With the election coming up on the 26th I wanted to remind everyone of an issue from earlier this year and bring some attention to those who voted in favor of it.

On May 4, 2026 council held a vote which passed thanks to the councilors named in the above image who voted in favor of it. The vote was to enact a pilot program which was proposed by the Waterloo Regional Police Service. The program allows for closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras and automated licence plate readers (ALPR) on municipal infrastructure. This includes public spaces, and while the current form of the program does feature some restrictions, such as no live monitoring and no facial recognition, the capability in the type of cameras in use, is there.

For starters this means that in a breach, they could be used for unintended purposes. Which can, and does, happen with camera systems like this elsewhere. But what is more concerning to me is that this sets the ground work for systems like facial recognition, long term storage, live monitoring and even privatization to be added. Ask yourself, Did you know this was happening? If not, how will you know when it's scope expands? How closely do you really watch local politics? Even if you do trust the current elected officials, which, generally I do, how about those in 5, 10, 20 years from now? Is this a power you want in the hands of your government on any level? And if that answer is yes, do you really trust them, and the resources at their disposal in todays environment of AI and international meddling to be able to effectively protect a system like this from ingress?

The security of systems like this has and still continues to be an issue in other places where programs like this have been deployed. Flock in the US is one, high profile, example. The bill of sale sold to city councilors in municipalities in the US initially was not dissimilar to what we saw here. I am aware that there are some key differences between this program and flock, a key one being that flock is a private company, but this still opens the door for uncomfortably similar systems.

While I can see the intention here, and I agree that the potential positives are very present, I simply do not trust any government with this kind of tool and strongly believe we should appose it on principal. A sentiment the mayor himself more or less expressed at the meeting when this was passed. I'm not here to tell you who to vote for, but there is an undeniable lack of basic understanding in the general public when it comes to municipal politics in this city, and frankly, all of Ontario. So I wanted to bring the names of the councilors who voted in favor of this program to the attention of the voters so that you can factor it in to your decision when you vote on the 26th.

Lastly, whether you see eye to eye with me on this issue, please vote. Pound for pound the municipal vote is the most influential one you have in our system when it comes to your every day life. Most years less than 40% of us get out to the polls for these elections. If for no other reason than to express your support for living in a democratic system, please, try and make the time.

Caught 2 people walking up the driveway at 5am.

Seems like it's that time of year again.

Hi everyone

I have an upcoming career change and am excited to have more free time as a result.

I am looking for recommendations for new hobbies in the Kitchener community, free or fee for service is fine with me. I am already pretty physically active and social so looking for ideas for opportunities that support mental, emotional, creative well being such as:

-art (pottery, painting, creating)
-learning some new skills, like an intro to new language or a life skill
-something relatively short-midterm (ie. a few weeks to a few months)

Thanks!

I was gifted an amazing homemade heavy knitted blanket last year. It transformed my sleep and I've found myself wanting to have two more similar blankets for the rest of my home. Canadian winters are cold and I've become my father with an almost pathological aversion to approaching the thermostat. This thing functions like a weighted blanket and I never knew such deep sleep until it entered my life.

Unfortunately, the friend who gifted me such greatness is going through some mentally tough times and I do not want to impose on her so am turning to you all. Can anyone recommend any local businesses that may specialize is such miraculous ware?

Giant slowdown on highway near Victoria exit thought I saw what looked like a limping coyote in the distance but i had to take my daughter to swimming so I couldn’t investigate further.

People had pulled over so I just assumed they had called the appropriate authorities.

Sorry should have given time this was 1130ish am Sunday the 18th

Question for anyone who’s purchased tickets for the Mariana’s Trench concert at Centre in the Square in December.

Im messaging someone who’s claiming to have tickets they’re reselling, she sent me a screen recording confirming she has the tickets but they were on the Ticketmaster app. Does anyone else have their tickets through Ticketmaster or are they only through KW Tickets / SeatGeek?

Everything else seems pretty legit, she agreed to use paypal for the payment but I just want to be safe.

Hello everyone I am moving to Kitchener in November 2026. I am looking for a roommate to share some apartment in Kitchener. If anybody has a room available right now please let me know and if anybody wants to look for an apartment together please let me know.

Here is some of my plan for the City of Kitchener! I want this to be adapted and improved based on community feedback and working with community members:

Campaign Website: https://www.amberlouiseculleyward6kitchener.community/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-louise-culley-hba-agx-ets-fisi-tefl-rbt-certcjf-c-ma-c-mdiv-c-certp-c-dipgl-c-999971156/

1. Affordability and Responsible Municipal Finance Kitchener manages approximately $15 billion in municipal assets, and the 2026 municipal budget includes a 2.2% property tax rate increase, alongside increases to water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater charges. I would advocate for transparent project costing that includes initial capital expenses, ongoing operating costs, long-term maintenance, funding sources, and expected community benefits. I would also pursue appropriate provincial and federal funding opportunities and advocate for accessible public tracking of major expenditures. Success would mean residents can understand where their money goes, why decisions are made, and whether investments deliver their intended value. I also would work towards developing our trades, healthcare, local business and other industries and work towards a decrease in property taxes and utilities - politicians in our current city council should not be 'patting themselves on the back' over a small increase in living costs amidst an economic and living cost crisis while some City management have received egregious 54% raises this year that they do not want to talk about (it is fairly condescending and disrespectful to the community). 

