East Gwillimbury, ON, June 1, 2026 — Brian Johns, candidate for Mayor, today announced a series of commitments to make East Gwillimbury a community where seniors can afford to live well, stay connected, and age in place with dignity.
At the centre of the announcement is a commitment to freeze all Town user fees for seniors' programming and services for five years — giving seniors on fixed incomes cost certainty through an ongoing affordability crisis.
"Our seniors built East Gwillimbury," said Johns. "They shouldn't have to worry about rising costs just to stay active and connected in the community they've called home their whole lives. This is about affordability, access, and respect for the people who helped build this town."
Beyond the fee freeze, Johns committed to expanding recreational programming tailored to seniors, improving coordination among the seniors' groups operating across the community, and supporting housing options that allow seniors to stay in East Gwillimbury.
To ensure this work is done with seniors rather than for them, Johns will establish a Seniors Advisory Committee — a formal advisory body to Council and staff, with representation from seniors' groups across the community. The Committee would be mandated to develop a Seniors Strategy, including advancing planning for a future Seniors Centre to serve as a hub for programming, services, and connection.
Johns also committed to prioritizing near-term capital improvements at the Holland Landing Community Centre and the Ross Family Complex to meet the immediate needs of seniors while longer-term planning proceeds.
“Brian's support for seniors at Sharon Corners Retirement Living has had a meaningful impact on our community. His commitment to accessibility and community engagement has been a huge influence on the programming offered through the Active Living Plaza, helping create more opportunities for seniors to stay active, social, and connected,” said Linda Pagliuca from
Sharon Corners Retirement Living.
“Brian understands the importance of investing in programs that enhance quality of life and bring people together, making seniors feel valued and supported within Sharon Corners Retirement Living.”
“Brian has served as our Councillor for the last four years and has been a responsive and action-oriented representative for our community,” said Jim Moutsias, a resident in Queensville. “His commitment to Senior's health and well-being has not only been demonstrated over the last four years, but his forward-looking vision supports greater affordability and programming. I fully support Brian as Mayor of East Gwillimbury.”
"I have known Brian since his time growing up at Mount Albert Public School, and wholly support him as the next Mayor of East Gwillimbury,” said Susan Pidgeon, retired teacher of Mount Albert Public School. “His future vision for seniors in our community not only addresses affordability but also lays the groundwork for a future standalone Seniors’ Centre.”
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