Five Priorities. One Northwood. A Commitment to Getting It Right.

Throughout this campaign, I've talked about the challenges facing Thunder Bay, but I'm running to represent Northwood first. I believe residents deserve to know where my priorities are and what I would bring to the Council table.

I've lived in Northwood my entire life, and raised my family here.  I've watched our neighbourhood grow, experienced its challenges and have seen what happens when decisions at City Hall don't always reflect what's happening on our streets. These are the five priorities in this campaign that I believe deserve our attention.

1. Housing and Homelessness

We need more housing options, including affordable housing, and meaningful solutions to homelessness. But simply spending more money without measuring results isn't a strategy. We need cooperation between governments, community organizations and service providers, with clear accountability for outcomes. New housing developments must also be appropriately located, supported by infrastructure and respectful of existing neighbourhoods and their green spaces.

2. Public Safety and Community Well-Being

Residents deserve to feel safe in their homes, on their streets and in their parks. Crime, addiction and public disorder are serious concerns that require practical responses. Enforcement, prevention, treatment and community supports all have a role. We need solutions that address the problems rather than simply moving them from one neighbourhood to another.

3. Protecting Northwood's Neighbourhoods

Our parks, green spaces and residential streets make Northwood a great place to live. I've been clear about protecting neighbourhood parkettes, including Thornloe, and ensuring residents have a meaningful voice in development decisions. Growth is necessary, but it shouldn't come at the expense of the character and quality of life of established neighbourhoods.

4. Roads, Infrastructure and Responsible Planning

Northwood has experienced flooding, drainage problems and deteriorating roads. We've made progress, but there's more work ahead. I'm also concerned about the proposed James Street road diet and its potential impact as development continues around Golf Links Road and the Harbour Expressway. Infrastructure decisions must be based on current information, future needs and responsible spending.

5. Accountability and Working Together at City Hall

I've spent more than a decade following and reporting on City Council, openly and honestly. I've seen good decisions, questionable decisions and too much political grandstanding. One councillor cannot fix everything, but one councillor can ask the tough questions, challenge unnecessary spending and work with a team to make better decisions. That's the approach I would bring to council chambers.

These aren't five promises that will change the world. They're five priorities grounded in the neighbourhood I've always called home.

Northwood doesn't need another collection of election promises. 

We need honest representation, common sense, fiscal responsibility and someone willing to do the homework before making decisions.

That's the kind of councillor I intend to be, and I'd appreciate your support.

Please feel free to share this post and help me get the word out to Northwood residents.

Beginning October 19, Vote John Ongaro - Northwood.