Meet Melissa Debicki (She/her)
Melissa is one of four adopted children in a multi-racial family and grew up in Hamilton's west end. The daughter of a social worker and an artist, she has been learning about diversity and the lived experiences of people across Hamilton from a young age. Melissa's continued work on cultural awareness has shaped her understanding of the city and strengthened her commitment to improvement.
As a long-standing member of Skilled Trades Ontario, Melissa has worked professionally in customer-focused positions for over twenty years. This has allowed her to build relationships with local residents and businesses, giving her firsthand insight into the increasing systemic barriers within the city affecting vulnerable residents.
Following a e-bike accident involving her son in 2025, Melissa has become a strong advocate for recreational e-device safety and regulation, working with local and national organizations to improve public awareness. She has also been an advocate for updates to Canada's parental benefits. These issues, along with Hamilton's proposed AI data centres, have motivated her decision to run in the 2026 election.
Melissa currently lives in Ward 6 with her husband, their two children, and family dog. There, she continues to advocate for better access and safe, inclusive communities for everyone.
Melissa is committed to making sure Hamilton remains a city that is safe, inclusive, and prepared for the opportunities and challenges of the future.