Integrated transit a priority
[attach]1754[/attach]Eliminating traffic gridlock is one of Brian Shifman’s top priorities for the city if elected as councillor for Ward 10.
“I would see that all modes of transportation are part of a sustainable transportation plan,” Shifman said. “I look at transportation from a holistic integrated standpoint.”
He said that traffic gridlock does not stop at Steeles Avenue, and wants to see a plan that would address that.
His ideas on transportation and movement come from a place of experience.
Shifman is the executive director for Smart Commute North Toronto, Vaughan, a non-profit organization that works to reduce traffic congestion, for example, by arranging carpooling. He is also on the board of directors for Vaughan Chamber of Commerce.
Shifman said he thinks his experience working with the community at Smart Commute is an ideal jumping off point for city council and he has the right qualities for it, including leadership skills and motivation.
“I think we need passion and vigour and that’s why I put my name forward,” Shifman said.
His other priorities include improving the transparency of municipal politics and involving more people in the political process.
Shifman described himself as an open person, and said he wants to have quarterly town hall meetings to engage residents in local issues.
“Nothing frustrates people more than learning about a development after it’s already going through,” he said.
At these meetings, he hopes to garner input from residents on how to improve community safety.
“You can always enhance community safety in various ways,” he said. “I want Toronto to be safe in all aspects.”
This includes making larger, easy to read street signs, and fixing potholes, he said.
Shifman lives outside the York Centre ward, close to Yonge and Eglinton, but he grew up in Armour Heights. His family still lives in the area, and he said he spends a lot of time in it since he works, banks and goes to the barber there.
“This is an area I identify with and I’m excited at this opportunity to work with the people of Ward 10,” he said.
Shifman said he will be refining his platform with input from residents throughout the upcoming months.
At press time, other candidates running in the ward are Magda Gondor Berkovits, James Pasternak, Eric Plant, Konstantin Toubis and
Edward Zaretsky. Current councillor Mike Feldman has not yet announced if he will be seeking re-election.