VAUGHAN VOTES: Candidate profile for Gila Martow

Thestar.com
Sept. 21, 2022
Brian Capitao

NAME: Gila Martow

OCCUPATION: Optometrist

ADDRESS/WARD: Vaughan -- Ward 5 (Thornhill)

POSITION YOU ARE RUNNING FOR: Vaughan City Councillor

PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Member of Provincial Parliament for Thornhill 2014-2022.

WHY HAVE YOU DECIDED TO RUN?

I want to continue to serve my community at the local level, and fix the issues that Thornhill currently faces. Thornhill needs a voice on transit, animal control and better municipal services. I have a strong record as Thornhill’s MPP, and an intimate understanding of the needs of this community.

HOW WILL YOU EMBRACE AND CHAMPION DIVERSITY?

Supporting diverse groups is a function of a strong community. I helped the Filipino Canadian Association of Vaughan get a long-term lease on the Patricia Kemp building before being elected, and was a strong voice against antisemitism on the provincial level since being elected. I have a strong record of support for all communities and organizations in Thornhill!

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE ISSUES?

1.Ensuring Thornhill receives proper subway stops on the Yonge extension with adequate parking and drop off/pick up areas -- preferably without disruption to homes and schools.

2. Allocating appropriate animal control resources to Thornhill’s coyote problem to prevent harm to humans and pets.

3. Returning garbage pickup in our parks and public areas to a proper schedule with better maintenance and renovations. The Garnet A. Williams Community Centre renovation seems to be taking an inordinate amount of time!

IF ELECTED, WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO ACCOMPLISH IN YOUR FIRST 100 DAYS?

I will immediately work on a list of concerns in all areas of Thornhill with all members of council. I look forward to collaborating with my new colleagues to ensure we address and solve all issues in an organized and systematic fashion.