Duncan Cavens

Announcement Date May 30

For More Info: http://duncancavens.ca/
https://www.facebook.com/duncanForEsquimalt

Contact: duncan@duncancavens.ca

Esquimalt is a special place. Over the past four years on Council, I've worked hard to move forward on specific issues in a practical and thoughtful way, and I've become convinced that Esquimalt needs a clear vision for where we're headed over the next decade.

Esquimalt has changed a lot in the last decade. We need to manage that change carefully: protecting what people love about this community while also addressing affordability, infrastructure renewal, and the financial pressures facing residents.

At the same time, we need to make sure we don't lose what makes Esquimalt special: our strong sense of community, our welcoming nature, our diversity, and our willingness to help each other. We need to make sure growth creates opportunities for new residents while ensuring long-time and vulnerable residents are not left behind.

We're facing some significant challenges, from aging pipes, roads, and facilities to major provincial housing policy changes and the pressures that come with growth in a small municipality.

In particular, I want to focus next term on three priorities: continuing to expand housing options, with a greater focus and attention on affordable housing; improving how people move around Esquimalt, whether by transit, walking, cycling or by car; and ensuring the Township remains financially sustainable and affordable for residents.

I believe Esquimalt needs a clear vision for where we're going as a community, what we want Esquimalt to look like in 5, 10, and 25 years, and how we'll support and pay for the services residents rely on. A key role of the Mayor is helping residents understand why decisions are made, and how they fit into the overall vision. Residents have been asked to make significant investments in infrastructure and services. They deserve a clear understanding of why those investments are being made, what they're intended to achieve, and how we'll measure success.

Esquimalt also needs to continue working closely with our neighbouring First Nations, our regional partners, neighbouring municipalities, and other organizations across the region. My work on regional boards has shown me how much we can accomplish when we work together, while still maintaining Esquimalt’s unique identity.

Over the coming months, I'll be sharing more detailed ideas and priorities for the next term. In the meantime, I'm looking forward to talking with residents across Esquimalt about what they want to see over the next four years. I’ll be publishing those thoughts online and on [duncancavens.ca](http://duncancavens.ca/)

As always, feel free to reach out.  Happy to meet with anyone to discuss my campaign and Esquimalt in general. [duncan@duncancavens.ca](mailto:duncan@duncancavens.ca)

David Gauthier

Website: https://victoriachamber.ca/advocate/municipal-election-2026/

https://livablecrd.ca/scorecard/esquimalt/david-gauthier/

https://esqjunction.ca

Contact: david_gauthier_mayoralcandidate@esqjunction.ca

Was writing Esquimalt council & our previous mayor Barb late 2025 on a host of issues, including bike lanes, some aspects of the municipalities website along with various other safety concerns, have studied Saanich municipality more, though a local here, have worked throughout the CRD & traveled coast to coast throughout Canada.

Pleased to offer a new direction, like many, believe the non-partizan nature of municipal is meant to best serve the public, as a mayoral candidate I’d look to keep Barb’s open door policy, strengthen your rights to both advocate & protest, along with look to further study, write reports & reform some present municipal voting methods & promote new ones, along with study a host of other topics & see if reform is needed in other aspects to ease the ever growing bureaucratic burdens.

Outside of my campaign website, can learn more on my consideration from some surveys taken so far, would consider what is written in the context of a limited time to respond and not the grades, the chamber consideration is more focused.

Tara Todesco

non-Incumbent

Announcement Date: June 30

Website: https://www.facebook.com/groups/34953210528/user/61583506416030/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590297676107

Email: tara@taratodesco.ca

Dear Esquimalt neighbours,

I'm excited to share that I've decided to run for Esquimalt Council this fall.

I've called Esquimalt home for over nine years — as a neighbour, parent, and volunteer — and I genuinely love being part of this community. Over the past months I've been meeting with community leaders, neighbours, and friends to listen and learn, and those conversations have shaped why I'm running. I believe local government can make a real difference here, and I want to be part of that.

My background includes over 20 years of leadership experience across the public and non-profit sectors, including in climate action, community development, and financial management. I have served for four years on the Township's Design Review Committee, currently as Chair.

Here is a snapshot of my priorities:

Housing and Affordability — Advocating for diverse, human-scale housing — including non-market, family, and seniors housing — that genuinely improves affordability and strengthens our neighbourhoods.

