We’ve written all of them with some top-of-mind questions that may help you make up your mind for the Ontario election on February 27.
February 8, 2025
Email to All Kanata-Carleton Provincial Candidates
Thank you for your choosing to put your name forward to represent the residents, taxpayers and the neighbourhoods in every corner of Kanata-Carleton at Queen’s Park. It’s a huge decision just to run. Congratulations on taking it!
I chair the Kanata Greenspace Protection Coalition (KGPC) whose mandate it is to protect the natural and green spaces that create and support the very essence of a natural Kanata. We remain locked in a fight with ClubLink and local developers Minto and Richcraft to prevent the unwarranted, inappropriate and dangerous development of 175 acres of open urban greenspace in the centre of our community. While we work to remain non-partisan as an organization, we recognize that our success will be premised on our ability to work collegially with the people elected by our supporters to represent them at all levels of government.
As a candidate, we have a series of questions for you grouped into three topics.
We will publish your unedited response (or non-response) by date of receipt in our Election e-News February 19 and on our website. Kindly reply to the email address below and consider Monday, February 17 as the deadline for your response in order that we can publish ahead of the Advanced Polls.
Thank you for your time today and, once again, for choosing to run in this very important election.
We remind you to stay abreast of our news by signing up for our newsletter if you are not receiving it already.
We look forward to seeing you at the Kanata-Carleton All-Candidate Debate on February 18.
Thank you in advance. And, of course, reach out with any questions you might have.
Take good care!
Barbara
Chair, Kanata Greenspace Protection Coalition (KGPC)
A. You the Candidate
The KGPC organizes and represents thousands of supporters in opposition to the ClubLink development. They would like to know more about you, your understanding and connection to our issue – the protection of Kanata’s urban greenspace from inappropriate development.
1. Which neighbourhood of Kanata-Carleton do you reside in and why are you running in this election?
Karen McCrimmon – Ontario Liberals – February 17
I am a proud resident of West Carleton and have been for over 10 years. I decided to run in the 2023 by-election because I felt that Doug Ford was not properly serving the residents of Kanata Carleton. I won that election and am now running for re-election
Scott Phelan – Ontario PC – February 17
I am running to serve as your voice in the Ontario Legislature because I believe in the promise of a strong, prosperous future for our community. As a husband, father of four children, a tech executive, and an active member of our local community, I understand the unique challenges we face in Kanata-Carleton. I’m committed to addressing these concerns head-on and ensuring that the Ontario PC Party delivers meaningful, practical solutions for everyone.
As a current resident of Stittsville and a former resident of Bridlewood, I’ve seen firsthand the growth and challenges in Ottawa’s west end. From healthcare to education, to preserving the natural beauty that makes this area so special, I’m dedicated to ensuring our community thrives for generations to come.
When knocking on doors, the constituents of Kanata Carleton tell us that
Healthcare is one of the top concerns for our community. With growing pressures on our hospitals and healthcare system, I am dedicated to working towards a sustainable plan that will provide timely and quality care for all families. As your representative, I’ll ensure that the needs of our residents are prioritized and that healthcare resources are properly allocated to ease the strain on local hospitals and clinics.
Our schools are experiencing significant and sustained growth, and this is a concern that hits home for me as an Ottawa Catholic School Board Trustee. I have seen firsthand how crucial it is to ensure that our children have access to quality education in well-equipped, comfortable spaces. I will fight for more investment in our schools, better infrastructure, and the expansion of educational resources to meet the needs of our growing population.
Kanata Lakes is one of the most beautiful areas in our riding, and we must preserve its natural beauty for future generations to enjoy. As we continue to grow, I will advocate for the preservation of our greenspaces, ensuring that development is balanced with protecting our environment and quality of life within the riding. My background as an executive in the tech sector has equipped me with the skills to make data-driven decisions and work collaboratively toward solutions that matter. My experience as President of Stittsville Minor Hockey and a coach has given me a deep appreciation for the importance of community, teamwork, and building opportunities for our youth.
This election is about more than just politics; it’s about ensuring that Kanata-Carleton remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Together, we can tackle these challenges and build a better future for all.
I ask for your support in the upcoming provincial election so that together, we can make a positive difference for this amazing community.
Dave Belcher – Ontario NDP – February 17
I have lived in Morgan’s Grant for 17 years. I’m coming from a public education background, having worked as a teacher at West Carleton Secondary School for 12 years and the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation for the last 5 years. In my time in the education sector, I’ve seen the negative consequences of under-funding and under-valuing the public services and I’m running to reprioritize these critical parts of our society.
