What motivated you to run for council, and why do you believe now is the right time for new leadership in your ward?
I want to help someone I’ll never meet. I love this city and while I wasn't born here I immediately felt a connection with Hamilton while laying down roots here. I believe now is the right time to leverage my experience with Union politics as an executive member, both locally and provincially. I see how I can use my experience as a leader to help benefit the city - The status quo is leaving many people frustrated and with responsible compassionate governance I believe we can make the city better for everyone.
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?
Roads: they are in deplorable shape and sometimes repairs only seem to be stop gap solutions. I’ve had neighbours tell me they can feel their house shake from the potholes from the road. I’d address this by making sure the work is done in a timely and correct fashion even if I have to heat the coal patch and tamp it down myself.
Rentals: I have heard and seen numerous issues with the apartment, multi unit dwellings and single unit dwellings in ward 3. My plan is to use the tools of the office to enforce bylaws, inspections and licensing systems to make sure that the properties in ward 3 are respected by landlord and tenant alike.
The unhoused: this is growing concern for the people on the streets, the residents that have been forced up against the people on the streets and the services that are under strain. My solution is a hyper focused approach to care. Getting the specific services in need of those who can return to work , the aid for those who need government assistance and enforcement for those that use this this epidemic to commit crimes of convenience.
3. Municipal government often requires balancing competing interests and difficult budget decisions. How would you approach making tough decisions at City Hall?
I would use what I have. For too long city hall has had bad actors make the tax payer eat hire taxes with little to no improvement to services. This isn’t rocket science, city hall needs to make decisions not just for a good headline today but planning for 10-20-30 years down the line.
1) Protect essentials first
2) Cut low-value spending before high-value services
3) Avoid "fake savings" that cost more later
4) be honest about what can and cannot be funded
5) tie every dollar to outcomes residents actually feel
What experience, skills, or perspective do you bring that distinguishes you from other candidates seeking the same council seat?
I’m a union advocate for many years in the Peel District School Board (representing Custodians, Maintenance, food services and print department) and this has brought me tons of experience in dealing with various labour based issues it has also granted my the wisdom and humility to serve the people. During my time in union, I had to jugle the demands of various members, seniority/job title/types of work. This required understanding equity is not just giving everyone the same but giving the proportial response based on the need of the group. Working together means building in compromise while still setting gains for my members at the time.
My goal for every term in the union was to find a problem and improve the working conditions for members. I don't wish to stay in place without challenging myself and finding the problems that need to be fixed. If you call me, I’ll answer the question straight, if I don’t know I’ll get back to you. Being a public servant is giving people the information regardless if it’s going to make them happy or sad. Honestly and transparency is number one an serving this fine community.
What is the best way for voters to contact you and/or learn more about you?
You can call me at 6474053825
Email me cdemelo4hamilton@gmail.com
Or check my website at demeloforcouncil.ca
Thank-you Christopher for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!
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