Mayor McCabe selects her 2024 Council for a Day

Eight students from across the city have been selected for their winning answers to the question “What is your one idea to make Waterloo an even better place to live?”

The winners will share their ideas at Waterloo’s State of the City on May 2, 2024, and spend the day with Mayor McCabe and City Council.

The annual contest offers a glimpse into the issues that are top of mind for youth in Waterloo.

One student, Dorothy O., shared her idea to build a children’s hospital along with creative suggestions to lower food, housing and recreation costs, winning her the title of Mayor for a Day.

Mayor McCabe would like to thank everyone who participated in the 2024 Council for a Day contest and is pleased to announce this year's winners.

Note: Winners were assigned wards for this contest, which may not reflect where they live or attend school.

• Mayor Dorothy O. from Lady of Lourdes:  chosen for the idea of adding a children’s hospital and lowering living costs.
• Ward 1 Councillor Shiv K. from Lester B. Pearson: Chosen for the idea of “Summer Fridays” where public transit is free to support a greener city.
• Ward 2 Councillor Bennett S. from Holy Rosary: Chosen for the idea of providing elderly residents extra time to cross the street.
• Ward 3 Councillor Simona M. from Northlake Woods: Chosen for the idea to increase resident engagement with ballot boxes.
• Ward 4 Councillor Isla L. from Keatsway:  Chosen for the idea to host community job fairs for youth and kids.
• Ward 5 Councillor Silvia B. from Elizabeth Ziegler: Chosen for the idea of community gardens near shelters.
• Ward 6 Councillor Ryan L. from St. Nicholas: Chosen for the idea to include public art at crosswalks.
• Ward 7 Councillor Vaidik R. from Laurelwood: Chosen for the idea of having kids volunteer at a local library and engage with seniors.

“Waterloo’s vision to be a future-ready community for all is all about optimism for our future. Seeing youth involved in city matters and young people who care about their community is something I deeply appreciate,” shares Mayor McCabe. “I look forward to the young mayor and councillors sharing their ideas with everyone, and spending the day with them. Thank you to every Grade 5 student who shared their ideas.”

The 2024 State of the City will take place on Thursday, May 2, 2024, from 7 to 9 a.m. The event is hosted by Rotary Waterloo and proceeds are in support of Supportive Housing of Waterloo (SHOW). Tickets are available at rotarywaterloo.ca

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Media contact:

Shirley Luu
Communications Consultant
Corporate Communications
City of Waterloo
Shirley.luu@waterloo.ca