Yellowknife’s municipal election contenders engaged in a dialogue with high school students at École Sir John Franklin High School during a forum held on Thursday evening. Both mayoral aspirants and the 13 city council hopefuls in attendance were required to provide written responses in advance. A gong was used to signal when speakers exceeded their allocated time.
During the event, students Daphne Richard, Tendesai Mufandaedza, and Logan Doll posed inquiries to the candidates regarding strategies to tackle issues like homelessness, promoting active transportation to reduce carbon emissions, and enhancing recreational activities. The candidates also fielded questions on key election topics such as downtown revitalization and housing, which had been previously discussed in forums earlier in the week.
Regarding homelessness, the candidates were questioned on their plans to address homelessness and addiction challenges in Yellowknife. Suggestions included the need for additional housing units and city support for organizations looking to construct affordable and social housing. Candidate Jeremy Flatt emphasized the importance of providing shelter for vulnerable individuals rather than solely relying on increased enforcement measures.
In terms of transportation, candidates were asked if they would alter the city’s approach to encourage alternative modes of transportation such as walking, cycling, and public transit to reduce carbon emissions. Candidate Rob Foote highlighted the recently adopted transportation plan by the city council and proposed further refinement to prioritize snow clearing, public transportation, and road safety throughout the year.
On the topic of recreation, candidates were questioned on their plans to maintain and enhance public recreational facilities in the city, particularly after the abandonment of the Canada Winter Games bid. Candidate Nazim Awan stressed the need to explore alternative funding opportunities beyond major sporting events. Candidate Simon Whitehouse advocated for improving existing recreation programs before committing to costly new projects.
Candidate Fraser Fuite proposed innovative and cost-effective ways to enhance recreation, including the idea of introducing penguins to attract tourists. However, his time was cut short by the gong before he could elaborate on the concept further.
The forum provided a platform for students to engage with candidates on critical issues impacting the city’s future, ranging from housing and transportation to recreation and community development.