A Little About Brian

 

My family's connection to Scarborough runs deep. My father, who is now 90, arrived in Canada from Ireland in his 20s. With just two friends and $50, he began to build a new life in Toronto. My mother, from Northern Ontario, put herself through school and became a bilingual French teacher. They eventually met and chose to start their life together in Scarborough—and that’s where my story begins.

My earliest memories are from Cliffside Village near Birchmount and Danforth. We later moved to the Wexford area, living near Wexford Woods and Ashtonbee. My education began at Precious Blood, continued at Neil McNeil, Centennial College's Progress Campus, and included some courses at York. Professionally, I obtained my Real Estate License through OREA and my OMVIC Certification from George Brown.

Scarborough has always been my home base. In my 20s, I explored other parts of the city, living in downtown Toronto and the Beaches before finding my way back to Scarborough. My early political leanings were shaped during this time, and I typically voted for the Chretien Liberals federally.

My professional life as a Realtor has given me a unique perspective on the community. I’ve worked with Century 21, Home@Ease, and Re/Max, and I've helped countless people find their homes in West Hill, Highland Creek, Malvern, and other great Scarborough neighborhoods. I even had a younger face on billboards in the Huron Park Community Centre and on garbage cans in the West Hill and Port Union areas—yes, I was an "Award Winning Realtor." My work went beyond residential properties to include downtown condos and even commercial leasing for industrial and retail units here in Scarborough.

My personal life became more rooted in Scarborough when my wife and I purchased our first home near Highland Creek in 2006. We bought a second home in West Hill in 2010—a 45-foot wide, 200-foot deep lot perfect for our child to grow up in.

When it comes to local politics, I’ve always been engaged. I voted for Ron Moeser in the 2006 and 2010 municipal elections. In 2014, I decided to run against him myself. However, a surprising turn of events led me to withdraw my name and put it on the ballot for Trustee instead. During this period, I had the opportunity to meet Jennifer McKelvie. In the end, both my wife and I decided to withdraw from all races, and I cast my vote for Jennifer McKelvie.

 

Here are some reasons I want to run now:

 

During my separation, I sold our West Hill family home. While I helped my ex-wife find a new home, I struggled to find adequate rental housing for myself, and eventually rented from a friend’s parents. This personal experience, coupled with my years as a Realtor helping divorcing couples navigate the housing market, solidified my conviction about the need for affordable housing, backyard suite homes, and a greater variety of housing options across the city. This is an issue I am passionate about.

My connection to this area is deep—I always return to Scarborough, and now I am back again. I am ready to serve all residents of this ward, bringing a perspective that is without bias or nepotism.

 

In my view, good representation starts with listening. Despite Rob Ford’s flaws, I always admired that he listened to his constituents first and foremost. That commitment to serving the community is a quality I seek to bring to this role.

 

My work ethic is tireless, and I am committed to putting in the long hours required to serve this community effectively. I will be a hands-on representative for all residents.

 

Brian Matthews, Candidate for Councillor, Ward 25 Scarborough-Rouge Park