Natasha Salonen

Salonen frames affordability as long-term financial sustainability through zero-based budgeting, rebuilt reserves, and tax-base growth.

• Argues affordability is more than the tax bill: predictable taxation, long-term financial planning, and growing the tax base.
• Directed a KPMG zero-based budgeting review of operating spending and is rebuilding reserves under a 2025 commitment to raise capital/reserve investment 9% per year for three years.
• Her 2026 township budget proposed a 9.7% property tax increase with 5% water and 6% wastewater rate increases.

Confidence:High

Salonen pledges to represent Wilmot strongly at the Region and with other governments, rooted in representative democracy.

• Emphasizes representative democracy: listening to perspectives, weighing evidence and professional advice, and exercising judgment.
• Pledges strong representation for Wilmot at Regional Council and with provincial and federal governments; serves on the boards of AMO and ROMA.

Confidence:High

Salonen emphasizes lifecycle-based asset management and a strong Wilmot voice in regional water supply decisions.

• Strengthened asset management so roads, bridges, facilities and parks decisions are based on condition, lifespan and replacement cost.
• On water: wants fair treatment for residents affected by municipal well interference and long-term, evidence-based decisions in the Region's Water Supply Strategy through 2051.

Confidence:High

Salonen favours managed growth guided by the new Official Plan and negotiated outcomes with builders.

• Supports planning for growth 'on our terms' within provincial planning rules, using new Official Plan frameworks to guide development.
• Points to negotiated barrier-free homes in new Baden and New Hamburg neighbourhoods to support aging in place.

Confidence:High