Jennifer Purdy – Ontario Greens – February 17
I live in Beaverbrook, Kanata. I am running because of key issues that affect us all, either indirectly or directly, namely healthcare, education, affordability, housing, agriculture, and more. All of these issues are linked to the climate crisis and the need for mitigation and adaptation.
2. What do you believe are the most important issues for our riding?
Karen McCrimmon – Ontario Liberals – February 17
The most critical issues in our riding are:
Greenspaces and Kanata Lakes golf course development. I don’t have to tell you that our greenspaces are in peril and Doug Ford is doing nothing to help save the Kanata Lakes lands.
Health care: over 11,000 people in our riding do not have a family doctor and our hospital emergency rooms are overwhelmed.
Affordability: The cost of everything has gone up and is at risk of further increases.
Housing: Our rents are one of the highest in Ontario, second only to Toronto. We need to increase our housing stock and ensure that housing is affordable
Transit: We need safe, reliable transit extended to Kanata so that we can support our residents and businesses
Scott Phelan –Ontario PC – February 17
While meeting constituents in the riding, there are several important issues that have been raised at the doors.
1) Protecting the Kanata Golf Course lands from development
2) Securing the Health Hub for Kanata-Carleton families and seniors
3) Ensuring Ontario jobs and economic investment are protected in the wake of Donald Trump’s punitive tariffs
4) Addressing the housing crisis in our community with affordable and accessible housing options for all, this includes protecting communities of interest from inadequate and inappropriately located facilities such as the proposed Kanata Sprung Shelter
5) Ensuring our schools continue to receive strong financial support to address population growth
6) Uploading transit costs to the province to ensure Kanata-Carleton residents have access to reliable transit, including LRT.
7) Working with all levels of Government to ensure the KNTP receives the attention & investment it requires for future growth & acceleration.
Dave Belcher – Ontario NDP – February 17
Health care and education are two sectors that should be the backbone of our society. Residents of Kanata-Carleton are facing significant challenges because of a lack of funding and support for these systems- we need investment to get our residents family doctors and access to primary care, and we need investment to provide supports for all students in our community.
Jennifer Purdy – Ontario Greens – February 17
The most important issues for our riding are healthcare, education, affordability, housing, agriculture, and the climate crisis, which impacts every government portfolio. Within these broader issues lies the importance of public transit, especially LRT to Kanata, and the Clublink controversy.
3. How will your views allow you to represent our community well on this critical issue?
Karen McCrimmon – Ontario Liberals – February 17
I have been both a member of Parliament and a member of Provincial Parliament for this riding. My approach has always been to advocate loudly for the people of our riding and Ontario and to learn from and work with others to address and solve issues.
As MPP, I have stood up in the Legislature to fight for appropriate funding and programming on all of these issues. Locally, I have been working with representatives from other levels of government and community leaders to identify ways that we make life better for the residents of Kanata-Carleton. As an example, I have been very involved with the group of city councillors and health professionals coordinating the development of a health hub in Kanata/Stittsville. I was also successful in acquiring funding to support the LRT expansion to Kanata in 2015.
I strongly support the Ontario Liberals in their commitment to make life more affordable by cutting taxes and HST on home heating and in their program to make home construction and renting more affordable.
Finally, my stance on greenspace is has been loud and consistent for over 10 years. I stand strongly with the KGPC, and have even introduced legislation protecting greenspace from reckless development.
Scott Phelan – Ontario PC – February 17
I believe my approach to these issues is rooted in listening, collaborating, and advocating for what will best serve the community of Kanata Carleton. Here’s how I will approach each issue:
- Protecting the Kanata Golf Course Lands from Development: This issue is close to many residents’ hearts as the Kanata Golf Course lands are a significant green space. Once elected, I will continue to advocate in protecting this land by working with local environmental organizations, community groups, the City of Ottawa, & government stakeholders to push for stronger conservation measures.
- Securing the Health Hub for Kanata-Carleton Families and Seniors: Access
to healthcare is a critical need for our community. I will work tirelessly to advocate for a “health hub” that will serve families and seniors in our area. This would involve coordinating with the provincial government and the City of Ottawa, health organizations, and community leaders to ensure that we have the infrastructure and services needed to meet the growing demands of our
Access to this “physician model” is within reach and a PC
government will deliver it. - Ensuring Ontario Jobs and Economic Investment Are Protected Amidst US Tariffs: Economic stability is essential for our community. I will advocate for policies that protect Ontario’s jobs, particularly those in Kanata-Carleton, a hub for tech and innovation. I will work to create an environment that fosters local businesses, attracts investment, and counters the effects of US tariffs.
