Scott Christian is first to announce his intention to run for Mayor of Queens in the 2024 municipal election.
The former Chair of the Queens Daycare Association made the announcement in a video released on social media Friday.
During the two and a half minute long video Christian raised concerns about the high levels of poverty, lack of affordable and seniors housing, and under-realized economic development in Queens.
He calls for the municipality to work with the province, grassroots and non-profit organizations, as well as local businesses to address those concerns.
Christian says he intends to change the culture around the council table.
“But the reality is that the current mayor and council have held us back because they’ve failed to work together as a team, and they have no plan in place for the future,” says Christian. “So, what I propose is this, that in our next council defines and commits to a common vision for the future of Queen County, develops a plan to get us there, and supports our administration to follow through on that plan. We make thoughtful, affordable, strategic investments in our community.”
Christian spent several years as the Chair of the Queens Daycare Association before it was recently placed under the care of the YMCA.
He is a business consultant and launched the Work Evolved co-working space in Liverpool.
Christian says Queens has many attributes and much to be proud of, including the Universally Designed Play Park and the new long-term care home under construction around Queens Place.
In his video, Christian says Queens Place is still reeling from the loss of their junior hockey team and the canteen has been unable to find a way to stay open. He also criticizes council for not moving fast enough to get a new swimming pool in South Queens.
“There’s clear desire for change within the Region of Queens Municipality and I would be honoured to lead that change,” says Christian. “We can and will do better together.”
At this point neither Mayor Darlene Norman nor Deputy Mayor Jack Fancy have publicly announced if they will run for the position.
There is still plenty of time for candidates to announce as the next municipal election is scheduled for October 2024.
To hear the broadcast version of this story click play below.