"Andrew understands the importance of public participation, open decision-making and a willingness to listen in building public confidence in municipal government and initiating change. He wants to build a better future, as reflected by his environmental advocacy and desire to serve at Toronto City Council."

Phyllis Morris
Mayor of Aurora, Ontario

Withdrawal from Council Race and Endorsement of Liz West

Posted: October 23, 2010 by Andrew James 

On October 15, I announced that I would cease active campaigning for the office of city councillor here in Ward 30 as of today. Of course my name will be on the ballot, but I recommend to my supporters and everyone to vote for Liz West.

It’s clear to me that not only that I would not win but that I would split the vote. That’s not fair to the voters of Ward 30, who deserve a clear choice between the past, represented by Paula Fletcher, and the future, represented by Liz West.

I’ve received many compliments from residents for my thoughtful platform and obvious familiarity with the issues. But that didn’t come easily. I’ve been talking to local residents and business owners for the last nine months. I’ve attended meetings with respect to the Portlands, the sewage treatment plant and the proposed TTC yard, and making deputations at City Hall over local issues. There’s a steep learning curve to this process.

Liz is relatively new to local politics, but she has already shown a willingness to listen to – and learn from – people in the community. In the result, we see that she already has a sizeable amount of support. That ability to bring people onside is critical to being an effective councillor.

Obviously no two candidates (or voters) see eye to eye on everything. Liz does share my views on the critical issues of making Toronto financially sustainable and the need to reinvest in infrastructure. But she also supports my concerns with respect to the environment, democratic reform and instituting a formal process for community engagement that brings government back to the people. She has shown an openess to exploring new ideas which I think the residents of Leslieville will find to be a refreshing change from the incumbent.

I feel the Ward will be in good hands with Liz, and retiring from the race will allow me to go back to what’s left of my career and my wife and two children a week and a half earlier. What a relief!

Thanks to all of you who have supported me, taken my sign, and contributed money.


Message aux residents francophones:

Posted: October 7, 2010 by Andrew James 

Nous n’avons pas seulement besoin de nouvelles personnalités à l’hôtel de ville, mais d’une nouvelle culture citoyenne qui promeut la responsabilité fiscale, la transparence, une vision prospective et des actions pour réduire les émissions de gaz à effet de serre. Toronto peut être et devrait être- une véritable ville du 21 nième siècle- qui montre l’exemple au reste du Monde. Je vous demande de bien vouloir soutenir ma campagne afin de faire de cette vision une réalité.