Alex Ballagh — Platform for Ward 8

Affordable Housing & Tenant Protections

Housing should be attainable and safe for all residents. I will champion:

• Gentle density policies, supporting duplexes and townhomes to increase affordable supply.
• A vacant property tax to discourage speculation and empty homes.
• A maximum heat bylaw to guarantee tenants safe, livable temperatures year-round.

Transit & LRT Readiness

To get more people out of their cars, I will:

• Push for improved bus routes and expanded weekend service.
• Lead public education campaigns about the LRT to ensure smooth transit connections.

Road Safety & Traffic Calming

Speeding and heavy truck traffic threaten our residential streets. My priorities include:

• Installing additional speed humps in Rolston and Bonnington.
• Improving intersections such as Claremont Access for safer vehicle and pedestrian flow.

Aging Infrastructure & Safer Streets

Our roads, sidewalks, and community spaces must be safe and accessible for everyone — from kids to seniors. I will push for:

• Complete-streets upgrades on key corridors like Upper James and Rymal Road with sidewalks, bike lanes, and curb accessibility.
• Neighbourhood sidewalk repairs and traffic calming to protect pedestrians and cyclists.

Community Safety & Partnerships

Working collaboratively with police and community groups to reduce crime and increase safety, I will advocate for:

• More foot patrols and community policing in hotspot areas.
• Targeted intervention and youth programs to address root causes of crime.

Union Rights & Workers’ Protections

I support strong unions and workers by:

• Fighting for fair wages, workplace safety, and the right to organize.
• Backing local efforts to strengthen labour protections and job security.

Parks, Trails & Recreation

Everyone deserves access to safe, welcoming green spaces. I’ll work to:

• Build equitable splash pads and connect trails along the escarpment.
• Ensure accessibility for families and seniors in all new park projects.

Climate Action & Sustainability

Ward 8 must be a leader in climate resilience. I will fight for:

• Expanded tree planting and biodiversity initiatives.
• Electrification of city fleets and green development policies.

Healthcare & Education Supports

Stronger healthcare and educational resources are essential. I will advocate for:

• Improved access to local health services, including mental health supports.
• Community education programs for youth and seniors.

Arts, Music & Culture

• Champion sustainable funding and accessible space for community arts, cultural events, and independent creators
• Support local music festivals, theatre groups, dance events, and all-ages venues as key drivers of Hamilton’s civic identity and economic vibrancy
• Advocate for inclusive public art installations and city partnerships with grassroots cultural organizations
• Push for ward-level cultural grants and event funding that reflect the diversity and creativity of Ward 8’s communities
• Celebrate and amplify Hamilton's homegrown talent — from hip-hop and Latin dance to metal and soul — through community partnerships and civic recognition