Meet Catherine
Oak Ridges Is Home
Oak Ridges has been my home for more than 25 years. It is where my husband, Andre, and I raised our four children. We have been married for 27 years, are blessed with two sons-in-law, and recently welcomed our first grandchild.
I bring experience from the corporate, education and non-profit sectors, supported by a university degree and postgraduate qualifications. I spent ten years working at Procter & Gamble (P&G) both in South Africa and Canada, where I gained practical experience in project coordination, communication, teamwork and delivering results within a leading international organization.
Andre and I homeschooled our four children, three of whom have now graduated from university. Today, I work in non-profit project coordination and serve as head of a local homeschool education network supporting more than 150 families—approximately 500 active students and parents. My work involves bringing people together, managing complex projects, communicating with stakeholders and turning ideas into practical results.
My Christian faith and my family are at the centre of my life. Being a mother and new grandmother has shaped how I see our community—not only as it is today, but as the place we are leaving to our children and grandchildren.
Why I am Running
I decided to run for Ward 1 Councillor because residents need someone at City Hall who will genuinely listen, speak clearly and follow through—with accountability, practical judgment and respect for taxpayers.
Families are increasingly concerned about crime and public safety. Parents should feel comfortable letting their children play outside. Seniors should feel secure in their homes. Everyone should be able to walk through our neighbourhoods, parks and public spaces without fear.
That is why community safety is one of my main priorities. I will advocate for a stronger frontline York Regional Police presence and oppose efforts to establish supervised drug-consumption or injection sites in Oak Ridges or Richmond Hill.
I will also support safer streets, improved lighting, repaired pathways and complete sidewalk connections—including the missing sections along Yonge Street.
Community Safety
2,383 violent crimes and 5,142 property crimes were recorded in Richmond Hill in 2025.
These figures reinforce the need to support frontline policing and keep community safety a priority.
Affordability
Richmond Hill’s City property-tax rate increased by 4.69% in 2025 and another 3.46% in 2026—approximately 8.3% compounded.
I will vote against further City tax hikes and demand better value for every tax dollar.
Infrastructure
Richmond Hill’s annual infrastructure-funding shortfall increased by approximately $1 million, or 4%, in 2026.
Ward 1 needs timely road, sidewalk and infrastructure improvements that keep pace with growth.
A Little More About Me
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Wife, mother and grandmother
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Educator, entrepreneur and experienced community advocate
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Longtime Oak Ridges resident
Supporter of families, local businesses, charitable organisations and the faith community
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Committed to community safety, affordability and responsible growth
Ready to put Ward 1 residents first!
I Want to Hear From You
I do not expect everyone to agree on every issue, but I promise to listen respectfully, explain where I stand and give residents an honest answer. Please introduce yourself when you see me in the community, invite me to your neighbourhood or use this website to tell me what you want City Hall to address. I would be honoured to earn your trust and your vote.