Bradford accuses Chow of mishandling taxpayer money and provincial funds

Toronto’s mayoral hopeful Brad Bradford has accused current mayor Olivia Chow of mismanaging taxpayer money and billions in provincial funding for the city's infrastructure projects. Speaking at a campaign announcement, Bradford highlighted a series of issues including rising property taxes, increased usage of food banks, worsening traffic congestion, and safety concerns in downtown areas despite the city receiving substantial financial support.

He argued that the mayor's repeated tax increases were a sign of poor financial management rather than a lack of revenue, and promised to conduct a detailed audit of the city's budget if elected.

Chow, meanwhile, defended her administration's handling of finances, claiming that the province's investment in the Gardiner Expressway has resulted in the saving of nearly $2 billion, which is now being allocated to public projects such as parks, flood protection, transportation, and housing. Her campaign office also pointed out that the mayor managed to cut spending by approximately $450 million over the past three years without compromising essential services, and assured that all financial records are accessible to the public on the City of Toronto website.

Chris Alexander, another mayoral candidate, criticized Bradford's past voting record as a city councillor, stating that he voted for the spending he is now criticizing. Alexander argued that Bradford was present during the decision-making process yet opposed tax increases, and accused him of having inconsistent positions. As Toronto residents prepare to vote for their next mayor and city council on October 26, the debate over fiscal responsibility and financial accountability remains at the forefront.