Northwestern Ontario communities are gearing up for Election Day on October 26, with candidates preparing for the upcoming municipal elections. CBC News reached out to mayoral candidates in various regions to provide responses to three questions. The candidates’ answers have been received and are presented in alphabetical order by community and last name, with minor edits made by CBC News for grammar and word count.
In Ear Falls, Mayor Kevin Kahoot and Kenora Mayor Andrew Poirier have been acclaimed as no opponents are running against them.
In Dryden, incumbent Mayor Jack Harrison is seeking re-election. Harrison highlights the progress made in housing, business development, infrastructure renewal, and recreational facilities during his tenure. He aims to continue the momentum, focusing on reducing taxpayer burdens, negotiating with NWMO for community growth funding, and enhancing airport services if re-elected.
Brenda Sedgwick, another mayoral candidate in Dryden, emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, decision-making transparency, and addressing historical community divisions. She aims to prioritize infrastructure, housing, and human rights literacy if elected.
In Fort Frances, mayoral candidate John McTaggart emphasizes attracting industrial opportunities, creating local jobs, advancing housing initiatives, and ensuring community safety. His priorities include building a cohesive team to drive economic growth and support community well-being.
Mayoral candidate Jodie Defeo in Ignace focuses on infrastructure investments, senior housing, and community belonging to create a resilient and inclusive environment. She plans to reactivate community committees to enhance resident engagement and decision-making processes.
Jeff Lederer, another mayoral candidate in Ignace, plans to address housing, economic development, communication issues, and NWMO preparations. Lederer aims to enhance communication transparency, promote community engagement, and maximize benefits from the NWMO Hosting Agreement.
In Nipigon, mayoral candidate Matthew Dupuis emphasizes local healthcare access, economic diversification, and community engagement. He aims to address homelessness, improve services, and foster collaboration with regional partners if elected.
Terrace Bay incumbent Mayor Paul Malashewski aims to work on finding a viable mill owner, infrastructure development, and community diversification. He stresses the importance of attracting new residents and businesses to promote economic growth.
Aaron Fewkes, a mayoral candidate in Terrace Bay, focuses on strengthening local services, supporting seniors and families, and promoting economic growth beyond a single industry. Fewkes aims to enhance community engagement, public safety, and long-term planning for sustainable growth.
Richard St. Louis, another mayoral candidate in Terrace Bay, plans to concentrate on economic development, diversifying the local economy, and addressing senior housing needs. St. Louis emphasizes the importance of rebuilding infrastructure and attracting new businesses to Terrace Bay.
Sioux Lookout incumbent Mayor Doug Lawrance highlights the community’s challenges related to homelessness, healthcare access, and regional service demands. Lawrance aims to strengthen governance, build partnerships, and prioritize practical and collaborative solutions for community issues.
The mayoral candidates’ responses reflect their individual visions, priorities, and plans for the communities they seek to lead in northwestern Ontario.