Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

I have always and will continue to support the initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage by attending fundraisers, festivals and events.  I promote them and encourage others to attend as well. I am very much in support of Glenhyrst Gardens and Woodland Cultural Centre.  I am also supportive of the Sanderson Centre and any other small theatre the city would like to promote or start up; like the one that will be placed in the old Odeon building.  I also support the Heritage Registry.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


I would begin by continuing with the above mentioned items.  I also want to listen to other Council members and the public.  Ideas do not just come from one creative mind, they come from a collaboration of ideas of people from across the city.   

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

I will support the current programs and facilities.  With new Council members comes new ideas.  With new ideas in this area, come a creation of new spaces.  I would encourage those with ideas to come forward.  I will hold monthly townhalls to allow ideas to be heard and expanded upon through Council when appropriate.  Bringing the community together through the arts is important and necessary.  This is something that will continue to improve.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

Here’s my arts, culture and heritage history:

1. As a long-time patron and supporter of Glenhyrst, Brant Museum & Archives, CIHC and Canadian Military Heritage Museum I remain fully committed to arts, culture and heritage.

2. For about 20 years, I’ve been a member of the Brantford Heritage Committee – both as a citizen and Council representative. I had the pleasure to work with many great heritage advocates including Bill Darfler, Anne Westaway and  Cindy MacDonald … to name but three.

3. I encouraged involvement by other members of council and brought other members to the Heritage Committee

4. Mayor Chris Friel and I resurrected the Brantford Heritage Inventory many years ago. That resource was invaluable for researchers, heritage advocates and realestate professionals. The Inventory went dark for a number of years due to tech and website changes. City staff  have used AI to revise the Inventory and it will go live shortly.

5. I initiated the fund for museum partner capital funding. This enabled the reno to Glenhyrst, and improvements  at both Brant Museum and Archives and The Canadian Military Heritage Museum. Funding comes from Casino revenue.

6. I initiated the relocation of the Crystal Cottage to its new location beside the Museum. This was a joint effort of the developer, Brant Museum and Archives and City of Brantford. Each made a positive financial contribution to the success. Lessons learned can be applied to future relocations.

7. I initiated the Hotel Room Tax fund. A portion of every dollar collected from hotel visitors is apportioned to supporting our future consolidated museum and cultural facility.

8. I supported the purchase of the Brant Museum & Archives building which relieves the pressure of keeping the lights on and allows the museum to concentrate on telling our story.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


Here’s my plan:

1. Do for arts, culture and heritage the same as we’ve done for sports.

2. Continue financially supporting organizations.

3. Proceed with planning for our Consolidated Museum Facility – incorporating space for Brant M&A, CIHC, CMHM, Genealogy Society and other community partners in a facility owned and operated by City of Brantford. Featuring a scalable theatre with adequate backstage, storage and workshop space.
   As indicated, a seed fund is already established. Consultation began several years ago and will resume early in ‘27

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

1. I’ll continue with the initiatives I’ve begun in past. 

2. Operating agreements with museums will be flat fee arrangements – no longer punishing operators for recognizing efficiencies.  

3. Advancing planning for our Consolidated Museum and Culture Facility

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

Arts, culture and heritage are an important part of what makes Brantford feel like Brantford. I currently serve on the Brantford Public Library Board, Heritage Committee, Economic Development, Tourism and Culture Committee, Downtown Brantford BIA Board, and the Brant Historical Society Board.

I have supported organizations including Glenhyrst Art Gallery, Woodland Cultural Centre, Brant Theatre Workshops and the Canadian Industrial Heritage Centre, as well as the vision for a Museum District within the Mohawk Lake District Plan. I also regularly support local festivals, performances, exhibits and cultural events.

As Mayor, I will ensure this sector has a meaningful voice in Brantford’s future. I appreciate Grand Culture bringing organizations, artists, cultural workers and community members together, and see value in continuing that dialogue with the City.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

My Love Where You Live platform includes creating a city where there is always something to do, with arts, culture, events and gathering places alongside recreation and sports.

I will make it easier to organize events in Brantford by reducing unnecessary barriers and creating a clearer, more coordinated way to navigate City Hall.

Arts, culture and heritage are also economic development. They support local businesses, attract visitors and strengthen Brantford’s identity and reputation.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities? 

We need to care for existing cultural assets while planning for what is missing. Cultural infrastructure deserves meaningful consideration alongside recreation and sports when the City sets capital priorities.

One clear gap is an accessible mid-sized performing arts space. As Mayor, I will work with the sector, Council, staff and community partners to move this long-standing need toward a practical plan, including locations, partnerships and funding opportunities.

I will also advance the Museum District vision and ensure arts, culture and built heritage are considered in redevelopment, downtown revitalization and capital planning, including finding practical ways to preserve and reuse important heritage buildings as our city grows.

We should build on existing funding tools, including Municipal Accommodation Tax revenues that can support culture, tourism and visitor-focused initiatives, and ensure cultural organizations have meaningful opportunities to access these investments.

Arts, culture and heritage are part of building a city people love to call home.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

Throughout my time on Council, I have tried to be an active supporter of projects that bring art, culture and history into the everyday life of our community.

One example I am particularly proud of is bringing forward the initiative for the Phil Hartman mural downtown. Public art like this does more than beautify a wall. It tells Brantford's story, celebrates people connected to our community and gives residents another reason to feel proud of where they live.

I've also been a strong supporter of the many cultural organizations, festivals and community celebrations that reflect how diverse Brantford has become. I believe the City's role should be to help create the conditions for artists, cultural organizations and community partners to succeed — and then help promote what they are doing.

As Mayor, I want to build on initiatives that are already working, including expanding Culture Days on the Trails and creating more opportunities for local artists, musicians and performers to showcase their work.

I also want us to think bigger about Brantford's cultural identity. One of my aspirational goals would be to explore a partnership with the Art Gallery of Ontario for a satellite presence or exhibition space in Brantford, particularly recognizing that Group of Seven founder Lawren Harris was born here. That is an important part of our cultural history that I believe Brantford could celebrate much more prominently.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

Arts and culture are specifically included in the Flourishing Community pillar of my platform.

My platform recognizes that Brantford has the potential to become a regional arts and cultural destination by building on our existing assets, including our Farmers' Market, festivals, local artists, cultural organizations and emerging artisan districts.

I see arts and culture as being closely connected to several other parts of my platform as well — particularly downtown revitalization, tourism and economic development.

For example, I want to build on the Farmers' Market as a destination and explore adding a permanent bandstand or performance space that could host local musicians, cultural performances and community programming. I want to grow events such as Culture Days on the Trails and continue supporting signature festivals that give residents something to do while also bringing visitors into Brantford.

Question 3


Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


I want the City to look strategically at where gaps exist and where new or shared spaces could be incorporated into larger redevelopment projects.

We should also be creative about partnerships. Not every cultural facility needs to be built and operated entirely by the municipality. We can pursue partnerships with local organizations, the private sector, educational institutions and other levels of government to leverage municipal dollars and attract additional investment.

I would also like us to look for opportunities to incorporate arts and cultural infrastructure into projects we are already undertaking. A permanent performance space connected to an enhanced Farmers' Market is one example. Exploring a relationship with the Art Gallery of Ontario around Lawren Harris and Brantford's connection to the Group of Seven is a much more ambitious example.

Ultimately, I want arts, culture and heritage considered in the planning of our city, rather than something we try to fit in afterward. As Brantford grows, we have an opportunity to build the cultural infrastructure that a city of our future size will need — and to make sure investment in quality of life includes both recreation and culture.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

Arts and culture have been part of my life in Brantford for years. As a young person, I performed in local theatre productions, and as a high school teacher, I have helped facilitate school productions and other creative opportunities for students.

