Plans for affordability, housing, property taxes, seniors and the grand trunk site were shared at a female candidates discussion at Stratford Intermediate School on Tuesday night.
Hosted by CFUW Stratford, the event gave 160 members of the community the chance to learn more about the 10 women running in the Stratford municipal election and how they would tackle key issues if elected.
Discussion moderator Dr. Cranla Warren said it is the highest number of women running for city council.
Eight councillor candidates attended including Lesley Biehn, Amy Brodhagen, Naireta Chatterjee, Bonnie Henderson, Adrienne Johnson, Sarah Merkel, Elaine Strawbridge and Amber-Leah Margaret Timmons.
Biehn and Henderson are incumbents.
Taylor Briscoe, a current city councillor, was unable to attend, but sent answers to the pre-written questions.
Mayoral candidate Jo-Dee Burbach said in her speech she will work with the community and council to respond to top priorities.
Candidates answered a variety of questions, some coming from the audience.
Some highlights are below:
What do you believe the municipality can do to be a more affordable place? (Asked of Henderson, Timmons, Brodhagen, Johnson, Merkel and Briscoe)
Henderson said council should support solutions that bring new child care spaces to the city and rent control, while Brodhagen said non-child amenities should be considered.
Johnson said we need a range of housing options, as well as expanded programming for children and youth.
Continuing to invest in spaces like the skate park is key, according to Merkel.
Timmons said less time needs to be spent raising the rent, while Briscoe said she would focus on building care wherever possible.
What policy would you prioritize for seniors to age safely? (Asked of Strawbridge, Johnson, Henderson, Chatterjee and Biehn)
Along with more transportation, Strawbridge proposed getting people trained to take care of seniors.
Johnson said accessible signs and transportation are needed, while Henderson said the city should be a more age-friendly community.
Chatterjee would work towards an age-friendly plan for local seniors.
Having rent-geared to income and other supports would be crucial, Biehn said.
Is there a plan for the Grand Trunk Site?
Biehn said there is a plan for the site but it is expensive, adding the city needs private partners.
Strawbridge said she would like to see accommodation space at the site for University of Waterloo students.
Burbach said the city is looking at different options in regards to the site.
The city should work through the GTR in a phased appoach, said Brodhagen, adding she prefers to see green space added to the site.
Henderson said the city already pledged $15 million towards the site.
Communication and consultation with the community on the site is key, said Johnson, while Merkel said we should be thinking creatively.
Timmons said the site should help find homes for the unhoused in the community.
Municipal election day is Oct. 26.
