Port Hope’s three mayoral candidates fielded questions on tourism, rural issues and the proposed Wesleyville project during a chamber of commerce-led candidates’ night Monday.
Incumbent Mayor Olena Hankivsky, Coun. Todd Attridge and former mayoral candidate Angela Grogan spoke before about 400 people at the Capitol Theatre.
On tourism, the candidates called for stronger promotion of local businesses and attractions. Hankivsky suggested partnerships and visitor packages, while Attridge said the focus should be on increasing spending throughout the year. Grogan said tourism should expand beyond downtown to showcase Port Hope’s rural areas.
The candidates also highlighted transportation and broadband access as priorities for rural Port Hope, along with support for agriculture, agri-tourism and rural businesses.
On Wesleyville, Hankivsky called for early planning and stronger local-business involvement. Attridge said the municipality should consult residents before negotiating further with Ontario Power Generation, while Grogan called for a review of the existing memorandum of understanding.
Ward 1 and Ward 2 candidates will take part in separate meet-and-greet events Oct. 6 and Oct. 7.
(Richard Evans)
