Administrator

A Better Burlington began in 2006 after my neighbours said they felt left out of city decisions, learning about them only after they’d been made. As journalist for 22 years, I thought “I can do something about that” and a website and newsletter were born. They’ve taken various forms and names over the years, but the intent remains: To let you know what’s happening at City Hall before decisions are made, so you can influence outcomes for A Better Burlington. The best decisions are made when elected representatives tap the wisdom of our community members, and welcome many different perspectives.This site allows residents to comment and debate with each other; our Commenting Guidelines established in 2016 aim to keep debate respectful. Got an idea or comment you want to share privately? Please, get in touch:

I’m concerned about the delay in refocusing the BEDC structure to meet the targets set by the city for economic development. We must keep driving the momentum forward. Yes, it is important to plan then act – ready, aim, fire, as the expression goes. But let’s ensure that doesn’t become “ready, ready, and more getting ready to get ready.”

Tax breaks, office attraction, supporting mid-rise developments to meet growth targets, partnering with developers to build parking, and bringing a farmer’s market downtown are just some of the recommendations from the Downtown Task Group to improve the vibrancy of the heart of the city.

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My take: The approval is welcome and long awaited news for our community. As a citizen member of the hospital board of governors since 2008, and now the city council representative on the board, I know the importance of this redevelopment for the health of our residents. Our hospital is a priority for our community. To meet our funding commitment will require an evaluation of all spending, with a focus on core activities. It’s a privilege to be part of making the redevelopment happen – a once in a generation experience that hundreds of residents, staff and community leaders have worked to achieve. My thanks to all involved – this is the first step in a journey to better health for Burlington.

Read updates on Freeman Station, campaign expenses, naming of a new school, Burlington’s strategic plan. Plus, find out about upcoming meetings and events: Freeman Station fundraiser, community cleanup, Ward 2 advisory committee.

The pier is over-budget and more than two years behind schedule. We need solutions not inaction or lawsuits.

City Hall is increasing taxes at 3 times the rate of inflation to pay for nice-to-have capital projects like the pier. City Hall needs to limit spending: and ideas on how we could rein it in.

City Hall is approving out of scale downtown development to meet urban intensification targets; but more importantly because they need developer revenue. We must balance developer interests with the community’s interests.

Burlington’s downtown businesses and residents are paying the price for City Hall’s inadequate plan to address the parking shortage.

The pier in Burlington’s downtown waterfront has been plagued by delays and cost overruns. The City says the contractor is at fault – but do we know the whole story?