Name: Bill Kukulewich
Position for which you are running: Ward 2 Councillor
Do you reside in the ward in which you are running (council candidates):? Yes I do, for 25 years.
Outline your background/experience (100-word limit):
As a licensed paralegal for the Community Legal Clinic of York Region, I have a common sense approach based on my years of on the job experience, using my mediation skills, helping people in my community. I worked as a paramedic for 15 years in York Region. As a highly trained and skilled medical professional performing life-saving procedures, I provided first response medical duties from delivering 3 babies to treating multiple critical patients in dangerous scenes such as accidents on the highway. As a paramedic, I took an oath to uphold ethical standards.
What are the top four qualities required to be an effective municipal representative? (4-word limit):
1. Honesty ...
2. Effective ...
3. Committed ...
4. Innovative ...
Explain why you are the best qualified candidate. (100-word limit):
My wife and I raised our children in Newmarket these past 25 years, enjoying the many activities this fine town has to offer. I volunteered for over 10 years as a soccer coach, baseball coach, and hockey trainer for my children’s sports activities. I hold a strong connection to Newmarket and in Ward 2 and I am very passionate about making a difference by supporting my community. I feel a strong civic responsibility as I care about the future of our municipality, I want to make sure that people’s viewpoints are represented and that we encourage the right businesses and ...
What are the two most important issues for your ward/constituents? (200-word limit):
1. One of the first priorities is to deal with the speed and traffic throughout the ward. There have been numerous complaints from residents about speeding in residential areas; they are concerned for the safety of children, their neighbours and their property. A resident on Arnold Crescent for example, is concerned that speeders on their street will one day misjudge the sharp turn on their crescent and jump the curb onto their property. They hope that no one is outside if and when that happens....
2. Another priority is the issue of the land between Muriel and Gorham (old cemetery lands) by Leslie which needs careful examination and consideration regarding growth and traffic congestion. Residents are more concerned about the Town addressing affordable housing than building another development adding to our traffic woes. A resident on Thornwillow Court shared that her son will have no choice once he returns from post-secondary but to move back in with her as he will not be able to afford rental costs in Newmarket. And a long time resident residing on Three Season’s Drive has shared that they plan on moving in the next 2 years because their adult children can’t afford to ...
What will you do to ensure you are accountable to your constituents? (50-word limit):
If elected I will make myself available through public forums including Ward meetings, I will respond to all phone inquiries and emails, be available for face-to-face meetings, and will be happy to post my annual expenses and attendance record, and will make my voting decisions public knowledge. Currently to acquire ...
What is the most important issue for council/school board to address in the next term? (100-word limit):
The most important issue is controlling growth and creating jobs. Being fiscally responsible for projects undertaken. Creating affordable housing through development projects. Development projects in and around the town should meet the Town standards and bidding should be transparent. Investing and expanding the Newmarket Library to create an active and vibrant place that features our heritage and our treasures to represent our fine community.
Describe your dream project that would result in a better quality of life in Newmarket. (100-word limit):
I would like to see a sports complex for youth that includes an outdoor rink providing them with the same opportunities and future memories that we enjoyed. A skating rink provides positive physical benefits plus our youth will have a place to develop their social skills, make friends, raise their self-esteem and develop a healthier outlook while managing stress through a positive outlet. I would like to see modern playgrounds including a splash pad to be a gathering place for families. Playgrounds provide a healthy way to develop physically including increasing balance, jumping, hoping, turning, running, playing and having fun.
Answer Yes or No? (1-word limit):
Should salaries be reduced for the mayor and councillors? Yes
Are taxes too high for the services provided to residents? Yes
Do you support tax increases to pay for the purchase of properties, such as Mulock Estates? No
Should opening a second branch of Newmarket Public Library be a top priority for the next term? Yes
Should the town continue to give incentives and loans to Main Street businesses as part of its revitalization strategy? Yes
Should the town provide additional incentives to developers to encourage more affordable rental units? Yes
Should councillors be required to provide more fully itemized and detailed expense reports, accessible online at no cost to the public? Yes
Should the mayor and councillors block followers on their town social media accounts? No
Should there be fixed terms for councillors? Yes
