Saskatoon’s four mayoral candidates entered a forum late Wednesday afternoon where attendees were likely more accustomed to pitches in the boardroom than the political arena.
The Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority, Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and North Saskatoon Business Association presented the event at Prairieland Park.
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The candidates offered their visions for the future of Saskatoon in a setting free of interruption.
Incumbent Don Atchison said if re-elected, he envisions an end to the dedicated bike lanes currently being tested on 4th Avenue in the city’s downtown. He also reiterated his plan to move train lines out of the city.
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“It’s nice to talk theoretical, but it’s still another thing to in fact talk about other issues that are out there too and to be perfectly clear about where you want the city to go,” Atchison said.
Candidates answered four prepared questions before addressing a selection of questions submitted by the crowd.
A different kind of forum – a mayor’s economic forum – was pitched by Charlie Clark. It would include education, research and business stakeholder groups.
“We have a chance to convene and organize into a much more focused way of … building on economic opportunity and attacking the challenges that we face,” Clark said.
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Both Clark and Kelley Moore expressed concerns about rapid growth on the outer limits of the city. They both suggested a balanced approach.
Escalating debt and an infrastructure deficit were among Moore’s concerns, who said she offers a fresh perspective with no attachment to the status quo.
“If we put ourselves into debt too far, that starts to overshadow all of the important amenities that we have as a community,” Moore said.
Devon Hein’s answers focused on three areas: roads, crime and “holding the line on taxes.”
“Sometimes keeping city hall simple and very affordable for people is very important,” he said.
Voters go to the polls on Oct. 26.
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