Our Priorities for Ward 1
A clear plan rooted in listening to neighbours and building a stronger community.
Dan’s priorities aren’t party talking points, they’re built from listening to neighbours across Ward 1. From safer transit to fairer taxes, these are the issues we’ll keep at the center of City Hall decisions.
Independent Representation and Bill 20
Keep party politics out of City Hall so your voice guides local decisions.
Local government should be neighbours representing neighbours. Bill 20 brings political parties into City Council and school boards, giving the Province more control over local decisions. That risks turning council into a battleground for provincial disputes, rather than focusing on community priorities such as transit, housing, and taxation.
Ward 1 deserves independent voices who listen first and carry residents’ concerns directly to City Hall.
Responsible Development and Smart Growth
I oppose blanket rezoning. Growth must match infrastructure and respect neighbourhoods.
I support more housing options, but growth must be responsible. Since August 2024, Calgary has seen a 271% increase in rowhouse permits without corresponding infrastructure upgrades. The result is broken trust with communities, leaving many residents feeling unheard and unrepresented.
I will work with community associations and residents to make sure growth strengthens communities, not leaves residents behind.
Public Safety
Every resident deserves to feel safe at home, on transit, and in the community.
Safety starts with visibility. I support increasing the number of peace officers and security staff at CTrain stations and community hotspots. Prevention matters too, which is why youth programs that keep kids engaged and supported are critical.
Since 2022, crime in Ward 1 has decreased by nearly 48%, indicating that a combination of enforcement and prevention is effective. Yet many neighbours tell me they still don’t feel safe. Families are avoiding the CTrain, hesitating to report incidents, or staying out of local parks. Statistics alone don’t tell the whole story; we need to keep investing in strategies that strengthen safety, visibility, and trust in our community spaces.
Building safety means building trust. I will listen to residents and partner with law enforcement and service providers to make Ward 1 a safer place for everyone.
Taxes and City Budget
Responsible spending should fix what is broken and protect residents from unnecessary tax hikes.
The City is forecasting a $175 million surplus in 2025, after several years of surpluses. Families are already paying more, and responsible spending must come before higher taxes. Surplus money should be allocated toward one-time needs, such as infrastructure repairs, rather than ongoing programs that lead to unnecessary tax hikes.
I will continue to listen to residents and small businesses about where the City can reduce waste while protecting the services people rely on.
Transit and Infrastructure
Safer transit, better roads, and fair utility rates must be a priority.
Transit safety comes first. More visible staff and better communication can reassure riders and build trust. On roads, only 38% are in good condition, and Calgary faces a $7.7 billion repair gap. I will push for a 10-year plan to close that gap, while also addressing more minor fixes, such as traffic lights and sidewalks.
On utilities, I support upgrades, but residents deserve fairness on rates. In 2025, the average water bill increased by 3.7%, accompanied by an additional $5 per month for waste services. I will continue to press the City to be clear and upfront, so residents are not caught off guard by rising costs.
Reliable transit, safe roads, and fair utility bills are the basics every resident should be able to count on.
Support for Seniors and Vulnerable Residents
Seniors should be able to age in place with dignity, safety, and a sense of connection.
Seniors need accessible upgrades, snow-clearing services, and community programs that reduce feelings of isolation. I support volunteer networks that connect schools, nonprofits, and neighbours to help seniors with upkeep and connection.
I will continue to listen to seniors directly, because they know best what makes them feel safe and valued.
Small Business and Local Economy
Local businesses deserve fair rules and real opportunities to grow and hire locally.
Small businesses are the backbone of Ward 1. I support transparent and consistent city rules so that owners can focus on growing and serving the community. Business licensing reform must deliver tangible results, not create additional barriers. I also believe in expanding opportunities for local firms to bid on City contracts and strengthening hiring pipelines for young workers.
When local businesses thrive, our entire community benefits.
Parks and Environment
Protecting parks and green spaces keeps Ward 1 healthy, connected, and livable.
Green spaces, such as Bowmont and Bowness, are essential to community life. I will work to protect them from overdevelopment while making parks and gyms more accessible for families and youth. I support climate-resilient upgrades, but spending must be responsible.
Parks should be safe, well-maintained, and welcoming for everyone.
