Endorsements

Publicly endorsing a political candidate is something I have never done before. Having served 16 years on Waterloo City Council, I understand the responsibilities of the role and the work required to lead our city effectively. I also know that there are reasons why decisions are made that are out of Council's control. For example, upper level governments have downloaded many new responsibilities, such as housing to cities. Fire departments must meet Provincial mandates and regulations including staffing numbers for our expanded fire halls.

Dorothy has worked hard over the past four years. From the moment she was elected, she “hit the ground running”, and I believe Waterloo is in a better place because of her leadership.

She has worked collaboratively with other levels of government and community organizations to help bring much-needed affordable housing to Waterloo’s east side. During my time on Council, that land was being reserved for industrial use. Seeing it now contribute to addressing our community’s housing needs is a significant step forward.

Dorothy’s vision for a new hospital in Waterloo is also moving forward. This is something our community needs, and I am happy to see progress toward making it a reality.

Her commitment to the environment has never wavered. She also champions local businesses through her Support Local campaign, reminding us how important it is to keep our businesses open, strong, and thriving.

Dorothy is present and engaged in our community. She regularly attends community events and is a strong supporter of our university students and seniors. She listens and responds to residents’ concerns, including traffic safety. She has even met with neighbours in their own homes to discuss traffic-calming measures and ways to make their streets safer.

And after 20 years, I am delighted to see a long-standing dream of mine becoming a reality: the Albert McCormick Community Centre and Library are being updated. These improvements will enhance the quality of life for residents in Ward 3 and beyond. The arena surfaces attract hockey tournaments and events that bring visitors to our city, while the library serves as a welcoming refuge and safe space for newcomers, seniors, youth, and so many others in our community.

I believe strong leadership means listening, collaborating, following through on commitments, and working to make life better for all residents. Dorothy has demonstrated these qualities throughout her time as Mayor.

Angela Vieth
City of Waterloo Councillor 2007–2022

Dear Waterloo Residents,

I am pleased to offer my strong endorsement of Dorothy McCabe for re-election as Mayor of Waterloo.

I had the opportunity to work closely with Dorothy for seven years. During that time, she supported me on important community issues, community outreach, and advancing projects that mattered to local residents. She was especially dedicated to working with local non-profit organizations—helping them navigate challenges, build connections, and move forward initiatives that strengthened our community.

That experience showed me Dorothy’s character and her approach to public service. She is hardworking, thoughtful, compassionate, and deeply committed to listening to people. She understands that meaningful progress happens when elected representatives, community organizations, residents, and other partners work together.

As Mayor, Dorothy has brought those same qualities to City Hall. She has provided principled and energetic leadership while focusing on issues that matter to Waterloo residents: affordable and attainable housing, a strong local economy, quality public spaces and recreation, environmental sustainability, and inclusive, connected neighbourhoods.

Dorothy has also been an effective advocate for Waterloo with other levels of government and community partners. Her leadership in advancing one of Canada’s largest affordable and attainable housing projects is evidence of her ability to work in partnership for the community.

This is the kind of long-term, community-building work that requires persistence, collaboration, and a strong understanding of how to get things done.

Waterloo has accomplished a great deal during Dorothy’s first term, but there is more important work ahead. I believe Dorothy McCabe has the experience, judgment, integrity, and commitment needed to continue leading Waterloo with distinction.

I encourage Waterloo residents to support Dorothy McCabe for Mayor.

Sincerely,

John Milloy
Former Member of Provincial Parliament · Former Cabinet Minister

Dear Waterloo Residents,

I am pleased to offer my strong endorsement of Dorothy McCabe for re-election as Mayor of Waterloo.

I hired Dorothy as my first Chief of Staff. From the outset, Dorothy brought intelligence, dedication, sound judgment, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of people in our community.

Among her many contributions, Dorothy led the development of the business case for the first two-way, all-day GO rail service between Waterloo Region and the Greater Toronto Area. She also led the advocacy campaign that helped advance and improve GO service to and from Waterloo Region. This was important work that required persistence, strategic thinking, and the ability to bring together governments, community leaders, businesses, and residents around a shared goal. The work continues but the progress is unquestionable.

Dorothy understands how to turn ideas into results.

She knows how to build partnerships, advocate effectively with other levels of government, and keep focused on the long-term needs of a growing community.

As Mayor of Waterloo, Dorothy has continued to demonstrate the leadership, experience, and collaborative approach that have defined her public service. She understands that the future of Waterloo depends on addressing affordability, housing, transportation, economic opportunity, sustainability, and the quality of life in our neighbourhoods.

Dorothy is a thoughtful, capable, and compassionate leader. She listens to residents, works constructively with community partners, and brings the energy and determination needed to move important projects forward.

I believe Waterloo will be well served by Dorothy McCabe’s continued leadership as Mayor. I encourage Waterloo residents to support her re-election.

Sincerely,

Carl Zehr
Former Mayor of Kitchener