Community Leader & Volunteer
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Stephanie Ashton and I am running to be your Regional Ward 3 Councillor in the upcoming October 2026 election.
I have lived here in Ajax for the last 18 years, and I have absolutely loved living in this community. When my husband and I went to look at our home, I felt an undeniable connection to this community.
I am married with three children, ages 21, 18 and 17, who went to Southwood Park and Ajax High. All have been actively involved in various sports over the years and I have spent many years in various volunteer roles for Ajax Baseball, Durham West Lightning and the Ajax Pickering Raiders.
Professionally, I am the Vice-President of Development and Partnerships at Feed Ontario, an organization that supports over 1200 food banks across the province. I have worked in the non-profit sector for 25 years, many of which were in international development. Through my various roles, I have travelled extensively to over 25 countries, mostly in Africa and Central America. Through my work, I have gained a deep understanding and appreciation for different cultures, languages and religions.
I am also an environmentalist at heart and I am the Co-Chair for a small non-profit called Mind Your Plastic, an organization dedicated to reducing the use of single-use plastics, a cause that I am passionate about.
Values & Vision
I believe Ajax should be a community where every resident feels proud to call home — a place that is affordable, safe, well-planned, and supportive of all who live here. By listening closely to the people of Ajax, I have heard your concerns and priorities loud and clear. My vision for our town is built on three foundational pillars that address the most pressing challenges we face today while creating a stronger, more resilient future for generations to come.
Affordability & Cost of Living
Ajax families are feeling the pressure of rising taxes, housing costs and everyday expenses — especially seniors and those on fixed incomes. I believe fiscal responsibility means protecting taxpayers while continuing to deliver the services our community relies on.
I will focus on:
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Responsible spending through multi-year budgeting, regular efficiency reviews and strong financial oversight.
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Reducing reliance on property taxes by attracting commercial and industrial investment, making strategic use of development charges, and exploring fair user fees for non-essential services.
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Securing our fair share of provincial and federal funding to reduce pressure on local taxpayers.
My goal is simple: keep Ajax affordable so families can thrive here, not just survive.
Responsible Growth and Infrastructure
Ajax is growing, and growth can bring new opportunities — but only when it is well planned. Development must be supported by the roads, transit, infrastructure, parks and services our community needs.
I will focus on:
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Phased, coordinated growth that aligns new development with the infrastructure and services needed to support it.
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Complete communities that connect housing with shops, services, parks and green spaces.
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Growth that pays its way by ensuring new development contributes its fair share toward the infrastructure needed to support growing communities.
My goal is to build an Ajax that grows thoughtfully while protecting the quality of life residents value.
Housing, Homelessness & Public Safety
A safe, compassionate community supports people in need while ensuring residents feel secure in their neighbourhoods. We must address homelessness while maintaining strong community safety.
I will focus on:
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Housing First — connecting people experiencing homelessness with stable housing and supports for mental health, addictions and employment.
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Prevention — supporting programs that help people remain housed and prevent homelessness before it begins.
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Community safety — supporting community-oriented policing, co-response models that pair police with appropriate social and mental-health supports, and proactive approaches to neighbourhood safety.
We can address the root causes of homelessness while maintaining strong enforcement when needed. Compassion and accountability can go hand in hand.
Contact
Get in Touch with Stephanie
For inquiries, request a lawn sign or to learn more about Stephanie, reach out by text, email or call me!
ashtonforajax@rogers.com
Phone: 647-825-3958