As the election day approaches, a considerable number of voters remain undecided, according to recent polls. After Valérie Plante’s two terms in office, Montreal is set to have a new mayor leading Canada’s second largest city, with a budget of $7.3 billion last year. Let’s delve into the insights gained from the campaign and the distinguishing factors among the candidates, along with tips on how to cast your ballot.
1: Overview of Candidates
The leading contenders are Soraya Martinez Ferrada of Ensemble Montréal and Luc Rabouin of Projet Montréal. Martinez Ferrada, a former federal cabinet minister, aims to address the demand for change post-Plante’s tenure by pledging to expedite housing development, review bike path infrastructure, and enhance police presence in public spaces. On the other hand, Rabouin plans to continue Plante’s environmental initiatives, focusing on sustainable urban planning, public transit enhancements, and affordable housing solutions. Craig Sauvé from Transition Montréal, Gilbert Thibodeau of Action Montréal, and Jean-François Kacou from Futur Montréal are also in the mayoral race.
2: Current Poll Trends
Recent polls show Martinez Ferrada leading, followed by Rabouin, Thibodeau, Sauvé, and Kacou. Notably, around a third of survey respondents, including a recent Radio-Canada poll, remain undecided. Historically, municipal elections in Montreal witness lower voter turnout compared to provincial and federal elections, with older homeowners being the most active group.
3: Housing Policies Disagreement
Housing affordability has emerged as a critical campaign issue. While all candidates emphasize the need for affordable housing, their approaches differ. Martinez Ferrada proposes abolishing a bylaw introduced by Plante to incentivize developers, arguing it hampers construction. Rabouin intends to refine the bylaw to ensure effective affordable housing creation.
4: Views on Bike Path Infrastructure
Martinez Ferrada plans to audit and remove unsafe bike paths, while Rabouin prioritizes expanding bus networks over cycling infrastructure. Sauvé advocates for extending bike lanes to outer boroughs, whereas Thibodeau and Kacou suggest revising bike paths along commercial streets. All candidates promise to enhance public transport and seek increased funding from the Quebec government.
5: Addressing Homelessness
The issue of homelessness has gained prominence in the campaign, with candidates proposing various solutions. Rabouin, Martinez Ferrada, and Sauvé aim to boost funding for shelters and outreach programs. Thibodeau proposes transitional centers with tents, while Kacou suggests repurposing industrial spaces for housing.
6: Voting Details
Election day is on Sunday, Nov. 2, with polling stations open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voters must verify their presence on the list of electors before casting their ballot. Further information can be found on the Élections Québec website.
With the election nearing, Montrealers have a crucial decision to make as they choose their next mayor to lead the city forward.