Michael Coll – Ward 16 candidate
PHONE: 416-846-9844
EMAIL: Coll4council@gmail.com
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1. What key issues define your campaign platform?
Protecting the community from irresponsible development. Protecting taxpayer dollars. Protecting small business.
2. Why are you the best candidate for this position?
I have a vision for us in this city. One that allows us to be world class leading up to and beyond the Pan Am games. I have the experience at Toronto City Hall, working as a special assistant to a councillor from 2007 to 2009. I have been active in the community for the last 12 years as a coach, treasurer, executive board member on two large community boards and founder of Mikesrunforsickkids.com. For me this election is not tinkering in politics or a retirement plan. Politics is my passion and I am taking the first opportunity to run for political office very seriously. Many residents felt embarrassed by the local councillor’s decision to expense: $4500 voice lessons, expensive consultations, $6000 websites and the purchase of expensive Christmas Cards over the past three years and I feel that way too. Council must lead by example and I intend to do that.
3. What specifically do you plan to do for your ward, if elected?
I plan to be a champion of this neighbourhood, protecting this community from ill thought out developments. I am not opposed to development or intensification. I am opposed to developments that do not have adequate parking and infrastructure (increase traffic unneccesarily, sufficient water supply/transit/electrical grid/accessibility) to support the building’s occupancy. City unions/staff will be asked to find cuts and overlap, that is costing the Toronto millions. Project cost over-runs (St. Clair Right of Way, Peter St. Homeless shelter) and legacy projects (Lawrence Heights) must stop if they cannot be delivered on time and on budget. I will propose the budget be delivered over two years. Foresight is paramount to understanding where our shortfalls are occuring. Lowering commercial tax rates to those of surrounding GTA regions and creating a parking strategy for businesses on Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue will increase commerce and prevent the exotus of retail dollars to “big box” malls.
4. Please provide details on your personal bio.
Mikesrunforsickkids.com was a charitable run from Sudbury to Toronto to raise funds for the hospital for sick children. I am a contract firefighter, marathoner and activist. I have worked more than 10 years for a private fire/security department. I am strongly in favour of wage freezes during our current economical climate. Tough decisions need to be made at city hall and the new council will resemble the old council, if innovators and forward thinkers are left at the ballot box. A consensus builder is what Ward 16 lacks currently. That is the void I hope to fill, but ultimately the choice belongs to voters.
5. Who do you plan to support for mayor?
I am currently not supporting any of the front running candidates. I would like to know more before making a decision.
