Most people don't live near downtown. Many have little reason to visit downtown. But there are good reasons why this neighbourhood deserves special attention.

It is the centre of local tourism, but also suffers from the highest rates of social disorder. It borders a beautiful river, but access is cut off by River Road. It has the most history of any neighbourhood, but many of the buildings are empty or derelict.

This is our oldest neighbourhood. The problems we see here will eventually play out in every neighbourhood. What we learn in helping downtown we'll be able to use to revitalize other areas.

There are few issues more polarizing than union wages, but my job is to have difficult conversations. Here's why I voted against the 2017-2020 police collective bargaining agreement.

There's no question police have a tough job. I want local police to feel valued, but surely there are creative ways to improve their working conditions other than paying wages on par with Canada's largest cities.