Architect Robert Ritz is running for mayor of Stratford.
In a release sent to media this morning, Ritz said he has participated in over 100 Stratford council and committee meetings, either representing clients or supporting citizens questioning developments.
Ritz has served on Stratford's planning advisory committee, which has allowed him to understand city government and what works and doesn't work.
An an architect, Ritz has helped property owners design and obtain approval for homes, apartments, stores, schools, and factories.
Serving clients through the city process for four decades has allowed Ritz to closely observe how Stratford city council and the municipal staff make decisions and provide services to the residents in comparison to what other municipalities offer, his media release states.
These experiences have led to deep concern about a lack of transparency at city council, and excessive use of closed meetings that deprive citizens of their right to know and participate and engage in decision making, he said.
“Stratford city council has had the misfortune to be designated the most secretive in all of Canada, particularly because of the Xinyi glass factory controversy. “I respectfully believe that Stratford needs a change in leadership to restore a culture of openness to our local government.,” said Ritz. “Ending the secrecy is one of the primary reasons that I am asking for the votes of my fellow citizens.”
Ritz is the fourth resident to declare for mayor in the October election. Also running are businessman Larry McCabe and current city councillors Martin Ritsma and Kathy Vassilakos.
