Candidates say Ford Nation not insurmountable in Ward 2 by-election

With one month until a by-election for Ward 2 Etobicoke North, candidates and residents weighed in Saturday on the big issues in the community once represented by late mayor and councillor Rob Ford.

Michael Ford held a campaign BBQ to show appreciation for volunteers and members of the community. There was definitely no shortage of supporters with uncle Doug Ford offering words of wisdom.

“It’s customer service. Making sure he keeps taxes low, make sure he goes to everyone’s door when they call, even if it’s outside the riding,” said the former councillor.

Michael says carrying on the Ford legacy is important to him and that he’s got a clear vision of what Etobicoke North needs.

“For three generations my family have served this community, for over two decades,” said the former school board trustee. “I want to continue that work, that Rob and that Doug and my grandfather did. The customer service, showing up at your door. I want to keep our taxes low. I want to invest in our community.”

Residents say leadership and safety are two key issues facing the community.

“Gangs and the violence that’s going on is a very big thing,” said Ward 2 resident Karen. “Keeping everything very low is important for us, as a community, so we can survive.”

“We have to start training young people a little more, especially the people who are unemployed,” added fellow resident Natalie Robinson. “They need good people to speak to them.”

While Michael feels he has the support of Ford Nation behind him, there are several other candidates who say they are better suited to the job.

Candidates Chloe-Marie Brown and Jeff Canning both say the days of Ford Nation are over.

“We need someone that’s going to bring a new message, not someone who’s going to bring the old message of someone else to govern new people,” said Brown.

Canning says the mantra of Ford Nation was a good buzz word but it doesn’t encapsulate what the solution is.

“You don’t get to run that job because you have the right last name,” he explained. “This isn’t a monarchy. It’s not like you get to pass the crown down from generation to generation. You have to earn it, you have to fight for it and that’s what I’m doing.”

There are a total of 13 candidates in the running for Ward 2. The by-election is set for July 25.