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These are my priorities as your councillor

Building a safer, more affordable Guelph. I want to serve Ward 1. Your voice matters, and I want to hear your ideas, concerns, and priorities. I'd love your input. If you live in Ward 1, reach out at Mustafa4Ward1@gmail.com so I can get to better know you and your needs.

1.

Affordable Housing & Living For All

Ward 1 needs more housing, but it has to be built right. I will support practical gentle density and streamlined regulatory solutions that increase supply and builder interest, while ensuring development respects existing neighbourhoods.

Why it matters

Guelph's vacancy rate is rising, but remains low. Families, students, and seniors are being priced out of the neighbourhoods they helped build, and the cost of everyday living keeps climbing. Too much of your income goes to housing and rent, and life has become unaffordable.

Our commitments

  • Support practical zoning changes to responsibly increase housing supply, and produce a catalogue for standardized housing unit designs
  • Expanding on Missing-Middle housing and creating a development charge equivalent grant for fourplexes.
  • Partner with non-profits and the Province on attainable and supportive housing
  • ​​​Push back on an unpredictable property tax environment that makes life in Guelph less affordable.
2.

Fixing Roads & Investing In New Infrastructure

Residents are tired of dealing with potholes, traffic congestion, and aging infrastructure. I will push for better planning, timely repairs, and smarter investments so our roads and services keep up with our city's growth.

Why it matters

Crumbling roads, slow transit and congested intersections aren't just frustrating, they're costing you money, time and opportunity. Last year, CAA has named York Road as one of Ontario's worst roads. Construction is scheduled to finish by 2030, the end of the next council term. It is vitally important to residents that the next council sees it completed on time.

Our commitments

  • Prioritize timely pothole and road repairs across Ward 1, particularly the arterial roads of our ward
  • Invest in upgrading aging water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure
  • Explore expanding accessible transport through on-demand bus stops within aging communities underserved by Guelph Transit
  • Hold contractors accountable for quality and on-time delivery, particularly the vitally important York Road artery
3.

Safer Neighbourhoods For All

Everyone deserves to feel safe in their community. I will work with local partners to address safety concerns, improve responsiveness, and ensure our parks, streets, and public spaces remain welcoming for every neighbour.

Why it matters

Residents across Ward 1 do not feel as safe in their parks, streets and public spaces as they used to. Concerns about property and auto theft, trafficking, vandalism, and other community safety issues are becoming increasingly common. Guelph needs responsive services and appropriate tools that will address these challenges.

Our commitments

  • Work with Guelph Police and community partners on visible, responsive local policing and youth engagement
  • Maintain mental-health and addictions outreach through programs such as Welcoming Streets Guelph that provide real value-for-money
  • Put in place measures to mitigate reckless driving incidents in our ward
  • Improve upkeep in parks and public spaces
4.

Accountable and Reasonable Spending

Your tax dollars matter. I will advocate for responsible budgeting, transparency, and efficient use of taxpayer money while supporting business growth that strengthens our economy and helps keep property taxes fair and predictable.

Why it matters

Property taxes and city fees keep rising faster than your paycheque, in large part because the cost of services are being downloaded from the province on to municipalities. This has placed an immense burden on families and businesses. You deserve to know City Hall is spending your money wisely.

Our commitments

  • Keep property tax increases fair, predictable, and tied to real investments in expanding the tax base
  • Publish plain-language budget summaries so residents can follow the money
  • Negotiating with city-funded boards and service providers to ensure they are operating within their means
  • Support business growth, attract investment and create jobs to strengthen our local economy while easing pressure on property taxpayers.
5.

A Councillor Who Listens & Delivers

I believe in bringing a service-oriented approach to City Hall. Listening first, understanding residents' concerns, and delivering practical results that make a real difference for Ward 1.

Why it matters

Too many residents feel unheard at City Hall. A councillor's job is to show up, listen, and bring your voice into every decision, and not just at election time.

Our commitments

  • Hold regular Ward 1 town halls and neighbourhood meet-ups
  • Respond to constituent emails and calls within 3 business days
  • Send plain-language updates on key council decisions affecting Ward 1
  • Be visible in the community year-round, not just during campaigns

Have an idea or concern?

This platform is a starting point — your input makes it stronger.

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