HALDIMAND—It’s been a tough election cycle for the local Liberal riding association.
Despite President Peter Black’s declaration that a hunt was underway for a local candidate last December, the provincial party has appointed one in similar fashion to the 2022 election after that local search turned up short.
Stepping in to fill that difficult role and offer Liberal representation in the riding is Cambridge, Ontario resident and businessman Vandan Patel.
In addition to owning a small business, Patel holds a university degree in agriculture and serves as secretary for a local Legion branch in his community.
Responding to our standard set of election questions, Patel said he was running in Haldimand-Norfolk because he believes in the community’s potential and the need for “thoughtful leadership.”
Some of the biggest issues facing Haldimand as Patel looks at the coming years include “rising taxes, increasing water and sewer rates, a shortage of healthcare professionals, and a lack of affordable housing.”
To address these issues, Patel pledged to advocate for fairer fiscal policies to reduce the financial burden on residents, push for increased recruitment of healthcare professionals, and prioritize affordable housing solutions that meet the diverse needs of the community.
“By fostering collaboration with local stakeholders and leveraging provincial resources, I will work to create sustainable, long-term solutions that improve the quality of life for all residents,” he said.
Patel addressed the following top issues.
Affordability
Patel would advocate for policies that ease the financial burden on residents.
“This includes pushing for lower taxes and fairer utility rates, such as reducing the rising water and sewer charges. I would work to expand access to affordable housing and support local businesses through grants and incentives that create jobs,” he said. “Additionally, I would advocate for improved healthcare services to reduce out of pocket expenses for residents.”
Small town vs. development
Patel believes in a “balanced approach that respects Haldimand County’s small-town charm while promoting responsible development.”
Growth, he said, should be managed in a way that “supports the local economy, provides jobs, and improves infrastructure, without sacrificing the community’s identity.”
He added, “By prioritizing strategic investments in infrastructure, affordable housing, and public services, we can achieve growth that benefits everyone.”
On Nanticoke and the proposed MZO, Patel did not dismiss the proposal outright, instead noting it should be “carefully evaluated to ensure it aligns with the community’s needs and long-term goals.”
He added, “I would approach the potential Minister’s Zoning Order with caution, ensuring that it respects local concerns, environmental impact, and infrastructure capacity. Community consultation and transparency are key.”
Health and long-term care
Recruiting more doctors and nurses, addressing affordable housing, and ensuring fair fiscal policies are key to a balanced approach to health and long-term care, according to Patel.
“Under the leadership of Bonnie Crombie, the Ontario Liberal Party is committed to rebuilding trust, creating opportunities, and making Haldimand-Norfolk a stronger, more prosperous community for all,” he said.
In addition to increased healthcare professionals, Patel would push for enhanced funding for local clinics and LTC facilities, as well as expanded home care programs.
“By working closely with healthcare providers, local municipalities, and the provincial government, I aim to ensure that Haldimand residents receive the care they deserve, while reducing wait times and improving overall health outcomes,” he said.
Tariffs and a new mandate
Patel acknowledged the need for a strong stance on “international relations,” but believes the focus of the election should be the pressing issues facing Ontarians at home.
“Relying on an election to secure a mandate for foreign policy matters diverts attention from the immediate concerns of residents in our communities. Ontario’s priorities should include improving the quality of life for all residents, strengthening public services, and ensuring the province remains competitive on the global stage, while maintaining a clear and collaborative approach to international relations,” he said.
He listed a lack of long-term planning as a current failure of the provincial government, “particularly in areas like healthcare, housing, and infrastructure.”
He accused the Ford government of failing to adequately address the growing needs of communities, “leading to rising costs, strained services, and a lack of affordable housing.”
He believes a more proactive approach is needed.
He invited Haldimand voters to choose him as a candidate who is “deeply committed to addressing the unique challenges our community faces…. I will be a strong advocate for our community’s interests, putting people before politics.”
