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 one department to another, which frustrates both residents and City staff. Overall, I would like to create a culture that focuses on finding solutions and preventing unnecessary delays. I believe being more transparent and accountable is where this process begins.

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?

I believe Hamilton should be proud of its skilled workforce, rich industrial history, educational institutions, healthcare, and beautiful conservation areas. However, I believe that our city does not take enough action especially in promoting our local natural areas. We are proud of being the "Steeltown" but we are also the "City of Waterfalls". If elected mayor, we will promote our beautiful natural spaces like our falls, parks, trails and gardens in order to attract more tourism and investments.

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

The best place to learn about me and my campaign is through social media to keep up with updates. They will also see me driving around with my large sign on my vehicle and can approach me to chat anytime. 

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