I have also performed stand up comedy alongside touring acts that have come through Brantford and have worked with local cultural contributors including zBTFD, B.A. Johnston, and Logan Staats. Through Brantford Wrestling, I have helped organize community events that combine live entertainment with fundraising. Every Brantford Wrestling event is a fundraiser. We have also participated in the Call Home Music Festival, bringing wrestling into a larger celebration of local music, art, and community.

These experiences have shown me that culture isn’t an extra. It gives people a reason to gather, creates opportunities for local talent, supports businesses, and helps give Brantford its identity.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

A major focus of my platform is revitalizing downtown Brantford and supporting the unique local businesses and organizations that make our city worth visiting. Arts, entertainment, festivals, heritage, and locally organized events are essential to that goal. I want a City Hall that makes it easier for community organizations and creators to bring ideas and events to life.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

I strongly support investment in recreation and sports, but arts, culture, and heritage deserve meaningful attention in our capital planning as well. As mayor, I would advocate for protecting and improving the facilities we already have while identifying realistic opportunities for new accessible, multipurpose cultural spaces.

That means working directly with the people who actually use these spaces, pursuing provincial, federal, and partnership funding where available, and ensuring arts and culture are considered when we make decisions about downtown revitalization, public spaces, and future facilities.

Brantford should be a city where athletes have places to compete, artists have places to create and perform, our history has places to be preserved and shared, and residents have reasons to come together.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

No response provided.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


No response provided.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


No response provided.

Mr. Boucher provided the following: 

Thank you so much for you email and your interest on how my platform includes the Arts, culture, and hertitage in the Brant region. To be honest with you their is not much. This year I was invited to the Grand River Arts Festival. It was amazing. It was something that I honestly think I just took for granted. I Had the opinion of its always going to be there. So I will open myself up to you and say I do not have much experience in these feilds but im not worried about admitting it. I think the best thing for me is to ask what could I do for to better understand what you need from a concillor prospective and how can I best help you. I do apoligize for being involved more with these topics in my personal life but I am very confident we could work together to make steps in making sure we are helping out the best we can.

I do realize you are looking for more action from this questionaire and I did do some research on your website, which looks great and I would be interested in becoming a member to learn more about it. But I would not be sure which would be the right angle to apply because it says municipal departments.

Thank you for reaching out to me and making me aware of your organization I really do appreciate. I look forward to working with you all if elected.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


No response provided.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

No response provided.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

No response provided.

Mr. Casey provided the following: 

Thank you to Grand Culture for reaching out. Arts, culture and heritage help make a community feel like home, and my appreciation for the arts began during my career in education.

I spent decades with the Grand Erie District School Board, including 18 years as a principal. I believed education had to be about more than academics: students need opportunities to discover their strengths, find their voices and build confidence. The arts can do that in ways nothing else can.

I am particularly proud of the music program I helped build at Lansdowne-Costain Public School. Students had opportunities to participate, perform and develop skills beyond the classroom. Seeing them gain confidence and discover a love of music reinforced the importance of access to the arts.

That experience continues to shape how I view our community. As a Ward 1 candidate, I believe community investment must include more than roads, recreation facilities and sports. It should also support music, theatre, visual arts, heritage and the spaces where people create, perform, learn and come together.

My platform is focused on building a stronger, more connected community. That means listening to the organizations already doing this work and encouraging collaboration among the City, cultural groups, schools, community organizations and the private sector to identify affordable, accessible spaces.

I have spent my career investing in young people and building community. I would bring that same approach to City Council.

Arts and culture are not extras. They are part of what makes Brantford home.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

As the DBBIA representative of the Heritage Committee, I have supported initiatives like the three-year extension of the Heritage Grant Program, which provides vital matching funds to property owners repairing and preserving historically significant buildings in Brantford. As the executive vice chairperson of the Downtown Brantford Business Area and member of the Marketing committee, I have strongly supported, participated in and promoted high-impact, grassroots community events that drive civic pride and tourism, including Catch-a-ducky and Duckfest, Culture Days on the Trails, the Brantford International Villages Festival, and the programming held at the Sanderson Centre. It is vitally important to celebrate our heritage, specifically as we approach our 150th year as a city in 2027 as well as 180 years as a town to further our goal of creating an environment of civic pride..

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


• Sustainable culture, arts and heritage funding - by expanding the Heritage Grant Incentive beyond the current $50,000 annual pool from Casino revenues; streamline the city grants program partnering with the Brant Community Foundation to simply applications and make it easier for grassroots, non-profit organizations to access capital and operational grants; creative space tax relief by granting municipal fee reductions for commercial spaces designated as long-term artist studios, galleries, or indie maker spaces to prevent gentrification-driven displacement. Align arts funding with the goals of the City's Inclusive Community Plan. Prioritize grants for programs that share New Canadian narratives and establish allyship and mentoring networks. Deepen regular structural collaborations with the Six Nations of the Grand River. Fund and clear municipal paths for authentic, Indigenous-led public art installations and localized history programming across the city. Provide supports for cultural festivals that celebrate the diversity of all communities within our city.

• Integrate a distinct arts footprint into Brantford's downtown revitalization efforts and the historic Farmers' Market - by championing zoning bylaws that permit open-air artisan pop-ups, busking zones, and interactive public installations to turn foot traffic into cultural revenue; mandate the use of the City of Brantford Artist Database for public works tenders; implement a localized "Percent for Art" policy ensuring a small percentage of municipal infrastructure budgets goes directly to hiring local visual artists for mural projects, utility box wraps, and civic sculptures. Capitalize on Brantford's legacy as the "Tournament Capital of Ontario" and host of massive sporting events by creating "Cultural Side-Trips." Propose marketing campaigns that direct visiting sports families to downtown cultural galleries, local museums, and heritage trails.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


As a patron of the arts, I would eagerly support backing municipal allocations through the City Grants for Non-Profit Groups program, ensuring baseline operational and project funding for operations such as the Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant, the Brantford Symphony Orchestra, and the Canadian Military Heritage Museum as well as supporting development of new artistic spaces to further celebrate the diverse talent we have in our community. I will advocate for long-term fiscal stability by strengthening programs funded through the Cultural and Built Heritage Funding Program (via the City’s Casino Reserve Fund). The focus here is protecting capital dollars for museum sustainability, collection maintenance, and structural repairs for local cultural institutions. I will work to lower entry barriers for local artists by formalizing and promoting the city's artist calls and database, making public art projects more transparent, and creating spaces where diverse cultural narratives (including indigenous history and new Canadian storytelling) can be shared openly.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


My career has been in the skilled trades, building homes, decks, roofs, and doing renovations. But I also love music and have spent much of my life playing and working with instruments. Because of this, I see arts, culture and heritage as vital to our community’s character, our local economy, and our quality of life.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


I want to be well informed before making any commitments. Based on what I have seen in City documents, Brantford already supports culture through programs like the Community Cultural Investment Program and the Cultural and Built Heritage Grant Program, which are funded in part by the Cultural and Built Heritage Reserve (supported by Casino revenue). In 2025, for example, the City administered about $158,470 in cultural grants to 14 organizations through CCIP and about $70,921 through the heritage grant program. The City’s overall operating budget is in the hundreds of millions, so any new or expanded support for arts and culture needs to fit within real revenue limits and competing priorities like housing, infrastructure, and public safety.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


To help me understand your needs and how best to support them, I am asking for clarification on a few points:


Facilities: Which buildings or spaces need repairs, accessibility upgrades, or new construction? What kinds of new spaces are most needed, such as rehearsal rooms, galleries, performance halls, or maker spaces? Are there specific sites already identified, or are you looking for help finding suitable locations?

Costs: Are the biggest needs one-time building costs, or ongoing costs for programs and staff? Do you have rough cost estimates or business cases for your top priorities? What funding is still missing after other grants from the City, province, or federal government?


