Who is CAN?

The Hamilton Community Action Network (CAN) is a grassroots group of residents who believe there are significant problems with the current decision-making and strategic directions adopted by Hamilton City Hall.

The decision-making process is lacking in transparency. Affairs are run with a 'top down' culture, which rarely provides the general public any direct opportunities to contribute to the decision-making process. CAN believes that City Hall should consider the opinions and interests of the MAJORITY of citizens - not just the well-connected few.

The City continues to invest heavily in new infrastructure, road construction, and mega projects that have shown a negligible rate of return, and will be expensive to maintain into the future. It is time that all Hamiltonians benefited from our municipal investments - not just a select few.

In 2005, Hamilton's external debt was $255 million. This year's budget will push this number to $360 million and forecasts show that these levels will remain above $300 million until 2012. These debt levels have contributed to Hamiltonians paying one of the highest tax rates in Ontario. CAN believes that Hamilton tax payers should start getting what they pay for.

It's not working. A change in direction at City Hall is required if Hamilton is to become a truly vibrant, sustainable and engaging city.

CAN Mission

CAN's mission is to promote municipal strategies that will help Hamilton realize its full potential. CAN aims to utilize a variety of mechanisms to engage Hamiltonians in the debate and to effect changes. This includes the endorsement and support of municipal candidates who are committed to promoting our vision.

CAN Principles

CAN's policies are governed by two principles:

Good Government - Hamilton citizens want transparent, accountable local government, whose players cannot be improperly influenced.

Quality of Life - Hamilton's municipal government should improve the quality of life for all residents by focusing on improving and enhancing existing infrastructure rather than through outdated economic development strategies.

CAN Objectives

• To establish a responsive, ethical city government.
• To establish a sustainable city, with healthy neighbourhoods and flourishing and vital core areas, consistent with Hamilton's Vision 2020.
• To endorse and help elect city council candidates who are committed to the equitable implementation of all Vision 2020 policies.
• To educate and engage Hamilton citizens through the municipal electoral process.