About Harj Nijjar

Hello, My name is Harj Nijjar and I am seeking re-election to Stratford City Council.

Four years ago, I entered public service with a simple goal to give back to the community that has given so much to my family and I. As a lifelong resident of Stratford, this community has always been home. It is where I have built my career, grown my businesses, raised my family, and spent many years giving back as an active volunteer in the community.

As a proud husband and father, local business owner, and Information Technology Professional, I have always believed in hard work, responsibility, and giving back. For more than 25 years, I have worked in business and technology, helping grow companies through operational and strategic procurement, maintaining fiscal responsibility, and creating positive work environments. These experiences have shaped the practical and responsible approach I bring to public service.

Over the past four years, it has been a privilege to serve the people of Stratford, and I remain inspired every day by the strength, generosity, and spirit of our community.

As a City Councillor, Deputy Mayor, Vice Chair of the Stratford Police Service Board, Vice Chair of the Infrastructure Committee, and through several other leadership roles, I have worked to make thoughtful, balanced decisions that put Stratford’s long term interests first. Whether the issue has involved public safety, infrastructure, housing, economic development, or responsible financial management, my commitment has remained the same: listen carefully, lead with integrity, and always put our community before politics.

I believe Stratford is entering one of the most important periods in its history.

Our city is growing. New opportunities are emerging, but so are new challenges. The decisions we make over the next four years will shape Stratford for decades to come. We must continue to invest in:

  • Responsible Financial Management & Smart Growth

Delivering value for taxpayers while investing in the infrastructure needed for Stratford’s future.

  • Housing, Business & Economic Opportunity

Supporting more housing choices, local businesses, investment, and good paying jobs.

  • Safe, Strong & Connected Communities

Supporting public safety, addressing homelessness through practical solutions, and ensuring responsive community services that strengthen neighbourhoods.

  • Protecting Stratford’s Quality of Life

Preserving Stratford’s character while investing in parks, recreation, arts, culture, youth, seniors, families, and an inclusive community for everyone.

These challenges require practical leadership, collaboration, and a willingness to bring people together to find solutions.

That has always been my approach.

I believe leadership begins with listening. It means treating people with respect, making informed decisions, being transparent and accountable, and earning trust through actions, not words. Those principles have guided every decision I have made, and they will continue to guide me in the years ahead.

For me, serving Stratford is personal. This is the community where my family and I have built our lives. As a father, husband, business owner, and active member of the community, I understand how important it is that residents feel heard, represented, safe, and proud of the place they call home. I believe that advocating for residents and listening to their concerns is at the heart of good public service.

I am seeking another term because I believe Stratford’s future has never been brighter.

We are a city built on innovation, entrepreneurship, manufacturing, agriculture, arts and culture, volunteerism, and neighbours who care deeply about one another. Together, we have the opportunity to build a community that remains financially strong, economically vibrant, environmentally responsible, and an exceptional place to live, work, raise a family, and invest.

To everyone who has supported and encouraged me over the past four years, thank you. Your trust has been both humbling and inspiring.

I respectfully ask for your support once again as we continue building a stronger Stratford together.

The best chapters of Stratford’s story are still ahead, and I would be honoured to continue helping write them.