Ward 1 candidate: Brian Lewis

By: Daniel Aruz

Brian Lewis sees himself as a businessman with a lifelong commitment and passion for Hamilton and the Westdale community, but without aspirations for multiple terms as a career politician.

Lewis is an independent business owner who works with other small business and non-profit agencies in the city, curating communications, sales, and marketing as well representing clients in municipal government matters. He has worked with McMaster’s Athletics and Recreation Department, the Hamilton Bulldogs, the Hamilton Sports Hall of Fame, and has been an executive board and committee member for many local organizations.

Lewis emphasizes the need for the local community to work with McMaster to maximize the positive aspects of their relationship and solve issues.

“I’d like to build programs so that were retaining students within the community,” said Lewis. “Hamilton is just such a vibrant and wonderful place to live […] I’d be able to ensure that we are showing them how great a city this is by creating jobs and working together on building a healthier community.”

Economic development for both business growth and retention is the focal point of Lewis’ platform, and he believes his marketing and business background will help him achieve these goals. Lewis is hoping to implement an effective network between students and local business owners, who expressed their interest in hiring more students.

“Healthier employment rate creates healthier communities,” said Lewis.

An important theme in Lewis’ platform is communication with the public. This theme is evident in multiple areas, including in relationships with the University, when creating a transportation plan, and in providing opportunities for community feedback. As a Ward 1 Councillor, Lewis’ goal is to improve communication to the public in multiple areas.

In terms of student housing issues, Lewis sees a resolution through collaboration between the university, business leaders, city leaders, community association leaders, and student leaders. This will address absentee landlord issues and by-law enforcement, while also building upon the positive relationship McMaster has with the community. Lewis believes that McMaster should play a greater role outside of the university grounds, and acknowledges some of the benefits to increased student presence in certain areas for local business owners.

For more information on Mr. Lewis and his campaign visit his website.

Brian Lewis is one of six candidates running for Ward 1 Councillor in Hamilton.