Livable and Connected Communities — Stewarding Esquimalt's strong sense of community through walkable neighbourhoods, support for local organizations, and the events that bring us together.

Climate Action and Natural Assets — Taking climate seriously — prioritizing active transportation, resilient infrastructure, and protecting our tree canopy and green spaces as essential assets for a livable Esquimalt.

I'm looking forward to continuing to talk with community members across Esquimalt about what matters most to you. Please don't hesitate to reach out — I'd love to connect. tara@taratodesco.ca

I will be also adding updates here on my FB Campaign page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590297676107 and will be launching a campaign website this summer with more detailed priorities and policy ideas for the coming term

Meagan Brame

Incumbent

Announcement Date: July 8
Website : https://www.facebook.com/groups/42092506752/

Earlier this year, I shared that I wouldn't be running for Mayor because my parents needed my attention. Family had to come first, and I knew I couldn't give the mayor's role the time and focus it deserves. Since then, my parents have settled into a routine and are doing better. After a lot of reflection, I've realized that serving as a councillor is something I can wholeheartedly commit to while still being there for my family. So today, I'm happy to share that I've decided to run for Councillor in this fall's election. It feels like the right balance, and the right way for me to continue serving the community I care so deeply about.

I've had the privilege of serving on Esquimalt Council, and over the years I've come to believe that being a councillor is about much more than attending meetings. It's about showing up—not just at council meetings, but throughout our community. Some of the most important conversations don't happen around the council table. They happen at community events, in coffee shops, at the grocery store, walking down the street, or when someone stops to share what's on their mind. The role may be considered part-time, but the responsibility isn't. Being a councillor means being available, approachable, and willing to listen.

Listening doesn't mean you'll always agree. Sometimes you won't. But everyone deserves to know they've been heard. I've found that even when I see an issue differently, listening to another perspective often helps me better understand what's really important to people. I believe good councillors need to be open to all sides of a debate. We need to look past the noise and get to the heart of what people are really concerned about. Sometimes the loudest voices aren't necessarily the biggest issue. Our job is to listen carefully, ask questions, and understand the impacts on the whole community.

That community includes our local businesses. They provide jobs, services, and help make Esquimalt the vibrant place it is. A healthy township needs strong neighbourhoods and a strong business community. I also believe Council works best as a team. No one councillor can be everywhere, but together we should have a presence throughout the community. Residents should see their elected officials not only at meetings, but out supporting the events, organizations, and people that make Esquimalt such a special place to live.

Experience matters, especially as our community faces important decisions about housing, infrastructure, parks, transportation, finances, and how we continue to grow while protecting the character of the community we all love. After 18 years of serving this community on Council, what continues to guide me is simple: be present, listen carefully, keep an open mind, and do your best to make decisions that serve the whole community.

I look forward to connecting more with residents over the coming months, hearing your thoughts, answering your questions, and earning your support. I hope to earn your trust and your vote, so I can continue serving the community I love as one of your Councillors.

Tim Morrison

Incumbent

Announcement Date: July 3
Website: timmorrison.ca
Facebook: Tim Morrison for Esquimalt Council
Email: votetim@telus.net

Telephone: (250) 893-8188

It’s an election year and that means curiosity keeps asking if I will be seeking another Esquimalt Council term. I am happy to announce that my answer is YES. The more important question, however, is WHY seek another term?

I’ll be the first to admit that I am an incurable local governance nerd. I thrive on every aspect of our democratic system, collaborating with council colleagues and engaging with the community, before having to make the difficult decisions that I am accountable for to every Esquimalt resident. During my time on Council, I have learned that those decisions are rarely easy and often mean many sleepless nights. But what keeps me going is simply knowing that we live in an amazing community, deserving of careful and constant consideration in how it is governed.

We are all fortunate to make Esquimalt our home in this ‘place of the shoaling waters.’ We choose to live here as the place to be and belong. We love our home and celebrate a community welcome and inclusive to all.

Together, we share Esquimalt, and we share in how we move forward, evolve and grow as a community and address our complex challenges: ensuring housing meets our needs, sustaining our quality of life and caring for our environment while striving to maintain affordability and grappling with the immense pressures on our budget. That, in a nutshell, is how our democracy works. And, our democracy works best when we appreciate each other, understand our diverse perspectives and respect that not every voice can agree on every decision.

