Category: Opinions

The Burlington Gazette/Focus Burlington survey was conducted between August 22nd and August 31th. The survey was shared online through the BurlingtonGazette.ca and FocusBurlington.ca websites. Posts asking for input were made on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, X, Reddit and NextDoor. In total, 324 people responded to the survey. Thank you to everyone who participated. As with any … Continue reading Opinion – Our Survey Results

In this era of instant communication, across countless channels, clarity is more elusive than ever. When communication breaks down between elected officials and the public, trust naturally erodes. Take Prime Minister Carney’s statements on the Gordie Howe Bridge. In finance, operating costs and interest expenses are well-defined concepts. Blurring those terms, before the details were … Continue reading Opinion – Plain Talk Builds Real Trust

The municipal election is taking place on October 26th, 2026. We have many incumbents asking for our vote. Does experience outweigh accomplishment? Read part 1 here: Does experience outweigh accomplishment? Part 1 What Type of Experience Qualifies a Candidate? If I accept the argument that experience is important, that then begs the inevitable question: what … Continue reading Opinion: Does experience outweigh accomplishment? Part 2.

The municipal election is taking place on October 26th, 2026. We have many incumbents asking for our vote. Does experience outweigh accomplishment? Like many Canadians, I am anxiously awaiting the midterm elections in the United States. The party that controls the House of Representatives and the Senate will have a decisive impact not just on … Continue reading Opinion: Does experience outweigh accomplishment? Part 1.

Most of us are critical of politicians. At times, they say and do things that seem illogical, irresponsible, or even downright stupid. Every so often, however, they get it right—particularly when they stand up for important principles. That's why it was refreshing to learn of Andrea Grebenc's recent decision not to apply for the role … Continue reading Opinion – A Principled Stand

Please let us know you plan on attending - tickets are free: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/burlington-mayoral-candidates-debate-tickets-1998110191370 Excitement is building across the community as Focus Burlington moves forward with plans for what promises to be a highly engaging and informative mayoral debate ahead of the 2026 municipal election. With a venue selected, a date secured, and invitations already extended … Continue reading Focus Burlington Gears Up for a Dynamic 2026 Municipal Election Season

Should there be a limit on the number of consecutive terms a mayor or council member can serve? Of the seven elected members of Council, five have served two consecutive terms, and two — Mayor Marianne Meed Ward and Councillor Paul Sharman — have served four. The mayor’s tenure includes two terms as a councillor … Continue reading Opinion – Is It Time To Consider Term Limits?

Sometimes the most important decisions made in a council chamber are not the ones that receive the headlines. They are the procedural decisions – like the ones that determine who will chair the meeting, how debate is managed, how votes are taken, and ultimately how the public record is created. While these matters may seem … Continue reading Opinion – Shattering Decorum: What Burlington Voters Should Know Before October