Council candidates: Brad Beatty

Introduce yourself to readers. Who are you?

I’m Brad Beatty, and for 16 years I have had the privilege of serving Stratford on city council. I’m a husband, father and longtime resident who believes public service means contributing both inside and outside the council chamber. My experience has taught me that good decisions begin with listening, understanding the facts and treating people with respect. I am seeking re-election because I believe Stratford has tremendous opportunities ahead, and experienced, thoughtful leadership matters. I remain committed to serving with integrity, being accessible to residents and helping Stratford move forward together.

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

My focus is on building upon Stratford’s strong foundation while continually looking for ways to improve. Economic growth is a priority: supporting our existing businesses and manufacturing sector, attracting new investment and building out Stratford’s next industrial park. I also want responsible progress on the Grand Trunk development, creating opportunities for housing, community services and private investment. These priorities must be supported by responsible budgeting, practical solutions to deliver more attainable housing, dependable services and well-maintained infrastructure. As Stratford grows, we must also continue investing in our parks, trails and public spaces while preserving what makes our community special.

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?

Having worked through Stratford’s first mayor-led budget process this year, I understand council’s responsibility within the process. Long-term planning is essential: deferring necessary work may lower one year’s levy but often creates higher costs later. As a councillor, I will carefully review spending, ask thoughtful questions, seek efficiencies and ensure new initiatives demonstrate clear value and sustainable funding. I will support partnerships and other revenue opportunities that reduce pressure on property taxes while protecting reserves from short-term fixes. My goal is a disciplined, transparent budget that respects taxpayers today without creating greater financial pressures tomorrow.

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?

Building more housing and improving affordability are complex challenges without a quick or single solution. Stratford has been taking action, and we must continue building on that work through efficient approvals, appropriate density, strategic use of municipal land and strong partnerships with non-profit housing providers, private developers and other levels of government. Affordability also requires attainable and supportive housing, with mental-health, addiction and outreach supports for those experiencing homelessness. Municipal action alone will not be enough; we must continue advocating for sustained provincial and federal investment. Our objective should be stable housing and greater supply across the entire housing continuum.

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?

The current direction reflects years of planning, public input and careful consideration of community needs and financial realities …The proposed shared community facility, anchored by the YMCA and Stratford Public Library, addresses real needs while limiting the city’s capital contribution to $15 million and seeking partner, grant, fundraising and development-charge support. Market sounding will test interest in housing and mixed-use development before major commitments, while the downtown parking study addresses parking comprehensively. Future decisions must be guided by sound financial planning, sustainable operations, clear public communication and respect for the site’s heritage.