Letters to the Editor

Thursday 3 May 2012

Second mayoral debate last evening in Fredericton





The Fredericton Chamber of Commerce held a mayoral debate at the Forestry Complex in Fredericton last night. Incumbent Brad Woodside, and challenger, Matthew Hayes, spent over an hour and a half giving their positions on topics ranging from economic development in the city, it's capital spending infrastructure, population growth and affordable housing, to name a few. 

The debate began with an audience of over 80 people, but it dwindled as the night wore on. Like Wednesday evening at FHS, it was a spirited debate, with some sharp elbows shown by the candidates. Overall, it was respectful, with persuasive arguments on both sides.

Below, are video excerpts from last evening that allow you a view into the room to see the goings-on. Rather than me interpreting or analyzing the evening, you can click on and look for yourself. Perhaps it will help you make your voting decision on May 14. 

1.  The candidates on the topic of regionalization; relationships with the city's surrounding communities, and lack of government action on the matter:

Hayes:




Woodside:




2.  Captial spending on infrastructure, including the Convention Centre in downtown Fredericton, got a lot of discussion between the candidates last night. See them weigh in:

Woodside:


Hayes:



3.  The candidates were asked about the crime rate in Fredericton, and what they will do to address it. See below:




4.  As part of the debate last night, questions submitted anonymously were drawn and put to the candidates. Below, a question on affordable housing is asked: