I’ve learned in my years as a councillor that it is the small things that count the most. Over the years, I have learnt that although it is exciting and invigorating to plan our major projects — a new downtown at the Vaughan Metro Centre and a new hospital being built beginning next year are just two examples — it is when I can quickly and efficiently solve a problem that a resident is having that I feel that I get the most satisfaction. Of course, it is the close partnership built over the years between me, my staff and the great employees of the our city that is key.
Recently I got a call from a gentleman who, because of his disability, travels on a scooter. He was very concerned, having almost tipped over when attempting to get onto the sidewalk from a roadway. He identified the problem as a gap at the edge of the road. I immediately informed our engineer staff of the situation. Literally within hours, a temporary fix was installed, with a more permanent one being planned.
The other day a very upset resident contacted me — someone had dumped a couch and a mattress on a boulevard near the entrance to her street. She asked what we could do about it. My office connected with our staff and the materials were removed within hours.
People often ask me how I can deal with so many complaints. My response is quite simple: most of what I deal with are not complaints but issues of concern to the people who live in my community. When they call me, they need help. For more info on Ward issues, subscribe to the W5 Update at ward5.vaughan.ca. I can be reached at 905-832-8585, ext. 8349, or by email at alan.shefman@vaughan.ca.