KAREN REDMAN
Another candidate vying for the position of regional chair is politician Karen Redman. A lifelong resident of Waterloo Region, currently in Kitchener, Redman has held a variety of political positions throughout the years, including as a trustee on the Waterloo County Board of Education, a member of the House of Commons, and a city councillor for Kitchener and the Regional Municipality of Waterloo.
“It’s not so much the job titles I’ve held so much as the experience I bring to the table,” said Redman. “I’ve got a proven track record of collaboration and building consensus. I think that’s going to be a key ability as we move forward with a new provincial government that is still somewhat defining what its priorities are.”
One of Redman’s fundamental issues in her campaign is improving and maintaining the regional relationship with the federal and provincial government. While admitting that the project was adopted quite early, she is supportive of the LRT as it moves into phase two, particularly as a feeder for an enhanced GO Transit service.
“It doesn’t do our province, the economy, anybody’s health, or the tension that drivers feel, any good to sit on the 401 as a parking lot,” said Redman. “So I think the LRT [and] two-way, all-day GO is key to continue to attract investment, talent and business to the area. It’s not just good for the Waterloo Region, it’s good federally and provincially.”
Affordable housing is also a familiar issue to Redman, having served seven years as CEO for Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region. She pointed out the various organizations that contribute to affordable housing, including MennoHomes and Elmira District Community Living.
“I completely believe in their mission because it animates the local citizens; 98 per cent of the houses built are built by volunteers. Having said that, we are a regional affiliate,” said Redman of Habitat for Humanity. “The region doesn’t always have to be the proponent to social housing, but we do have to partner with developers, social agencies and groups.”
Other political roles Redman has taken on include a chief government whip in the 2004-2005 Parliament, followed by chief official opposition whip in the 2006-2008 parliament.
Redman has a bachelor of arts degree in English from the University of Waterloo as well as a masters in political science from Wilfrid Laurier University.
“I don’t come with a laundry list of specific promises,” said Redman. “What I offer is a track record of collaboration and bridge building.”