My Introduction
Please allow me to introduce myself. I believe it is important you, the elector, and your families to know a little bit about myself to better inform your voting decision. However, in sharing my story, I realize that not everyone has experienced living in Kingston in the same manner that I have. Our city and district is full of different and unique stories told by its residents. During this campaign, I hope to hear as many stories as possible. I want to learn about the different challenges, opportunities, hopes and concerns held by our residents in order to better prepare for my potential role as your representative for Sydenham District on City Council.
I am a long-term resident of Sydenham District with my wife, Maria, and our youngest child, Armando. I earned a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Queen’s University in 1991 and, as a student, I lived in the lower Princess Street area above what is now Camera Kingston. Kingston has been the place I’ve chosen to live, work, and raise a family — and I believe it is one of the best places to live.
Before settling in Kingston, I lived and worked in several cities, including Los Angeles, Vancouver, Toronto, and Lennoxville (Eastern Townships, Quebec). In 2000 I returned to Queen’s University to accept an academic appointment as an Associate Professor in the School of Urban and Regional Planning. Returning to my alma mater was a source of great pride and an opportunity to contribute to one of Canada’s top post‑secondary institutions.
My varied residential and professional experience across U.S. and Canadian communities has given me practical insight into municipal policies and urban design — what works, what doesn’t, and how cities can plan for equitable growth, livability, and resilience. I bring that perspective, along with long‑standing local roots, to represent Sydenham thoughtfully and effectively.
