Erika Montero for Ward 1, Elora Get Involved

Ward 1 The place we call home.

Our downtown, neighbourhood streets, parks, and public spaces shape everyday life in Elora. I’m running to represent Ward 1 with a focus on the people who live here and the decisions that will shape our community’s future.

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Ward 1

WARD 1

ELORA

COMMUNITY

WARD 1

ELORA

COMMUNITY

Life in Elora

Living here makes it personal.

Elora’s character comes from the life happening here every day: neighbours stopping to talk, independent shops opening their doors, people walking downtown, and families spending time by the river.

I see that life from both sides of my shop counter and on the short walk home. I also hear the questions people are asking. Can I find somewhere to live? Can I get downtown to run an errand? What’s happening to the trees on my street? Will residents have a meaningful say before a decision is made?

These are the everyday experiences I want to bring into Council discussions.

A colourful storefront streetscape in downtown Elora

Official ward information

Do you live in Ward 1?

Check your address using the Township’s official ward lookup. For confirmation of your ward for the 2026 election, consult the Township’s election information or contact the municipal office.

Find Your Ward Official Election Information

Local issues

The decisions shaping life in Elora

Downtown access, parking & tourism

A trip downtown should work for the people picking up a prescription, visiting the library, shopping locally, or getting home. Parking availability, accessible spaces, and clear access to residential streets all affect whether that trip is straightforward or frustrating.

The Township has acknowledged problems with parking enforcement and is working toward a different service model. As that work moves forward, I want residents’ everyday needs at the centre of the discussion: reliable enforcement, more accessible and short-stop spaces, and designated resident parking.

A welcoming Elora needs a downtown that serves its community throughout the year.

Township project information

Neighbourhood streets, trees & heritage

The Smith Street reconstruction began on September 8, 2026, with the Victoria Crescent portion planned to follow in 2027. The work brings several important questions together: how we renew aging infrastructure, make walking safer, protect trees, and respect the character of an established neighbourhood.

The Township’s project information records residents’ concerns about tree canopy, speeding, and traffic movement. These details matter to the people who live with the results long after construction ends.

I believe residents deserve early explanations of the options, clear reasons for decisions, and timely notice when work affects their homes. Caring for infrastructure and caring for a neighbourhood need to happen together.

Township project information

Housing & room to stay

A community needs homes for people at different stages of life: young adults starting out, families needing more space, renters looking for stability, and older neighbours hoping to downsize nearby.

Centre Wellington’s housing work identifies rising costs, limited rentals, and a need for more housing choices. In Elora, the future of visitor accommodation also belongs in that conversation, with short-term rental licensing deferred for consideration by the next Council.

I support more housing within serviced areas, protection of existing homes, and neighbourhoods where everyday needs are close by. People should have opportunities to build a life here and remain part of the community as their needs change.

Housing Action Plan Short-term rental regulation

Parks, public spaces & getting around

Places like Bissell Park and the Elora Greenspace give people somewhere to meet, rest, play, and spend time together. Safe walking routes and accessible public spaces help more residents take part in community life.

The planned replacement of Bissell Park’s multi-use pad is one example of the decisions ahead about maintaining and improving the places we already use.

My focus is on practical neighbourhood improvements: connected sidewalks, shade, seating, accessible recreation, and welcoming spaces that people can enjoy without having to spend money.

Township project information
David Street Bridge spanning the gorge in Elora

A resident-first approach

What I’ll bring to the table

My approach starts with the everyday needs of residents and the long-term health of our community.

  • A downtown that works for residents and independent businesses.
  • More housing choices within connected neighbourhoods.
  • Careful stewardship of trees, heritage, and public spaces.
  • Reliable infrastructure and responsible spending.
  • Clear information and meaningful opportunities to influence decisions.
Explore My Priorities

Share what you know

Your experience belongs in the conversation.

You know the details of your neighbourhood: the difficult crossing, the recurring parking problem, the public space people depend on, or the question that still needs an answer. Share what you’re experiencing and what you want Council to understand.

I’ll bring curiosity, persistence, and a commitment to explaining where I stand.

Share Your Experience