Star’s choices in Durham

October 22, 2010

Ensuring that population growth does not result in further sprawl and improving transportation options are key issues for voters within Durham Region, east of Toronto. Add concerns over high property taxes and the need to attract new jobs to replace those lost in the decimated auto industry and there’s a lot riding on this election. Here are our choices for mayor in Durham’s major races:

In Pickering, Mayor Dave Ryan faces a challenge from Maurice Brenner, a former councillor. There is bad blood between the two of them, with Brenner only recently dropping a lawsuit against Ryan and the city over allegations of fraud. On substantive issues, Brenner disagrees with Ryan’s support for urban development of 1,200 hectares of farmland in northeast Pickering, contrary to the province’s Places to Grow Act. A vote for Brenner would be an effective way of registering a protest over this latest example of sprawl.

Toronto SUN Pick for Pickering

October 22, 2010

Pickering has stagnated while its neighbours have flourished.  It’s time for a new mayor to replace Dave Ryan.  Our choice is former strong councillor Maurice Brenner