I believe in strong communities and solid infrastructure. Bureaucracy, while necessary for fairness and equity, must not impede the achievement of our goals. Elected officials have a clear responsibility to represent their constituents to the best of their abilities, without consideration of personal gain.

Constructive partnerships, built on mutual benefit rather than zero-sum outcomes, are essential. While compromise is often vital for the greater good, I recognize that some decisions may not fully satisfy every individual. As your voice on the city council for our Ward, I will ensure your thoughts and concerns are not only heard but also acted upon. I will stand by the decisions made on your behalf and address challenges directly, dedicated to working for you.

The underlying cause of concerns regarding blanket rezoning, traffic and infrastructure deficiencies, and suburban overdevelopment is the rapid growth of our neighbourhoods.

I will oppose any motion that includes the term “blanket” because it inherently applies broad generalizations that fail to recognize the diverse needs and valid concerns within our Ward’s unique communities. Rezoning decisions must be made only after careful consideration of each community’s specific needs.

Rapid development strains our existing infrastructure. This includes not only the creation of new infrastructure but also the critical expansion and consistent maintenance of our current systems, as we’ve experienced with the ongoing issues on 85th Street.

Inner-city communities are also experiencing rapid development with the replacement of larger lots by often unaffordable duplexes. While these new homes may be aesthetically pleasing, they contribute to rising property values and taxes, potentially displacing long-term residents. Simultaneously, we must acknowledge the significant underserved population facing homelessness, a reality often evident through our public transit system downtown.

Increased population density can correlate with a rise in crime. Proactive planning is essential to address this potential issue. I will strongly support our police, fire, and emergency responders, who face challenging situations daily, and I will listen carefully to their concerns to ensure they have the resources they need.

Finally, funding is crucial for these initiatives. As a significant city, Calgary, based on our tax contributions, possesses the resources needed for meaningful improvements across all our communities. I am committed to thoroughly researching the sources and allocation of these funds to ensure they are used effectively for the benefit of Ward 6.

I am eager to continue speaking with the residents of Ward 6 throughout my campaign. Your feedback on where my understanding aligns with your experiences and where it needs adjustment is invaluable to my ability to serve you effectively.

All the best,

Kari Lavoie