Who is running for mayor in Cornwall

Voters in Cornwall will be faced with just two choices for mayor this coming municipal election on Nov. 5.

Leading up to the election, CBC asked both candidates registered with Elections P.E.I. to fill out a questionnaire on major issues facing Cornwall now and in the future. 

Here they are and here is what they had to say.

Graham Hicken

What are your plans to take advantage of or mitigate the effects of the Cornwall bypass?

Action on the new Main Street plan for Cornwall will require a progressive approach as well as securing funding from numerous partners. With the attraction of new business, increased housing options and green spaces, it will enhance our already wonderful community.

What should be done to improve public transit in Cornwall?

Midday bus service between Monday and Friday to work in conjunction with Holland College/UPEI is needed. Currently, there is no bus service on weekends in Cornwall and there is a need. With increased users, I would like to see additional bus shelters added throughout Cornwall to further encourage use in inclement weather.

What needs to be done to improve infrastructure in Cornwall?

Cornwall facilities could be more environmentally friendly, utilizing solar energy.

What could be done to create more affordable housing in Cornwall?

Within bylaws for multi-unit buildings, Cornwall has the ability to set the threshold of low income housing required for new builds. Encourage senior friendly affordable units within the downtown core with various styles of units to choose from.

Do you have plans to develop community green space?

Residents enjoy parks, walking trails, benches, ability to get outside and enjoy nature. Trail system in Cornwall is currently disconnected. I would like to connect the trail system and develop a waterfront park. Upgrade existing playgrounds that are in dire need.

Minerva McCourt

Minerva McCourt is the incumbent mayor of Cornwall.

What are your plans to take advantage of or mitigate the effects of the Cornwall bypass?

I feel that the Cornwall bypass is a great thing for our town which gives a lot of opportunities for growth while most importantly, providing a safer town for our residents.

I believe that the reduction in traffic will create an environment for more pedestrian traffic allowing residents to get out and enjoy the town, business development, all the while creating a greater sense of community.

What should be done to improve public transit in Cornwall?

I have been hearing that residents want more transit runs from Cornwall. I would like to work with T3 Transit to see how we can reasonably make this service more accessible and convenient to the residents

What needs to be done to improve infrastructure in Cornwall?

The town is currently working on a master plan which will help us identify, prepare and plan infrastructure needs for the future.

What could be done to create more affordable housing in Cornwall?

I believe there is definitely a need to focus on affordable housing options in Cornwall. One option would be to create partnerships with developers, looking at different models of affordable housing to determine what would work best in Cornwall.

Do you have plans to develop community green space?

Cornwall now offers many beautiful green spaces, parks and trails and we are committed to enhancing and building on those spaces as well as creating new ones.

The town currently has an agreement that developers are expected to provide a green space within new developments. In addition, the spacial plan for the development of Main Street opens up additional green spaces for residents to enjoy.

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