MEET ESTHER PAULS, COUNCIL CANDIDATE FOR WARD 7

Hamilton Community News has reached out to both Ward 7 council candidates and asked them to fill out the questionnaire below. This is how candidate Esther Pauls responded.

NAME: Esther Pauls

OCCUPATION: Ward 7 city councillor, City of Hamilton

ADDRESS/WARD: 1435 Upper Wellington St., Hamilton, Ward 7

CONTACT INFO: esther_pauls@live.com

POSITION YOU ARE RUNNING FOR: Ward 7 city councillor

PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Incumbent, Ward 7 city councillor

WHY HAVE YOU DECIDED TO RUN?

I've learned a great deal about municipal government, and more specifically, about nuances facing Hamilton. Although I am proud of the work that I have accomplished at city hall during the past four years, I feel I can be even more productive with a renewed mandate from Ward 7 citizens.

HOW WILL YOU EMBRACE AND CHAMPION DIVERSITY IN THIS ROLE?

Diversity can only be genuinely championed against a backdrop of respect, inclusivity, and dignity. As such, it has been my practice — and it will continue to be my practice — to consult and involve people from a range of different ethnic and socioeconomic economic backgrounds when making decisions in council chambers.

HOW WILL YOU DEAL WITH THE HOUSING CRISIS?

There isn't a one-sizefits-all solution for the variety of housing required (based on varying scenarios). Funds are needed from all government levels. I've supported permanent housing for 440 homeless individuals, 400 new affordable housing units, rent-geared-to income (RGI) housing for 700 households, and repairs to 6,000 city-operated units.

HOW WILL YOU ADDRESS THE ISSUE OF UNSAFE STREETS?

Street studies determine unsafe areas and I'll undertake one for Upper Wentworth Street. I'll continue to implement traffic calming measures such as signs and speed bumps. A public awareness campaign can also underscore that safety isn't just about infrastructure — it's about being attentive and responsible, whether driving, cycling, or walking.

My top three issues include being an excellent steward of taxpayer dollars (i.e. fixing roads, timely snow removal, updating parks for safety and accessibility), creating affordable housing and new residential areas while protecting farmlands and green space, and constituency accountability in addressing the concerns of Ward 7, Hamilton's most populous ward.

IF ELECTED, HOW DO YOU PLAN TO ACHIEVE YOUR PRIORITIES?

I'll use the experience gained over the past four years to effectively navigate city hall and efficiently achieve priorities. Knowing what to do, is one thing. Knowing how to do it, where to go, and who to involve, is another. Leveraging my experience will produce even more results for Ward 7.