KEY POLICIES

SHELDON’S VISION

“I want to help maintain our prosperous, safe, and opportunity-filled community where families thrive, streets are secure, and young people see a bright future by advocating for the things that matter to the residents of Ward 4. Ward 4 will be my one and only priority, and I believe that each thriving neighbourhood is an essential building block to a thriving city.

It is time to restore hope and restore the promise of Calgary, that no matter where you come from and who you know, everyone will have the same opportunity to succeed.”

Repeal Blanket Rezoning

 

In May 2024, despite over 700 speakers and more than 6,000 written submissions, the majority opposing, City Council passed Blanket Rezoning. Since then, we’ve witnessed the consequences of a one-size-fits-all policy: disrupted communities, loss of privacy, overcrowded streets, and diminished sunlight for homeowners.

My Recommendations:

  • Targeted Rezoning: Zoning decisions must reflect the unique character, needs, and values of individual communities.
  • Community Impact Assessments: Growth must be matched with appropriate infrastructure, schools, roads, and amenities.
  • Authentic Public Engagement: Policy must be shaped through respectful, transparent, and ongoing dialogue with residents.

Sign the Petition Here – Repeal Blanket Rezoning >>

Downtown Calgary
Calgary Police Vehicle

Getting Back to the Basics

 

While taxes continue to rise, the fundamentals of city management are being neglected. Only 38% of Calgary’s roads are considered to be in “Good” condition. We’ve seen increased crime across neighborhoods, public transit, and the downtown core, alongside two consecutive years of water restrictions due to failing infrastructure.

 

My Recommendations:

  • Eliminate Wasteful Spending: Redirect funds to essential services and infrastructure, not vanity projects.
  • Prioritize Repairs: Launch a phased, multi-year infrastructure repair and expansion plan.
  • Support Public Safety: Work closely with CPS to ensure proper funding and staffing, restoring safety and confidence across Calgary.

Getting Back to the Basics

 

While taxes continue to rise, the fundamentals of city management are being neglected. Only 38% of Calgary’s roads are considered to be in “Good” condition. We’ve seen increased crime across neighborhoods, public transit, and the downtown core, alongside two consecutive years of water restrictions due to failing infrastructure.

 

My Recommendations:

  • Eliminate Wasteful Spending: Redirect funds to essential services and infrastructure, not vanity projects.
  • Prioritize Repairs: Launch a phased, multi-year infrastructure repair and expansion plan.
  • Support Public Safety: Work closely with CPS to ensure proper funding and staffing, restoring safety and confidence across Calgary.
Calgary Police Vehicle

Fiscal Responsibility

 

Calgary has raised property taxes in 13 of the last 15 years, often beyond the rate of inflation. Combined with soaring property values, this has burdened residents, especially over the last two years. And despite $20 million in emergency infrastructure repairs, City Council still posted a $276 million surplus.

 

My Recommendations:

  • Cut Budget Bloat: Review all services and budgets to eliminate waste and duplication.
  • Focus on Core Mandates: End spending on projects that fall outside City Council’s responsibilities.
  • Protect Homeowners: Stop shifting the commercial tax burden onto residents.
  • Freeze Property Taxes: Commit to a 4-year freeze on property tax increases.
  • Unleash Growth: Cut red tape to encourage new businesses, investment, and entrepreneurship in Calgary.
Downtown Calgary
Sheldon Yakiwchuk at Dalhousie Community Association

Transparency & Accountability

 

In 2024, the City of Calgary received a D+ for financial transparency, down from a C+ the previous year. One recent infrastructure project saw costs skyrocket by 180%, costing Calgarians an extra $18 million, without a single person being held accountable.

 

My Recommendations:

  • Regular Town Halls: Maintain open dialogue and keep Ward 4 residents informed and involved.
  • Adopt Proven Standards: Implement recommendations from the C.D. Howe Institute to improve transparency.
  • Track and Report Progress: Monitor major projects to prevent cost overruns and delays.
  • Demand Accountability: Ensure every department meets performance standards and spending discipline.

Transparency & Accountability

 

In 2024, the City of Calgary received a D+ for financial transparency, down from a C+ the previous year. One recent infrastructure project saw costs skyrocket by 180%, costing Calgarians an extra $18 million, without a single person being held accountable.

 

My Recommendations:

  • Regular Town Halls: Maintain open dialogue and keep Ward 4 residents informed and involved.
  • Adopt Proven Standards: Implement recommendations from the C.D. Howe Institute to improve transparency.
  • Track and Report Progress: Monitor major projects to prevent cost overruns and delays.
  • Demand Accountability: Ensure every department meets performance standards and spending discipline.
Sheldon Yakiwchuk at Dalhousie Community Association

Family First

 

At the heart of it all, our families deserve safe, supportive, and well-served communities. By prioritizing core services, maintaining vital infrastructure, and preserving community-based facilities, we can build neighborhoods where Calgarians of all ages feel secure and supported.

Let’s focus our time and resources on what truly matters: our homes, our neighborhoods, and above all, our families.

Family First

Support this Vision for a Better Calgary

Unlike our opponent, who is backed by powerful interest groups and unions and prioritizes their agenda over everyday Calgarians, we’re fighting for a safer, more transparent Calgary—one that works for the people, not special interests.