea Horwath and Keanin Loomis, whose campaigns each spent more than $200,000. At the other were candidates who spent only a few thousand dollars—or, in one case, nothing at all.

Andrea Horwath's final financial statement shows her campaign raised and spent $205,521.20. Her largest expenses included approximately $82,584 for salaries, benefits and professional services, $45,042 on advertising, $19,999 on election signs, almost $15,123 in office expenses and nearly $13,862 on phone and internet communications. Additional expenses included meetings, accounting, travel reimbursements, election night events and banking costs. By the time her campaign closed its books, every dollar raised had been spent.

Keanin Loomis' campaign finished at an even higher level. His final supplementary filing shows he raised $210,115.31 and spent $209,505.33 after extending his campaign to eliminate an initial post-election deficit. His campaign invested heavily in voter outreach, spending more than $79,000 on advertising, $43,500 on election signs, $25,600 on campaign software and voter databases, $14,571 on polling and data services, together with thousands more on brochures, events, rent, insurance and professional services. Unlike Horwath's campaign, which devoted its single largest expense to staffing and professional support, Loomis directed much more of his budget toward advertising, voter identification technology and campaign infrastructure.

Together, the two leading candidates spent more than $415,000 in pursuit of Hamilton's highest elected office. The contrast with the remainder of the field could hardly have been greater.

Paul Fromm reported campaign expenses of approximately $2,733, while Solomon Ikhuiwu spent just over $5,398. Ejaz Butt reported no campaign expenses. Several other candidates filed no financial statements at all. According to information provided by the City of Hamilton, Bob Bratina, Jim Davis and Michael Pattison did not submit financial statements in accordance with section 88.25(1) of the Municipal Elections Act.

The spending patterns are just as revealing as the totals. Horwath's campaign placed its greatest financial emphasis on people, communications and campaign operations. Loomis' campaign invested much more aggressively in advertising, campaign technology, polling and voter databases. Different strategies, but remarkably similar overall budgets.

What becomes apparent after reading all of the financial statements is that modern municipal campaigns have evolved well beyond volunteers, lawn signs and neighbourhood meetings. Some candidates now rely on sophisticated voter databases, polling, digital advertising, campaign software, professional communications, fundraising operations and organized

The Clock Is Ticking

Time is running out for anyone considering a run for Hamilton City Council or Mayor.

The City of Hamilton's nomination period for the 2026 Municipal Election closes on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. After that deadline, no additional candidates can enter the race. Candidates who have already filed also have until that same deadline to withdraw their nomination.The City Clerk will certify all nominations on Monday, August 24, and Hamilton voters will head to the polls on Monday, October 26, 2026. 

While several races across the city are shaping up to be competitive, there are currently three wards where only a single candidate has filed nomination papers:

Ward 1: Incumbent Maureen Wilson
Ward 5: Incumbent Matt Francis
Ward 12: Fred Bennink

With nearly two months remaining before nominations close, there is still ample time for additional candidates to enter these—and any other—races. The Hamiltonian will continue to monitor candidate registrations and provide readers with ongoing election coverage, including candidate profiles, interviews, campaign developments, and analysis leading up to Election Day.

Key Dates

Candidate nomination deadline: Friday, August 21, 2026 – 2:00 p.m.
Nomination certification: Monday, August 24, 2026
Election Day: Monday, October 26, 2026

Before the Ballot, Questions for Hamilton's Next Mayor- with Mayoral Candidate Pamela Mitchell

Editor's Note: This interview has been removed by The Hamiltonian. 

The Election Is Taking Shape—and Some Surprises Are Emerging

When The Hamiltonian launched its Before the Ballot series, our goal was simple: give Hamiltonians an opportunity to hear directly from the people asking for their vote.

Rather than telling readers what to think, we asked candidates many of the same questions and published their answers in their own words. Since then, we've interviewed nearly 30 candidates seeking to become Hamilton's next mayor or councillor.

After reading hundreds of pages of responses, one thing has become clear. This election is shaping up to be far more interesting—and far more competitive—than many people may have expected.

Candidates are approaching the campaign from very different directions. Some have made fiscal accountability their defining issue. Others are focused on housing, homelessness, economic growth, infrastructure, public safety or restoring confidence in City Hall. Some are seasoned public figures, while others are entering municipal politics for the very first time.

What has surprised us most is not necessarily where candidates disagree, but how many different visions exist for Hamilton's future. There is no single conversation taking place across this city.

