Ajax mayoral candidates clash at community forum

Employment, affordability, public transit and political accountability dominated discussions as candidates seeking public office in Ajax presented their priorities at a community gathering organized by the Mahogany Heritage and Cultural Center ahead of the October 26 municipal election.

The event, held at the DNA Centre, brought together mayoral, council and school board candidates, allowing residents to hear competing visions for the town’s future.

Mahogany, a grassroots initiative developing a heritage and cultural centre, aims to celebrate African diaspora history while promoting education, cultural collaboration and community unity.

Three mayoral candidates addressed the gathering: former Ajax councillor Ashmeed Khan, Carion Fenn and Richard Hinds.

Mayoral candidate Marilyn Crawford was also invited but did not attend. Her campaign nevertheless had a presence, with individuals distributing campaign literature. The reason for her absence was not known.

Khan emphasized employment opportunities, representation and improved transportation, arguing that Ajax needs stronger leadership and meaningful economic development.

“Nothing changes if nothing changes,” Khan told residents.

He questioned the town’s reliance on warehouses and called for investment in manufacturing and skilled employment opportunities, particularly for young people.

“We don’t have jobs for our children,” he said, suggesting Ajax should focus on industries that produce goods rather than simply store them.

Fenn focused on homelessness, affordability and economic development, drawing on her experience in health governance, business and charitable work.

“We need quality jobs,” she declared, advocating stronger partnerships with provincial and federal governments to attract investment and employment.

Fenn also criticized rising property taxes and encouraged residents to examine candidates’ records before voting.

“The only way you can change what is happening is with your vote,” she said.

Hinds proposed free public transit for students and seniors to reduce financial pressures on families.

“Parents should not go in the pocket to send their kids to school,” Hinds said, arguing that transportation costs should not create additional barriers for students.

Other municipal candidates addressed public spending, community safety, accessibility and political accountability.

Ward 3 regional candidate Stephanie Ashton discussed challenges facing racialized families and highlighted her international development experience.

Ward 1 local candidate Michael Barrington called for greater financial discipline and more neighbourhood-based meetings between residents and elected representatives.

Ward 2 regional candidate Ranjeet advocated financial transparency and stronger policing, while Ward 1 regional candidate Stephen Sullivan called for closer scrutiny of municipal staffing expenditures.

Kelly Miller emphasized accessibility for seniors and stronger communication between residents and elected officials.

Co-host Jamal Augustine encouraged residents to become more involved in municipal decision-making.

“Don’t just go out and vote,” he urged, encouraging residents to make voting a visible community priority.

The gathering concluded with candidates and residents exchanging ideas informally, reinforcing Mahogany’s broader mission of bringing diverse communities together through dialogue, civic participation and shared responsibility.

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