My approach has always been to first listen and learn before I lead. It’s why I love being part of this great community and being part of such a supportive and special place willing to share our many voices that guide our council on the decisions that need to be made. In the months ahead, I’ll be seeking opportunities to engage further with you around the community, knocking on your doors and asking to hear more of your voices on what matters most to you.

And, of course, I am always available to receive your input, to meet, to chat and to listen to anyone on any issue. My email and direct cell are always available to you at tim.morrison@esquimalt.ca and 250-893-8188. Lastly and most importantly, our democracy works best when EVERYONE votes, so please mark election day, October 17, on your calendars now and be sure to vote this fall. Together, let’s aim for a record turnout!

Robb Johnstone

Non-Incumbent

Announcement Date: July 1

Website: Robb is Running for Esquimalt Town Council

Email: robbjohnstone@gmail.com

Hello Esquimalt!

I am super excited to add my name to the ballot for Esquimalt Town Council on October 17.

Having lived in Esquimalt with my wife Val for 8 years, I can tell you this is by far the best place to call home. Since settling down in this wonderful community, I have taken an active role - volunteering with Green Teams, Buccaneer Days, Soap for Hope, the Michael Dunahee Run and more. I also organize and lead a great group of runners/joggers in the Esquimalt Run Club.

Since January, I have been a regular attendee at Esquimalt Town Council meetings, developing an enormous admiration for our current council and their vision for this community. I would be honoured to join them in the next four years to steward Esquimalt through an exciting growth phase while safeguarding all the things we currently treasure.

Now in the twilight of my career in the software/tech industry, I'm finding I have a ton of energy (not to mention time!) to commit to the people of Esquimalt.

I plan to expand on this but in short I believe in an Esquimalt that is:

• Affordable - I will be your champion for keeping expenditures and taxes reasonable.

• Safe - I will support policing and public safety initiatives in Esquimalt.

• Connected - I will help to build bridges between business, community groups and Council.

• Active - I will work to maintain and improve our parks and recreation opportunities.

I want to wish the best of luck to Tara Todesco with her upcoming campaign, as well as to all the others who put their names forward for the fall election.

Until then, I will be gathering with community leaders, attending as many local events as I possibly can, and looking forward to meeting you on your doorsteps starting in September.

The run starts now!

Kody Thomson

Non-Incumbent

Announcement Date: July 13

Website: Kody4Council.ca 

https://www.facebook.com/Kody4Council

Email: kody4council@gmail.com

I am pleased to announce that I am running for Councillor in Esquimalt in the election this October! I greatly appreciate the incredible support and engagement that helped me achieve a close second place in the by-election last year and all of the encouragement from neighbours and friends to run again. I am ready to bring that momentum and a younger, fresh perspective to Council during what will be an important term for our vibrant and growing community.

The next Council will oversee the rewriting of the Official Community Plan. It is essential that all voices in our community are represented during that process, ensuring Esquimalt's long-term vision is realistic, sustainable, and above all, livable. To this end, I am passionate about increasing affordable housing in our municipality, improving public transit and active transportation options and safety, and attracting more local businesses to serve and employ our residents.

I live and work right here in Esquimalt, and I proudly volunteer on the Township's Design Review Committee and a local non-profit's board. My professional background includes civil engineering, emergency management, and 12 years of military service. These experiences have led me to deeply value sustainable stewardship, human-scale design, and smart solutions that address the root of our challenges.

I am eager to hear what you love about Esquimalt and how you envision our community's future. My full platform will be available at Kody4Council.ca, I will be out in the community, and you can reach me directly at kody4council@gmail.com or this Facebook account. I'm also always happy to chat in person.

Thanks everyone for your support and for staying engaged in our community! I look forward to hearing from you and representing you on Esquimalt Council!

-Kody Thomson

Dan Igaz

Non-Incumbent

Announcement Date: August 14

Website: https://danigaz.ca/en/

FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61592893932815

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igaz.dg/

I’m very excited to formally announce that I will be running for Esquimalt Council this fall. At the top of the list of the many things I love about Esquimalt is our amazing community. Anyone who experiences an evening at Memorial Park, or has seen the support exchanged every day in this very group, knows how strong that sense of community connection is. It’s a profoundly special thing. So as Esquimalt grows, we need leadership that will work hard to protect that interconnected community spirit, while still building Esquimalt towards a stronger future.