- Addressing the Housing Crisis with Affordable and Accessible Housing:
Housing is a top priority. I will work with key stakeholders at the Province to ensure that community members have access to affordable, well-located housing. This includes ensuring any proposed shelters, like the Kanata Sprung Shelter, are located in a way that respects the needs and concerns of surrounding communities. Thoughtful planning, collaboration & communication is the key to addressing this concern. - Ensuring Our Schools Receive Strong Support: As the population in
Kanata-Carleton grows, it’s crucial that our schools receive the funding they need to accommodate this growth. I will advocate for fair funding that ensures every student, teacher, and school gets the resources they need to thrive. This also includes pushing for timely investments in school infrastructure to reduce overcrowding and ensure all students have access to a high-quality education. - Uploading Transit Costs to the Province for Reliable Transit: Reliable public transit is essential for Kanata-Carleton residents to connect with the broader region. Uploading LRT to the province relieves a financial burden on the City of Ottawa and will ensure that transit services will become more affordable, reliable and accessible. I will work with municipal and provincial leaders to secure sustainable funding for transit infrastructure and improve service reliability.
- Working with All Levels of Government for the KNTP’s Future Growth: The Kanata North Technology Park (KNTP) is a vital part of our local economy, and I will work diligently with all levels of government to secure the investment needed to ensure its future growth. Supporting innovation, technology, and job creation in the park is essential to positioning Kanata-Carleton as a leader in tech and research. I will focus on building partnerships that drive the necessary investment and support for this economic driver.
Overall, I believe that collaboration, community engagement, and a deep commitment to local issues are the keys to representing Kanata-Carleton effectively on these critical matters. My focus will always be on finding solutions that balance the needs of all residents while fostering growth and sustainability for our community.
Dave Belcher – Ontario NDP – February 17
Having lived in the community for 17 years, I understand the value of green space in helping create vibrant, livable communities. I also know that while our riding needs accessible housing, the development of housing needs to be done with integrity and with transparency, where the stakeholders in the community are valued as part of the process.
Jennifer Purdy – Ontario Greens – February 17
I live a few hundred metres from the golf course, so I have a personal interest in whether it is developed or not, and if it is, how it is developed. As a Green, I recognize that the climate crisis is real, and the growing impact it is having on chaotic weather patterns and extreme temperatures during the increasingly hot summers. Storm water management is a real and serious concern that if mismanaged, will affect surrounding neighbourhoods. Furthermore, cities are getting hotter due to the climate crisis, so the golf course is very important today, and essential in the future, as it provides an urban green space cooling effect.
B. Sustainable Development
Climate change is real. And so too is the Kanata North Tech Park (KNTP), Canada’s largest high-tech centre and the need for development to support this economic engine. Yet Kanata North sits at the interface between expansive rural lands and the hard realities of urban development in a tough landscape. Development must be sustainable while respecting this juggernaut.
Queen’s Park has a role to play and the tools to do it by declaring ‘provincial interest’ to support both public safety, infrastructure development and drive economic growth for the residents of Kanata-Carleton and the City of Ottawa. To date it has not.
1. As our potential MPP, have you explored this high-profile issue with economic impact for all Ontarians?
Karen McCrimmon – Ontario Liberals – February 17
Sustainable development is vital to growing our economic spaces but it must be done in a way that respects modern day climate realities. Our riding is built upon the impermeable Canadian Shield, and we must recognize the unique challenges of this for flooding and water drainage. That’s why I introduced the Stormwater Flooding Prevention Act, 2024. There is a wealth of low impact and sustainable development guidelines that should be implemented in Ontario’s developments. The current guidelines have not been updated since 2008, leaving a large gap in how Ontario proactively prepares for climate change and increased precipitation. Green and low impact development not only protects local environments, but withstands weather and reduces impact on neighboring structures. This is by far the most cost effective solution, building for future in a way that will last.
Scott Phelan – Ontario PC – February 17
As a candidate for the Kanata-Carleton riding, I fully recognize the significant economic impact of the Kanata North Tech Park (KNTP) and its role in driving innovation, job creation, and overall prosperity for not only our community but for Ontario as a whole.
The tech park is a tremendous asset, and its continued growth is crucial for maintaining Ontario’s competitive edge in the global tech landscape.
However, this growth must be done responsibly, with an eye on sustainability. Kanata North is located in a delicate region, where the transition from rural to urban lands requires careful consideration. As we seek to support the economic engine of the tech park, it is essential that we do so in a way that respects our environment, the health of the land, and the needs of the community. Sustainable development practices, thoughtful planning, and innovative approaches to infrastructure are key to ensuring that growth does not come at the cost of environmental degradation or the well-being of our residents.
