August 3, 2026

Dear Neighbour,
 

For many years, I have had the privilege of serving our community in a variety of volunteer leadership roles, including as Chair of the Durham Catholic District School Board. Throughout that time, I have believed that public service is about listening, bringing people together, and  standing up for the community when it matters most.

Today, I am honoured to announce that I am running for Local Councillor in Whitby's Centre Ward 3.
I have decided to run because I believe our community is at a crossroads. The decisions made over the next four years will shape the future of Whitby for generations to come.

 

We need strong, independent leadership that will put residents first.
The issue that ultimately convinced me to enter this race is the proposed redevelopment of the Whitby GO Station. The application seeks approval for 2,355 residential units in six towers reaching as high as 45 storeys. This proposal would dramatically change the character of our community and place enormous pressure on our roads, transit, schools, parks, and municipal services.

Residents deserve a councillor who will ask tough questions, demand transparency, and ensure that growth is planned responsibly—not imposed without meaningful community input.
 

At the same time, families across Whitby are struggling with an affordability crisis. Rising costs for groceries, housing, utilities, and everyday necessities have left many households stretched to the limit. Municipal government cannot solve every financial challenge, but it can stop making life more expensive.
That is why I support freezing property taxes for the next two years. Town Hall must learn to live within its means just as families do every day. We need smarter spending, greater accountability, and a renewed focus on delivering value for taxpayers.

Public safety is another issue that demands immediate attention. Residents and businesses have expressed growing concerns about safety in Downtown Whitby. Our downtown should be a welcoming destination where families feel comfortable shopping, dining, and attending community events. I will work with residents, businesses, the Durham Regional Police, and community organizations to support practical measures that improve safety while strengthening our vibrant downtown.

If elected, I will be a councillor who is accessible, accountable, and committed to listening. I believe decisions should be made with the community—not simply presented to the community after the fact.
 

My priorities are clear:
• Protect our neighbourhoods by ensuring responsible planning and thoughtful growth.
• Oppose inappropriate overdevelopment that fails to respect existing communities.
• Freeze property taxes for two years and promote responsible fiscal management.
• Improve safety and revitalize Downtown Whitby.
• Increase transparency and public engagement at Town Hall.
• Be a strong, independent voice for the residents of Centre Ward 3.
 

This election is about more than choosing a councillor—it is about choosing the kind of community we want Whitby to be.
 

I would be honoured to earn your trust and your support. Over the coming weeks, I look forward to meeting you at your door, hearing your concerns, and discussing how together we can build a stronger, safer, and more affordable Whitby.

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I respectfully ask for your support on Election  Day.
 

Sincerely,
 

John Rinella
Candidate for Local Councillor
Whitby Centre Ward