The Voters Debate - Delivered

Housing is increasingly out of reach for many Thunder Bay workers. What specific tools would you use as mayor to increase the supply of affordable rental and ownership housing?

Some new subdivisions have been criticized as operating like gated communities made up of exclusively high-end homes with little affordable housing. Do you see this as a problem, and how would you respond to residents concerned about these developments?

The SMART Growth Action Plan and other City documents promote infill and densification as part of the growth strategy. Is the City on the right track, and how would you like to see development occur in Thunder Bay?

Some see a tension between supporting downtown revitalization and local business while also encouraging big box stores and suburban growth. How would you address those concerns, and where should City resources be focused when planning for growth?

Walkable neighbourhoods are shown to benefit small, local businesses, but many new developments in Thunder Bay have favoured big box stores with large parking lots. Would you support changing City planning rules to encourage smaller, locally owned businesses?

The City's Temporary Shelter Village and Encampment Response Plan are intended to help address homelessness in Thunder Bay. Do you support the current approach, and what long-term strategy would you pursue to address the crisis?

Public safety affects everyone, and local businesses are especially sensitive to crime and disorder. What strategies or funding would you put in place to address safety in our downtown areas?

Thunder Bay Police have been vocal that we cannot police our way out of crime and social disorder. Rather we need upstream investments, community building initiatives and pro-social infrastructure, like libraries, to address root causes. Can you describe in some detail what that looks like to you and your vision for pro-active, upstream investments that the municipality can undertake.

City Council appoints the majority of the Police Service Board, and the mayor serves on the Board directly. Concerns have been raised in the community about police accountability and public trust, and many Indigenous community leaders have advocated for systemic change for years. What governance or operational changes would you advocate for at the Police Service Board to address both crime reduction and public trust in our local police service?

Thunder Bay is projected to face a labour shortage, and many businesses report difficulty finding the skilled workers they need to grow. What is your plan to attract the labour force Thunder Bay needs?

Small businesses employ about two-thirds of the Canadian workforce and are a critical part of our neighbourhoods. How would you use City resources to support the local small business community?

Thunder Bay Public Library has adopted a 'Social Procurement' policy, which sets spending targets for purchasing from local business and Indigenous owned businesses. The Chamber of Commerce is now advocating for similar 'Buy Local' policies for the City. Would you support the City adopting 'Buy Local' programs that aim to support local businesses, even if it may mean paying higher prices?

Indigenous economic activity contributes almost $700 million to local GDP and $1.55 billion in economic impact, yet the city has a reputation for racism and discrimination. How would you support Indigenous residents and make Thunder Bay a hub for Indigenous-led economic growth?

The City has adopted a target-based approach to tax increases. The aim is for the rate of tax increases to roughly match the pace of inflation. Do you agree with this approach and under what circumstances should Council approve higher tax rates?

Thunder Bay has an infrastructure gap of over $30 million a year, meaning each year the City falls $30 million further behind in maintaining its assets. How would you close that gap and ensure the community has well-maintained, high-quality infrastructure?

Community groups have asked the City to invest in a growing list of services, including sports facilities, entertainment venues, and arts and culture, often with large price tags and long-term debt. What responsibility does the municipal government have for improving quality of life beyond delivering basic municipal services?

Many parents struggle to find childcare spaces, which keeps some from returning to the workforce. Would you support expanding the City's childcare programs, and how would you address the cost of raising a child for Thunder Bay families?