One lesson has become increasingly apparent throughout this project. Campaign signs, slogans and social media posts only tell part of the story. If you really want to understand the people asking for your vote, take the opportunity to read what they have actually said. You may find your first impression confirmed—or completely changed.

To help readers navigate the campaign, The Hamiltonian has assembled one of the most comprehensive collections of election information available anywhere in the city.

Our Before the Ballot interview series, has lead to the creation of your Political Intelligence Dossier (see link at end of this article) ) —a continually updated election resource featuring candidate interviews, campaign observations, election analysis and practical information designed to help Hamiltonians become more informed voters.

As the campaign continues to unfold, we'll keep asking questions, publishing interviews and reporting on the issues that matter most. Make The Hamiltonian part of your daily read.

Click here for your Political Intelligence Dossier – Your one-stop guide to Hamilton's 2026 municipal election, featuring interviews, analysis, campaign observations and more.

An Accountability Question Facing Rob Cooper

Compared to mayoral candidates Keanin Loomis, Scarlett Gillespie and Sasha Austin who have been penetrating social media and attending campaign related events, mayoral candidate and sitting Councillor Rob Cooper has been somewhat quiet. 

However, that seems to have ended today as Cooper recently took to social media to criticize Hamilton's latest "F" grade in a national financial accountability ranking.

His message was clear. Hamilton received an F. Taxpayers are paying more and getting less. City Hall needs more transparency, more accountability, and better stewardship of public dollars. On the surface, there is little to disagree with.

Hamilton did receive an F. Residents are frustrated. Taxes continue to rise. Many citizens believe they are not seeing results commensurate with the growing financial burden being placed upon them.

But there is another question worth asking. Why is Councillor Rob Cooper speaking as though he is standing outside City Hall looking in? The reality is that he currently occupies a seat around the council table. While he was not responsible for the years of decisions that preceded his election to council, he is now part of the institution he is criticizing. That distinction matters.

Political campaigns often create a temptation for incumbents and sitting officials to campaign against the very institutions of which they are a part. It can be an effective strategy. Position yourself as the outsider. Identify the problem. Promise to fix it.

It can also backfire, leading voters to ask what role a sitting councillor should play in addressing the concerns he now highlights.

 
The Hamiltonian 

Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, featuring Ward 9 Councillor Candidate Brad Stapleton

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, featuring Ward 9 Councillor Candidate Brad Stapleton.

The Lawnchair question: You are given a billboard visible to every Hamiltonian for one week. You may put only six words on it. What do you write?

Mr. Stapleton's reply: Slow down, Step away, Enjoy life.

 
Thank-you Brad for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!

Police Presence in Jackson Square: A Good Move?

The Hamilton Police Service's decision to establish a location in Jackson Square is not without precedent. Across North America, police departments have opened substations in downtown malls and commercial centres in response to concerns about crime, disorder, and declining public confidence.

Research and real-world experience suggest that these initiatives often succeed in increasing the public's sense of safety, improving police visibility, and strengthening relationships with businesses and residents. In some cases, property crimes have declined and response times have improved.

However, studies also show that a police substation alone is not a cure-all. Some criminal activity may simply move to neighbouring areas, and lasting success depends on whether the location becomes an active community policing hub rather than merely an office with a sign on the door.

For Hamilton, the Jackson Square initiative may prove to be an important first step in restoring confidence in the downtown core. But, is it a bandaid solution? Until Hamilton transforms Hamilton, band aids may provide temporary relief. 

The Hamiltonian

Before the Ballot- Ward 6's Generational Choice

For decades, Ward 6 has been represented by Councillor Tom Jackson. First elected in 1988, Jackson is one of Hamilton's longest-serving municipal politicians and a familiar figure across the east mountain. His longevity in office has provided continuity and institutional knowledge, qualities many residents value in elected officials.

But every election eventually presents voters with a question: Is experience alone enough, or has the time come for a different perspective?

That question appears to be taking shape in Ward 6 as candidate Peter Werhun enters the race.

Werhun, a lawyer specializing in international trade, is positioning himself as a candidate of generational change. While careful to express respect for Jackson's years of service, he argues that the challenges facing Hamilton today are fundamentally different from those that existed when Jackson first took office nearly four decades ago.

"The problems of 1988 are not the problems of today," Werhun told The Hamiltonian.

It is a difficult statement to dismiss. In 1988, Hamilton had not yet undergone amalgamation. Housing affordability was not a dominant political issue. Social media did not exist. The

Before the Ballot- with Ward 6 Councillor Candidate Peter Werhun

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot, with Ward 6 Councillor Candidate Peter Werhun.

