WEBSITE: www.eugeneloo.com

EMAIL: contact@whoiseugene.com

What key issues define your campaign platform?

In tough economic times when hard-working families are facing rising debt, increased costs of living and flexibility of job markets, it is imperative that we talk about financial management. As an accountant working for the Canadian Navy, I am responsible for the evaluation of budgets and financial management. I take my job seriously and believe our elected officials should, too. I can utilize my experiences to curb wasteful spending at City Hall. From expensive French lessons to strikes in garbage collection, residents of Toronto have suffered consequences caused by politicians who have mismanaged our hard-earned tax dollars. We can demand more from our city services while utilizing our tax dollars more effectively and efficiently. My platform is simple. We need to improve transportation infrastructures, increase accessible learning, create safe communities and enforce sustainability initiatives. These are the four key ingredients to build a Willowdale neighborhood that benefits everyone.

Why are you the best candidate for this position?

As a community activist for the past five years, I have seen the challenges that face our community. Willowdale is a dynamic community which has dramatically changed over the past years. We need a representative who is active, engaged, and proven to handle the important duties of an elected official. As a business owner and resident of Willowdale, I will ensure that the needs of the residents are met. Our community needs a representative that represents the new demographics: immigrants and young professionals. I understand the growing challenges that undermine both demographics such as: language barriers, cultural integration challenges, and the difficulties in finding sustainable work. By utilizing my experiences, I can help residents respond to the changing markets. As the son of immigrant parents, I understand the hard work that they have contributed towards Toronto’s economy. I will ensure that the tax dollars of residents will be put into good use.

What specifically do you plan to do for your ward, if elected?

Willowdale is a transportation hub that connects the 905 region with the 401 region. Every day there are numerous bikers and cars that share the road. I plan to add cost effective elevated bike lanes that will free up the flow of traffic. Other priorities include revitalizing community centres to promote a stronger sense of community. We also need more grassroots community learning such as neighbourhood tutoring which features low-cost programs to engage youth and adults in extra-curricular skills. Willowdale is a diverse community which caters to many cultures and needs. I will ensure that the citizen voice is heard.

Please provide details on your personal bio.

Eugene Loo is a 17-year resident of Willowdale. His professional career includes working for Telus, Smucker Foods of Canada Co. and Hershey Canada Inc. As an active member of the Canadian Navy, Eugene is committed to defending his country. Eugene also owns his own online magazine business (Vidafine.com). Having been raised in Willowdale and attending local schools such as North Toronto Christian School and A.Y. Jackson Secondary, Eugene has a better understanding of the issues and challenges that face our community, schools and local businesses. Finally, Eugene is a local business owner, long-time resident, volunteer co-ordinator and community leader.

Who do you plan to support for mayor?

Rob Ford’s campaign raised a strong point of cutting wasteful spending at City Hall. As a proponent of conservative fiscal theory, I believe that is what is necessary to reduce the debt of Toronto while ensuring the competitiveness of the Toronto economy. On the other hand, George Smitherman has had a strong effect on his voters due to his strong presentation skills and charisma. I have yet to decide who to officially support for mayor. However my vote will be electing a mayor that has the best long-term vision for Toronto and believes in engaging the future generation of voters.