Bashar Kassir

The Mayor and City Council

My most important priority would be improving residents’ quality of life by making our streets, parks, public spaces, and neighbourhoods safer, cleaner, quieter, and better maintained. I would bring an engineering mindset, entrepreneurship, community and public service experience, and a practical, independent perspective to City Council. I believe government should be proactive, accountable, and focused on delivering better results and value for residents—not simply responding after problems become complaints.

Housing

Toronto needs more affordable housing, but affordability is about more than building units. Homes should be places to live first, not simply investment vehicles. I would support responsible growth that adds housing while ensuring infrastructure and public services keep pace. For those experiencing homelessness, the priority should be stable, long-term housing with dignity, supported by appropriate mental-health and other services. The goal should be to help people find and keep a secure home—not simply move them from one place to another.

Cost of Living

Toronto residents are facing growing financial pressure, and City Hall should not add unnecessarily to that burden. My priority would be to improve the value residents receive for the taxes and fees they already pay by identifying waste, improving efficiency, and reviewing city services for better value. Before increasing taxes, fares, or user fees, the City should first look for savings and alternative revenue sources while protecting the essential services residents rely on.

Safety in Public Spaces

I would prioritize a more proactive, integrated approach to public safety. The City should establish a visible neighbourhood by-law presence, with officers proactively patrolling streets, parks and public spaces to educate, improve compliance and consistently enforce existing bylaws. Police should focus on law enforcement and situations requiring police powers, while trained civilian personnel handle appropriate non-criminal issues. The right resource, in the right place, can make public spaces safer and more welcoming.

Getting Around the City

Downtown streets are narrow and congested, yet should be shared safely. whether walking, cycling, public transit, or driving. I would prioritize proactive compliance enforcement of existing bylaws, including idling and vehicles blocking lanes, while ensuring cycling routes are connected. During rush hours, TTC buses should receive priority, and the City should encourage car-pooling and TTC. Road sharing, organization, restricting delivery trucks during school arrival and dismissal hours, and enforcement will improve safety and quality of life.

Confronting Hateful and Hostile Behaviour

Toronto is a diverse city, and we must strengthen the sense of community and cohesion that brings us together. Before deciding what to do and how to respond, I believe we should ask why a particular hostile incident happened and seek to understand its underlying causes. I would prioritize meaningful community engagement and dialogue that encourage understanding and respect among residents. Everyone should feel safe and welcome. I will stand up for those less able to speak for themselves while respecting the rights and freedoms of all residents.