What motivated you to run for council, and why do you believe now is the right time for new leadership in your ward?
I’m running in ward 12, that is Ancaster, Rural Ancaster, and West Flamborough, out of a desire to make a positive impact on our city and our community. I want to see, not just our part of the city thrive, but the whole city of Hamilton. I choose to run at this time because I also have some serious concerns about the direction and condition of things at City Hall. Increased property taxes (23% in this last term alone) crumbling infrastructure, poor financial management, and lack of accountability are just too prevalent. New and more competent leadership is urgently needed to address these issues. I believe I have the skills and time necessary to do this work. It will not be easy. In fact, I know it will be hard. However, hard work has never been something that I have shied away from.
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?
My campaign has 4 pillars.
A. Infrastructure that works. Ie roads, and associated procurement.
B. Lower Property Tax
C. Community Safety.
D. End the upcoming Rain Tax
Each of these pillars requires further explanation, which I’d be pleased to discuss with any Ward 12 Resident. I can assure residents that calls and emails will be returned promptly.
Municipal government often requires balancing competing interests and difficult budget decisions. How would you approach making tough decisions at City Hall?
I believe Council needs a much stronger review of spending growth, administrative expansion, and project prioritization. We also need to distinguish between essential infrastructure and discretionary spending. Growing our commercial and industrial base needs to accelerate which will lessen the tax burden on homeowners.
People feel they are paying more and getting less. We need fiscal responsibility, stronger infrastructure planning, and leadership that will focus on the basics that residents care about every day.
What experience, skills, or perspective do you bring that distinguishes you from other candidates seeking the same council seat?
I would encourage anyone interested in knowing about me to visit my campaign website. (Bennink.ca) you can see my background including building a business starting at age 23, serving on many Boards, giving back to my community, etc.
Residents feel they are paying more and getting less. Taxes go up, roads get worse, they can’t get anyone to answer their calls or emails. We have some councillors with a very narrow ideology, and I believe that needs to change. Will it be easy? No, not at all. It’ll be hard work. I learned the importance of working hard and doing all things to the best of my ability from my parents and extended family. Like many people in Ward 12 and in the city of Hamilton, I am from an immigrant family. My wife and I are children of Dutch immigrants. We learned the value of hard work, honesty, and commitment to family, faith, and community. It is these things which also give me hope for the future. Our city can and will thrive when we work together for the good of all.
What is the best way for voters to contact you and/or learn more about you?
FredBenninkward12@gmail.com
Cell/text 905.570.5665
Thank-you Fred for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!