Operations and sustainability: How are your organizations currently funded? What share comes from City grants, earned revenue (tickets, memberships, rentals), private donations, or other sources? Are there projects that could become more self-sustaining with the right initial investment?


Partnerships: Where could local businesses, tradespeople, or volunteers help with labour, materials, or technical support? Are there opportunities to share space or resources with other groups to reduce costs?


City budget context: The City’s 2025 operating budget was confirmed at about $138 million, with capital spending around $159 million. Given this, I want to understand which cultural projects offer the best value for residents and how they align with broader economic and community goals.

I would be glad to meet with Grand Culture and your member organizations to talk more about these ideas. Please let me know a good time to sit down together and review your needs, priorities, and any cost estimates or funding plans you may have. With that information, I can provide more specific answers to your three questions and outline how I would support arts, culture and heritage in a way that is realistic and responsible.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

I have spent a good part of my adult life involved in arts and culture in Brantford.

In my twenties, I started booking major touring bands in Brantford because there really wasn't much happening here for young people in that space. I felt young people in our community should have the opportunity to see touring acts without always having to leave town. I also booked and supported a lot of local bands, giving them opportunities to open shows in Brantford and throughout Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo and Toronto.

This will date me, but in 1995 I produced Brantford's first local CD compilations (VIBE) , featuring ten local bands. I just checked, and it is on SoundCloud VIBE CD COMPILATION

For 25 years, I have been involved with the Ukrainian Village, serving as dancer, volunteer, instructor and for the last 15 years as the MC.

I also helped create Grandelicious, a food and beverage show that showcased about 50 local businesses. We brought in celebrity chefs and ran three shows over three years, with attendance reaching as high as 3,000 people in a day. I was also involved with Brantford Eats, which was a smaller version of that type of event.

Through my company Smashing Pixels, I have provided in-kind support for 15 years to organizations including the Brantford Symphony Orchestra, Brantford Jazz Festival and the Sanderson Centre, and most recently the Brantford Men of Song for their 65th anniversary celebration. I have also been a Sanderson Centre member for years and enjoy supporting local performances.

The arts are also a big part of our family. We have seven children, and creativity is encouraged in our home. One of our daughters is finishing art school in Calgary and plans to become an art teacher. Our son plays guitar, and our youngest daughter plays piano. We even have a jam room in our house with guitars, keyboards, microphones and a PA system. When we're not jamming, we have been known to host karaoke nights. Two other daughters are dancers - one competitive and one recreational. 

So supporting the arts isn't something new for me. It has been part of my life for a long time, and I would continue to be a strong supporter of opportunities that allow people, especially young people, to discover and develop their talents.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

One of the priorities in my platform is creating more opportunities for young people.

To me, opportunity is broader than simply preparing young people for employment. It also means giving them opportunities to explore music, art, culture, sports and other positive outlets where they can discover their talents, build confidence and become more connected to their community.

I want Brantford to be a city where young people can see a future for themselves here, whether that future is in business, the trades, technology, the arts or something entirely different.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

I am a big believer that Brantford is missing a mid-sized soft-seat theatre, somewhere in the range of 250 to 400 seats.

We have the Sanderson Centre, which is a tremendous asset, but there are performances, community groups and productions that don't necessarily need a venue of that size. I think a smaller theatre would fill an important gap and create more opportunities for local performers, community organizations and touring productions.

At the same time, I believe we need to take care of and make good use of the facilities and cultural assets we already have. As with any city investment, I would want to look carefully at need, cost, partnerships and long-term sustainability, while making sure arts and culture are part of the conversation alongside sports and recreation.

Thank you for the opportunity to respond. Let me know if you have any questions.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

As a thespian and first generation Canadian, I appreciate all things art, culture and history. I support arts, culture and heritage by attending events and museums such as art shows, community theatre, the 6 Nations Powow, the Woodland Cultural Centre and the Bell Homestead. I also donate to similar initiatives. As a councillor I will ensure that the importance of arts, culture and heritage are fully respected and considered in all council decisions and policies, including those related to funding.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

As a councillor I will use legislative, budgetary and community-advocacy levers to advance the arts, culture and heritage in Brantford.

I will: look to support municipal grant programs like the CCIP in budget deliberations; promote updates and implementation strategies tied to the city's Municipal Cultural Plan; work alongside the Municipal Heritage Committee, and the Ontario Heritage Act, to promote local historical properties and landmarks receiving proper recognition and protection. 

I will: help highlight events like Culture Days and local artists listed in the Artist Database; engage constituents through 'Let's Talk Brantford' to prioritize community feedback; direct local artists and non-profits toward available municipal resources, facilities, and partnership opportunities.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


One of my goals as councillor will be to support arts, culture and heritage in Brantford. I will do this by promoting a proactive, strategic approach to budgeting, planning, and community advocacy.


I will: advocate for steady allocations through programs like the City of Brantford Cultural and Built Heritage Funding Program; promote the use of Municipal Accommodation tax funds; collaborate with and support specialized advisory committees and task forces to inform and update actions under the Municipal Culture Plan. 


I will: advocate for multi-use civic infrastructure, including holding the Sports and Entertainment Centre project accountable to be a true multi-use venue; promote pursuing intergovernmental and Indigenous partnerships, such as supporting projects like the Woodland Cultural Centre; integration of culture into urban development, such as policies to have developers include public art and flexible community space in their proposals.

I will: look to ensure that the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and the Municipal Cultural Plan are harmonized, and advocate for data-driven equity; ensure that the City Grants Program criteria continue to explicitly treat arts, culture and heritage with equal weight alongside health, human services, and recreation; look to enhance resources for local neighbourhood associations, such as possibly lowering city-owned venue rental rates for arts workshops. 

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

My community involvement has mainly been through volunteering with children’s sports, church and other local activities rather than through formal roles in arts, culture or heritage organizations. As a councillor, I would listen to and work with local artists, cultural organizations and heritage groups to better understand their priorities and concerns.


Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

My C.A.R.E. approach—Community, Accountability, Responsible Growth and Effective Services—applies to arts, culture and heritage as it does to other city responsibilities. These activities contribute to Brantford’s identity, quality of life, tourism and local economy. I believe city support should be transparent, accountable and focused on meaningful community benefit.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities? 

I support maintaining our existing cultural and heritage assets while carefully considering opportunities for new or improved spaces. Arts and culture should be considered alongside recreation and other community infrastructure through a fair planning process.

I believe arts, culture and heritage help bring people together and make a community stronger.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

My family and I are strong supporters of local theatre and the arts. We regularly attend local productions, visit our museums and support museum events throughout the year. Through Friends 4 Kindness, the organization I founded, I have also spent years creating inclusive opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to participate in community life.

Accessibility is particularly important to me ( I was awarded the 2026 Accessibility Award through the City of Brantford) Through our events, dances and social programs, I have learned that inclusion goes beyond physical accessibility. We need to consider sensory needs, communication, affordability and whether people genuinely feel welcomed and able to participate. I would bring that perspective to arts, culture and heritage.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

My platform focuses on building a strong, connected community and supporting local businesses and economic growth. Arts and culture are an important part of both. Brantford already recognizes the role arts, culture and heritage play in creating a vibrant community, attracting visitors and supporting our local economy.

I want to support local artists, cultural organizations, festivals, museums, heritage initiatives and creative businesses while ensuring opportunities are accessible to everyone.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

I believe arts, culture and heritage need to be considered alongside recreation and sport when we plan long-term municipal investments. Brantford’s own planning identifies the need for dedicated, sustainable spaces and the advancement of a cultural hub.

I would advocate for maintaining and investing in existing cultural facilities while exploring opportunities for new, flexible spaces that could serve artists, performers, community organizations and cultural groups. I would also support meaningful consultation with the sector before major decisions are made.  One idea I had was to bring a bandshell to Mohawk Park so visitors can enjoy a picnic while listening to local artists performing in the park.  Although, I have enjoyed listening to music at the Bell Homestead this summer.

