Shaping Mississauga's Next 50 Starts on June 10th

Trevor McPherson

President & CEO, Mississauga Board of Trade

As Mississauga commemorates its 50th anniversary since incorporation in 1974, we find ourselves at a pivotal juncture that beckons us to reflect on the journey thus far and, more importantly, to envision the path ahead. The upcoming mayoral by-election on June 10, 2024, is not merely a political event but a critical moment that will significantly shape Mississauga’s trajectory as we embark on the next 50 years. Our city, though relatively young, has witnessed a remarkable evolution from a humble, suburban community of 250,000 to a thriving metropolis nearing 800,000 residents, now standing as Canada’s 7th largest city. This transformation from a commuter suburb to an economic powerhouse is a testament to Mississauga’s resilience and ambition.

Mississauga’s economic landscape has been supported by strong political leadership, notably by its two most recent mayors, the long-serving Hazel McCallion and her successor, Bonnie Crombie. Their commitment to attracting foreign direct investment, fostering innovation, and developing a skilled workforce has positioned Mississauga as a key player in Canada’s economy. The city’s contributions significantly outpace its size, generating about 7% of Ontario’s GDP with only 5% of its population. The recent embrace of technological advancements like fintech and artificial intelligence, together with a flourishing life sciences cluster are just two examples of Mississauga’s innovative spirit and economic strengths.

However, as we revel in our achievements, we are also acutely aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Mississauga’s origins from amalgamation have presented unique opportunities and obstacles, crafting a diverse but sometimes fragmented identity. The city’s transformation into a walkable, green, and carbon-conscious community underscores our commitment to sustainable development, while acknowledging the importance of maintaining a balance between residential development and opportunities for new business investments and expanded growth. Council’s recent decision to allow for fourplexes across the city is an important first step in recognizing these competing needs.

The 2024 mayoral election comes at a crucial time. It represents a crossroads where the decisions made by our next mayor will have long-lasting implications on our city’s identity, economic vitality, and quality of life. As the Mississauga Board of Trade (MBOT), while we do not endorse candidates, we strongly encourage our community to engage in the electoral process. We urge voters to scrutinize the candidates’ visions for our city’s future, especially how they plan to support business growth, attract investment, and balance housing needs with economic development.

We recognize the complexity of the challenges we face, from fostering a diverse and inclusive business environment to navigating the intricacies and competing interests involved in urban planning. The solutions will require collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to the common good. Therefore, we invite our community to consider which candidates demonstrate the ability to build consensus, not only within the council but across the broader community and with other levels of government.

In partnership with the United Way of Greater Toronto, Sheridan College and Metamorphosis Network, MBOT will host a mayoral debate on May 29, 2024. This event will provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and enable voters to make informed decisions. We believe that an informed electorate is crucial for the democratic process and the foundation of a prosperous future for the City of Mississauga.

Lastly, we emphasize the importance of participation in the democratic process. The low voter turnout in recent elections is a call to action for all eligible voters. The upcoming election will be a pivotal moment in shaping Mississauga’s future. Let’s ensure that every voice is heard. The shaping of the next 50 years starts now, and it starts with your vote on June 10th.