A Look Back At David Miller’s Reign As Mayor
Posted August 26, 2010 7:40 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
During his two terms as mayor, David Miller has had major victories and faced just as major roadblocks. But after almost two decades in office, it was his family that inspired him to step down as Toronto’s top politician.
Miller began his career in office in 1994 when he was first elected to represent Parkdale-High Park on city council.
He promoted development of the waterfront and opposed then-mayor Mel Lastman’s plan to ship the city’s garbage north. He also played a large part in exposing the MFP computer leasing scandal.
His constant struggles with Lastman ended when he was elected as Mayor of Toronto in 2003, beating Barbara Hall and John Tory.
Miller made his acceptance speech clutching a broom and promising to clean up City Hall.
His victory came thanks in part to his opposition to a bridge to the island. He wanted the airport there shut down, but service only expanded during his time in office.
In 2006, he was re-elected for his second and final term.
It was after last year’s dragged-out municipal workers’ strike – which saw city parks turned into garbage dumps – that Miller called it quits. After 16 years in public office he decided he wanted to spend more time with his family.
“While it’s been a difficult decision, I feel secure in my priorities, proud of my record and confident in my vision for the city that I love,” he said.
Critics say Miller will be remembered for tax increases. But his supporters believe his legacy will be obvious when Transit City and the waterfront revitalization are completed in the coming years.
