With the federal election a few short weeks away, Mayor Rob Keffer wants to make sure the York-Simcoe candidates are aware of the town's important projects and key issues.
Last week, Mayor Keffer, on behalf of council, sent a letter to all four York-Simcoe federal election candidates, Conservative incumbent Scot Davidson, Liberal candidate Daniella Johnson, People's Party of Canada candidate Michael Lotter, and NDP candidate Benjamin Jenkins, outlining the main concerns for The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury.
"I wanted to send the letter to all candidates so they would know what is important to our residents and they could educate themselves on issues that affect our Town. It would generate discussion when the candidates meet residents," said Keffer.
The letter acknowledged how BWG is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Ontario and the largest urban centre in the riding.
"We are proud of what we’ve accomplished but are nonetheless challenged with managing this growth, delivering cost-effective services to our residents, and adapting to ever-changing responsibilities," he wrote.
The letter outlined a few of the town's key infrastructure projects and urgent needs.
“We have exciting plans to improve Bradford West Gwillimbury, from environmental protection and infrastructure projects to the community centre revitalization, all within the context of emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic," said Ward 2 Coun. Jonathan Scott.
Environmental assessment studies for the Bradford Bypass are currently underway, and the letter has asked for each candidate's support for the project and for any financial assistance that can be provided to expedite its construction.
Affordable housing is a key issue in the region and council has asked that each candidate have a strategy to help make investments and plans that will help accelerate housing supply in Bradford and assist first-time home buyers.
Amid the fourth wave of COVID-19, the town has asked candidates for ongoing financial support to be able to keep municipal services and programs open and affordable.
Council has requested that each party commit to a permanent Canada Community Building Fund (formerly known as the Gas Tax Fund). The fund "has provided a much-needed, stable source of funding for municipal infrastructure investment and asset renewal."
The mayor is also seeking commitment from the candidates on the Holland Marsh Phosphorous Recycling Facility, a stormwater treatment facility that will reduce runoff from Holland Marsh into Lake Simcoe and phosphorus runoff by 40 per cent, cut algae growth in the watershed, preserve fish habitat, and protect a major source of drinking water.
The town is working on revitalizing the Bradford Community Centre in the mature part of the municipality and would like each candidate to endorse the plan for the 18-acre property that includes affordable housing, recreational amenities, gathering spaces, and administrative buildings, by delivering grant programs that will assist municipalities with these types of projects.
"There are undoubtedly other pressing matters but I am confident that by successfully addressing the six priorities that I have listed, you will have served your riding exceptionally well," Keffer wrote.
Coun. Scott said all the projects can best be moved forward with a federal partner.
"It will be good to have all the federal parties commit to supporting our efforts. I’ve spoken to our excellent incumbent MP Scot Davidson and to Liberal candidate Daniella Johnson about many of these issues, and I’m confident that they will help ensure that whichever of their parties forms government, our needs will be on the agenda.”
"I look forward to all three levels of government working together for the betterment of our community and town," added Keffer.
Election day is Sept. 20.
