Council candidates: Amy Brodhagen

Introduce yourself to readers. Who are you?

I’m Amy Brodhagen (she/her), and Stratford has been my home for 30 years. I’m the youngest of four, a mother, a bereaved mother, a wife, longtime volunteer, local poet and proud ally. I am someone who cares deeply about the environment and this community. I’m eager to learn, grow and work collaboratively. I want to bring my experience, compassion, resiliency, commitment and the public’s voice to Stratford city council. I’m not running because I have all the answers. I’m running because I’m willing to listen, ask questions and speak up for the everyday person.

What are the core issues you are focused on this election?

My focus for this election is building a more connected, resilient and engaged Stratford.  I want to make municipal government easier to understand so more people are informed, confident, and know their voices matter. A resilient community means strengthening local food security, by revisiting by-laws and supporting community services. Protecting our environment and Stratford’s character requires thoughtful growth and clear guardrails. Responsible development includes creating dignified housing solutions that make sense for Stratford, both today and for future generations. I also want to support the arts, cultural diversity and alternative sports, by expanding accessible recreation and year-round amenities.

Next year’s budget, like last year’s, will be presented and guided by the mayor. As a councillor, what will you do to keep the tax levy low?

I will scrutinize spending, highlight areas where costs can be reduced or deferred, and ask hard questions about any proposed tax increases. Stratford residents deserve transparency about how their tax dollars are being used, and confidence that they are being spent efficiently, responsibly and where they are needed most. I will make decisions based on what is in the best interests of residents, not simply follow the majority. I will listen, ask questions and be accountable for how I vote.

Housing and homelessness in Stratford continues to be a challenge. What, in your opinion, is the strategy the city should be taking in building more homes and/or improving affordability?

Stratford needs a housing strategy focused on affordability, not just growth. I support higher-density, mixed-use developments that create complete communities while protecting green space and planning for the future. That strategy should also include policies that support renters and encourage more attainable rental housing. City funding for housing initiatives should be tied to clear goals and measurable results, while making use of existing properties and buildings wherever possible. The city should actively pursue provincial and federal funding and grants to expand housing options. Growth should improve the lives of current residents without compromising our environment, infrastructure or quality of life.

The Grand Trunk renewal project is underway, yet still far from any concrete changes to the grounds or superstructure. Are you in favour of the current council’s direction? If not, what strategy would you be in favour of?

With the Grand Trunk renewal project, I want to see action, not endless planning. I support a phased approach that delivers visible results within four years, with clear costs, funding and measurable community benefits before each phase proceeds. Taxpayers deserve transparency about where their money is going and who is influencing decisions. The site should become a multi-use, community-focused space combining social services, amenities, green space, housing, while recognizing its history. I support exploring community partnerships and grants to reduce the taxpayer burden. This project will have a lasting impact on Stratford; we all deserve that impact to be positive.