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New Tecumseth mayor candidate Jaison Waldman weighs in on biggest issues facing voters

October 2, 2026   ·   0 Comments

With the upcoming municipal election on October 26, we invited each candidate to respond to the same four questions about
their reason for running, priorities and vision for the municipality, qualifications, and contact information. Their responses are published
below as submitted, subject only to length and standard copy editing for style, grammar and clarity.

Candidates were asked to keep their responses focused on their own qualifications, priorities and vision for the municipality.

1) What are the largest issues facing the Town of New Tecumseth?

The most pressing concern for New Tecumseth will be restoring cohesion and constructive dialogue within council so the town can address its responsibilities effectively. Recent divisions have made it difficult to maintain consistent direction, and a new council will need to rebuild trust, set aside personal differences, and establish a collaborative foundation. Without unity, even well-planned initiatives struggle to move forward.

At the same time, the town must prepare for broader social and economic pressures. Rising living costs and the impacts of provincial legislation, including Ontario Bill 60, may increase strain on vulnerable residents. Housing instability is already visible across the region, and it is realistic to expect more individuals to face hardship, especially during winter months. A council that communicates clearly, works cooperatively, and plans proactively will be essential in navigating these challenges.

2) With development being mandated by the province and causing concern among residents, how should council approach development and growth?

With provincially mandated development creating uncertainty for many residents, council’s role is to ensure growth is managed in a structured, transparent, and community-focused way. While the town cannot choose whether growth occurs, it can choose how it is planned, communicated, and integrated.

Clear, consistent information helps reduce anxiety and allows residents to understand what is mandated versus what is locally determined. Council can support this by outlining how infrastructure, services, and community supports will expand alongside new development. Growth also brings opportunities: new residents contribute to the local economy, broaden the tax base, and strengthen services that benefit everyone.

Rather than viewing growth as a loss of identity, council can help residents see it as an evolution of New Tecumseth — one that respects its history while preparing for its future. A thoughtful, well-managed approach allows the Town to adapt confidently and maintain a strong, welcoming community.

3) What experience and leadership qualities do you have that make you the right choice for residents’ votes?

I offer a broad range of lived and professional experience that has taught me adaptability, steady decision-making, and respect for diverse perspectives. My background spans rural and urban environments, manufacturing leadership, logistics, technical work, customer service, and community involvement. This variety has shaped an objective, practical approach to problem-solving and given me insight into how different sectors and people operate.

I have held roles in production management, industrial operations, maintenance, and international trade, and I continue to build my skills through ongoing leadership development, including courses in team building, incident response, and advanced manufacturing. These experiences have strengthened my ability to work with complex systems, support teams, and adjust quickly when circumstances change.

Community service has also been a consistent part of my life, including work with housing cooperatives, community centres, volunteer driving programs, and long-term involvement in faith-based service. These roles have reinforced the importance of listening, fairness, and accountability.

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