JOE Li
Experience
Matters
EXPERIENCE THAT DELIVERS
〝 You know my record. You know my commitment.And I have the experience to keep Markham moving forward. 〞
Re-elect
Dear Markham Residents,
I am seeking re-election for a fifth term as Regional Councillor for the city of Markham and the Regional Municipality of York.
Experience matters. Since first being elected in 2010, I have had the honour of serving our community for more than 15 years. As the first Hakka Chinese from India elected to public office in Markham, York Region, and Canada, my journey has been shaped by perseverance, entrepreneurship, and a lifelong commitment to public service.
In my current roles, I serve as the Chair of the Development Services Committee Public Meeting, Vice-Chair of Markham’s Development Services Committee, and Vice-Chair of the York Region Environment Committee, Director of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). I remain committed to building a sustainable, inclusive, and economically vibrant future for our city.
As Markham grows, we face critical challenges. With experience, vision, and your support, I will continue to deliver results.
Your support helps keep Markham moving forward as one of Canada’s most dynamic and diverse communities. It’s an honour to serve you on the City of Markham and York Region Councils. I ask for your continued trust as I seek a fifth term.
Joe Li
16+
Years Serving Experience
16+ Years of Experience
Understanding Markham’s changing, needs and the challenges facing residents today.
16+ Years of Community Connections
Building relationship with residents, families, businesses, community organizations and
local leaders
16+ Years of Listening & Serving
Being accessible, responsive and focused on the issues that matter to Markham residents.
16+ Years of Commitment — And We’re Just Getting Started
Ready to bring that experience into the next chapter of Markham’s future.
NEWS UPDATE
Hello world!
Record of Delivers
Improved Transportation
- Spearheaded York Region Transit Digital Solar Bus Shelter System
- Supported Yonge Subway Extension
- Promote Safer Roads, and improve connectivity
- Director, York Region Rapid Transit Corporation
- Chair of Transportation and Engineering Capital Projects
Development and Infrastructure
- Chair, Development Services Public Meeting
- Vice-Chair, Development Services Committee – Planning – Development and Policy
- Provide leadership on Markham’s planning, development, infrastructure, and growth-related matters
Fiscally Responsible
- Spent zero dollars of council discretionary budget for 12 consecutive years saving taxpayers over $100,000
- Saved $140,000 of wasteful spending
- Served on both Markham and York Region Councils, directly shaping major budget and spending decision
Economic Development
- Attract Foreign Direct Investment
- Enabled Holiday Retail Exemptions Advocacy
- Championed “ December Shop Markham”
- Led Regional Development initiatives and served on Toronto Global to advance investment, job creation and economic growth across the region
- Promote Cultural and Small Business Alliances
Markham on The World Stage
- Hosted 31st World Hakka Conference
- Organized the first Cross-Strait Hakka Economic and Cultural Summit
- Trade missions and Partnerships in China, India, Norway, Sweden, and United Kingdom
Investing in Youth and Families
- Supported Mount Joy Soccer Dome Development
- Served on Markham Public Library Board
- Provided resources and supported York Region Police and community programs to combat crime and keep Markham safe
Democratic Representation
- Instrumental in Queen’s Park legislation that required York’s regional Chair to be elected rather than appointed
- Introduced a by-election process for Markham Council vacancies
Environmental Leadership
- Vice-Chair of York Region Environment Committee
- Director, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority
- Advanced Automated Waste Collection System initiatives
Cultural Recognition
- Enacted by-law of December Christian Heritage Month
- February Chinese Heritage Month and June Hakka Heritage Week
- Served on Race Relations Committee & York Region Human Services Planning Board
MARKHAM FORWARD
MOVE Markham
Better Transit, Better Roads, Better Connections
- Advocating for better transit, safer roads and improved connectivity
- Advancing sustainability and green initiatives for a cleaner Markham
SAFE Markham
Safter Streets. Stronger Communities
- Support police, community programs and initiatives that keep Markham safe
GROW Markham
More Jobs. Better Services. A Stronger Economy
- Support smart development and local jobs
- Growing Canada’s “High Tech Capital” attracting better jobs
AFFORDABLE Markham
More Housing Choice, Lower-Cost Living. Better Value for Taxpayers
- Housing Affordability and Choice
- Protected taxpayer dollars with smart, transparent and accountable spending
- Managing development responsibly while protecting neighbourhoods and quality of life
MEET
JOE Li
A Life of Experience
A Commitment to Markham
Serving Markham and York Region since 2010
Joe’s journey from India to Sweden and Canada brings together business experience, an international perspective and more than 16 years of service to Markham
Joe's Journey
From entrepreneurship to public service
-
An International Journey 1974
Moved from Sweden to Canada and began the entrepreneurial journey
-
Making Canada home 1984
Settled in Canada, building career and family
-
Business & Finance 1988 -1998
Built a financial services career, then established my own business
-
Elected to serve 2010
First elected Regional Councilor for Markham and York Region
-
Re-elected three times 2014 | 2018 | 2022
Continued to represent residents at City and Regional councils
-
15+ years of service Since 2010
Experience across planning, economic development, transportation & the environment
Endorsement
Juanita Nathan
Member of Parliament (MP) Juanita Nathan, Pickering- Brooklin
Joe’ experience, dedication, and vision make him a strong advocate for Markham’s diverse and growing community. As a former colleague at Markham Council. I am proud to endorse his re-election as Markham Regional Councillor.
