Alec Purves for Guelph City Council — Ward 2

Alec Purves is running on a platform built around fiscal responsibilty, accountability and practical solutions. He believes taxpayers deserve careful, respectful use of public money, and he wants city government to focus on results that improve people’s lives. His approach is rooted in common sense: spending wisely, being transparent, and making decisions that serve the community first.

He is also a social welfare advocate; which means he supports strong community care, accessible supports, and policies that help people who are struggling. Alec’s platform brings together financial discipline and a commitment to social good; reflecting his belief that a strong city should be both responsible and compassionate.

After listening to many business owners, and working overnight security downtown himself; Alec knows what our core truly needs. Strong small businesses mean a stronger Guelph. Alec is stepping up with real solutions: tackling safety, addressing open drug use, cleaning up graffiti, improving parking, and bringing people back to our core. It’s time to support local and get downtown thriving again.

Alec has also emphasized the importance of community safety, health and grassroots solutions. He supports listening to residents, working directly with neighbourhoods, and backing efforts that make a real difference. His campaign message is simple: respect the taxpayer, strengthen the community and focus on solutions that work.

Pledge the majority of his Councillor’s salary to local food banks the SEED, and Chalmers Community Services; turning political office into direct support for Guelph’s most vulnerable.

But food security isn’t just about emergency relief. I will use my platform to raise awareness, advocate for stronger local food systems, and push for policies that make healthy, affordable food accessible in every neighbourhood. From supporting community gardens and local producers to reducing barriers to food programs; I’m committed to tackling both the symptoms and root causes of food insecurity in Guelph.

Fast-track the long overdue public washrooms at Guelph Central Station is a basic piece of infrastructure that supports dignity for everyone; especially transit riders, commuters, seniors, students, and people experiencing homelessness.

By providing a safe, accessible washroom at the key transit hub; we help taking the bus or train more comfortable and practical; encouraging more people to use public transit and treating public transit users with the respect and decency they deserve.

Establish a permanent performance stage at Saint George’s Square; funded and supported by a community group. This would not only bring more arts, culture and community events downtown; it would also support local businesses by drawing more people into the core. Increased foot traffic helps create a livelier, more active streetscape, which in turn makes downtown feel safer and more welcoming for residents, workers and visitors alike.

Lead the reforestation of the contaminated IMICO site; using environmental science-based phytoremediation to create a new green lung, carbon sink and tree canopy that improves air quality, supports biodiversity and provides a lasting legacy for future generations. Funding would come from Provincial and Federal grants, and requesting the support and cooperation of Guelph’s Green Party MPP Mike Schreiner at Queen’s Park.

Guelph’s continued growth—especially among older residents—is placing increasing pressure on our healthcare system. Planning for a second hospital is a necessary step to meet that demand.
However, securing this investment requires the City to fund its share through a targeted levy. That means making careful, transparent decisions today to avoid greater costs and service gaps tomorrow.
By planning responsibly and aligning growth with infrastructure, we can protect both our quality of care and our taxpayers.