Local resident, mother, volunteer runs for first time
Rebanks passionate about helping others across Toronto
Kris Scheuer
(Written Aug 5 for Town Crier.)
Ella Rebanks with her family. Photo courtesy of Rebanks.
Ward 27 candidate Ella Rebanks says wasteful spending at city hall has to stop, but she cautions not all spending is wasteful.
“What (mayor hopeful) Rob Ford considers wasteful and the bulk of the population think is wasteful aren’t the same,” said the Toronto Centre Rosedale council candidate.
“If you have a social program, it’s not wasteful spending. It’s us doing our job,” Rebanks added.
“Focus on Bloor Street construction that’s taking too long…that’s wasteful.”
As of August 5, Rebanks was one of 13 candidates running to replace retiring councillor Kyle Rae. She said with no incumbent the timing was right for her to run.
“I live in the ward,” said the mother of three. “I know the ward inside and out. So why wait to run?”
Council needs more of a vision from a female with a young family, said Rebanks, whose children are one, six and eight.
“I’m the only (ward 27) candidate with a young family,” she said. “This brings a different perspective.
“I rely on transit, city services, parks, daycare.”
Rebanks has experience working for federal politicians in Ottawa and has a communications background.
“My communications skills are valuable, A politician’s job is to listen, listen and listen some more and build consensus to solve issues.”
If elected, Rebanks said she’d sent out an electronic update to the community on everything from construction progress to when a local splash pad is opening.
Another local issue on her radar is scarce green spaces.
“In North Rosedale, the community is taking matters into their own hands by raising half a million for a new park. I applaud them, but I am saddened they have to do that,” she said. “Moss Park has a great community garden and the dog park at Allan Gardens is another great example of how we can keep those (green spaces) up.”
Her website mentions her volunteer experience includes fundraisers hospitals, afterschool programs, toy drives and founding a local parent network.
Kris Scheuer 