The East York/Riverdale Mirror Newspaper this week reported that Candidate for Ward 29 Councillor, Case Ootes, stated he would try to have the Dundas Bike Lanes removed by a vote of the new Council. He promised to introduce a motion to remove the lanes, which would only require a vote of 50% of council to approve it. You can read the entire article at the InsideToronto.com web site: Ootes gives notice on bike lanes.

This statement by Mr. Ootes illustrates how important this municipal election is. Whether or not such a motion would be passed or whether or not Mr. Ootes is there to introduce it will depend on the outcome of the vote on November 10th.

Turn out at municipal elections tends to be low. Some believe it is because people don't see municipal politics as playing an important role in their lives. Where cycling and the Bike Plan are concerned, municipal politics is all important. Whether or not the Toronto Bike Plan will be implemented over the next three years will hang on the results of the Toronto Municipal election. Councillors hold the key to allocating the funds, approving bike lanes and paths, and supporting cycling safety and promotion programs. It is important that those Torontonians who want to see a more bicycle friendly city register to vote in the election, find their candidates position on the issues, and then vote on Monday, November 10th.

In this election there are three candidates for Ward 29: Case Ootes, John Papadakis, and Nick Radia.