What motivated you to run for council, and why do you believe now is the right time for new leadership in your ward?

The world and Canada are going through a pivotal moment right now. Hamilton sits at the crossroads of Southern Ontario - between the financial and services juggernaut of the GTA and the manufacturing and agri-food heartland of the Southwest. As one of the top-10 largest cities in Canada, we have a crucial voice at the table of the future of this country. But we can't play that vitally important role if our local region and its institutions continue to be dysfunctional. Ward 6 is, in many ways, a microcosm of Hamilton - demographically, culturally, economically, and politically. We are a diverse tapestry of people and interests and it is important for us to have strong, adaptable, innovative, and ethical leadership at the table now more than ever if we are going to come together and fight for a City we believe in.

The time is now for fresh leadership. I respect Councillor Jackson and his decades of service to our City in what is often a thankless job. But I want there to be a real alternative in this race, because the problems of 1988 are not the problems of today. I parallel this with my own experiences in international trade law. A fair number of the leaders in that field are at the tail end of their careers, having started as fresh lawyers at the dawn of the free trade era. But I believe we are now in the early days of a new era, one where rules and norms are more fragile than they have been for some time. I think it will take a new generation of leaders across all aspects of Canadian life to step up and take risks to lead in this brave new world we find ourselves in, and it starts by enabling our communities to fully function at the local, municipal level again.

Every ward has its own unique challenges. What do you believe are the top three issues facing residents in your ward today, and how would you address them?

The three biggest problems Ward 6 residents face are getting in, going out, and getting ahead. Getting into Ward 6 is not as easy as it was when my family moved here in the 1990s. Housing prices have quadrupled since 1990 while wages before inflation have only doubled. In relative terms, trying to find somewhere to live in Ward 6 is literally twice as hard as it used to be. And that kind of logic extends to renters as well, many of whom are young people trying to get on the property ladder or were left behind when the boom train left the station. I strongly believe that non-market housing has to fill the gap for three reasons: it makes economic sense right now, it makes economic sense for the future, and it is the right thing to do. It makes sense for our building trades, it makes sense for owners, and it makes sense for those with little to no housing options.

Getting out and across Ward 6 is an exercise in watching urban decay in real time. I try to avoid it, but with the Sherman Cut closed down I have had to use Kenilworth Access more often and let me tell you that the Reddit stories about people losing hubcaps are not an exaggeration. And the transit system is struggling to keep up (especially east-west), which

Taking it to the Streets

In a previous piece entitled The Warning Signs Are Everywhere, The Hamiltonian observed that a noticeable shift is occurring in Hamilton municipal politics. Candidates are declaring their intentions earlier, organizing sooner, and beginning to communicate their messages to voters well in advance of Election Day. Our Before the Ballot series (see it here) is one example of this emerging trend.

Below is a photo of Ward 13 Councillor candidate Rick Kunc and his team taking their campaign directly to the community, an illustration of the increasingly early and active engagement that is beginning to characterize the 2026 municipal election.

(If your campaign is Taking it to the Streets, you may wish to read this: (Click Here) 

Does Mayor Andrea Horwath Live in Hamilton?

Following our recent opinion piece assessing Mayor Andrea Horwath's term in office, we observed a significant number of comments circulating on social media alleging that the Mayor does not reside in Hamilton. The frequency and consistency of these claims prompted us to seek clarification.

The Mayor's Office confirmed to The Hamiltonian that Mayor Horwath does, in fact, reside in Hamilton and always has. 

Before the Ballot- The Candidate's Guide- What to Say When You Knock on a Door

There is an old saying in politics: "Elections are won on the doorstep.” There is a great deal of truth in that statement.

Despite social media, websites, podcasts, and digital advertising, door-to-door canvassing remains one of the most effective tools available to municipal candidates. Nothing replaces a face-to-face conversation with a voter.

However, many first-time candidates make a common mistake. They overthink what they are going to say. Or worse, they turn their canvass into a speech. The reality is that the best canvassing scripts are not speeches at all. They are conversations.

Why Scripts Matter

A script serves several purposes. It keeps volunteers focused. It ensures consistency of message. It prevents awkward introductions. It allows campaigns to collect useful information.

And perhaps most importantly, it builds confidence. Many volunteers are nervous about knocking on doors. They worry about saying the wrong thing or being asked difficult questions. A simple script gives them structure.