I agree that Queen’s Park has an important role to play here. The province can provide the necessary tools and leadership to strike the balance between economic growth and public safety, while also addressing the infrastructure needs of the region. Working with an elected government would allow for a more coordinated approach to development and ensure that public resources are used efficiently, both for the benefit of Kanata-Carleton and the broader Ottawa area.
To date, there has indeed been a lack of sufficient provincial action in this regard. As your MPP, I will advocate for a collaborative approach that brings together all levels of government, local stakeholders, and the private sector to explore solutions that respect the interests of both our growing tech sector and our rural environment. It is essential that we harness the full potential of our tech community while ensuring that development is aligned with long-term sustainability goals.
I have thoroughly explored the impact of this issue and am committed to working towards sustainable, economically viable development in Kanata North, with the support of Queen’s Park and the tools needed to make it happen.
Dave Belcher – Ontario NDP – February 17
The Kanata North Tech Park is a significant economic driver for our area, and housing needs to be a part of the development to ensure that we can draw workers to support the economic growth that it provides. However, development should be sustainable and we need to maintain the arable farm land and green spaces in our areas.
Jennifer Purdy – Ontario Greens – February 17
Yes, I have explored this tension between the severe shortage of housing in Ottawa, and the issues with the ClubLink proposal.
Seeing an actual colour-coded map of the proposed development makes it painfully clear how little green space ClubLink intends to preserve. Furthermore, Kanata has a growing population in part because of the Tech Park, so ClubLink’s current development plan does not make sense because it does not meet the spirit of the City of Ottawa’s housing plan regarding intensification.
2. What conversations have you had with your party leadership on this issue and what are your party’s plans to ensure that sustainable development happens in Kanata-Carleton?
Karen McCrimmon – Ontario Liberals – February 17
The Ontario Liberal party recognize that there needs to be a comprehensive action plan to ensure that we address the challenges of climate change. Currently our party is meeting with stakeholders and environmental leaders to hear their input and suggestions. The Ontario Liberals have committed to develop a comprehensive action plan to help rural areas become more resilient to drought, higher intensity rainfall, and other extreme weather events resulting from the climate crisis.
Scott Phelan – Ontario PC – February 17
Throughout my career in technology, I have many discussions as it relates to the Kanata North Tech Park. The KNTP it truly is the pride of Canada’s technology sector and we are so fortunate to have its location and presence here in Kanata.
More recently, I have discussed the infrastructure and growth needs of KNTP with senior officials within the City of Ottawa and the Provincial Government (more specifically, Cabinet Ministers and the Premiers office). KNTP’s infrastructure should not be seen on its own but must be considered as part of the larger discussions with the greater Kanata community, the City of Ottawa and the Province. We need to factor all levels of Government views when considering options for KNTP’s expansion, growth and economic development. The Ontario PC government has invested heavily in infrastructure across the province and with the recent announcement of lifting LRT out of the hands of the City, this now frees up the financial burden in sourcing economic growth opportunities for our city.
As your MPP I will work with municipal and federal leaders and my colleagues in Provincial Cabinet to ensure Kanata-Carleton gets the necessary infrastructure resources it deserves and that our tech sector is advocated for at the highest levels of provincial government.
KNTP’s future is promising and it is such an exciting time to be a part of its growth, but it requires vision, careful planning, and investment to reach its full potential. KNTP, which is the largest tech park in Canada, spans 2,000 acres and is a major hub for tech companies. It plays a central role in the economy of Ottawa, with 30,000 high-income tech workers and a $13 billion GDP (with another 20,000 workers just outside of the KNTP boundary). In the next 20 years, the KNTP could grow to over 75,000 workers and thousands of new residents, with the growth potential for hundreds of more tech companies in the region. How will they get to work? What transportation options do we have to manage this expansion? The provincial government can facilitate this expansion by improving connectivity. KNTP needs to be better connected to Ottawa’s transportation network. One potential option could be to use the existing CN Rail line along the southern Greenbelt to connect to Carling/March Road and consider LRT extensions to meet this demand.
As a member of the governing party, I will bring KNTP’s issues to the cabinet and push for our voice to be heard. When I say WE, I truly believe that the Province has an important role to play to ensure that KNTP has the resources it needs to be successful on the world stage.
Dave Belcher – Ontario NDP – February 17
The NDP believes in building within our pre-2022 urban boundaries, and building higher density housing along existing transit routes to limit the sprawl into urban areas.
Jennifer Purdy – Ontario Greens – February 17
For several years, Green Party of Ontario leader Mike Schreiner has been speaking about the crisis surrounding affordable and sustainable housing, and the need for intensification. As a Green, he is aware of the growing impacts of the climate crisis and the need to balance sustainable housing while protecting green space and the environment.
