Roger Caranci, a 61-year-old real estate agent, is re-entering the political arena by running for a council seat in Ward 1. This move marks his return to the same east London area where he previously served as a councilor from 2000 to 2010. Caranci’s challenger in the upcoming election is incumbent Hadleigh McAlister, who was elected as a newcomer in 2022. With Janette Larocque withdrawing from the race after initially registering as a candidate, the competition seems to be a head-to-head battle between Caranci and McAlister.
Caranci’s major concern, after being away from city hall for 16 years, is the city’s response to the housing and homelessness crisis in London, particularly regarding expenditure. He emphasizes the need for greater involvement from the provincial and federal governments in addressing these issues. If elected, Caranci plans to scrutinize the city’s financial support to partner agencies offering homeless services, specifically highlighting Ark Aid Street Mission, which operates the Cronyn Warner shelter among other services.
Expressing his unease with the lack of transparency in funding allocation, Caranci questions the spending practices of these agencies, pointing out high salaries for senior positions. He also criticizes the city’s expenditure on homeless initiatives, such as the significant investment in a micro shelter site in south London. Additionally, Caranci intends to showcase his accomplishments from his previous tenure on the council, including initiatives like renaming Airport Road to Veterans Memorial Parkway and supporting infrastructure projects like the Hale-Trafalgar overpass.
In response, McAlister acknowledges the importance of higher levels of government support in addressing homelessness but emphasizes the city’s continued role in providing assistance. He aims for long-term solutions that alleviate the homeless situation effectively. McAlister also addresses concerns raised by Ward 4’s Coun. Susan Stevenson, who is now running for mayor, regarding city spending on homeless responses. Both candidates agree on the city’s infrastructure needs and the necessity of efficient project management in the area.
Regarding the contentious issue of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), both Caranci and McAlister share a lack of enthusiasm for the project, favoring Light Rail Transit (LRT) instead. Despite their differences, both candidates underscore the importance of addressing the city’s infrastructure requirements and managing construction projects more effectively. Voters will make their decisions in London’s council and mayoral elections on October 26.