But there is an important rule: A script should guide a conversation, not control it. The

Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, featuring Mayoral Candidate Sasha Austin

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, featuring Mayoral Candidate Sasha Austin.

The Lawnchair question: You are given a billboard visible to every Hamiltonian for one week. You may put only six words on it. What do you write?

Ms. Austin's  reply: Hamiltonians deserve loyalty, honesty and prosperity.

Thank-you Sasha for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!

I Have Wondered

I have often wondered why some local politicians are, at certain times, quite willing to share their thoughts with The Hamiltonian, while at other times appear reluctant to do so. One can reasonably conclude that such decisions are strategic, tactical, informed by the issues of the day, or perhaps some combination of all three.

Then there is another phenomenon altogether: not responding at all, even to indicate whether one intends to participate. Given that The Hamiltonian is entirely volunteer-driven and has never collected a single penny for its services to the community, the failure to reply is, at minimum, poor form.

It has also occurred to me that some may view The Hamiltonian as inconsequential when compared to our colleagues at The Hamilton Spectator. I have never operated under the illusion that our reach is equal to that of The Spec. They are an established institution with a long and respected history in this city.

At the same time, it has become increasingly indisputable, by a variety of measures and indicators, that The Hamiltonian is consequential. Since 2009, it has carved out a unique place in Hamilton's civic life and continues to earn its motto: Hamilton's Tastemaker in Local Politics and Community.

More importantly, The Hamiltonian is not simply a website. It is a conversation. It is a place where Hamiltonians exchange ideas, challenge assumptions, ask difficult questions, and engage with the issues shaping their city. The voices represented here are not abstract metrics or web traffic statistics. They are voters, taxpayers, volunteers, community leaders, and residents who care deeply about Hamilton's future.

Municipal elections are often decided by remarkably small margins. In the last mayoral election, the difference between winning and losing was negligible. In races decided by hundreds—or even dozens—of votes, can any candidate afford to ignore any segment of the electorate? Can anyone afford to dismiss a forum where engaged Hamiltonians gather to read, discuss, and form opinions?

Perhaps the better question is this: In an era where public trust and meaningful engagement matter more than ever, can any aspiring public servant afford not to participate in every genuine opportunity to connect with the people they seek to represent?

I suspect the answer is self-evident.

Cal DiFalco, Publisher

The Hamiltonian

Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, featuring Ward 4 Councillor Candidate Todd Anderson

Welcome to this instalment of Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, featuring Ward 4 Councillor Candidate Todd Anderson

The Lawnchair question: You are given a billboard visible to every Hamiltonian for one week. You may put only six words on it. What do you write?

Mr. Anderson's reply: My Ear, Your Voice, Change, Accountability

Thank-you Todd for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!

With and Without Mayor Horwath

Those of you who are regular readers of The Hamiltonian will know that, from time to time, we publish interviews under our 10 Tough Questions With… series. The series has primarily focused on sitting mayors, and over the years we have featured former Mayors Eisenberger, Bratina, and Di Ianni. In the case of Mayor Di Ianni, he was no longer serving as mayor at the time of the interview; however, that interview was conducted during the early days of The Hamiltonian.

It has been some time since we last conducted a substantive interview with Mayor Andrea Horwath. Our records indicate that our most recent in-depth interview with the Mayor was in March 2025 (see it here). Since then, the Mayor has provided statements to The Hamiltonian on various issues from time to time, but our last focused interview with her took place more than a year ago.

Readers may also recall that The Hamiltonian recently published an assessment of Mayor Horwath's term in office (see it here) . As is our practice, we approached that piece from a position of neutrality and offered our observations as we saw them, based on the information available to us.

Given the passage of time since our last substantive interview with the Mayor, we recently reached out to her office and extended an invitation to participate in another instalment of our 10 Tough Questions With… series. We believed the timing was appropriate, not only because we had not conducted a focused interview with the Mayor since 2025, but also because the interview would provide an opportunity for her to address any issues, concerns, or points of clarification arising from our recent opinion piece, should she have wished to do so.

Today, we received the following response from the Mayor's office:

"Thank you for reaching out. Mayor Horwath will not be participating."

As always, The Hamiltonian remains committed to providing all elected officials and candidates with a fair and equal opportunity to share their views with our readers.

Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question with Ward 3 Councillor Candidate Graham Schreiber

Welcome to this instalment of The Lawnchair Question, featuring Ward 3 Councillor Candidate Graham Schreiber

The Lawnchair question: You are given a billboard visible to every Hamiltonian for one week. You may put only six words on it. What do you write?

