As Windsor residents gear up to vote, two leading contenders for the mayoral position are outlining their visions for downtown revitalization and affordable housing.
During a recent media event outside city hall, incumbent mayor Drew Dilkens outlined plans for a new economic development zone downtown, the establishment of a central library branch, and upgrades to the Homelessness and Housing Help Hub (H4). Dilkens emphasized the need for collaboration among stakeholders to drive progress in downtown Windsor.
Meanwhile, mayoral candidate Francis, speaking from the former Grace Hospital site, proposed waiving fees for affordable housing construction, pre-zoning the downtown area to enhance density, and eliminating parking requirements. He also committed to moving the Downtown Mission and Pozitive Pathways Community Services to the H4 site.
Dilkens defended his administration’s efforts in downtown revitalization, highlighting initiatives like the Downtown Windsor Innovation District, Project Green Light, and the installation of 60 cameras across the downtown area to enhance safety and cleanliness.
In contrast, Francis focused on his affordable housing strategy, aiming to remove development charges in key neighborhoods, improve digital services for builders, and address the growing need for affordable housing units in Windsor-Essex.
The two candidates also differed on approaches to community development, with Dilkens pledging investments in public spaces like Festival Plaza and a new central library, while Francis advocated for community benefits in all new housing projects and incentives to attract private investments downtown.
As the election day on Oct. 26 approaches, the competition for mayor intensifies, with Dilkens and Francis among 11 candidates vying for the position.
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