If elected, I would be honoured to serve on this committee and work directly with artists, cultural organizations, heritage advocates and residents to ensure arts, culture and heritage remain a meaningful part of Brantford’s future.

Truthfully, I look forward to supporting the Arts, Heritage and Culture sector in the future whether I am elected or not- It’s a big part of who my family and I are.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

My work experience at the Sanderson Centre gave me firsthand experience with the importance of arts and culture to our community. Working in a professional performing-arts environment gave me an opportunity to see the work that goes on behind the scenes to bring performances and cultural experiences to residents and visitors. It also showed me how important these institutions are—not only as places for entertainment, but as gathering places that contribute to our community’s identity, downtown vitality and local economy.

That experience has stayed with me and shaped my belief that arts, culture and heritage deserve a strong voice at the municipal level. They help tell our stories, preserve our history, create opportunities for local artists and organizations, attract visitors and contribute to a vibrant community.

As a councillor, I would continue to build on that experience by maintaining regular dialogue with local artists, cultural organizations, heritage groups, museums, Indigenous cultural organizations and community partners. I would advocate for arts, culture and heritage to be considered early in municipal planning and budgeting—not as an afterthought once other priorities have been addressed.

Brantford has an impressive cultural foundation, including the Sanderson Centre, museums, galleries, historic sites, festivals and numerous arts and cultural organizations. My goal would be to build on those assets and ensure that the people and organizations working in this sector have a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their future.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


My platform supports the sector through three main commitments: investment, facilities and partnerships.

First, I support maintaining and strengthening municipal funding opportunities for arts, culture and heritage organizations. Brantford already provides funding through programs such as the Community Cultural Investment Program and the Cultural and Built Heritage Funding Program. I would work to ensure these programs remain accessible, transparent and responsive to the needs of organizations of different sizes.

Second, I believe cultural infrastructure needs to be treated as community infrastructure. Artists and cultural organizations need appropriate places to create, rehearse, exhibit, perform, preserve collections and bring people together. My experience at the Sanderson Centre reinforced for me how important dedicated cultural spaces are to a community.

Third, I would encourage partnerships—with cultural organizations, post-secondary institutions, Indigenous communities, the private sector and other levels of government—to leverage municipal dollars and bring additional investment into Brantford.

Arts and culture should also be recognized as part of economic and downtown development. Cultural activity brings people into our downtown, supports local businesses and contributes to tourism and quality of life.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


I believe the fundamental principle should be balance. Brantford needs recreation and sports facilities, but it also needs spaces where people can create, perform, exhibit, learn, preserve history and celebrate culture.

My experience working at the Sanderson Centre gave me a direct understanding of what a dedicated cultural facility can mean to a community. These spaces require ongoing investment, maintenance and planning if they are going to remain accessible and continue serving residents for generations.

I would work toward this in several ways:

• Protect and maintain existing cultural facilities. We should not allow important community assets to deteriorate while waiting for a major capital project. Regular maintenance, accessibility improvements, energy efficiency and necessary renovations should be part of long-term asset planning.

• Develop a clear cultural-facilities strategy. We need to understand what spaces already exist, who can access them, where the gaps are, what organizations need, and what facilities will be required as Brantford grows.

• Explore shared and multi-purpose facilities. Where appropriate, partnerships between arts organizations, libraries, schools, post-secondary institutions and other community organizations could create affordable spaces for rehearsals, exhibitions, performances, workshops and community programming.

• Use municipal planning tools to encourage cultural space. We should look for opportunities to incorporate cultural uses into redevelopment, downtown revitalization and the adaptive reuse of appropriate buildings.

• Leverage other levels of government and community partners.Municipal funding should be used strategically to help attract provincial, federal, philanthropic and private investment.

• Make cultural infrastructure part of capital planning. When Council discusses major recreational, sports or entertainment investments, we should also be asking what our cultural infrastructure needs are and how we can address them over the same long-term planning horizon.

Ultimately, I don’t see arts, culture and heritage as competing with recreation and sport. They are complementary parts of a healthy community. A city that invests in places to play should also invest in places to create, perform, learn, remember and gather.

My commitment would be to make arts, culture and heritage a visible and consistent part of municipal decision-making, with meaningful investment, responsible long-term planning and ongoing engagement with the organizations and people who make this sector work.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

I believe arts, culture and heritage are an important part of what makes Brantford a vibrant and connected community. My community involvement has given me opportunities to work alongside many local organizations, volunteers and residents, and I have seen firsthand how community events, cultural celebrations and local organizations bring people together. My approach has always been to listen, collaborate and support initiatives that strengthen our community. Whether through my volunteer and leadership roles, attending local cultural and community events, or working with organizations that serve residents of all ages and backgrounds, I value the contribution that arts, culture and heritage make to our quality of life and sense of belonging.

As a councillor, I would continue to champion this sector by listening to local artists, cultural organizations, heritage groups and community members; supporting accessible community events and programming; and looking for opportunities to promote Brantford’s history, creativity and diverse cultural identity.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

Arts, culture and heritage are supported throughout my platform because I believe they are essential to building a vibrant, inclusive and connected community. I would also support continued implementation and updating of Brantford’s Municipal Cultural Plan. The City’s existing plan recognizes arts, culture and heritage as important to civic pride, quality of life and economic development.

As a Ward 4 councillor, I would make sure that arts, culture and heritage are considered as part of broader decisions about housing, neighbourhood revitalization, economic development, accessibility, tourism and the use of public spaces—not treated as an after thought.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


Keep what we have open and reliable, but focus on access people can feel. Outdoor stages, public sound booths, Shakespeare in the Park. And put a full-time film liaison in Brant County to pull productions here and push for a provincial tax credit that rewards projects that set up shop here. Bottom line, more local work, More public access, less fluff.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

With the Brantford Green Team I have helped bring waste diversion to the Grand River Arts Festival at Glenhyrst over the years through working with organizers toward a zero waste festival. It showed me how much planning and volunteer care goes into an event that looks effortless from the outside. I am also passionate about First Nations relations. I delegated to Council on Bill 5 because consultation with Indigenous communities matters and I believe Haudenosaunee art, language and culture, and organizations like the Woodland Cultural Centre, deserve real municipal partnership and a central place in how we celebrate our region. As a councillor, I will keep showing up and make sure the cultural sector is at the table.


Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

My full Arts, Culture and Heritage plan is at karforward5.ca/heritage It builds on commitments across my platform: activating vacant downtown storefronts with pop-ups and short-term leases, partnering with the BIA on events, fixing basics like the electrical outlets in the downtown parking garage so organizers can stop relying on generators, protecting our libraries as free public spaces, and backing resident-led projects like the folk art along our community trail on the Grand River. I also want to ensure we can appreciate citizen led committees like our Brantford Heritage Committee. Brantford has over 500 listed properties that must be designated or removed from the register by January 1, 2027. I want staff to have the resources to protect what we can before that deadline passes.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

I have been clear during this campaign that every major capital project needs a stress-tested business plan, and that same seriousness should apply to cultural spaces. Council approved a $152 million Sports and Entertainment Centre and arts, culture and heritage facilities deserve to be planned and funded with the same attention. That means keeping existing spaces like the Sanderson Centre in good repair, supporting Woodland's work toward a new cultural centre, and building studio, rehearsal and gallery space into multi-use hubs like the new Shellard Lane facility. Culture is part of our economy, and our budget should reflect that.

I remember attending a council meeting earlier this year and Mayor Kevin Davis stated that the city is not in the business of doing art which I think is absolutely not true. 

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

I'm afraid I cannot provide examples, as I haven't been involved in any initiatives or seen an opportunity to champion this sector during my lifetime.

