Over three years, the City of Waterloo invested $540,000, in partnership with the Accelerator Centre, to launch a new med-tech development program, nurturing and growing up to 45 innovative Canadian homegrown start-ups and new job opportunities.

The City of Waterloo is a partner with the Waterloo Region AI Coalition, championed by the University of Waterloo and led by Communitech. The partnership positions the community as Canada's responsible AI adoption powerhouse.

Dorothy’s Priorities for Waterloo

Five Things to Know

Under Dorothy’s leadership . . .

A new acute-care hospital will be built in Waterloo, on University of Waterloo lands west of Bearinger Road and Hagey. This state-of-the-art facility will expand capacity, improve services and reduce wait times for Waterloo residents and beyond.

Union Community Housing broke ground on Union1, the first building in the BUILD NOW affordable housing development on the city-donated land at 2025 University Avenue East.

A Habitat for Humanity/BUILD NOW development of 23 residential and mixed-use buildings will be built on the edge of RIM Park. It includes a total of 1,010 residential units, plus commercial and amenity spaces and outdoor patios, a plaza, gardens and parks.

Other initiatives, committees and appointments

Enova Energy Corporation and Enova Power Corporation Board of Directors

University of Waterloo Board of Governors

Waterloo Economic Development Advisory Committee

Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative

Ontario Big City Mayors Caucus

Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA)

State of the City 2026

Priorities

1. Economic Development

THE GOAL: Build a resilient, ambitious, future-ready Waterloo economy

Nurture a resilient, inclusive, innovative, and future-ready economy — one that creates good jobs, attracts responsible investment, supports local businesses, and prepares our community for the opportunities ahead.

Waterloo’s diversified economy is one of our city’s greatest strengths. We are home to world-class talent, globally recognized institutions, innovative businesses, strong local employers, and a community that understands the value of bold ideas.

As Mayor, I am committed to ensuring Waterloo remains a leading place to start, grow, invest, work, and build for the future.

My next term will focus on strengthening Waterloo’s economic resilience, supporting high-quality employment opportunities, and securing strategic investment that benefits residents, businesses, and the broader community across sectors, skill levels, and stages of life.

Waterloo’s future success depends on supporting both emerging industries and the employers – small, medium and large - that already anchor our community.

Develop an Advanced Manufacturing Development Hub

I will champion the creation of an Advanced Manufacturing Development Hub. This initiative will bring together researchers, industry leaders, and talent to accelerate innovation and productivity in Waterloo’s manufacturing sector. The hub will provide a platform for developing and implementing new technologies, fostering collaboration, and supporting the growth of local manufacturers.

Secure investment opportunities at Generation Park

Work with local, provincial and federal partners to secure anchor tenants and diverse businesses.
Ensure the park remains a hub for innovation and economic growth.

Additional economic development focus

Supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs.
Attracting responsible investment that aligns with Waterloo’s values.
Investing in public infrastructure that supports economic growth.

Build an economy that works for Waterloo

Creating good jobs with fair wages.
Ensuring equal access to economic opportunities.
Supporting small and medium-sized businesses.

2. A Healthy, Sustainable Community

THE GOAL: A Waterloo where everyone can thrive

Build a city that is healthy, inclusive, sustainable, active, and prepared for the future, where people feel connected, supported, safe, and able to participate fully in civic life.

A sustainable community is one that plans responsibly for growth, protects the environment, invests in public infrastructure, and ensures residents can enjoy a high quality of life now and in the future.

Waterloo’s next chapter must be shaped in collaboration with the community — listening to residents, working with partners, and making practical investments that help everyone thrive.

I will...

Prioritize the building of more affordable housing.
Support the development of a new recreation facility in West Waterloo.
Invest in active transportation and public transit.
Protect and enhance our parks, trails, and green spaces.
Work with partners to improve access to healthcare and social services.

Priorities

Building a community for all

I am committed to ensuring Waterloo is an inclusive and welcoming community for everyone. I will work with partners to address barriers to participation, support diverse voices, and foster a sense of belonging for all residents.

Develop a new recreation facility in West Waterloo

A multi-use facility that provides a range of programs and services.
Sustainable design and construction practices.
Inclusive and accessible spaces for people of all ages and abilities.

Sustainability and climate responsibility

Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Protection of our natural environment and biodiversity.

Water conservation

I am committed to protecting our water resources and promoting water conservation. As Mayor, I commit to working with partners to implement water-saving initiatives, educate the community about water conservation, and ensure the long-term sustainability of our water supply.

Strengthen community wellbeing

Support initiatives that promote mental health and wellbeing.
Invest in public safety and emergency services.
Work with partners to address social challenges and support vulnerable residents.

Priorities

3. A Vibrant Community

THE GOAL: A city that is vibrant in its creative, cultural and civic life

Work with the library, the city museum, the BIA, local artists, businesses, and residents to build an even more vibrant, creative Waterloo — a city where people feel connected, culture is celebrated, and community life continues to flourish.

Waterloo’s vibrancy is found in its people, neighbourhoods, public spaces, festivals, artists, small businesses, libraries, museums, and cultural organizations. A vibrant city is not only a place to live — it is a place to gather, create, learn, celebrate, and belong.

I will...

Support the redevelopment of the Waterloo Public Library.
Partner with the BIA and local businesses to enhance our downtown.
Invest in local arts, culture, and heritage.
Create more opportunities for community gathering and celebration.
Foster a strong and engaged civic life.

I am committed to working with community partners to make Waterloo an even more creative, welcoming, and lively city.

Redevelop the Waterloo Public Library

I am committed to supporting the redevelopment of the Waterloo Public Library to ensure it remains a vital hub for learning, creativity, and community connection. I will work with the library board and staff to secure funding, develop a vision for the future, and ensure the project meets the needs of our community.

Support the city museum and local heritage

I will continue to support the City of Waterloo Museum and our local heritage organizations. I will work with partners to protect and celebrate our community’s history, share our stories, and ensure our heritage remains a source of pride and inspiration for all residents.

Partner with the BIA and local businesses

I will actively partner with the Business Improvement Area (BIA) and local businesses to create a vibrant and successful downtown. I will work with partners to support local employers, attract new businesses, and create a welcoming environment for residents and visitors.

Invest in local arts and artists

I am committed to investing in Waterloo’s local arts and artists. I will work with partners to support artistic creation, provide opportunities for artists to share their work, and ensure that arts and culture are central to our community life.

Create more opportunities to gather and celebrate

I will work with community partners to create more opportunities for residents to gather and celebrate. I will support local festivals, events, and public space initiatives that bring people together, foster a sense of community, and make Waterloo a lively and welcoming city.