Chantal Huinink

Regional Council · Region of Waterloo

All topics Housing Getting Around Climate Food Growth & Planning Budget & Taxes Water

This candidate finalized their responses after this guide and scoring methodology was published.

Budget & Taxes

Do you think the Region's or municipality's budget process should be more transparent and accessible to residents?single choice

No response

Municipal and regional costs have generally risen faster than revenues restricted by property tax rules and limited local revenue tools. How would you balance tax increases against maintaining service levels and long-term financial sustainability?select up to 3 per part

A. Revenue approaches

Moderate, predictable tax increases to maintain service levels
Actively pursue provincial and federal transfer funding and grants
Exploring new local revenue tools where permitted by provincial legislation

D. Growth & cost recovery

No response

B. Service levels

Adjust service delivery models to reduce costs without reducing access

C. Capital & infrastructure

Prioritize maintenance and state-of-good-repair over expansion
Require lifecycle cost analysis before approving any new infrastructure

Please describe one concrete example of a trade-off you would support (or oppose) when costs rise faster than revenues.candidate's own words

In an affordability crisis, it is essential to maintain regional services and help ensure that all residents have the supports they need to live their best lives in Waterloo Region

If you chose "It should be more transparent and accessible", please describe how.candidate's own words

All of the Region's committee meetings, budget meetings, and budget processes can be observed or participated in, online or in person. As Regional Councillor, it is my responsibility to ensure that residents know where to find the information they are looking for and when to advocate for policies, services, and programs that matter to them.