That being said, as a councillor, I would be happy to champion this sector, as I do have love and respect for various arts, the heritage of this city and country, and the variety of cultures this world has to offer.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

As of the writing of this, I don't. Not that I don't think it's worth being in my platform, I just haven't come across a conversation for the arts world during my door-to-door campaign. I'm also a month overdue to update and add to my growing platform, so I'll push myself to get this added to my platform this week.

My platform should be similar to the following;

I support the ongoing growth, promotion and preservation of the art, cultural and heritage world, in and around Brantford. I'll advocate for an expansion of current facilities, storage capacity, and work with the respective boards and organizations to find ways to improve how to promote events, create new interest and collaborations, and foster the growth of new and ongoing art programs and projects. 

All while ensuring mobile accessibility and affordable access for all Brantford's residents. These facilities should be welcoming and educational while offering a degree of entertainment for it's guests.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


The ongoing investments in our new facilities are going to have a negative impact on the city's budget for a long time, so we will need to get creative on fund raising, create new revenue streams, and adjust how we advocate for additional funds.


I'm happy to work to expand our current arts facilities, as well as our art storage (which I understand is very limited and over burdened),  and create new spaces around Brantford, especially an outdoor park exhibit. I believe by partnering with local schools, businesses and organizations, we can drum up new events and collaboration interest, while ensuring the facilities and arts are accessible and affordable for all. We also need to improve how we advertise for events for the heritage, cultural and art world.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


Arts and music have actually been a big part of my life. In high school, I played in concert bands and jazz bands, and I also had the opportunity to play with the Royal Hamilton Military Band. I learned to play pretty much every instrument you would find in a school music room. I also made it to Round 3 of Canadian Idol.


More recently, a lot of my community involvement has been through sports, but I understand how important these opportunities are for people, especially young people. Music gave me confidence, friendships, discipline and an opportunity to be part of something bigger than myself.

As a Councillor, I will listen to the people who are actually involved in arts, culture and heritage and make sure their voices are heard when decisions are being made.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


My platform is about building a safer, stronger and more accountable Brantford, while protecting what makes our community unique. That includes supporting local businesses and tourism, protecting parks, trails and green spaces, improving neighbourhood pride and investing in welcoming public spaces.

I believe arts, culture and heritage are important contributors to our local economy and should be recognized as community assets.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


I would support exploring partnerships with cultural organizations, schools, businesses and other level of government to make better use of existing facilities and identify opportunities for accessible, dedicated spaces where there is a demonstrated need.


Brantford's identify isn't just our sports teams or our buildings. It is our music, artists, history, heritage, stories, traditions, volunteers and the people who call this community home. I want to see all of those pieces represented in Brantford's Future.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


My involvement has primarily been through participating in and supporting local community events and organizations. Most recently, I attended the Fourth Annual Grand River Arts Festival at Glenhyrst which was a great opportunity to experience and support local artists, performers, and cultural organizations.

As a family, we also value the diversity of our community. My wife is an immigrant from El Salvador, and we are deeply involved in our local Spanish community and its culture. we also embrace the many different cultures, traditions, and heritage that make Brantford such a diverse and vibrant place to live.

As a councillor, I would continue engaging directly with local arts and cultural organizations, listening to their needs, promoting local events, and looking for practical ways the City can help the sector thrive.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


My platform focuses on strong communities, transparency, youth and families, and protecting the character of neighbourhoods. Arts, culture, and heritage are an important part of all of those priorities.

I believe a strong community includes opportunities for people to gather, celebrate their heritage, experience the arts, and connect with one another. Supporting local cultural organizations and events can also contribute to tourism, economic development, and opportunities for young people.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


I believe arts, culture, heritage, recreation, and sport all contribute to a healthy community, and municipal investment should recognize that.

I would support a practical, transparent approach to funding facilities including maintaining existing cultural spaces, identifying gaps in accessible facilities, and exploring partnerships with community organizations and other levels of government when new spaces are needed.

I also believe we need to make responsible decisions with taxpayer dollars. Rather than automatically choosing between arts and recreation, I would look for opportunities to maximize existing facilities, develop multi-purpose community spaces, and leverage partnerships and outside funding wherever possible.

Thank you again for the opportunity to participate. I look forward to continuing the conversation about how we can build a community where arts, culture, heritage, recreation, and sport all have a place in Brantford’s future.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

Its been a battle to say the least. In my terms of council, supporting Arts, Culture and Heritage initiatives are not championed alone. Whether it be a mid sized theatre, or an industrial heritage museum, or preserving the heritage and history of a building or neighbourhood, it can be difficult to get over the finish line even when such an issue passes in council.  If you look at the Mohawk Lake District this is the most ambitious plan, The plan is currently on hold until the survivor secretariat signs off as it falls within the mandate of the survivors secretariat radius from the former residential school.  Keeping the character of a neighbourhood is very difficult.  It requires neighbourhood agreement.  As a councillor, you are one voice, but the people make your voice stronger.  We had passed the ability to create a heritage zone based on the Brant Avenue Model. This recommendation came from the heritage committee based on my and councillor Samwells desire to have neighbourhoods maintain their character, to counter the new builds that did not reflect the neighbourhoods. , The committee highlighted a number of zones in Ward 5. You have to test these initiatives with the public and home owners.  None of the areas selected to preserve the look of neighbourhoods were successful.  The sad part is developers purchase buildings like 264 Erie ave , that hold an iconic visual in the neighbourhood ,board it up,let it fall apart and remain empty , until they get around to developing the property or selling their plans. As a former member of 56 field, as a councillor I was part of the committee to refurbish the WW1 Gun , and have it restored to sit at Jubillee Park.  

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


Mid Sized Performance theatre. Supporting many events to the downtown, and to have a return of Buskerfest.  I am against the removal of the "Market street  Stage".  Continue to advance and fund the Mohawk Lake District. 

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


The investment in recreational sports, came with alot of lobbying from stake holders in 2022-26,  in the levels of sport they supported. Be it Free Sports for Kids, the ohl team, or the dome at Jaycee park,  None of these were on my platform in 2022 yet all came to pass.  I would encourage groups such as yourself to maintain direct contact with councillors and established committees to push forward on your endeavours to grow the arts and culture in our community and I will add my voice along yours.  

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


Being a musician ( drummer, other instruments but not as well) I am definitely a champion of the arts. These days the arts and music and heritage are a necessary distraction aren't they? I will always encourage the arts, music, performers, and voices of all community members. Heritage is important too, in the simple fact we have a unique heritage here in Brant County, with our beautiful old buildings and churches. I have a personal interest in that too, being active in the Paris Historical Society.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


My platform includes support for the arts in Brant County. I would love to see even more imaginative and creative projects in the County. The arts play an important role in teaching others about our culture and way of life. Freedom of expression should always be maintained.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


The arts and creative spaces and creative people are just as important to our local culture as sports. I would support the funding and preservation of arts and heritage related projects, and buildings . I am open to help produce even more of these spaces through imaginative community initiatives.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

A rural historian by training, I was pleased to host a free open house through Doors Open Along the Grand at my farm two years in a row, offering visitors insight into the history of an everyday Brantford Township family farm and to serve as a volunteer guest speaker for local groups interested in rural history. I am a member of the Middleport Heritage Society and the South Dumfries Historical Society, among several other community organizations with similar interests. I enjoy local events like Culture Days, walking tours, scan and share days, and related fundraisers personally, and this won’t change as Mayor. I lead by example and will continue championing these while encouraging others to take part in the many events and experiences offered across the County.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


While my platform does not contain specific arts or cultural funding commitments, it does support the broader meaning of heritage:  heritage preservation, protection of rural character, environmental stewardship, and community-building.