I’ve worked in community recreation management for 20+ years, and I’ve spent that time building community programs that bring people together. For example, to help to address the swimming lessons shortage in the area, I created the Swim Skills Junior program that now provides swim lessons to ~1,000 CRD kids each year. If you’ve had children learn from these programs in the last few years then you know it firsthand: that’s a lot of swimming! This is the same approach that I will bring to Esquimalt Council: proactive, collaborative leadership and hard work.

Here is a quick summary of the issues that I would prioritize as a member of Council:

Community & Recreation: Support the local organizations, events, and programs that keep us connected.

The E&N: Support the Reconciliation Corridor Initiative and advocate for better regional transit options

Housing & Affordability: Pursue expanded housing options that address affordability issues and fit our community needs.

People-First Transit: Keep it safe and accessible for families to walk, cycle, drive, or take public transit.

Protecting Green Spaces: Protect our parks and trees as the valuable community assets that they are.

Efficient Governance: Modernize council processes to improve how decisions are made, prioritizing efficiency and transparency.

There’s no question that we’ve got some exciting years ahead of us! With your vote, I would love to get to work serving you and the community we love. So Esquimalt: what do you want to talk about? What growth pressures do you think the community is facing? What would you like to see ultimately happen with the E&N line? What events deserve more support? Should Buccaneer Days finally be expanded to a year-round costume party?

Let me know in the comments below! If that’s not your style you can drop me a line through my website or social media, contact me directly at (250) 661-4288, or just say hello when you see me out enjoying one of our amazing parks. Looking forward to working with you all!

Zachary Mulder

Non-Incumbent

Announcement Date: July 13
Website: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1gWjquyTzN/ 

Email: zacharymulder7@gmail.com

I'm very excited to announce my candidacy to serve as one of your councilors in our 2026 Municipal election.

After coming to Esquimalt nearly a decade ago, I can easily say that there is no town like Esquimalt in how we value community, growth, and togetherness. Additionally, as a cashier at Country Grocer's Esquimalt location, I've loved being able to meet so many members of this community and part of what makes this town so great.

In running for council, I hope to work collaboratively with council in order to attain an efficient and cooperative government that gets things done. Here's a brief summary of some main points I hope to focus on as councilor:

Housing: A balanced approach to housing that prioritizes the construction of multi-family dwellings while also ensuring a commitment to preserving the character of Esquimalt's wonderful suburbs and neighborhoods. I believe it is important that council prioritizes the voices of Esquimalt residents over that of major developers.

Fiscal Responsibility and Long-Term Planning: Every penny spent must be considered within the context of efficiency, in a transparent manner, with the future of Esquimalt in mind. Additionally, keeping taxes as low as practical while ensuring the government has the money to renew projects and infrastructure is a priority.

Support Community Events: With how many Esquimalt residents I get to meet and talk to every week, the importance of community has particularly struck me. Esquimalt Parks and Recreation puts on so many great community events such as pickleball and the farmer's market. Additionally, Esquimalt hosts major annual events such as the Festival of Lights and Ribfest. These are amazing events that make our town such a tight-knight community, and as councilor I believe protecting and preserving these events is crucial as an element of what makes Esquimalt so great.

An additional part of what makes Esquimalt such an amazing town is our wonderful parks and natural scenery. I believe that prioritizing the protection and growth of our local environment is highly important to maintaining the beauty of our town, and I plan to make this a focal point as councilor. Particular issues I would like to address is protecting and developing urban tree canopy, and working collaboratively with groups such as the Greater Victoria Green Team and Friends of Saxe Point Park to prioritize invasive species removal.

We're just getting started here, but I would be thrilled to hear from you! Please shoot me an email at zacharymulder7@gmail.com, I respond to everyone and would be happy to discuss policy or if there's an issue you feel needs extra attention. Additionally, I've just launched a facebook group where you can keep up to date with the campaign https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1gWjquyTzN/

I'm very excited to get started on the campaign and to meet all the wonderful people in our community!

