Ted Grand

What are Ted's priorities?

Neighborhood Revitalization

Only through strong communities can we build a strong City.  The City of Edmonton works with Community Leagues and other associations to assist communities to make their neighborhoods a safe, friendly, and enjoyable place to live. The City must continue to support these organizations and to provide the resources to allow a community to reach its chosen goal.  I look forward to being a part of these processes wherever I can be of assistance.  

Seniors

Ward 2 has a growing number of seniors.  Seniors are projected to make up 32 % of our cities population by the year 2041. The trend for seniors is to remain in their own homes longer and to stay within their communities. We need to ensure seniors in Ward 2 and throughout the City have their needs met.  Programs and services must continue to grow in the areas of transportation, home support, social isolation and access to information. 

Business

Ward 2 has a diverse and vibrant business community.  From the small business owner to large industrial corporations and everything in between.  Each have their own areas of need and concern.  I look forward to working with all sectors of the business community to help them be successful.

City Centre (Blatchford) Redevelopment

This redevelopment is anticipated to break ground either late this year or early in 2014.  The City’s plan will see 30,000 residents living and working in a community that will be very environmentally friendly.  As this development takes place and until its expected completion in 2040, attention needs to be paid to its successful development, and to its effects on the surrounding communities, transportation, and services.

Transportation

While the NW LRT extension from NAIT is not expected to be completed for a few years, the transportation needs of Ward 2 must be monitored and adjusted as the area continues to grow.  A sound transportation policy must be maintained.

In respect to the NW LRT, negotiations with the other levels of government need to continue into the key issue of funding.  The importance and overall value the proposed LRT lines will bring to the City must be continually brought to their attention. We recently saw the current Council postpone the construction of the Valley line as the upper levels of government did not commit the final funding needed that would have allowed the Valley line to be built.  LRT is important to our City.  That said I was glad to see that Council did not borrow the money which would have added to the overall capital debt.  This funding delay could affect the timeline on the future NW line.  I will work with my fellow Councillors to work on successful negotiations with the upper levels of government to keep this project moving forward.

Social/Affordable Housing

The city is made up of people from a wide range of social and economic backgrounds.  I support the building of both social and affordable housing within communities.  The inner City should not bear the load.  However, the City must consult with a community before approving any of these projects.  I will work with the communities and the administration in this process.

Community in Filling

An expanding City puts additional stresses on all City services.  Community In Filling on empty land within existing communities is one way to reduce these stresses and helps to make use of existing amenities.  I support this initiative as long as there is proper consultation with existing residents and businesses.

Crime

Always an area of concern for residents and businesses, I will work with Council and the Edmonton Police Service to ensure the Ward receives the level of service and support needed. The 2011-2014 Capital Budget approved by the current Council allows for the planning of a Northwest Police station.  I will work to move the project process forward to its earliest possible conclusion.

What are your thoughts on this Candidate?

The City Councillors have very similar objectives. I find that younger people stay longer on the job then older people. I would not vote for him because he is not a big fan of LRT.  I would vote for him because his focus on Seniors