Three candidates running for mayor in Montreal shared their differing visions for the city in a recent debate hosted by CBC. They tackled issues like the housing crisis, homelessness, and affordability. The candidates were Soraya Martinez Ferrada from Ensemble Montréal, Luc Rabouin from Projet Montréal, and Craig Sauvé from Transition Montréal.
While the candidates acknowledged the challenges facing Montreal, they presented distinct approaches to addressing them. Martinez Ferrada emphasized the need to enhance housing accessibility, eliminate rats, address encampments, retain families in Montreal, and ensure better value for money. Sauvé advocated for making Montreal the most affordable city in North America by prioritizing public housing and democratic reform. Rabouin focused on creating greener neighborhoods, boosting the economy, and fostering a vibrant culture to combat climate change.
Regarding housing affordability, Martinez Ferrada criticized Projet Montréal’s requirement for developers to include social and affordable housing units in new projects since 2021, suggesting that this drives developers away. She proposed offering incentives for collaboration with non-profits. Rabouin proposed tightening the bylaw to make social and affordable housing mandatory without allowing developers to opt out. Sauvé stressed the necessity of making social housing obligatory in future bylaws to address the affordability issue effectively.
In terms of homelessness, Sauvé proposed taxing wealthier property owners to increase funding for essential services, emphasizing the urgency of providing resources and shelters while opposing the dismantling of encampments. Martinez Ferrada and Rabouin highlighted the importance of supporting community organizations and enhancing modular housing solutions to address homelessness effectively.
When discussing city infrastructure and roadwork, Sauvé advocated for more city-led projects to expedite infrastructure improvements. Rabouin suggested centralizing street repair coordination to enhance accountability and efficiency. Martinez Ferrada called for better planning and coordination of construction sites to minimize disruptions.
On the topic of bike paths, Rabouin praised the success of the Réseau express vélo lanes and proposed expanding the network to accommodate growing demand. Sauvé emphasized the need to extend bike lanes for safer cycling options. Martinez Ferrada stressed the importance of balancing mobility improvements with the needs of all residents, including businesses and individuals requiring adapted transportation.
Regarding public transportation, Martinez Ferrada highlighted the importance of safety and regional planning to secure adequate funding. Sauvé proposed making public transit more affordable and expanding services promptly. Rabouin emphasized the efficiency of the Metro system while acknowledging its cost implications.
The mayoral candidates, who met CBC’s participation criteria, are set to compete in Montreal’s general municipal election on November 2, 2025.