Voters urged to find out candidates’ positions on Halton issues before the October 14 election

Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr thanks federal election candidates for providing their positions on a number of critical issues facing Halton. On behalf of Halton voters, Chair Carr sent a series of questions to all federal candidates in mid-September. They were asked to explain how their government would respond to Halton’s need for federal investment in municipal programs, services and other infrastructure. The responses from the candidates who replied to the questionnaire are available on Halton’s website at www.halton.ca.

“Halton needs predictable, committed funding from the federal government to ensure that we can continue to meet our municipal responsibilities,” said Chair Carr. “As the election nears, it is important for Halton voters to hear what their candidates have to say because it will affect every one of us.”

Provincial growth plans require Halton’s population to double by 2031 to more than 780,000 people. It is estimated that it will cost $8.6 billion to meet the need for more hospitals, schools, police, roadways and other infrastructure. While municipalities receive eight per cent of total tax revenues, they are responsible for more than half of the cost of this infrastructure. Through the Fairness for Halton campaign, a current infrastructure deficit of nearly $300 million has already been identified.

“We have asked the candidates some tough questions,” said Chair Carr. “Should existing and future Halton taxpayers have to shoulder the costs of accommodating growth? Would their government ensure permanent funding for quality early learning and child care programs so that Halton’s children can reach their full potential? Would the candidates be willing to vote against their party if it means a better future for Halton?”

As of the morning of October 6, ten of the 18 candidates had responded to the questionnaire. Still to hear from were Lisa Raitt (Conservative) and Tony Rodrigues (Christian Heritage) in the Halton riding; Michelle Bilek (NDP) and Terence Young (Conservative) in the Oakville riding; and Michael Chong (Conservative), Noel Duignan (NDP), Luc Gadbois (Green) and Jeffrey Streutker (Christian Heritage) in the Wellington/Halton Hills riding.

Visit www.halton.ca to find out more about Fairness for Halton and other issues facing Halton and to read the responses provided by the candidates. For more information about the October 14 election, visit www.elections.ca.

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