The civic election has kicked off in earnest with a candidates list that suggests the real battles are set to erupt in city council races across Toronto. Shortly after the 2 p.m. Friday deadline for hopefuls to register, the city’s election website showed 30 challengers standing between Mayor John Tory and his third term in office — but none with anything close to his citywide profile. The total of 164 council candidates is less than in previous years, raising fears that political disengagement could mean low voter turnout on Oct. 24. Council racesThe most competitive open ward is Ward 1 Etobicoke North, with 16 hopefuls eager to replace Michael Ford, now a Progressive Conservative MPP. Other races to watch include:Ward 3 — Etobicoke LakeshoreThe development-heavy lakeside ward is getting a rematch between veteran councillor Mark Grimes and progressive challenger Amber Morley.

Source: thestar August 20, 2022 20:09 UTC