Liz West runs for Toronto City Council!

Many of us know Liz West as a prominent TV personality, interviewing celebrities, walking the red carpet at TIFF, and reporting the news.  She’s known locally and nationally as a dependable news and entertainment reporter. She has served as a correspondent for CityNews, CP24 and Canada AM.

However, I also know her as a dedicated and busy mom.  We live in the same neighbourhood, and our 2-year old daughters have hilariously become great friends.  I was excited and intrigued when I heard about Liz’s decision to run for Toronto City Council.  I had a chance to chat with her about it, and here’s the interview!

AO:  Liz, tell me your reasons for taking on this challenge?

LW:  The Miller/Fletcher years have been taxing to say the least and I’m as frustrated as my neighbors at how our great city is being run. As a working mother of two small kids, my community matters more to me than ever.    Professionally I have been getting to know the residents of this city by asking questions and listening to them for over 15 years.  People know me, I’m honest and straightforward.  I am ready to take on Paula Fletcher’s challenge and make a positive difference in Ward 30.

Right now City Council could not be more divided and as a result, the infighting prevents the much needed movement to tackle the current concerns of infrastructure and finance.  Career politicians come to the job with hidden agendas and alliances.  I am not aligned with a political party and bring an open mind to the role.  Cooperation, accountability, transparency and respect are key to a successful city council.

AO:  Finding balance between home and career is something I have struggled with in the past.  How do you cope with this?

Family is extremely important to me.  There are many, many occupations that take mothers away from their children more than any family would like.  I am a big believer in quality – not quantity – and I will continue to be prudent and practical with my time in order to find the balance between work and family. 

AO:  What is your vision for our great city?

My vision for Toronto includes a city that has a transportation system that matches its needs.  I would fight to eliminate wasteful spending, and bring common sense and a collaborative approach to decision making. In short, I would bring non-ideological common sense to a job, not an agenda that satisfies any special interest group, or political party.

More information on Liz’s campaign and platform can be found here.