Full Podcast: https://lovethenorth.ca/article/260904-ward-karan-wants-to-make What should municipal government focus on first — big projects, or the everyday issues residents deal with in their own neighbourhoods? In our conversation with Ward 8 candidate Karan Bedhesha, his priorities centred on making Sudbury more affordable, accessible and safe. Karan says residents are raising concerns about road conditions, sidewalks, accessibility, neighbourhood safety and the rising cost of living. He argues that basic infrastructure has to work for everyone — including seniors and people with mobility challenges who may struggle with poorly maintained sidewalks, parks or neighbourhood streets. Affordability is another major concern. Property taxes continue to put pressure on homeowners, but the impact doesn’t stop there. When taxes and operating costs rise for landlords and businesses, some of those costs can eventually be passed along through higher rents and prices. Karan says Sudbury needs to look at new ways of reducing that burden while still funding the services residents depend on. He also believes seniors who have contributed to the community for decades deserve greater consideration as housing and living costs continue to rise. Safety, in his view, should also involve the community itself. Karan wants to see greater use of neighbourhood watch and citizen patrol programs, creating stronger connections between residents while allowing police resources to remain focused on more serious calls. That means roads that are maintained, public spaces that are accessible, neighbourhoods where people feel safe and a city that remains affordable enough for young families, working people and seniors to stay. Is Greater Sudbury is putting enough attention — and enough resources — into those everyday priorities. #Sudbury #GreaterSudbury #Ward8 #KaranBedhesha #Affordability #Accessibility #CommunitySafety #PropertyTaxes #NorthernOntario