Hello...
My name is Stephen D'Amelio
and I will work hard as a practical leader that gets results for Ward 13 residents - ready to govern on day one.
I’m a local business owner, community leader, entertainer and advocate with a passion for bringing people together and helping communities grow. Over the years I’ve built businesses, organized events, supported local organizations and worked closely with residents, artists, businesses and community groups throughout London. Serving as a volunteer as Entertainment Director, Bylaws Chair, Vice President & President of Pride London Festival previously and serving as VP of LACA and board member with LUSO currently. Having lived and worked in Ward 13 for over a decade I understand both the challenges and the opportunities facing us and our future. I believe in practical leadership, reliable city services, safer and healthier communities, supporting local business growth and ensuring residents feel heard and represented. My focus is on building a stronger- more connected and more vibrant Ward 13 for everyone.
Why I'm Running
I was raised to believe that real change happens when people stop waiting for solutions and start becoming part of them.
On May 4th 2026 I registered as a candidate for City Council representing Ward 13 ; I wanted to become part of the solution.
MY PLATFORM
Focused on what matters most.
Community Safety & Visibility
A safer, healthier and more connected Ward 13 starts with practical leadership and a balanced approach to public safety. My focus is on improving community well-being by addressing mental health, addiction, crime and public safety together — connecting people to appropriate supports and services while ensuring residents, businesses and visitors feel safe in their neighbourhoods and public spaces. Restoring confidence in our core is essential to encouraging growth, investment and creating stronger communities throughout Ward 13.
What does that look like? Improved lighting, increased visible patrols, faster cleanup of debris, needles and other items, direct support for mental health and addiction services for those in need, safer transit stops and a focus on increasing the capacity of Police - specifically Community outreach officers. Seek to employ Londoners as police officers, community outreach officers and other services required working closely with LPS.
Business Growth
I believe London and specifically Ward 13 - have a major opportunity to grow our overall economy by better leveraging our strengths in arts, entertainment, sports, culture, cuisine, heritage and local business rather than possibly having to rely on raising taxes. As a UNESCO Music City we should be working more closely with provincial, federal and private-sector partners to attract investment & tourism which attracts larger audiences that see, hear and enjoy the incredible talent and experiences our city has to offer. My focus is on creating a safer, more vibrant and more connected downtown core through expanded festivals, free public events, live entertainment and pedestrian-friendly spaces that support residents, businesses and visitors alike. By embracing thoughtful growth and building on the unique energy of Ward 13, we can create a stronger and more exciting future for our community.
What does that look like? Increase in Support for Patio Culture/Events, Vacant Storefront First Strategies (Artwork, Temporary Pop-Up Events Business Program), Partner, Create and Allow for more Activation and Engagement Opportunities within Sports, Food, Music, Culture and Art across Ward 13.
Improving City Services
Reliable city services are one of the most important responsibilities of local government and residents deserve leadership that is proactive, responsive and visible in the community every day. My focus is on addressing the everyday challenges facing Ward 13 by working directly with residents and businesses to identify concerns early, respond quickly and ensure issues are resolved efficiently. Whether it’s road maintenance, cleanliness, bylaw concerns, snow removal, infrastructure, or residential needs, I believe residents should feel heard and supported when they reach out for help. By improving communication, accountability and responsiveness at the local level we can build stronger confidence in city services in the area and create a better quality of life throughout Ward 13.
What does that look like? I will fight hard for faster snow clearing (including the sidewalks and bus stops) , Quicker response to needles and encampment concerns, Better garbage collection reliability and the installation of more collection points, More visible bylaw enforcement in problem areas and Safer sidewalks and lighting near transit corridors
Improving Transit & Connectivity in Ward 13
Reliable and accessible transit is essential to supporting residents, workers, students, businesses, and the continued growth of Ward 13. My focus is on enhancing public transit services within the ward by improving reliability, accessibility, connectivity, and overall rider experience while ensuring services keep pace with residential growth and community needs. I believe we should be open to exploring innovative partnerships, new technologies, and additional transportation solutions that help strengthen service efficiency and reduce gaps in coverage without placing additional financial pressure on taxpayers. By improving how people move throughout Ward 13 and the downtown core, we can create a more connected, accessible, and economically active community that better serves residents and businesses alike.
The Plan.
How I will achieve results.
Improving
Safety
I will advocate for increased attention to downtown safety concerns including lighting, visible community safety measures, faster response to problem areas and stronger collaboration between city services, outreach organizations and residents.
I will push for quicker action on recurring concerns including discarded needles, vandalism, unsafe public spaces and areas residents and business alike repeatedly identify as safety concerns.
I want Ward 13 residents to feel safe walking, taking transit, visiting local businesses and enjoying public spaces at any time of day.
