Hello Residents, Business owners and Stakeholders in Thornhill,
My name is Marlene Gallyot and I am running for Ward 2 Councillor in Thornhill.
My background and work experience make me uniquely qualified to represent you, and I look forward to serving my community.
Born in India of Scottish, French and Indian descent, I immigrated to Canada over 23 years ago, started my life from next to nothing and worked hard to make ends meet as a small business owner. Operating on Green Lane, I enjoyed meeting local residents and other business owners, and formed lasting friendships with many.
Following the tragic death of my brother and his wife in India, I adopted their two children and unexpectedly became a mother of four: Tasha, Travis, Nikita and Gavin, now aged 21, 19, 18 and 14 respectively. As a parent, I fully understand the needs of our children and how we must pave the way so they enjoy a healthy, prosperous, environmentally friendly and sustainable lifestyle. Our children are a blessing in our lives and their future must be assured.
The immigration and adoption process to adopt my brother’s children was frustrating but a tremendous learning experience. It led me to study immigration law and ultimately I earned my license as an immigration consultant.
In this capacity, I traveled to many countries, learning many languages, experiencing different cultures and gaining much knowledge about politics and international issues. I encouraged entrepreneurs and investors, along with skilled workers and students, to come to Canada, and represented refugees at the Immigration and Refugee Board in Toronto.
Four years ago, I obtained a position with the Town of Markham, working for Regional Councillor Jim Jones. I have since met numerous constituents, dealt with their concerns and found solutions to their problems. Never shy in seeking answers, I realized I had the ability to undertake the responsibilities and commitments of a councillor. During this time, I continued my work with numerous charitable organizations, such as the Christian Children’s Fund of Canada, the Rotary Club of Markham Unionville and the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture.
As a member on the Yonge/Finch Subway Now committee, I worked with constituents, stakeholders and all levels of government to extend the subway from Yonge and Finch to the 407. Better transit is badly needed throughout the GTA, and certainly in heavily populated York Region.
On a smaller scale, I would like to see proper shelters along our bus routes instead of simple poles. Furthermore, if we are trying to encourage the public to use public transit then what are we providing? Bus depots heated with solar technology would encourage more people to use public transit.
Finally, Thornhill needs a GO Station. On my own iniiative, I have contacted all levels of government, and officials at Go Transit, to guide me through the process required to get a station on the empty land at 67 Green Lane in Thornhill and learned this is not impossible. Unfortunately elected councillors failed to continue the study of grade separation, noise and costs that was initiated over 10 years ago because they did not notice the importance.
If elected I will put efficient and improved transit on my list of priorities for Thornhill. A Go Transit Station will be one of them.
Introduce more facilities and jobs to Thornhill, while still ensuring all community standards are met. I will ensure residents are informed in advance of upcoming developments, and will not mislead you on issues affecting the community.
Take an active role in controlling height and density, ensuring environmental standards and quality of life are maintained
I fully understand the responsibilities of a Councillor
I have experience with the Town of Markham
I have actively participated in the Community, as a Rotarian and volunteer for several important charities.
My communication skills have been well developed, from the time I worked as an immigration consultant, meeting with citizens and dignitaries from around the world, to these past 4 years dealing with local Markham issues.
I believe a Councillor should be easily accessible to all constituents and involved in all Council issues. I pledge to give 100% of my time to our ward and Town issues.
As your elected councillor, my primary focus will be to address the issues directly affecting this Ward.
I will be accessible and responsive to all constituents in our highly diverse area. In reviewing issues, I intend to take a balanced approach:
Therefore if you need someone who is not afraid to seek answers then on October 25th vote for someone who will bring change and make a difference in Thornhill.
I will devote all my energies to ensuring the Ward and its constituents are heard on Markham Council.
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