My vision for Brant’s next four years involves restoring funding to the community grants program, which supports community-driven arts, cultural, and heritage programming among many other grassroots initiatives that depended on this money to bring value to our residents. Council must consider the heritage and cultural implications of all decisions, even those where the connection is not visible to everyone, including facilities design, parks projects, and events that bring people together. I believe the County can further support service clubs and community organizations in ways that contribute to the vibrancy and sustainability of the municipality, while also ensuring that artists and performers are paid for their work. I also believe that the County has an ethical obligation to ensure the continued preservation of artefacts and art from our local community and that Council should be prepared to respond if collections currently in the care of volunteer-led organizations are no longer able to steward these resources.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

My approach to economic development prioritizes the retention of existing County businesses and ensuring the financial viability of our downtowns while maintaining their heritage streetscapes. I believe there are more opportunities to consider public art, historical interpretation, and cultural performance in ways that meet the community where they are at, in addition to driving visitors to destinations focused on these experiences. Council needs to have more dependable funding strategies for all capital projects because when anticipated grants and donations fall short, the property tax levy must pick up the difference. This makes it even more challenging to fund arts, culture, and heritage initiatives that are often treated as discretionary expenditures in ways that athletics funding is not. 

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

I may be a farmer and sports enthusiast, but I have a pretty strong arts and culture streak too! I grew up step dancing, singing in choirs and drawing, and later ran my own photography business. I’ve also spent much of my 20-year communications career on the creative side, writing, designing, producing advertising, and editing magazines. That arts appreciation has carried with me to the Council table. I supported Brant’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy, investment in the Woodland Cultural Centre, and finding a financially responsible way forward for the Bawcutt Centre that preserves this important heritage building. As a Library Board member, I’ve also been involved in advancing plans for a new Central Library. As mayor, I’ll continue making sure arts, culture and heritage are part of the conversation when we talk about community-building, tourism, economic development and what makes Brant a great place to live.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

Arts, culture and heritage don’t live under one specific heading in my platform because, to me, they connect to what makes our community a great place to live. My platform talks about strong communities, vibrant downtowns, tourism, local businesses and community spaces. Arts, culture and heritage are part of all of those things. They bring people downtown, attract visitors, support creative businesses and help give our communities their own identity. We also already have a 10-year Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy. We don’t need another plan that sits on a shelf though. I want to keep working through the one we have and look for practical ways to support the people and organizations already doing this work in the County.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

I don’t think arts and culture should be considered only after sports and recreation, as they are all part of building strong communities. The Bawcutt Centre is a great example of finding another way when the original plan became too expensive. We now have a partnership that preserves an important heritage building, while creating space for arts, culture and community use. The new Central Library is another opportunity for flexible space for programs, learning and gathering. I also don’t think every need requires its own building. When we build or renovate community facilities, we should look for opportunities to create spaces that can support recreation, performances, exhibits, workshops and more. There will always be more good ideas than money. Arts, culture and heritage need to be part of those decisions, not an afterthought.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

When I had a Martial Arts School I regularly performed at Canada Day celebrations and events at Harmony Square in Downtown Brantford. Since then I have participated in all line dancing events in the Paris Promenade, St George Applefest, the Burford Fair, AfroBrant, Art Crawl, Paris Museum tours etc. Our community is strongest when people show up and I will continue to do that.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


Both the Basic Income and Property Tax Credits would greatly increase community turnout at various events. When people have money to spend on local artists instead of sweatshop temu we'll all benefit. Property Tax Credits would be used for admission to events and payment of municipal property tax obligations. If we print the tax credits as small denomination notes local artists will be paid to provide the artwork. 

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


Basic Income and Property Tax Credits will do an excellent job of allowing people to afford and purchase goods by local vendors. I would really push art rentals especially through the museum and local artists. We've got plenty of wall real estate in our Libraries, Sports Facilities, and Municipal Buildings that we could do a really great job getting eyes on local talent past and present. I won't be promising a theatre or something where we're maintaining an expensive and mostly empty building while the artists are still starving. I'd like to see money go directly to the artists and their works be very public and popular.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

No response provided.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

No response provided.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

No response provided.


Mr. Schmitt provided the following: 

I strongly support local and regional history. I write for a paper and my column most often features a snippet of local or regional history. I support our libraries and their functions. I have been president of the South Dumfries Historical Society for 6 years. Part of keeping our Memorial Hall open is having the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band as a tenant in the building. We also have two performing arts groups using our hall: 20 Performing Arts Academy and There's A Production.  I also strongly support the Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead. I perform repairs and other necessary tasks to help keep this historic site operational.

I realize that Arts, Culture and Heritage help define a community. Keeping traditions, social ways of life, creative expressions, and our history alive is very necessary for keeping communities vibrant.

I realize that the need for funding in Arts, Culture, and Heritage is similar to that in our recreational areas. All areas should be looked at and addressed, I am heading to another function and must cut this short. As I said it is shetch, I hope this response helps to some extent. 

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

As an artist myself,  this is a topic close to my heart.  A few years ago, I helped create the Paris Sketchers Group. This is a welcoming group of Urban Sketchers who meet once a month to sketch on location throughout Paris and surrounding area 

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

Specific to the Heritage side of things: I have been a member of the County’s Heritage Advisory Committee, since before being on Council, and I am currently the Chair of this Committee.  We advise Council on issues related to Heritage and attempt to drive promotion and education on this subject within the community.     


As a 60 year resident of this community, I have seen a significant shift forward in appreciation of Arts and Culture over the years.  Growing up here, it was very much a hockey town, especially for young people, with limited opportunities for celebration and education related to Arts and Cuilture.  I’m pleased that we have evolved with a more balanced approach to providing support for sports, recreation, arts and culture.  My approach to local governance supports that balance.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


As one example: I was a steadfast supporter of the conversion of the Bawcutt Centre Old Town Hall for our new Main Branch Library and while that project did not ultimately survive, I wholeheartedly supported Council’s decision to invest $9.5 Million in renovating and repurposing this building.  Whenever possible I support saving old buildings and I am a supporter of the creation of Heritage Conservation Districts and appropriate financial incentives within the County. 

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


No response provided.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


No response provided.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


No response provided.

Mr. McColloch provided the following:  

Thank you for the opportunity to share my perspective. As a resident that calls Paris their hometown and a candidate for Ward 2 on County of Brant Council, I value the important role arts, culture, and heritage play in shaping our communities, supporting local economies, and enhancing quality of life.

I am fortunate to be married to Sherry Mather, an accomplished visual artist whose work has been collected by notable figures including Justin Bieber (who owns three of her paintings). Living with and supporting a professional artist has given me a clear appreciation for the dedication, challenges, and contributions of creative people in our region. I have supported local cultural events and will continue to champion the sector by listening to artists and organizations, advocating for their inclusion in community planning, and ensuring their voices are heard at the Council table.

My platform emphasizes protecting Paris’s unique heritage and character—often called “The Prettiest Little Town in Canada”— while supporting thoughtful growth, local businesses, and a strong community. I support the County of Brant’s & “Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy”; and recognize the valuable work that has grown from the 2022 Arts Census, including initiatives like Grand Culture. I will uphold and advance these efforts as part of responsible, transparent governance that values all pillars of our local economy.

There is a long-identified need for accessible arts, culture, and heritage spaces. I will work to support existing facilities and encourage the development of new ones, ensuring they receive meaningful consideration and funding alongside investments in recreation and sports infrastructure. Balanced stewardship of public resources means recognizing that arts and culture strengthen community identity, attract visitors, support local businesses, and contribute to a vibrant quality of life for residents of Ward 2 and the wider County of Brant.


Hopefully we will have a chance to continue this conversation.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


For the past 4 years I have been a performer with Playful Fox Productions who regularly perform at the Paris Community Church.  My biggest roles have been Jacob in Joseph and The Technicolor Dreamcoat and Beadle Bamford in Sweeney Todd.  I hope to continue to perform post the election and  continue to promote local community theatre.

