Westmount vote 2025:
Michael Stern – Mayor

WestmountMag.ca invites Westmount City Council candidates to present their platform

WestmountMag.ca extended an invitation to all 25 Westmount council candidates and those acclaimed, to provide an article about themselves and their platform on a first supplied, first published basis. Here we present Michael Stern, candidate for Mayor.

The articles are reproduced verbatim without corrections.

Listen, Lead and Deliver: Vote for Michael Stern for Mayor of Westmount

After more than 35 years of living in Westmount, I have made the decision to run for Mayor in the upcoming election. This city is where my wife and I raised our three children, built lifelong friendships, and experienced the strong sense of community that has always defined Westmount. I have seen first-hand what makes this city special and, in recent years, what has begun to erode the quality of life that residents deserve.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of advising companies, entrepreneurs, and philanthropic organizations across Montreal. Those experiences taught me how to listen, analyze, and act responsibly in complex environments. I learned the importance of efficiency, transparency, and accountability: values that must guide any well-functioning organization, including a city.

Westmount needs strong financial stewardship, modernized services, and a renewed commitment to its citizens. My goal is to help bring those principles back to the forefront of municipal governance.

Investing in Infrastructure and Facilities

Our infrastructure is aging, and residents see it every day in our streets, sidewalks, and public spaces. Maintaining and improving these assets is essential to preserving Westmount’s character and functionality. Roads, parks, and recreational facilities should reflect the high standards of the community they serve. Thoughtful planning and responsible budgeting can ensure that upgrades are done efficiently and sustainably, without burdening taxpayers.

We need a long-term infrastructure plan that prioritizes the essentials, eliminates inefficiencies, and improves coordination between departments. Westmount can once again be a model of civic pride, where our facilities are safe, accessible, and well maintained for all generations.

Improving Basic Services

Residents consistently express frustration with the quality and consistency of basic municipal services. Garbage and recycling collection, snow removal, and permit processing are all areas where improvement is urgently needed. The current systems are outdated and fail to meet the expectations of today’s citizens.

Modernizing service delivery requires both process reform and investment in technology. A more efficient permitting system would reduce wait times and make it easier for residents and contractors to complete projects. Service departments should have clear performance standards and be held accountable for results. A city should function as its residents’ most responsive service provider, not as a source of red tape or delay.

Strengthening Public Safety and Security

Every Westmount resident has the right to feel safe in their neighbourhood. The increase in car theft, vandalism, and petty crime has left many feeling uneasy. Addressing these concerns requires cooperation between law enforcement, city administration, and the community.

Enhanced security measures, improved lighting, and better coordination with the SPVM can make a measurable difference. At the same time, proactive communication about incidents and prevention strategies will help residents stay informed and engaged. Public safety is not only about enforcement; it is about building a sense of trust and shared responsibility across the community.

Ensuring Transparency and Accountability

Transparency and accountability must be at the heart of city leadership. Residents deserve clear, accessible explanations about how their tax dollars are being used. Major projects should be presented with full details on cost, timelines, and community impact, and residents should be given the opportunity to share their concerns and priorities before decisions are finalized.

An open and transparent City Hall helps restore confidence in local government. I believe that effective governance is built on listening to residents, understanding their needs, and responding with honesty and clarity. Regular updates, better communication tools, and consistent engagement can bring City Hall closer to the people it serves.

Michael Stern, CPA, ICD.D, is a Chartered Professional Accountant, former Partner at Ernst & Young, and longtime Westmount resident. He is a candidate for Mayor in the November 2, 2025 election.

Image: courtesy of Michael SternRead other candidate platforms