Bolton resident to run for Ward 5 in October municipal election

May 24, 2018 · 0 Comments

Written By JASEN OBERMEYER

Tony Rosa, a Bolton resident and the head of student services at St. Michael Catholic Secondary School, has put his name forth for candidacy as the Ward 5 area councillor.

A resident of Caledon for 20 years, he is also the president and program director for Stage Academy Theatre Association.

“I would just like to be able to advocate for my community.”

He said he has chosen to make Bolton a bit more of a priority. “Bolton needs a stronger voice at the table.”

Particularly, he wants to see a revitalization of downtown Bolton. “It has the potential to be a touristy type of destination, a place of gathering for recreation and leisure.”

Though he explained that he will develop his platform over the summer as “I need to have those conversations with those residents,” some topics that he mentioned dealt with moving forward, and arts and culture, setting “achievable goals,” that prioritize the community.

He told the Citizen that after attending several council meetings “I find it very divided,” and wants to create a team approach “for the betterment of all residents,” to bring back that unity. “I’m gong to do everything in my power to work collaboratively with the other councillors and with the leadership to ensure that we have a unified town.”

After discussing with neighbors and members of the community, he said the town has not “really moved the community forward over the past few years,” and will listen to the community’s needs.

Asked on his qualities, Mr. Rosa described bringing leadership and community experience, as being a guidance counsellor, he listens, strategies, solves problems. “I will never put my name on something unless I believe I can deliver on it.”

He explained that he has seen a lack of opportunities for youth in town, and will advocate for arts and culture, which “doesn’t have enough of an opportunity within town,” noting that arts groups need to go out to Brampton because of a lack of facilities in town.

He added he will look at balancing plans for the future. “What are the plans for all of Caledon? Is there an equal balance when it comes to facilities, programs, opportunities?,” and feels that Ward 5 is “being left behind.”

Mr. Rosa described Caledon as home, a welcoming and safe community where he has raised his family. “I like the small town feel.”

He mentioned that if he is elected, Caledon will get someone who is going to “put their heart back into the community.”