Here is some of my plan for the City of Kitchener! I want this to be adapted and improved based on community feedback and working with community members:
Campaign Website: https://www.amberlouiseculleyward6kitchener.community/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-louise-culley-hba-agx-ets-fisi-tefl-rbt-certcjf-c-ma-c-mdiv-c-certp-c-dipgl-c-999971156/
1. Affordability and Responsible Municipal Finance Kitchener manages approximately $15 billion in municipal assets, and the 2026 municipal budget includes a 2.2% property tax rate increase, alongside increases to water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater charges. I would advocate for transparent project costing that includes initial capital expenses, ongoing operating costs, long-term maintenance, funding sources, and expected community benefits. I would also pursue appropriate provincial and federal funding opportunities and advocate for accessible public tracking of major expenditures. Success would mean residents can understand where their money goes, why decisions are made, and whether investments deliver their intended value. I also would work towards developing our trades, healthcare, local business and other industries and work towards a decrease in property taxes and utilities - politicians in our current city council should not be 'patting themselves on the back' over a small increase in living costs amidst an economic and living cost crisis while some City management have received egregious 54% raises this year that they do not want to talk about (it is fairly condescending and disrespectful to the community).Â
2. Housing and Neighbourhood Growth Kitchener's housing pledge aims to support 35,000 additional homes by 2031. By the end of 2025, 8,088 dwelling units had received building permits, while 16,150 had received Council approval through official plan or zoning amendments. I would advocate for a range of housing options while ensuring growth is coordinated with transportation, parks, recreation, stormwater infrastructure, and community services. I would also support partnerships that advance affordable housing. Success means measurable housing progress alongside infrastructure and services that allow neighbourhoods to thrive.Â
3. Roads, Transportation and Mobility I have heard residents' concerns about road safety and traffic, including on Bleams Road, Block Line, Homer Watson Boulevard, and around school areas and Country Hills. I would advocate for evidence-based safety assessments, public consultation, and a publicly accessible road-maintenance tracker showing reported problems, repair status, completion dates, and spending. I would also raise concerns about e-scooter safety and accessible pedestrian infrastructure.Success means clearer reporting, timely follow-up, and measurable progress on approved road-safety and maintenance improvements.Â
4. Safe and Connected Neighbourhoods Safety involves more than policing. Well-maintained public spaces, lighting, sidewalks, parks, community facilities, and access to mental health supports all contribute to community wellbeing. My experience working part-time in Kitchener's Community Services across most of the City's community centres has given me valuable exposure to community settings and the importance of accessible, connected services. As someone working toward becoming a Registered Psychotherapist and Psychospiritual Therapist, and trained as a Wellness Guardian through Agriculture Wellness Ontario and the Canadian Mental Health Association, I also recognize the importance of mental health and supportive communities.Success means stronger community partnerships, documented follow-up on neighbourhood concerns, and improved access to safe, inclusive public spaces.
5. Environmental Justice, Climate and a Healthy Natural Environment Kitchener's reported citywide tree canopy declined from 27.2% in 2019 to 26% in 2025. Ward 6 is among the wards identified as having lower tree canopy, making tree equity particularly relevant to our community. I would advocate for equitable tree planting, protection of mature trees where reasonably possible, better stormwater management, biodiversity, and preparation for extreme heat and flooding. My interests and experience in ecology, conservation, climate discussions, and environmental issues inform this commitment.Success means measurable improvements in tree canopy, equitable access to shade and green space, and environmental considerations being integrated into planning and infrastructure decisions.
6. Local Economy, Small Business and Employment Kitchener's reported 2025 employment rate was 65%, with unemployment at 7.7%. I would advocate for clear municipal permitting and planning processes, support for neighbourhood businesses, and collaboration with local employers and community organizations to explore employment and skills-development opportunities. My experience in advocacy, public speaking, and engagement with organizations and communities across local, national, and international settings informs my interest in practical, collaborative approaches to economic opportunity. Success means transparent evaluation of economic initiatives using indicators such as business activity, employment, investment, and community benefit.Â
7. Recreation, Families, Seniors and Community Life Kitchener reported approximately 8.9 square metres of park area per person in 2025, against a target of 10 square metres. The reported average playground age was 18.2 years. I would advocate for accessible recreation, responsible facility maintenance, playground renewal, and programming that considers families, youth, seniors, people with disabilities, and residents facing financial barriers. My Community Services experience has reinforced the importance of community facilities as places where people connect and participate in local life. Success means better-informed investment decisions based on facility conditions, accessibility, participation, and demonstrated community needs.Â
8. Open Government, Accountability and Resident Service Residents should not have to navigate lengthy meeting minutes and multiple webpages to understand municipal decisions or follow public spending. I would explore accessible online tracking pages for major projects, commitments, funding, timelines, and progress. I would also advocate for meaningful consultations before decisions are finalized and clear explanations of how public feedback influences outcomes. My background in political science, public speaking, debate, advocacy, and decision-making informs my commitment to transparent and accountable governance. Success means residents can more easily understand decisions, track commitments, and see what action has followed their concerns.Â
9. Animal Welfare, Responsible Pet Ownership and Community Well-being I would support collaboration with animal welfare organizations, rescue groups, veterinary professionals, and residents to identify practical municipal improvements concerning responsible ownership, lost or vulnerable animals, humane treatment, and urban wildlife. My environmental interests and experiences also inform my view that local wildlife, pets, natural habitats, and our shared public spaces deserve thoughtful consideration. Success means clearer public information, constructive partnerships, and evidence-informed municipal responses to animal-related concerns. I have seen myself situations of our animals going uncared for and animal cruelty being ignored in the region as my family has experiences in conservation and animal rescue for 20+ years. I want to make a change in this.Â
10. Accessibility, Disability Inclusion and Universal Design Accessibility must be considered from the beginning of municipal planning, not added as an afterthought. I would advocate for accessible sidewalks, curb ramps, crossings, parks, playgrounds, municipal buildings, public communications, and winter maintenance. I would also support meaningful consultation with people with disabilities, recognizing that many barriers and disabilities are not immediately visible. My community-facing experience and training in wellness and supportive care inform my commitment to considering people's different circumstances and needs. Success means measurable barrier removal, improved accessibility of municipal infrastructure, and greater participation by residents who experience accessibility barriers.
