Jon Burnside announces candidacy in Ward 26

TORONTO , Jan. 25 /CNW/ - Jon Burnside today announced his candidacy to become the next Toronto City Councillor in Ward 26.

"I think we need a new direction at City Hall and better results for our community. As a Police Officer, youth coach and small business owner, I have had the chance to learn about the issues that matter in our community and I have a 20 year track record of getting things done," said Burnside.

Jon Burnside's lifetime of service to his community began as a member of the Toronto Police Service, between 1991 and 2001, spending 6 years working in the traffic division and 4 years on patrol. Over his 10 years as a Police Officer, Burnside worked in Leaside, Thorncliffe Park & Flemingdon Park, making these communities safer.

Jon Burnside has been a positive force in the lives of young people for more than 20 years in his role as a coach and organizer for youth hockey, soccer and baseball programs in Thorncliffe Park and Leaside.

Recently, Burnside spearheaded the re-introduction of House League hockey in Flemingdon Park. "It took three years to get this program organized, but I knew that these kids deserved - and needed - the opportunity to learn and enjoy hockey. Being a part of creating a better neighbourhood for our kids to grow up in has always been a priority for me."

In getting this new program started, Burnside engaged the Toronto Police Service, City of Toronto officials, charitable organizations and numerous corporate partners. Coaching, icetime and equipment, were all donated so that 65 girls and boys in Flemingdon Park and Thorncliffe Park could learn and enjoy hockey each Sunday.

Jon Burnside has been a community leader for over two decades. He is a member of the Leaside Rotary Club, a volunteer at the Community Share Food Bank and is a member of the special Fundraising Committee working to build a new arena in Leaside.

"To get things back on track, we need fresh blood at City Hall and that's exactly what I offer - new ideas, unparalleled commitment and better results. Running for City Council is not the start of something new for me - it is a continuation of the work I have been doing in our community for over 20 years."

As a Police Officer, small business owner, mentor, youth sports coach and community leader, Jon has been an energetic and positive force in his community for more than 2 decades.

For further information: Andrew Hanna, [phone], [email protected], www.jonburnside.com