In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Jeyas Balaskanthan, Executive Director of the Uptown Waterloo BIA and candidate for Mayor of Waterloo. Jeyas shares how nearly 30 years in Waterloo have shaped his commitment to the community and his decision to run. They discuss safety, property taxes, community engagement, supporting small businesses and his priorities for the city. Jeyas also shares his leadership philosophy and what he loves most about Waterloo. This episode offers an opportunity to get to know Jeyas, his connection to the community, and his ideas for addressing local challenges, supporting small businesses, and shaping Waterloo’s future.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:01] - Jeyas shares who he is outside of work and the importance of family and friendships in his life.
• [02:17] - His role as Executive Director of the Uptown Waterloo BIA and why he took a leave of absence during the campaign.
• [03:07] - What working with Uptown businesses has taught him about supporting a city.
• [05:25] - How nearly 30 years in Waterloo and his work at Laurier and the University of Waterloo shaped his connection to the community.
• [06:32] - His involvement with the Lakeshore Optimist Club, Adventure4Change, The Working Centre and other community organizations.
• [07:45] - Why Jeyas decided to run for mayor and his desire to give back to the city.
• [9:56] - The concerns he is hearing from residents.
• [11:28] - Property taxes, city services and why he believes residents deserve clarity about how their taxes are working for them.
• [12:08] - Finding more creative ways for City Hall to connect directly with residents throughout the community.
• [14:22] - Why Jeyas believes Waterloo needs less red tape and more support for people looking to invest and build businesses.
• [16:22] - His thoughts on the city budget, property taxes and exploring new opportunities for revenue generation.
• [18:01] - Jeyas responds to concerns from residents who feel Waterloo is becoming less safe.
• [19:38] - How lighting, cameras, neighbourhood initiatives and collaboration could play a role in crime prevention.
• [24:13] - Why collaboration between police, bylaw, businesses and the community matters for Uptown Waterloo.
• [25:32] - What will be his first priorities if elected.
• [26:25] - Creating accessible community spaces and strengthening residents’ sense of belonging.
• [27:52] - Making city processes easier for small businesses through a more streamlined point of contact.
• [28:44] - What knocking on thousands of doors has taught Jeyas about Waterloo residents and their investment in the city.
• [30:28] - His servant-leadership approach and why empowering, appreciating and celebrating city staff matters.
• [33:48] - Some of Jeyas’ favourite local businesses.
• [37:41] - What Jeyas loves about Waterloo, from Waterloo Park and local businesses to universities, innovation and community events.

Connect with Jeyas:

Website: https://www.jeyasforwaterloo.ca/

Instagram: @jeyasforwaterloo

Facebook: @Jeyasforwaterloo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeyas-balaskanthan-b37b0a1b2

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