Mr. Schreiber's reply: Safe Injection Sites foster Narcotics Traffickers!

Thank-you Graham for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!

Before the Ballot- The Lawnchair Question, with Mayoral Candidate Ejaz Butt

Welcome to this instalment of The Lawnchair Question, featuring Mayoral Candidate Ejaz Butt.

The Lawnchair question: You are given a billboard visible to every Hamiltonian for one week. You may put only six words on it. What do you write

Mr. Butt's reply: Ejaz Butt will make Hamilton great again

Thank-you Ejaz for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!

If I Ran for Mayor

If I ran for Mayor of Hamilton, the first thing I would do is humble myself.

I would begin by recognizing a simple truth: for far too many Hamiltonians, life has become harder.

Families are struggling with the rising cost of living. Seniors worry about paying their bills and remaining in their homes. Young people wonder whether they will ever be able to afford a house in the city they love. Small businesses fight every day to survive. Many residents feel unheard, unseen, and disconnected from the decisions being made at City Hall.

I have been listening to Hamiltonians for a very long time. I know that many are bewildered. They look around and ask -How can things keep getting worse while our voices keep getting louder?

I would not insult them by pretending that another round of consultations and listening sessions alone will solve our problems. Of course I would listen. Listening is essential. But I would also understand something equally important: Hamiltonians want leadership that gets to work. They want action. They want results.

My vision for Hamilton would be ambitious and unapologetically aspirational.

Why?

Because Hamilton has everything going for it except the kind of leadership that can unlock its extraordinary potential.

We have world-class healthcare institutions. We have brilliant entrepreneurs, skilled workers, remarkable neighbourhoods, a rich cultural heritage, and one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Canada. We have resilience. We have grit. We have heart.

We need a shared conviction that we can become something greater than what we currently are. Because we can!

In fact, we have a responsibility to aspire to greatness. When a city loses the ability to imagine what it can become, it settles for what it has always been.

That is not acceptable. And it has not been acceptable for a very long time.

I would ask Hamiltonians to imagine something bold:

A downtown that once again becomes a source of pride. Neighbourhoods that are clean, safe, and vibrant. Roads and infrastructure that are maintained with excellence. A city that approaches homelessness with both compassion and accountability. A city where investment flows, businesses thrive, and our children and grandchildren choose to stay because opportunity lives here.

A city that believes in itself again.

But aspirations mean nothing without accountability. City Hall would become a place where performance matters.

We would no longer accept a system where senior executives are paid hundreds of thousands of dollars without clearly defined, public-facing expectations. We would no longer accept situations where millions of tax dollars are lost through scandal, mismanagement, or incompetence and everyone simply moves on.

Leadership without accountability is not leadership. It is entitlement.

There must be consequences. There must be responsibility. And there must be transparency.

We would establish publicly declared goals and measurable objectives. Progress would be routinely reported to residents. When we succeed, we would celebrate it. When we fall short, we would say so honestly and course-correct.

Because trust is built through honesty.

I would also introduce a brand of zero-based budgeting. In simple terms, I would ask City Hall to imagine that we are building our municipal government from the ground up. Every department would have to answer some fundamental questions:

Why do you exist? What value do you provide to Hamiltonians? How many people do you really need? How will success be measured? What outcomes should taxpayers expect in return for their investment?

This would not be an exercise in fear or indiscriminate cuts. Services would continue uninterrupted. The lights would stay on. It would be an exercise in purpose.

Because growth in staffing does not automatically translate into better services or better value for taxpayers. Every dollar belongs to the people of Hamilton and should be treated with respect.

Finally, I would seek to inspire something that has become increasingly rare in public institutions: a culture of pride.

I want people to come to work because they believe they are making a difference. I want City employees to feel challenged, valued, and empowered. I want excellence to be recognized and celebrated.

Performance goals and accountability should never be about fear. Done properly, they become a source of pride. They create meaning. They inspire innovation. They remind people that their work matters.

And when people who serve the public feel inspired, cities transform.

Hamilton's problems are serious. But our potential is greater. Much greater.

I believe we can create a Hamilton that is so transformed, so vibrant, and so hopeful that future generations will look back and say:

“That was the moment our city decided to believe in itself again.”


Cal DiFalco
Publisher; The Hamiltonian
Hamilton's Tastemaker In Local Politics and Community