|
The campaigns began on January 1, and throughout the year there were occasional statements and references to the key contenders. Campaign energy began to pickup in September, right after Labor Day. Through October, candidates were in full swing, and contenders began to stand out. In the first two weeks of November, the campaigns began to get vicious, both on television and on the streets. Finally, decision day is here.
For those involved in the municipal elections, time has moved quickly. There have been many debates, many meetings, and daily coverage in the newspapers. Issues and solutions have been talked to death, and there are many different visions for our city. While some platform promises are in direct contention, the lead contenders also agree on a variety of points.
The main topics during this election campaign have been transit plans and garbage plans. These two areas have the most direct daily impact on the lives of Torontonians. In addition, there has been talk about the Gardiner Expressway, the waterfront, the Island airport, and even the NFL. The eyes of the public have been directed to look at issues that allow a lot of debate, but which only address the surface of the city.
While the media gave very little attention to certain topics, the public made their views heard. Some groups voiced concern about hatred and discrimination, while other groups are concerned about poverty and housing. Some groups are very concerned about the polluting Portlands Energy Centre, but it hardly deserved a mention during the campaigns. While David and Jane argued about landfill versus incinerator, the core issues of Torontonians have been overlooked.
The crumbling infrastructure of the city did not make headlines, but the people of the city are frustrated with their experiences. While fears about street safety occasionally surfaced, the answer 'more police' seemed to placate most. Development that changes neighborhoods is also in contention. There is much concern about high density planning, particularly since support services are not being added for all the extra people. While many got caught up in the debate topics, the real concerns of the people of Toronto were ignored.
The bottom line is that the financial requirements of the city have not been addressed. Toronto is a city where 40% of the people live below the poverty line, where the infrastructure and foundation have been handled reactively for decades, and where stupendous growth is required to turn the city around. We go into the next term hoping for allowances from the federal and provincial governments. Unfortunately, service and development requirements are greater than the total amount of taxes. We will either have to pay higher taxes or let go of some desires.
The next four years is critical to the development of Toronto. Drastic changes are necessary, and while all will make some sacrifice, all people could also experience increased abundance and healthier lifestyles. The city council could become a powerful team that changes the direction of Toronto, leading the city to a glorious future. The environment can be dramatically improved, and living conditions of many can be enhanced. The city can be injected with a brand new energy, and we can work together to build something special.
The path is available; we just have to walk it.
Only November 13, vote for Real Change
Glenn Coles for Mayor of Toronto
http://www.glenn4mayor.com
If you want Real Change, please forward this message
Word of mouth is a powerful tool.
© Copyright 2006 Glenn Stewart Coles
|
|
