Growth Plan

One of the most significant challenges facing the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury over the coming decades is managing growth responsibly. The Province of Ontario has mandated that Bradford's population increase to more than 80,000 residents by 2051, making decisions about where and how our community grows critically important.

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On November 19, 2024, Town Staff presented Report PLN-200-52, outlining a two-phase process to identify future growth opportunities. The first phase focused on intensification—examining how additional housing density could be accommodated within Bradford's existing settlement boundaries. This work was completed in late 2025.

The second phase now underway involves settlement boundary expansion. In 2026, several landowners and developers appeared before Council requesting that their properties be considered as part of future boundary expansions. Growth is coming, and Bradford's settlement boundaries will expand. The question is not whether it will happen, but where and how it should occur.

If elected Mayor, I want to hear directly from residents before these decisions are made.

Let me be clear: I am not opposed to development. Growth is inevitable and necessary. However, development must be planned responsibly, respect existing neighbourhoods, and reflect the needs and values of our community. It must be financially sustainable, efficient to deliver, and free from unnecessary bureaucracy and excessive red tape that can drive up costs for residents and businesses alike.

Time and time again, residents have told me they chose Bradford because they wanted something different from the congestion and overdevelopment found in larger urban centres such as Toronto, Vaughan, and Brampton. I understand that sentiment because I made the same decision when I moved here in 2000. People come to Bradford seeking safe neighbourhoods, strong communities, and a better quality of life for their families—not more traffic congestion and overcrowded streets.

A current example is the planning process for lands north of the new Bradford Bypass, along Yonge Street to Line 9. I have spent countless hours speaking with residents, attending planning workshops, following Council discussions, and ensuring that community members are informed and have opportunities to provide feedback. My goal is simple: no surprises. While not everyone may agree on every aspect of a project, meaningful consultation can help us find common ground and move forward together.

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With that said, I generally support the principle articulated by Councillor Giordano that future expansion should be focused north of Line 5 and south of Line 9, between Bradford and Bond Head. At the same time, we must remain committed to protecting our agricultural lands. Our farms are not only part of our heritage—they are essential to our future. Agriculture is the backbone of our local economy and food supply, and productive farmland must be preserved wherever possible.

If elected Mayor, I will ensure that the settlement boundary expansion process is transparent, inclusive, and accountable. Residents deserve to be informed, consulted, and heard. Most importantly, these decisions must be made openly by the full Council, with the interests of the entire community at the forefront.

Together, we can accommodate growth while preserving the character, values, and quality of life that make Bradford a great place to call home.