C. Working Together
Accessible abundant greenspace and nature is perhaps the primary reason many choose to call Kanata home. The right to use the open space of the ClubLink lands is deeded to thousands of surrounding homeowners by the singular 40% Agreement.
As you know, after six years, we continue to support the City of Ottawa in now its final legal defence of the Agreement at the Supreme Court of Canada (SCC). There are other options, as noted above, that fall directly under the provincial mandate that have not been explored falsely citing that ‘the matter is before the courts.’ Let’s work together now.
1. If successful in the February 27 election, how will you work to bring the provincial government to the table to support the City of Ottawa and the KGPC in opposing the ClubLink development proposal should the 40% Agreement fall?
Karen McCrimmon – Ontario Liberals – February 17
To date, the Conservatives have refused to acknowledge this issue. If a Liberal Government is elected, I will be at the table. I was pleased to see at the recent meeting that the City of Ottawa will also be supporting the work of the Coalition and I will continue to do everything I can to support these local efforts.
Scott Phelan –Ontario PC – February 17
The Kanata Golf Course lands are an invaluable natural resource, and I am fully committed to preserving them. I stand in strong support of our city’s leaders as they continue their efforts to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada in defense of this beloved Kanata greenspace. As your Member of Provincial Parliament, I will ensure that this critical issue is prioritized at the provincial level, and that your concerns are heard by key decision-makers.
I will raise this issue on the floor of the legislature with a government in power, ensuring it receives the attention it deserves. To be unequivocally clear; safeguarding this precious greenspace will be a top priority for me as your MPP on day one.
Dave Belcher – Ontario NDP – February 17
Recently it was announced that the City of Ottawa is pursuing leave to bring the matter to the Supreme Court of Canada. Our hope is that through the courts we will be able to find a solution to this issue that respects the history of the green space in the development of the Kanata Lakes. Regardless of the outcome of that, I will make sure that this issue is brought to the forefront and that the government will use any tools at its disposal to find a fair agreement for residents of Kanata-Carleton.
Jennifer Purdy – Ontario Greens – February 17
Greens as a rule work with other MPPs regardless of their party affiliation in order to change policies and introduce and pass bills that will benefit Ontarians. Ms Karen McCrimmon’s bill on storm water management should be reintroduced as it will benefit communities across the province, but it is of particular importance here. If elected, not only will I work to bring the provincial government to support KGPC and the City of Ottawa in modifying the ClubLink development proposal to increase both intensity and Greenspace, but I will work with MPPs of all stripes to reintroduce a bill on storm water management.
2. As our provincial representative, how can we count on you to build support for the KGPC and our thousands of resident supporters as we continue our fight forward?
Karen McCrimmon – Ontario Liberals – February 17
As I have done in the past, I commit to continue working alongside the Kanata Greenspace Protection Coalition to oppose development of the Kanata Lakes Golf Course land and ensure that our community retains its control over this precious greenspace. As your MPP, I will fight to protect our environment, restore our ecosystems, and stop the paving over of our greenspaces. Our environment and greenspaces shouldn’t be sold or given away.
Scott Phelan –Ontario PC – February 17
As your next MPP, I am committed to staying engaged with KGPC leadership and will continue to attend meetings, town halls, or roundtable regularly (in person or virtual). I will welcome KGPC representatives to my office at Queen’s Park to participate in briefings with senior officials of our Ontario PC government to explore all options that work towards the desired outcome for our community. Having a voice at the table with an elected government is crucial to ensure that our voice, our community is heard and that these lands are protected.
Dave Belcher – Ontario NDP – February 17
I have always believed that respectful dialogue and listening to peoples’ concerns is a critical first step to finding solutions. As your MPP I can promise that you will always have my ear and my voice to support you and help address the concerns and issues that are important to you.
Jennifer Purdy – Ontario Greens – February 17
Support for KGPC will increase if more residents become aware that storm water management is an issue that is increasingly putting everyone at risk. Support will increase as more people learn the importance of preserving green space because it provides an urban green space cooling effect as we experience more and more extreme heat during the summer months. Finally, support will grow if I and other community leaders are calling on a development plan that 1. Respects the 40% agreement and 2. Respects the City of Ottawa’s housing plan regarding intensification. The current development plan, with its focus on detached homes, will occupy a significantly larger footprint while not respecting the importance of intensification. I think we should explore compromise solutions such as densification along Campeau Drive that could preserve greenspace and support more affordable housing in Kanata-Carleton.
February 20, 2025 -30-