I am a member of the Library Board and have actively supported plans for a new Paris Main Branch Library. And would hope to continue in the next term of Council to bring the library project to completion. The library system is oneof the key vehicles for advancing the County’s Arts and Culture Strategy.

I will continue to support the renovation of the Bawcutt Centre and provide a public space for the arts and culture in Paris and the County.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


Support to the Library system overall and the design and construction of a new Main Branch Library in Paris. 

Support to the renovation of the Bawcutt Centre - maintenance of an historic structure and provision of an arts and culture space.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


Support to the Library system and the design and construction of a new Central Library in Paris. 

Support to the renovation of the Bawcutt Centre.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


While my direct involvement in arts, culture, and heritage initiatives has been limited, I have experienced firsthand how cultural activities help build confidence, connection, and community. In high school, I was actively involved in drama and debate, performing in productions such as Sweeney Todd and Grease. Those experiences taught me the value of creativity, collaboration, and bringing people together around shared experiences.

My campaign is focused on creating a community where people choose to stay, raise families, and build their future. I believe arts, culture, and heritage are essential to achieving that goal. Strong communities are not built solely through infrastructure and economic growth; they are built through the experiences, traditions, and connections that give people a sense of belonging.

Arts and cultural programming create opportunities for residents of all ages to engage with one another, celebrate local history, and take pride in their community. Likewise, preserving our heritage helps maintain the unique character that makes Paris and Brant County special.

In working with the Cultural Society, I would champion initiatives that make arts and cultural experiences accessible to families, support local organizations and volunteers, and foster community pride. By encouraging opportunities for people to connect through culture and heritage, we can help create the kind of vibrant, multigenerational community where people want to stay, invest, and raise their families for generations to come.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

My platform is centered on making Paris and Brant County a place where people want to stay, raise families, and build their futures. While arts, culture, and heritage are not standalone pillars of my platform, they are an important part of achieving that vision.

A complete community is about more than housing, roads, and services. It is also about creating opportunities for people to connect, celebrate, and develop a sense of belonging. Arts and cultural events bring residents together, strengthen community identity, and contribute to the quality of life that encourages people to put down roots and remain in the community long term.

My focus on supporting families and fostering a multigenerational community directly aligns with the goals of the arts, culture, and heritage sector. Families are more likely to stay in a community that offers engaging cultural experiences, community events, local traditions, and opportunities for personal and creative growth. Likewise, preserving our heritage helps maintain the unique character that makes Paris and Brant County special.

If elected, I would support efforts that increase access to arts and cultural programming, encourage participation across all age groups, and celebrate the stories, traditions, and history that define our community. I would also look for opportunities to partner with local organizations and community groups to ensure cultural initiatives remain accessible, welcoming, and sustainable.

In my view, investing in arts, culture, and heritage is an investment in community pride, social connection, and the long-term vitality of Paris and Brant County. These are important elements of the kind of community I want to help build: one where people choose not only to live, but to stay, contribute, and raise future generations.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

I believe that arts, culture, and heritage facilities are essential components of a complete community and should be considered alongside recreational and sports infrastructure when planning for growth. If our goal is to create a community where people want to stay, raise families, and build their futures, we need to provide opportunities for residents to connect through creativity, culture, and shared history, not just through sports and recreation.

My approach would be to ensure that arts, culture, and heritage organizations are included in community planning discussions and that their needs are considered when municipal priorities and capital investments are being evaluated. Existing facilities play an important role in community life, and supporting their long-term sustainability should be a priority.

As Brant County grows, I believe we should look at cultural spaces through the same lens as any other community asset. Before committing to new investments, I would want to engage with local arts, culture, and heritage organizations to better understand their needs, identify gaps in existing facilities, and explore practical ways to improve access. Sometimes that may mean enhancing existing facilities, improving programming opportunities, or making better use of community spaces rather than immediately building new ones.

I also believe funding decisions should reflect the diverse interests and needs of residents. Recreation and sports facilities are important, but so too are the spaces that support arts, culture, and heritage. These investments contribute to community identity, community pride, and the sense of belonging that helps people establish long-term roots in a community.

Ultimately, my goal is to help build a balanced, vibrant, and multigenerational community. Arts, culture, heritage, recreation, and sports all have important roles to play in creating the quality of life that encourages people to stay in Paris and Brant County and raise future generations here.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

I am the only candidate running, that was on the steering committee of the Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy, published in March 2024. You can find my name on the document on the County of Brant website. I have pioneered cultural programs at the public libraries and schools, have exposed the community to henna art (real organic and traditional designs, accessible right in our hometown) and have contributed to Culture Days. I will continue to champion in this sector because a large part of my campaign is to bring in diversity to council, which directly relates to inclusion, one of the 6 objectives of the 10-year strategy.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

I highlight in my campaign, my non-profit work (which I am the President and Founder of) that I have already been doing in the Brant community over the past 6 years. These initiatives exposes the larger community to culturally inclusive programming that I pioneered at the public schools and libraries. We are headed towards a more cultural diverse population over the coming years, and I want to make sure the programs we include, covers all the various arts and traditions from all groups, to help foster inclusivity and belonging. Our cultural story is continuing to grow, and through art and expression, we can continue to foster a harmonious community across a diverse landscape, while staying true to the Brant Heritage.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


I have been in discussions since I moved here 7 years ago with the County, on creating a community center that creates a space for multiple uses. We already have a strategy in place, I will continue to work towards its implementation. When renovations to the Brant Sports Complex come under revision, I would advocate for multi-use rooms so that they can be used for arts programming, cultural events, heritage displays and workshops alongside the areas for recreational uses. An investigation will need to occur to determine the demand and operational costs, making sure we close that gap while being financially responsible and looking at grants or other sources of funding to help reach this goal.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

My advocacy has focused more on intangible heritage, community character, and preserving the things that make Brant County unique, rather than on tangible organized arts and cultural programming.

For me, "heritage" is not limited to historic buildings. It includes our rural way of life, agricultural heritage, villages, towns, history, landscapes, natural areas, and community landmarks that help define Brant County's identity.

Over the years, I have advocated for the protection and preservation of community assets such as Mt.Vernon street signs and history, Apps' Mill and Cleaver Bridge, along with broader efforts to protect farmland, waterways, natural heritage features, and the rural character of our communities.

I believe heritage preservation is about more than saving individual sites. It is about ensuring future generations can still recognize the communities we enjoy today.  I don't want only photos to remain. If elected as a Councillor, I would continue to support initiatives that preserve Brant County's historical, natural, and rural heritage while ensuring decisions align with long-term community goals and provide value for all residents.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


While my platform does not contain specific arts or cultural funding commitments, it does support the broader meaning of heritage:  heritage preservation, protection of rural character, environmental stewardship, and community-building.

I have consistently argued that plans only matter if decisions reflect them. That principle applies equally to heritage resources, landscapes, and community assets that contribute to Brant County's identity.

My platform supports protecting what makes Brant County special, including productive farmland, natural heritage features, historic communities, and the quality of life that residents value.


Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?

I believe arts, culture, heritage, recreation, and sports all contribute to healthy and vibrant communities. If elected as a Councillor, I would evaluate proposals for new facilities using the same principles I apply to any major investment:

• What problem is being solved?

• How many residents will benefit?

• What is the actual long-term cost?

• Are there opportunities to improve or better utilize existing facilities first?

• Does the proposal align with the County's priorities and financial realities?

Existing facilities should be maintained responsibly, and opportunities to leverage partnerships, grants, and adaptive reuse of existing buildings should be explored before asking taxpayers to fund new construction.

