One candidate for the open Ward 1 seat on Windsor City Council has laid out plans for housing, affordability, and public safety.
Frank Providenti is among the seven candidates vying for the seat being left open by Fred Francis' candidacy for mayor.
On housing, Providenti said if Ward 1 voters choose him, he will oppose four units as-of-right.
"Residents deserve a straight answer before they vote. Will their councillor support four units as of right on every residential lot, or oppose it? My answer is clear. I will oppose it," said Providenti. "Housing growth should be directed to locations that can accommodate it, with residents consulted before decisions are made."
Providenti has proposed a rental property initiative to streamline the process of dealing with property safety and maintenance problems.
On affordability, the candidate expressed his desire to hold down costs for property owners.
"I will only support a budget that keeps the municipal tax levy increase at or below inflation while protecting the essential services residents depend on," said Providenti.
Providenti promised that if elected, he would be hands-on throughout the annual budget process, and hold the administration accountable for finding savings and efficient spending before asking for more taxpayer funding.
The 36-year veteran with Windsor police, and a former deputy chief, also laid out his vision on policing and property crime.
Providenti said Ward 1 residents have told him about concerns ranging from speeding to theft and vandalism.
"When the evidence tells us there’s a problem, residents shouldn’t have to wait years to see something done about it," said Providenti. "We can test practical solutions, see what works, measure the results and move forward with permanent improvements where they make sense."
He has proposed rotating "Your Speed" signs throughout Ward 1 to gauge drivers' speeding habits, testing traffic-calming measures, and expanding the downtown Project Greenlight initiative into parks, public spaces, and neighbourhood commercial areas.
The other candidates running in Ward 1 are Henry De Cordova, Geoffrey D. Guttmann, Shezi Jaffri, Brenda Juarez, public school board trustee Linda Qin, and Darcie Renaud.
The election is Monday, October 26.
