An Uxbridge candidates forum brought mayoral, regional-councillor and Durham District School Board trustee candidates together to discuss regional representation, growth, business and youth engagement.
Candidates differed on how the next council should respond if Ontario appoints Durham’s regional chair. Ian Giffen and Jeff Mittman called for a firm council response, while incumbent regional councillor Bruce Garrod said he would resist representation by population that could reduce Uxbridge’s influence.
Business and youth discussed
Questions also addressed recent business closures. Candidates pointed to downtown revitalization, stronger co-operation among local organizations and opportunities for new investment.
On youth engagement, participants suggested school visits, mentoring, farm connections and more direct exposure to municipal government.
Transparency and schools
Trustee candidates discussed discipline, school policy and the role of flags in schools. Municipal candidates also debated what council transparency should mean, including how information from closed meetings can be reported while respecting legal and privacy limits.
The Uxbridge candidates forum was reported by the Uxbridge Cosmos in its current edition. Election day is October 26.