This approach would be the same as every major decision:
Show me the facts.
Show me the need.
Show me the value to residents.
Then let's make a decision.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


For 42 consecutive years, the arts and entertainment industry has been my entire professional life and livelihood. I’ve built a career as head of department on major film and television productions, including The Shape of Water and The Handmaid’s Tale, parts of which were filmed right here in Brant County and the surrounding area. Most recently, I completed work on The Bell Jar, directed by Sarah Polley and featuring Billie Eilish in her first feature film role. I was also the original owner and founder of Cherry Cola’s Rock and Rolla Cabaret & Lounge, a small but world-recognized live music venue in downtown Toronto that attracted major bands and emerging artists alike. I currently serve on the executive board of IATSE Local 873, supporting the technicians and craftspeople behind Ontario’s screen industry. Arts and culture are very personal to me. I understand not just their cultural value but the jobs and opportunities they create. If elected, I’ll bring that 42 years of real-world experience to the council table.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


“I haven’t put it into a formal platform point because for me, arts and culture aren’t a talking point, they’re my life. For 42 years, I’ve worked full-time in the arts. Film, television, live music. “I understand the jobs, the businesses, and the community value they create. That lived experience is what I’d carry into council decisions.”

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


Keep what we have open and reliable, but focus on access people can feel. Outdoor stages, public sound booths, Shakespeare in the Park. And put a full-time film liaison in Brant County to pull productions here and push for a provincial tax credit that rewards projects that set up shop here. Bottom line, more local work, More public access, less fluff.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


Arts, culture, and heritage have always been part of how I contribute to community life. I’ve participated in community choirs, cofounded a community theatre group, led a children’s choir, and even taught piepastry classes—each experience showing me how creative expression builds confidence and connection. As president of Women Inspiring Women WI, I founded and chaired Not Your Average Saturday, a fullday event that blended education, entertainment, a minimarket, and shared food to create an uplifting cultural experience for women across the region.


I see arts and culture programs as essential community builders. They give people a place to belong, offer audiences and participants meaningful connection, and strengthen our shared identity. These programs help communities understand themselves and each other, and they create opportunities for people of all ages to participate, learn, and grow.

Brant is fortunate to have a wide range of talented artists and creators who are eager to continue shaping our local arts scene. I will champion this sector by supporting accessible programming, encouraging partnerships, and advocating for the spaces and resources needed to help arts and culture thrive.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?


My platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector by prioritizing the strengthening of our villages and encouraging the development of attractions that draw visitors. Arts, cultural, and heritage events are powerful ways to showcase the character of our communities and create meaningful experiences for residents and guests. I am committed to celebrating the rich rural heritage of Ward 4 (and Brant more broadly) and ensuring it remains visible and valued. By supporting initiatives that highlight local creativity, traditions, and history, my platform helps build vibrant villages where arts and culture contribute to both community pride and economic vitality. 

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


Supporting arts, culture, and heritage begins with leveling the playing field so funding and services are equitable between sports and cultural programming. Knowing that many children and youth currently travel to other municipalities for acting and musicaltheatre opportunities, I would encourage polling our community to identify local interest and need for these and other program offerings. Brant has many skilled artists and artisans who are eager to share their talents, and I would work to create spaces and programs that make this possible. Encouraging residents to explore their artistic passions—through classes, jams, or expanded library programming—will help build accessible, dedicated cultural spaces across the county.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?


My direct involvement in arts, culture and heritage has been more through community institutions than as an artist or cultural organizer.   And I think it’s important to be honest about that. I served on the County of Brant Public Library Board, where I saw firsthand how important libraries are as community, literary, and cultural spaces.
I would continue to champion the sector by listening to the people doing the work, making sure they are part of municipal decision-making, and treating arts, culture and heritage as part of community infrastructure… not an extra when money is left over.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

Arts and culture have not been a standalone headline in my platform... and I’m not going to pretend otherwise. But they fit directly into how I think we should plan growth: growth should build complete communities and protect what makes Brant unique.

I support moving the County’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy from strategy into action, including stronger support for cultural organizations, inclusive participation, heritage conservation and a connected network of cultural spaces across the County.

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities?


I don’t think arts and culture should have to compete with recreation and sports for legitimacy. They all contribute to quality of life and community identity.  I would support a clear assessment of what spaces already exist... their condition, accessibility and capacity gaps, and long-term needs. 

Arts and cultural facilities should then be considered through the same serious capital-planning process we apply to recreation...balancing needs, costs and different options. That doesn’t always mean constructing a brand-new building. It can include improving existing facilities, making them genuinely accessible, adapting underused municipal spaces, or partnering with community organizations.


Most importantly, I think the people within the arts community should be involved early in those decisions. If we’re planning for decades of growth in Brant, arts, culture and heritage need to be part of that conversation from the beginning.

Question 1

Can you provide examples of how you personally collaborated with initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage and how you will continue to champion this sector?

I am a founding member of the Langford Conservancy which hosts events related to arts, culture and heritage. 

Our organization is 14 years old and going strong. Here is a list of some of the events that we have hosted and/or supported at the Langford Schoolhouse: 

• Brant Visual Artists Guild with monthly meetings (reduced rent). The Guild brought in guest artists each month to work with the group,

• annual SOS Fests celebrating local rural culture with a variety of musicians, spoken word artist, face-painting and a gymnast in the trees with lights in the evening,

• local Contra dance group over several years,

• recording artists who like the acoustics in the Langford Schoolhouse,

• film artists (photographers, video artists)

• Open Doors (2026),

• writing instructor Larry Brown for a “Write Your Own Obituary” class,

• song writing with James Gordon

• musical play (James Gordon)

• Brantford Ukelele Society

• practice space for local musicians

• films (e.g. We Lend a Hand about the farmerettes during WW2), 

• speakers (e.g. Metis speaker demonstrating drum making), woman from Six Nations teaching seed saving; rural historian on rural diaries), 

• cultural events for newcomers (painting, embroidery), 

• community socials (dinners for Mexican farm workers celebrating their culture with Mexican dancers, Mexican bingo and a guitarist; luncheons for seniors, community supper), and

• free community garden plots for newcomers with assistance to access organic culturally relevant seeds.

I would like to promote more intercultural events celebrating the diversity in our changing community, and to network within the Grand Culture community.

Question 2

What in your platform directly supports the arts, culture, and heritage sector?

I am passionate about preserving our cultural heritage, but also on fostering an inclusive community that celebrates the diversity of the changing population of Brant County.

• My work reflects my support for the arts, culture, and heritage sector. I am Project Manager of the non-profit organization, Langford Conservancy which operates the Langford Schoolhouse as an inclusive and accessible rural community hub (see Qx 1 regarding what that involves). 

• We are in the process of creating the Langford Museum to document and share the First Nations and settler heritage of this rural area. We are collecting digital recordings of former students of the Langford Schoolhouse. We are collaborating with Gary Jermy at the Paris Library to create a digital history of the Langford community.

• The Langford Conservancy is a member of Grand Culture and has posted some of its events on its noticeboard. 

Question 3

Recognizing the long-standing and well-identified need for accessible and dedicated facilities for arts, culture, and heritage, how will you work toward supporting existing facilities and encouraging the creation of new spaces, while ensuring these areas receive meaningful support and funding alongside the ongoing investment in recreational and sports facilities? 

I can speak from my experience with running an emerging museum and rural cultural hub. 

• I would work to ensure that there is equitable funding for the creation of new arts, cultural , heritage, sports and recreation spaces. 

• While arts, cultural and heritage spaces can access funding to help to hire summer students, it is important to have consistent funding to enable these organizations to have permanent staffing. 

• I would like to work with Grand Culture to support grant writing workshops and joint applications with Brant County for grant funding of the arts, cultural and heritage community. 

• I would like to ensure that there is an equitable policy for property tax for arts, cultural, heritage, sports and recreation facilities.