Larry Kings
Ward 1 Councillor
City Hall
100 Wellington Square
P.O. Box 818
Brantford, Ontario
N3T 5R7
519 752-0766 tel
226-388-0002 cell
519-759-7840 fax
Email Larry Kings
Website: click to visit Brantford's Ward 1 Community Network
Profile
I reside in Ward One with my wife Trish. We were both born and raised in Brantford, and I attended St. Mary’s School, Holy Cross, St. John’s College and Mohawk College.
I am proud to say that both of my daughters have chosen to live and raise their families in Brantford. Both Trish and I have a wonderful relationship with our children and enjoy our grandchildren just as much!
I have always been passionate about politics dating back to my high school days as President of Student Council at St. John's College, followed by one term of Council in 1982. I went on to serve as a trustee for 11 years and eventually was elected on City Council for Ward One from 2000-2006.
An avid sport's fan, I also play golf and enjoy my daily fitness program.
Previous Community Involvement
Committees
• City Council
• Committee of the Whole – Community Services
• Committee of the Whole – Operations and Administration
• Appointments Committee
• Estimates Committee
• Finance Committee
• Brantford Energy Corporation Board of Directors
• Brantford Downtown Business Improvement Area (alternate)
• Multi-Use Trail and Bikeway Advisory Committee
• Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Advisory Committee
• Tourism Advisory Committee
• Transit Liaison Advisory Committee
• Children’s Memorial Garden Study Group
• Go Transit – Political Action Task Force
• Transit Terminal Study Group
• Human Resources Committee
• Nominating Committee – Brantford Energy and its Subsidiaries
• Nominating Committee – Committee of Adjustment and Property Standards Committee
Outsite Boards/Agencies/Advisory Committees
My Goals
Over the last few months, I took time to speak to several constituents throughout this vast ward, asking the tough questions that concern our individual citizens. My goals are based on the results gained from hours and hours of discussion with you.
Here are my results….
Taxes: This is a strong priority to most surveyed. There is clear frustration regarding increases in property taxes and these need to be addressed. Past City Councils have tried to keep increases to zero-based; however contracts, inflation, cost of living and a need to maintain service levels make this goal seem unattainable.
I will work with you to ensure you have a clear understanding of City Council strategies moving forward. Let us look inside the opportunities of Economic Development to increase revenue sources and support a sustainable growth. We can work together to broaden our tax base through increased housing and the industry sector that will enable us to maintain services. Further, I will represent you in Ward One at the table of debate, discussion, recommendations and voting.
Brownfields: The Sydenham & Pearl Street development needs a fresh new look. The current process has not allowed us to see the expected revenue producing growth. I will make this development one of my top priorities.
Southwest Sports Complex: The Southwest needs recreational facilities in order to accommodate the growth in West Brant. There are a number of scenarios now being floated. My role is to listen to my constituents and develop a sound plan that will give this area the facilities they deserve.
Southwest Flooding: Homes in the Southwest have significant flooding issues in the basements.A swift resolution to this problem will be a priority!
Leadership: As a three term councillor, former school board trustee, former Chair of the Police Services Board, and President of Habitat for Humanity Brant, I believe that I have the experience to not only work with our new Mayor and my fellow councillors, but also share in the vision to create a city we can all be proud of.
Waterfront Master Plan: For me this is both a city issue as well as a ward issue. As you are probably aware…a large portion of the Grand River passes through Ward One. I believe it is an extremely valuable document which has been approved in principle by City Council, will be an important guideline setting the framework for prosperity for this new council into the future.
The key part however is implementation, and having said that, there should also be a plan with timelines and budget impacts developed by council once the plan is approved. This is the key to a successful Waterfront Master Plan for our city.
City-wide Issues:
South Side Colborne Street: The decision has been made to expropriate and demolishing the site has begun. I believe that council should now have a plan and budget in place moving forward. There needs to be extensive public consultation before any decisions are made. I will work with you to ensure the process includes all the necessary public input to establish that we are developing the site to the direction, needs and desires in the city’s best interests.
City County: It seems we never miss an opportunity to miss an opportunity. I think it is vital that the city, County of Brant, Six Nations, and New Credit get back to the table to work out the viable agreement.
Wayne Gretzky Sports Facility: Solid planning could ultimately serve our community in consideration of displaced teams and events. Brantford is considered a sports and tournament hub and therefore we need to be respectful of these needs, protecting the viable market and retaining its development as a key revenue stream to this community.
Spending: A process needs to be identified to ensure we are more critical about fiscal responsibility especially when it comes to the hiring of consultants, executing studies and research, as well as the legal fees most recently spent. Let’s consider ways to reduce these expenditures by utilizing our existing city staff in effective ways.