In London’s Ward 2, voters have a choice between four candidates in the upcoming municipal election, each offering distinct perspectives on the ward’s future while sharing concerns about safety, city services, and affordability.
Deputy Mayor Shawn Lewis is seeking re-election and is being challenged by Steve Reed, a long-standing local business owner; Zack Ramsey, a dedicated community volunteer and tenant organizer; and Alexandria Hames.
Ward 2 encompasses a region stretching from Highbury Avenue to the city limits in the east and from Oxford Street to Gore Road in the south, including the Argyle and Crumlin neighborhoods and part of East London.
Hames did not respond to attempts by CBC to reach out to her.
Steve Reed, a candidate for Ward 2, aims to enhance basic city services, reduce police response times, and ensure fair property taxes for residents in east London. He emphasizes his extensive experience as a former owner of Player’s Sports Bar and stresses the need for practical, independent leadership in the community.
Reed highlights concerns about community safety, police responsiveness, and the equitable distribution of tax funds. He advocates for improved coordination of construction projects to minimize traffic disruptions and ensure infrastructure keeps pace with new developments.
Shawn Lewis, the incumbent, rebuts Reed’s criticisms and asserts that his role as deputy mayor amplifies east London’s influence within city governance. With a background in various sectors including restaurants, manufacturing, and politics, Lewis has been a Ward 2 representative since 2018 and underscores his deep roots in the community.
Lewis acknowledges challenges such as traffic congestion, homelessness, affordability, and property taxes, committing to addressing these issues through effective city planning and budget management.
Zack Ramsey, another candidate for Ward 2, brings a background in volunteering and grassroots movements to his campaign. With a focus on enhancing city services and supporting residents facing financial hardships, Ramsey advocates for better communication between citizens and local government.
Ramsey emphasizes the need for improved accountability in services like snow removal and garbage collection, along with initiatives to enhance affordability for all residents. His personal experiences with economic challenges underscore his commitment to understanding and addressing the diverse needs of the community.
The election is scheduled for October 26th.