Ahead of the upcoming municipal election on October 26, CBC Hamilton reached out to all candidates contesting for Hamilton city council across 15 wards to outline their priorities and proposed solutions for the key issues affecting the community. The responses from candidates in Ward 9 highlighted concerns about road infrastructure, crime, and the persistent odors emanating from a landfill since 2023.
Incumbent Brad Clark, who has been in office since 2018 and previously served as the ward councillor from 2006 to 2014, is facing competition from four other candidates in Ward 9. Situated in Upper Stoney Creek, Ward 9 lies to the south of the escarpment, north of the hydro corridor and South Townline Road, east of the Red Hill Valley Parkway, and west of Grimsby, Ont.
The ward predominantly comprises agricultural land and has been embroiled in the debate over expanding the urban boundary following a ruling by the Ontario Land Tribunal. This decision has sparked controversy after Hamilton’s prolonged efforts to maintain its existing boundary.
With a higher proportion of children compared to the city average, Ward 9 also boasts a greater average household income and a larger Catholic and Muslim population. Residents have been troubled by foul smells originating from a GFL facility, likened to wet garbage, cat urine, fishy odor, and chemicals, persisting since 2023. Legal actions against the landfill have been initiated by affected neighbors, asserting that the odors have significantly disrupted their daily activities.
Among the candidates, addressing the landfill issue was a primary focus. Each candidate was asked a series of questions by CBC Hamilton, and their responses are presented below in alphabetical order:
Brad Clark, current Ward 9 councillor, emphasized his experience at the municipal and provincial levels, highlighting his ability to collaborate with stakeholders to deliver results for Ward 9 residents.
Abhijeet Gill, a real estate broker and McMaster University graduate, stressed the importance of addressing public safety, affordability, infrastructure, and environmental concerns through a comprehensive and collaborative approach.
Brad Stapleton, a law enforcement professional, underscored his commitment to advocating for safer neighborhoods, transparent leadership, odor elimination from the landfill, and responsible fiscal management.
Jonathan Stathakos, a government relations advisor, outlined key issues such as affordability, safety, and the landfill problem, proposing solutions like improved traffic management, enhanced law enforcement presence, odor control measures, and advocating for provincial intervention on major roadways.
Eileen Walker, a children’s book author and former justice of the peace, emphasized the critical need for infrastructure development and planning to accommodate the ward’s growth while prioritizing long-term sustainability and resident well-being.
The candidates’ responses provide insights into their priorities and proposed strategies to address the pressing challenges facing Ward 9 residents in the upcoming election.