Candidate: Linda Coltman

Who are you?

Hello, please permit me to introduce myself to you. My name is Linda Coltman.

I am a lifelong resident of Toronto and proud Canadian who believes in advocating for and supporting my City and its residents.

For twenty years, I have lived as a tenant of a social housing community located within the City’s west end.

I also have a long history of multiple chronic and acute health conditions/ disabilities.

Categorically I fit into the class that most would consider to be among the “marginalized” of society – belonging to the demographic for whose voice is seldom heard among those running for political office and generally among those stereotyped not to be considered serious candidates to do so.


Why are you running?

I’m running for City Idol as I seek to change the typecast of whom makes a good candidate for Councillor and I would welcome the opportunity to put my talents to use in a manner that is in direct relation to my personal interests and too that I believe would serve of benefit to the citizens of this great City.

I have been an active volunteer within the social housing realm for most of my formative years & at 35 years of age I possess over fifteen years of educational and volunteer experience having contributed my time and energies within my own community and as an unpaid assistant for many organizations and venues within Toronto.

Among other things, my scholastic and volunteering background has provided me with skills in planning and policy development, leadership and management skills, experience in administration and budget development, conflict management, negotiation and mediation skills and much experience in organizational activities.


What should a City Councillor be?

I think that first and foremost a good Councillor should have an understanding of the demographics and views of their constituents.


Anything else?

I don’t propose to “know all the answers” to everything that ails our City but I will commit to listening to, seeking to understand and expressing the views of the people whom I seek to support.

We need new leaders.