Stratford Mayoral and Council Candidates Clash Over Housing and Governance
Mayoral candidates and city council hopefuls in Stratford campaign on housing affordability, infrastructure funding, and municipal governance ahead of the October 26 election.
Candidates for the October 26 municipal election in Stratford are centering their campaigns on housing affordability, fiscal responsibility, and the accessibility of local government. During a second mayoral debate hosted by the Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce, Martin Ritsma, the current mayor, defended the council's decision to maintain housing development charges to fund schools, roads, and recreational complexes, despite the availability of a grant to reduce those costs.
Other mayoral contenders proposed structural changes to city governance. Robert Ritz advocated for a return to a six-ward system to improve communication between residents and city hall, while Andrew Rea criticized the city for banning residents from municipal property. Jo-Dee Burbach focused on expanding funding for childcare and homelessness, and Mark Hunter criticized the divisive tone of the current campaign.
Simultaneously, several candidates for city council have detailed their platforms. Incumbent Lesley Biehn is seeking re-election with a focus on supportive housing partnerships and spending efficiencies. Newcomers Naireta Chatterjee and Amy Brodhagen are both campaigning on platforms of food security and affordable housing, with Brodhagen emphasizing environmental protection and Chatterjee focusing on opportunities for young people and newcomers.
