When Mark Sutcliffe campaigned for office four years ago, he made numerous commitments totaling over 170 in his 2022 election platform. These included promises to maintain low taxes, increase paramedic presence, plant a million trees, address LRT issues, and more. As he seeks reelection this October, CBC has scrutinized whether he fulfilled these pledges during his first term.
According to his communications director, Tahera Mufti, Sutcliffe’s team claims that he has delivered on over 90% of his commitments, which they have meticulously tracked. However, while they consider 86 promises fully completed, 75 are labeled as “done and ongoing,” indicating ongoing efforts or pending outcomes. There are 11 promises that remain unfulfilled, with some still in progress and a few showing no action taken.
In terms of taxes and spending, Sutcliffe adhered to his commitment of a maximum 2.5% tax hike for his first two years in office and targeted a similar level for the subsequent years, although tax increases exceeded this in recent years due to economic conditions and inflation. While he initiated a spending review resulting in significant efficiencies, he failed to fulfill a promise to reduce recreation fees by 10%.
Regarding public safety, Sutcliffe succeeded in hiring additional paramedics and police officers, significantly reducing “level zero” ambulance unavailability. However, crime rates in certain areas did not show improvement as promised, despite implementing crime-fighting measures and alternative approaches to mental health crises.
On transit issues, Sutcliffe took steps to address LRT problems and expand the O-Train network, although challenges persist with ongoing LRT issues and delays in certain extensions. Funding for future phases remains uncertain despite efforts to secure support from higher levels of government.
In road and transportation matters, Sutcliffe fulfilled promises to invest in road repairs, enhance traffic calming measures, and improve cycling infrastructure. However, some commitments related to noisy truck traffic and certain road projects were only partially completed.
In the housing sector, Sutcliffe aimed to boost affordable housing by facilitating new developments and transitional housing projects. While progress has been made, challenges persist in meeting ambitious housing targets within the specified timeframe.
In environmental initiatives, Sutcliffe made strides in reducing single-use plastics, enhancing city facilities, and convening environmental forums. However, some goals such as tree planting targets and building retrofits have faced obstacles, leading to adjustments in plans and timelines.
Overall, while Sutcliffe has made progress on several fronts, there are lingering challenges and unfulfilled promises that will shape the evaluation of his performance as voters head to the polls in October.