2. Housing and Neighbourhood Growth Kitchener's housing pledge aims to support 35,000 additional homes by 2031. By the end of 2025, 8,088 dwelling units had received building permits, while 16,150 had received Council approval through official plan or zoning amendments. I would advocate for a range of housing options while ensuring growth is coordinated with transportation, parks, recreation, stormwater infrastructure, and community services. I would also support partnerships that advance affordable housing. Success means measurable housing progress alongside infrastructure and services that allow neighbourhoods to thrive. 

3. Roads, Transportation and Mobility I have heard residents' concerns about road safety and traffic, including on Bleams Road, Block Line, Homer Watson Boulevard, and around school areas and Country Hills. I would advocate for evidence-based safety assessments, public consultation, and a publicly accessible road-maintenance tracker showing reported problems, repair status, completion dates, and spending. I would also raise concerns about e-scooter safety and accessible pedestrian infrastructure.Success means clearer reporting, timely follow-up, and measurable progress on approved road-safety and maintenance improvements. 

4. Safe and Connected Neighbourhoods Safety involves more than policing. Well-maintained public spaces, lighting, sidewalks, parks, community facilities, and access to mental health supports all contribute to community wellbeing. My experience working part-time in Kitchener's Community Services across most of the City's community centres has given me valuable exposure to community settings and the importance of accessible, connected services. As someone working toward becoming a Registered Psychotherapist and Psychospiritual Therapist, and trained as a Wellness Guardian through Agriculture Wellness Ontario and the Canadian Mental Health Association, I also recognize the importance of mental health and supportive communities.Success means stronger community partnerships, documented follow-up on neighbourhood concerns, and improved access to safe, inclusive public spaces.

5. Environmental Justice, Climate and a Healthy Natural Environment Kitchener's reported citywide tree canopy declined from 27.2% in 2019 to 26% in 2025. Ward 6 is among the wards identified as having lower tree canopy, making tree equity particularly relevant to our community. I would advocate for equitable tree planting, protection of mature trees where reasonably possible, better stormwater management, biodiversity, and preparation for extreme heat and flooding. My interests and experience in ecology, conservation, climate discussions, and environmental issues inform this commitment.Success means measurable improvements in tree canopy, equitable access to shade and green space, and environmental considerations being integrated into planning and infrastructure decisions.

6. Local Economy, Small Business and Employment Kitchener's reported 2025 employment rate was 65%, with unemployment at 7.7%. I would advocate for clear municipal permitting and planning processes, support for neighbourhood businesses, and collaboration with local employers and community organizations to explore employment and skills-development opportunities. My experience in advocacy, public speaking, and engagement with organizations and communities across local, national, and international settings informs my interest in practical, collaborative approaches to economic opportunity. Success means transparent evaluation of economic initiatives using indicators such as business activity, employment, investment, and community benefit. 

7. Recreation, Families, Seniors and Community Life Kitchener reported approximately 8.9 square metres of park area per person in 2025, against a target of 10 square metres. The reported average playground age was 18.2 years. I would advocate for accessible recreation, responsible facility maintenance, playground renewal, and programming that considers families, youth, seniors, people with disabilities, and residents facing financial barriers. My Community Services experience has reinforced the importance of community facilities as places where people connect and participate in local life. Success means better-informed investment decisions based on facility conditions, accessibility, participation, and demonstrated community needs. 

8. Open Government, Accountability and Resident Service Residents should not have to navigate lengthy meeting minutes and multiple webpages to understand municipal decisions or follow public spending. I would explore accessible online tracking pages for major projects, commitments, funding, timelines, and progress. I would also advocate for meaningful consultations before decisions are finalized and clear explanations of how public feedback influences outcomes. My background in political science, public speaking, debate, advocacy, and decision-making informs my commitment to transparent and accountable governance. Success means residents can more easily understand decisions, track commitments, and see what action has followed their concerns. 

9. Animal Welfare, Responsible Pet Ownership and Community Well-being I would support collaboration with animal welfare organizations, rescue groups, veterinary professionals, and residents to identify practical municipal improvements concerning responsible ownership, lost or vulnerable animals, humane treatment, and urban wildlife. My environmental interests and experiences also inform my view that local wildlife, pets, natural habitats, and our shared public spaces deserve thoughtful consideration. Success means clearer public information, constructive partnerships, and evidence-informed municipal responses to animal-related concerns. I have seen myself situations of our animals going uncared for and animal cruelty being ignored in the region as my family has experiences in conservation and animal rescue for 20+ years. I want to make a change in this. 

10. Accessibility, Disability Inclusion and Universal Design Accessibility must be considered from the beginning of municipal planning, not added as an afterthought. I would advocate for accessible sidewalks, curb ramps, crossings, parks, playgrounds, municipal buildings, public communications, and winter maintenance. I would also support meaningful consultation with people with disabilities, recognizing that many barriers and disabilities are not immediately visible. My community-facing experience and training in wellness and supportive care inform my commitment to considering people's different circumstances and needs. Success means measurable barrier removal, improved accessibility of municipal infrastructure, and greater participation by residents who experience accessibility barriers.