Meredith James

Non-Incumbent

Announcement Date: September 2
Website: https://meredithjames.ca/

Email: meredith@meredithjames.ca

Today I made it official: I’m running for Esquimalt Council in this October’s municipal election!

I’m running because I want to help build on the strengths of our community while making thoughtful decisions about the challenges and opportunities ahead. I care about the character of Esquimalt and want to see us manage growth in a way that keeps our community welcoming, connected and livable.

I’m a lawyer with 15 years of experience in municipal, environmental and Aboriginal law. My work focuses on helping people, communities and organizations navigate complex issues, balance competing interests and find practical solutions. I’ve also served on the boards of non-profit organizations at the local, provincial and national levels. Here in Esquimalt, I was a member of the Township's Environmental Advisory Committee and, in the last two years, helped bring bike pirate rides to Buccaneer Days.

As a Councillor, I would focus on:

• A diverse and vibrant community. Esquimalt is fortunate to have a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. As our community grows, I want to protect that diversity while creating opportunities for small businesses and a range of housing options, prioritizing affordability.

• Safe and sustainable transportation. We all want to get where we’re going safely and efficiently. I believe the best way to achieve that is to design our streets to have room for all road users, so people can choose to walk, cycle, drive or take transit depending on where they’re going and what works best for them. I want to complete the Active Transportation Network Plan, advocate for better transit service, and work with regional partners to reduce congestion.

• Trees, gardens and natural areas. Esquimalt’s mature trees, parks, and natural areas are an important part of what makes our community special. I want to explore practical ways to further enrich our green spaces by increasing Esquimalt’s urban tree canopy and supporting native plants, pollinator gardens, and food gardens.

• Places to connect and celebrate. Public art, festivals, and performances help make Esquimalt a place where people can build connections and enjoy the abundant creativity in our community. I want to see the Township continue supporting opportunities for people to gather, create, and celebrate.

I’m looking forward to getting out into the community, meeting people and hearing what matters to you. I hope to earn your support!

Andrea Boardman

Incumbent

Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61592774757033

Email:  andrea.esquimalt@gmail.com

For 32 years, Esquimalt has been my home, and where my two children were raised and educated. My son lives nearby with his family, including my beautiful grandson. I care deeply about ensuring Esquimalt continues to be a safe, welcoming, and thriving place for generations to come.

I am seeking re-election to Esquimalt Council with a continued commitment to responsible leadership, community engagement, and building a vibrant, inclusive future for our community.

My career has been built on service, leadership, and collaboration. After working for 20 years as a Registered Nurse with Island Health, I earned my Master of Business Administration from the University of British Columbia. Over the next two decades, I held progressively senior leadership roles across the healthcare system, gaining extensive experience in strategic planning, financial stewardship, operational leadership, and building collaborative partnerships. These experiences have prepared me to make thoughtful, informed decisions and have strengthened the leadership skills I have brought to Esquimalt Council over the past four years.

During my first term on Council, I worked to support responsible growth, strengthen public safety, improve municipal services, and ensure taxpayer dollars are invested wisely. I believe in listening carefully, acting sensibly, and making thoughtful decisions that serve the whole community.

I remain committed to preserving the qualities that make Esquimalt special while embracing thoughtful opportunities that enhance our community for current and future generations.

I enjoy travelling, camping, walking through Esquimalt's beautiful parks, and spending quality time with family and friends.

It has been an honour to serve on Esquimalt Council, and I would be grateful for your support as I seek another term to continue working for the community we all call home

Holly Courtright

Non-Incumbent

Announcement Date: September 8

Email: info@hollyforcouncil.ca

Website: www.hollyforcouncil.ca

https://www.facebook.com/holly.for.council

Hello, Esquimalt.

The next Council will make decisions that shape our community for decades. We will update the Official Community Plan, decide how and where new housing fits, address aging infrastructure and determine how to protect the services, green spaces and community connections that people value. I am running because I want us to approach that work with curiosity, creativity and a clear understanding that none of these decisions exists in isolation.

My priorities are straightforward: build what’s missing by encouraging thoughtful, creative housing design; make our Community Plan more than a map by creating connected neighbourhoods that protect nature and maintain what makes Esquimalt unique; ensure growth pays for what follows by helping fund the infrastructure it requires; and show the math before committing public money, including the full cost, funding source and long-term impact.