Steve Pellegrini
Steve Pellegrini, Mayor of King
For 16 years at York Regional Council, Joe Li had demonstrated strong leadership and an unwavering commitment to ethical public service. As a colleague, I can attest that Regional Councillor Joe Li isa man of integrity, honestly, and I look forward to working with him again at York Regional Council
John Gray
John Gray, 30 year resident of Unionville
Joe Li has served Markham and provided veteran leadership for 16 years. His management skills and enthusiasm for Markham will surely be required in the coming term.
Pat Sage
Pat Sage, 37 year resident of Unionville
I have known Joe for 40 years. He takes nothing for granted and works hard for our City of Markham and our residents. I support Joe’s re-election for Regional Councillor. Please make your choice count, our future depends on it.
Alicai Chiu
Alicai Chiu, Prominent Filipino Community Leader
I’m proud to endorse Joe Li for re-election to Regional Council. I’ve known Joe for many years and had the opportunity to work alongside him with my husband. I know him to be dedicated, hardworking and committed to our community. I’m pleased to support Joe as he seeks another term on Regional Council.
Kenny Wan
Kenny Wan, Kenny Wan CPA Professional Corporation
I have known Joe Li for almost 30 years even before his election to the Markham Council. Joe deserves your support because he is always concerned with the well being of the community and strives to develop our city as the best place to work and live. As a Markham resident and business owner, Joe has my vote and please follow me to send Joe Li to Council again!
Yan Liu
Yan Liu, Lawyer, Y. Liu Law Firm
I have known Joe Li for over 20 years. He has always been approachable, sincere and deeply committed to our community. Whether supporting community events, local initiatives, or individuals in need, Joe is always there. His dedication to serving other extends far beyond election time and has remained consistent for decades. Joe’s experience, integrity, and genuine love for the community make a lasting difference.
Pravin Gandhi
Pravin Gandhi, Vice President Sanatan Mandir Cultural Centre Prominent Indian Community Leader
Joe Li brings the leadership, vision, and fresh ideas needed to move Markham confidently into the future. His energy, experience and commitment to our diverse and growing community make him a strong advocate for a more inclusive, innovative, and prosperous Markham
Trust Across Our Community
Ready to Vote?
Your voice. Your vote. Markham’s future.
A city-wide election for Markham’s City Council and local school boards will be held from Oct 16 to 26, 2026
If you are:
- 18 or older by Oct 26,2026
- a Canadian citizen
- A Markham resident, landowner or tenant (or the spouse of one); and
- Registered to vote
Check update and add your information on Markham’s municipal voter’s list. Its quick and easy
Re-elect Joe Li for Markham Regional Councilor
EXPERIENCE THAT DELIVERS !
We'd Love To Hear From You
contact us
Contact Joe Li
- Telephone: (647) 479-8738
- Email: joeli@joeli.ca / joe@joeli.ca
Donations
- E-Transfer: Reelectjoeli@gmail.com
- Cheques Payable: "Joe Li for Markham Regional Councillor 2026"
Campaign Office
- 18 Crown Steel Drive, Suite 108
- Markham, ON L3R 9X8