Ward 3 candidate Bryan Jones sees a bright future for Barrie

Nothing but potential.

That’s how Ward 3 candidate Bryan Jones describes Barrie’s future.

“I look around this city and all I see is enormous potential,” he said.

“Barrie is a great city. Everywhere I go, I see opportunities. We just have to unlock that potential.”

A first-time candidate, Jones moved to Barrie from Pickering four years ago, although his family’s roots in the city stretch back decades. He says it did not take long for him and his wife Stephanie to develop a strong connection to Barrie and the Ward 3 community. This bond is what ultimately motivated him to seek a city council seat.

“What struck me was the sense of community and engagement with my neighbours,” he said.

“People actually talk to each other here. They get involved and they care about what happens in their city. They want to see Barrie continue to improve.”

Jones believes his professional experience and community involvement would allow him to be an effective advocate for Ward 3 residents.

“Loving this city as much as I do makes me want to give back,” he said.

“My job on council would be to bring residents’ concerns forward and make sure they’re heard. As far as I’m concerned, if I’m elected, the residents of Ward 3 would be my bosses. I’m accountable to them.”

Jones works as a prosecutor and says the role has equipped him with the skills and experience needed to serve effectively on council.

“The more I looked at the challenges facing Barrie, the more I realized they align with the skills and experience I’ve built throughout my career,” he said.

“As a prosecutor, I’ve spent years dealing with complex issues and finding practical solutions.”

With Barrie growing rapidly, Jones sees a future marked by thriving neighbourhoods, a vibrant waterfront and safe, family-friendly parks.

“This city has so much personality,” he said.

“It’s not a cookie-cutter town – it’s a true gem.”

At the same time, Jones says homelessness, addiction and public safety are among the biggest challenges facing the city. He believes residents and businesses want to see progress and says those issues can be addressed through strong governance and economic growth.

He sees major opportunities emerging from future employment lands in Barrie’s annexed area and supports Mayor Alex Nuttall’s efforts to attract defence manufacturing jobs to the city.

“Nobody ever went wrong with getting more jobs,” Jones said.

“More jobs mean more income for Barrie, more infrastructure and more resources. I support Mayor Nuttall’s efforts to build a stronger economy.”

While canvassing, Jones has been surprised by the response from residents.

“What shocked me was the positivity. People have been welcoming and I’ve really enjoyed the conversations,” he said.

His approach to meeting voters, he says, is straightforward.

“I say to people, ‘If I get in, you’re my boss. What do you want me to do? What’s important to you?’”

Jones says each conversation has reinforced his belief that Barrie has a bright future.

“The more I get to know Barrie, the more I love it,” he said.

Jones is facing Ben Hughes and current Ward 4 Coun. Amy Courser in the race for Ward 3. Incumbent Coun. Ann-Marie Kungl announced in May that she would not seek re-election.

Barrie residents will head to the polls on Oct. 26.