Candidate for Mayor

Martin Fraser

Issue answers

What's the most important thing you'd act on as Mayor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?

There are many important issues in Toronto. I will name two that need immediate attention: 1st - Toronto Police force is one of the best in the world and they know that they have to go back to "Old time policing" which is an absolute must. They need the resources and a Mayor who has their back and I have a solution for that. 2nd - Homelessness has been poorly treated for decades with band-aids. It is time for a serious Mayor to deal with the hard solutions to really deal with this very important "LIFE ISSUE". I have a serious solution.

Housing

Housing costs weigh on Torontonians whether they rent or own, access to subsidized housing is limited, and a growing number of people have no home at all. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to help people find and keep a secure place to live?

Housing is very complicated. However, we have a lot of land and it is time to utilize that land for special low cost manufactured homes. This could be done but it requires a new approach not a million dollar approach. When two people have to work and require a more than 50% payout of their net income just to cover their mortgage then this is a situation set up for failure. There is a solution without excuses.

Cost of Living

The cost of daily life keeps climbing — housing, transit fares, city fees, etc. What is one thing you would prioritize on the next City Council to make Toronto more affordable, soon enough to matter to residents?

Unfortunately the cost of living is a conundrum. Cost of living is spiked by outside influences. However, the city can reduce taxes in multiple areas that could drive the economy in a positive manner. This comes across a multitude of businesses that need help now. Spending money to help businesses increases employment, which helps all sectors. Small businesses need part time help. Students of all ages need part time work. This is not rocket science but a move in the right direction. The past reminds us of what was and could be again.

Safety in Public Spaces

Some Torontonians don't feel safe in parks, on transit, or on certain streets, even where reported crime is low. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to help people be and feel safe in the city's public spaces?

Safety is both a policing and a community issue. I definitely have solutions to move both in the right direction. It is very important that everyone realize that we are all in one community and all children are the responsibility, of all adults, regardless of where you live. We are also responsible for each other. It is not wrong to help anyone who needs help. Torontonians need to remember to respect each other, and it does not matter if you are driving, on a bicycle or as a pedestrian, kindness and respect is not a disease it is a mindset.

Getting Around the City

Getting around the city is a source of frustration for many Torontonians, whether people drive, take transit, cycle, or walk. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to improve how people move around the city, however they travel?

This question has been around for decades and there is a solution that is not mind boggling. If I am Mayor you will see the difference within the first 100 days. Changes and attitudes will happen quickly.

Confronting Hateful and Hostile Behaviour

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

This is a complicated question. Targeted hate crimes against Torontonians/Canadians cannot and will not be tolerated. Immigration is another topic which is a federal issue that cannot be downloaded onto the province and then downloaded onto Toronto. Toronto will help all of its citizens. Toronto is one of the most diversified cities in the world as well as being one of the largest in North America. People who come to visit and enjoy this city will always be welcome and those who want to hurt Toronto could be asked to leave politely.

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