The future of Ward 3 starts with listening

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Experience matters. Community matters more.

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Protecting what makes Guelph special.

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A better way forward for Ward 3

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Community isn't just where Marty lives. It's what he has spent a lifetime building.

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The future of Ward 3 starts with listening ~~ Experience matters. Community matters more. ~~ Protecting what makes Guelph special. ~~ A better way forward for Ward 3 ~~ Community isn't just where Marty lives. It's what he has spent a lifetime building. ~~

Better.

Smarter.

Fairer.

Rooted in Community. Focused on Ward 3. Ready to Work for Guelph.

For decades, Marty has helped bring people together, strengthen local organizations, and champion the spirit that makes Guelph unique. Now, he’s ready to bring that same thoughtful leadership and community-first approach to City Council.

Why Marty ?

A Lifetime of Community Leadership

A Commitment to Thoughtful, Practical Action

For decades, Marty has worked alongside residents, businesses, volunteers, and community organizations to help strengthen Guelph and contribute to the city’s growth, vibrancy, and sense of connection. His experience spans community leadership, economic development, governance, housing advocacy, cultural organizations, and province-wide municipal collaboration.

From helping support downtown revitalization and local business growth to serving on boards focused on housing, education, and community engagement, Marty has built a reputation for bringing people together, listening carefully, and focusing on practical solutions that move communities forward.

His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and a belief that strong communities are built through relationships, trust, and shared responsibility.

Experience matters. Community matters more.

Marty is not entering public service for the first time — he has already spent years serving the community through volunteer leadership, civic engagement, and advocacy for local residents and organizations.

    • Former Executive Director of the Downtown Guelph Business Association

    • Served three terms on the University of Guelph Board of Governors

    • 30+ years supporting Hillside Festival, including 10 years on the Board

    • Former President of the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association

    • Current Board member with Habitat for Humanity

    • Board member with Guelph Campus Co-operative

    • responsible leadership

    • collaborative decision-making

    • economic and community development

    • housing affordability challenges

    • municipal best practices from communities across Ontario

Most importantly, Marty understands that good leadership starts with listening — and that the best outcomes happen when communities work together. 

What People are Saying…

  • “Marty Williams has a great ability to come up with ideas and then implement solutions. I have had the pleasure to see Marty in action with his tireless support of the people in Guelph and passion to make this a better place.”

    —Lloyd Longfield, MP for Guelph 2015-2025

  • "Ten years in, Trees for Tots is now one of the Children's Foundation's most successful annual events, raising tens of thousands of dollars for kids across the city of Guelph and it's all because Marty Williams saw an opportunity to step in and turn an unpopular municipal decision into a way to support the lives of growing children.

    — Pete Thurley, former Development Coordinator, CFGW

  • I've known Marty for 35 years and he remains the most constituency-focused leader I've worked with. His unwavering commitment to community and fairness has shaped my own leadership orientation and makes him an exceptional candidate for city council.

    Janet Morrison, former President, Sheridan College; current President, Memorial University of Newfoundland

  • I have known Marty for nearly 30 years. He is a thoughtful communicator, skilled problem solver, and someone who approaches difficult conversations with openness, respect and humour. Combined with his genuine love for the city of Guelph, Marty has all the qualities of an outstanding city councilor.

    Tony Conte, MA Leadership, University of Guelph

  • I've known Marty Williams in a few different capacities for decades. As a customer at The Bookshelf, an outspoken Guelphite, and as the Executive Director of the Downtown Business Association for many years. Marty understands that the issues that Guelph is confronted with are complicated and transcend all too common left vs. right binaries. Solutions are achievable through navigating complex public and private ecosystems. Marty has spent years learning the interplay of these overlapping ecosystems and has a good understanding of how they work so he can make it work for all of us.

    Ben Minett, President, The Bookshelf

GET INVOLVED. Make a difference.

Marty believes strong communities are built by people who care enough to get involved. Whether you’d like to volunteer, request a lawn sign, invite Marty to an event, share ideas, or simply stay informed throughout the campaign, there are many ways to get involved and make a meaningful difference.

Together, we can build a Ward 3 and Guelph that is:

Better, Smarter, Fairer.

If you would like to contribute to the cost of Marty’s campaign click the button…

How to Donate to the campaign