I know Esquimalt as a former Township employee, union president, Chamber of Commerce president and Esquimalt’s representative on the Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board. I also know it as a resident, homeowner and volunteer. Those experiences have shown me how differently the same decision can affect our neighbours, municipal employees, local businesses and community organizations.

They have also taught me that nobody arrives at the Council table with every answer. The job is to listen, ask better questions, examine the consequences and remain open to a better idea.

This is your community and your election. I would genuinely like to know what you think Esquimalt should become and what you never want it to lose.

Let’s talk.

Tyler Russel

Non-Incumbent

Email:  tyler@tyler4esquimalt.ca  

Website:  tyler4esquimalt.ca

My name is Tyler Russell and I am running to be your township councillor.

I want to build upon the work of the previous Mayor and Council and make Esquimalt even safer, more fun, more accessible, easier to move around in, and filled with more love and inclusion than it already is.

I imagine a low‑cortisol town, one that has, embedded in its design, a communication of love to its current citizens, its newcomers, and future generations. I want us to get there by dealing urgently with the daily traffic jam, bringing in a Right to Cool for renters, and build up our green canopy and pay for our infrastructure deficit through a robust Amenity Cost Contribution bylaw.

Over the course of my campaign, I've been going door to door asking two questions: what is your immediate concern, and what is your long‑term vision for Esquimalt. I have been compiling what I hear and learn in a series of reflective posts, and where relevant, proposals for the next council. You can read those dispatches or sign up to subscribe here: https://tyler4esquimalt.ca/#dispatches

My campaign started with my son. He is almost five, and he has been persistently insisting that something be done about the bumpiness of our community's sidewalks. I got to know the unique texture of the Saxe Point and Rockheights neighbourhoods first at stroller and more recently at scooter speed, and he has a point.

We moved here in 2021, and I am convinced that this town, daily traffic jam aside, is the best place to live for anyone who wants to raise children in a warm, convenient, walkable, park‑rich community with fun festivals and vibrant events. It is a place I will happily age into, with down‑to‑earth friends nearby and grocery stores and other services a short stroll away.

Before Esquimalt, born in Saskatchewan and raised in Kelowna, I lived for extended periods on three continents, from an ethnically diverse farming village in eastern Croatia to some of Asia's largest and most complex cities. Along the way I interned at the Pearson Peacekeeping Training Centre, served as Coordinator for International Relations for a small Japanese municipality, where I coordinated affairs for the Cameroonian national football team for the FIFA World Cup, organized large‑scale art exhibitions in Korea, and ran the Okanagan's largest arts centre. More recently I have helped international partners build disaster‑preparedness training tools and consulted for environmentally progressive forestry transformation and waste‑management projects.

My son and I are regulars at our parks and recreation facilities, and I am grateful for the shops, restaurants and amenities close by. I see Esquimalt as a community where friends of all ages and backgrounds can have fun, feel included, know there is support when they need it, and be joy‑filled as we work together to make this an even better place to be.

Bruce Mcilldoon

(Previously served on Council from 2005-2011)

Email: bmc4ok@gmail.com

Website: BruceForCouncil.com

A neighbour who knows this community

Bruce, a former Councillor, has lived in Esquimalt for a lifetime — going to school, raising his family here, and building deep roots in the community. He's the neighbour who shows up — at community meetings, gathers with friends at local parks, spending quality time at home, and staying active throughout Esquimalt.

Experience that matters

Bruce brings practical, real-world experience to local governance. He has spent his career as a Red Seal tradesperson in the industrial field, retiring from his position as an Instrument Controls Technician at the HMCS Dockyard, developing the analytical skills, collaborative approach, and steady work ethic that effective council work demands.

He's not a career politician. He's a resident who has watched Esquimalt grow and change, who has seen what works and what doesn't, and who believes that good governance is about listening first and acting thoughtfully.

Why he's running

Bruce is running because he believes Esquimalt deserves council representation that is grounded, honest, and genuinely focused on the needs of families and homeowners — not special interests or political agendas.

He's seen too many decisions made without adequate community input, too many infrastructure problems deferred, and too many families struggling with housing costs that have outpaced their ability to stay in the community they love. He wants to change that.