Ward 5 candidate wants to inspire and engage

September 24, 2014 · 0 Comments

By Mark Pavilons
A political newcomer wants to engage the public, reflecting the future generation of decision-makers.
Chris Gafoor, a King City resident, is running for Ward 5, an area that has seen tremendous growth.
The population of King Township is projected to increase from approximately 20,000 to 35,000, a growth rate of 75%, over the next 15 years, and “I believe that it is vital for council to be representative of the transformational shift to a diverse, inclusive community, both young and established,” he said.
“I want to participate in my community in Ward 5 and inspire other residents to participate in council meetings and, most importantly, to get out there and vote during this municipal election. In addition, running for councillor of Ward 5 gives me an opportunity to shape the future of the community that my family and I have chosen to call ‘our home.’”
Gafoor said he hopes to inspire others, from all walks of life regardless of age, sex, class, ethnicity, religion, sexual preference, that they can make a positive change in their communities and help shape their destinies.
Locally, the to-do list in King City is a long one and there are a few issues that need to be addresses immediately.
Road safety and traffic congestion are hot topics on residents’ minds, he said, in particular, high speed and dangerous driving, in various residential subdivisions pose a threat to children, bicyclists, and all residents.
“Our municipal government needs to address the use of traffic control devices, traffic calming devices, roadway markings and other alternatives to solve this very controversial issue.”
In King, the median age of the population is 43, 2.5 years older than the closest benchmarks. In addition, the Canadian population over the age of 65 is expected to rise from 15% to 23% by 2031.
“If our municipal government does not act now to provide adequate senior housing and programs that encourage mental, physical, and social well-being, the future of our community will be threatened,” he stressed.
Canada’s tourism industry provides a vital stimulus to our commercial growth, including $80 billion in total economic activity, 1 in 10 jobs, and more than $15 billion in export revenue.
“Although King has great potential for agri-tourism and eco-tourism, King has very little presence and lacks positioning in the tourism industry,” he said.
To ensure that it is a leader in climate change adaptation and environmental projects, the Township needs to continue to support the protection of natural and agricultural areas, though legislation and effective land-use planning. He added the Township needs to encourage green building design, development, and construction.
Gafoor displays many good qualities that make him a credible candidate.
If elected, he will:
• Demonstrate good governance by operating from a place of trustworthiness, transparency and fiscal responsibility.
• Boost the level of public participation through the use of new media to encourage residents and local businesses to be informed and engaged with town issues.
• Be responsible for representing and looking after the best interests of the constituents in Ward 5, and will be conscience of “my role to serve the greater good on the community.”
• Embrace a fair, sustainable and locally-driven economy by focusing on an inclusive, diverse and entrepreneurial culture that promotes occupations in the agricultural, hospitality and knowledge-based industries.
• Build synergy within the community by bridging the perceived age gap between generations, both new and established residents, and young families and seniors alike.
“I am a newcomer to the political arena, but having worked with small and medium-sized businesses for the past 15 years, I know all too well that complex problems require creative solutions. Where I lack in political experience, I make up for in rational thinking, problem-solving skills, and sheer determination. I enjoy solving complicated problems, and I have a solid foundation, the tools, and a network of peers in various industries, academia, and government organizations that will help shape the success my political career.”
Gafoor has lived in York Region since he was eight years old and now he and his wife live in King City.
He’s an entrepreneur and has had great success operating a number of successful digital ventures over the course of the last 15 years.
“I particularly enjoy working with small and medium-sized businesses and have demonstrated innovative and highly effective strategic and tactical management capabilities throughout my career.”
Gafoor attended St. Andrew’s College and then attended the Schulich School of Business, graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA. Honours) with a major in Marketing. He attended Cornell University where he achieved a certification in Hospitality Management, a certification in Revenue Management, a certification in Service Excellence, and a certification in Customer-Focused Teams.
Gafoor is a member of the SAC Old Boys Association where he serve as a Class Ambassador for the Class of ’95. He is also an associate member of the Canadian Association of Management Consultants, and the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce.