With a group of councillors and the Mayor, Jeff Knoll a Regional & Town Councillor for Ward 5 submitted his application for re-election on January 2, 2014. There was no doubt in his mind that he wanted to continue on as a public servant for his Ward.
"I love what I do," said Knoll. "I've been representing Ward 5 since 2000, and this is the best council I've sat on. We get things done."
He has served on a total of nine regional and town boards and committees over 4 consecutive terms, ranging from Police to Children's Aide and Oakville Public Library to Administrative Services. He is also the CEO and founder of Film.ca Oakville's only independent movie theatre, which he explains provides him with a strong understanding of the needs of Oakville's business community.
Economic development is crucial to the growth of Oakville, according to Councillor Knoll. Too many people are commuting to work, and that just causes congestion. In order to attract great businesses with top paying jobs, Oakville needs to provide employers with an excellent community with a great environment. Oakville has it all, but needs to constantly be competing again US cities that are able to provide huge tax incentives, which is against Canadian law. We have to keep our eye on the game to keep companies such a Seimens, and Canadian Tire Financial Services coming to town.
Another issue that Knoll is concerned about is the increase in noise pollution created by air traffic. Though it isn't under the perview of the town or region, he feels it is important to keep Pearson International Airport Authority aware of the community's concern.
The increased growth of Ward 5 north of Dundas is critical to get right. Currently, the parking in these new communities needs to be addressed. The concept being used is New Urbanism, which creates a more walkable neighbourhood. However, at the beginning, there are very few services that this new area can walk to, so they are reliant on cars. This is causing more congestion, than was anticipated.
"The redevelopment of Downtown Oakville is a major project that has to get done. The infrastructure needs to be renewed, so getting it right is crucial to maintaining Oakville's vibrancy," stated Knoll.
Contacting Jeff Knoll
home: (905) 257-7258
bus.: (905) 257-7258
email: [email protected]
web: www.jeffknoll.ca
twitter: @CouncillorKnoll
Position: Town & Regional Councillor
Location: Ward 5