The 905er Podcast

The 905er Podcast

The 905er

The 905er is a news, politics and discussion podcast for the GTHA region focusing on the region outside central Toronto where 4 million people live, but where news coverage and discussion hardly exists. Presented by Roland Tanner and Joel MacLeod, long-time activists, volunteers and sometimes even wannabe-politicians, we aim to provide a lively weekly podcast featuring interviews with people in the news, round-table discussions, analysis and more. It aims to be intelligent, though-provoking, lively and entertaining. Get bonus content on Patreon

Can We Vote Smarter in this Ontario Election?

Can We Vote Smarter in this Ontario Election?

As this Ontario Election moves, the polls slowly shift away from Doug Ford's Ontario PC. Is there time for the opposition parties to capitalize on this trend? Or will the opposition once again split the vote?That's the risk in our first-past-the-post system. Without the anti-Ford vote coalescing around one party or leader at the moment, those who want a change in government are forced to consider strategic voting. The question is, does this work? Well, one person is hoping it will.

Feb 18, • 54:41

What do our Municipalities Need from this Ontario Election?

What do our Municipalities Need from this Ontario Election?

As the Ontario Election moves a long, we seem to drifting further and further away from the issues that were prominent in our provincial dialogue only a few months ago.Housing, development fees, homelessness. These were the things that we were covering in previous episodes. The matters which were front and centre for many 905ers. Going so far as to potentially invoke the notwithstanding clause to deal with encampments in cities. So why isn’t this the top issue of this election?What i

Feb 11, • 46:07

Hey Don't Forget There's a Provincial Election on Right Now!

Hey Don't Forget There's a Provincial Election on Right Now!

It has been a whirlwind 2025, and we're only through January.Trudeau resigned, sparking a Liberal Leadership race, and most recently, as this podcast is being recorded, President Donald Trump is imposing 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, sparking a trade war in North America.In the shadow of all of this, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has decided to call an election. Citing the need for a strong mandate from the Ontario people to deal with Donald Trump. Despite the fact, that he has an overwhelming

Feb 4, • 47:09

Loblaws and Sobeys Haven't Learned their Lesson

Loblaws and Sobeys Haven't Learned their Lesson

Earlier this month, the CBC broke a story detailing how Loblaws and Sobeys were overcharging customers for meat, but underweighting the amounts sold.With the cost of living increasing this was a blow to their brand and hurt consumers where it matters most. What was most shocking perhaps about the story is how it wasn't that shocking at all. This isn't the first time Loblaws and Sobeys were caught in a price-fixing scheme. In 2018, it was discovered that they were fixing the price of

Jan 28, • 40:59

How Doug Ford Came Around to Agree with Kathleen Wynne

How Doug Ford Came Around to Agree with Kathleen Wynne

Whether or not we're going to an early provincial election has been hanging in the air over Ontario for a few months now. Doug Ford has been playing coy with will he won't he'll call one. However, the hints that he's keen to have been in the news recently.His government has announced several big policy initiatives. Minister of Energy, Stephen Lecce announced that the Ontario PC government will be building more wind farms and solar projects in rural Ontario. As well as a green energy

Jan 21, • 57:17

905 Round-Up: Good Rental News and Teacher Investigations

905 Round-Up: Good Rental News and Teacher Investigations

Happy New Year 2025!We are back in the saddle for what is shaping up to be a huge year in Canada, Ontario and the 905.As we start the new year, we found some good news to reflect on. Rents in the 905 are dropping. As more and more inventory comes onto the market the laws of supply and demand the price of rent is dropping. After that, we look at Hamilton Wentworth District School Board's decision to hire private investigators to go after teachers they suspect are taking unjustified sick days.

Jan 7, • 45:35

905 Round-Up: Crombie’s Housing Plan and Ford Hits Back on Trump

905 Round-Up: Crombie’s Housing Plan and Ford Hits Back on Trump

Coming off our previous episode with Evan Scrimshaw, the Ontario Liberals announced a major part of their housing platform. Their plan would eliminate development charges from municipalities, replace them with a provincial fund, end the Land Transfer Tax for new home buyers and bring in phased-in rent controls for renters. Is this what progressives seek to win themselves to the Ontario Liberals? And are we going to be eating our words after our previous episode? Well yes and no. We discuss why t

Dec 17, 2024 • 1:01:07

Why the Ontario Liberals Are Going to Have a Hard Time in the 905

Why the Ontario Liberals Are Going to Have a Hard Time in the 905

The Ontario Liberal Party attempted something of a rebrand of their leader, Bonnie Crombie at the start of December. At their leadership dinner fundraiser, the party brought in $1.65 million for their coffers before an expected spring 2025 Ontario election. However, what made headlines was her keynote address where she broke ranks with their federal cousins and denounced the Carbon Tax, calling it a mistake and vowing not to implement one should she become Premier. This after years of the Ontari

Dec 10, 2024 • 1:00:56

Mayor Carolyn Parrish Breaks her Silence on Police Funding

Mayor Carolyn Parrish Breaks her Silence on Police Funding

Police budgets are the biggest line item on any municipalities budget. It would logically follow that it would also be the most scrutinized. As it turns out it is virtually impossible to openly criticize and debate the use of tax dollars when it comes to policing in Ontario.This is something our guest today resigned their position on Peel's Police Board for. Newly elected Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish resigned from the Peel Police Board over a proposed 23.3% budget increase which would lead

Dec 3, 2024 • 27:45

Councillor Haley Bateman Stands Against the Notwithstanding Clause

Councillor Haley Bateman Stands Against the Notwithstanding Clause

We rarely expect to return to the topic so soon when we air our episodes. However, that was the case with our last episode with St. Catharine's Mayor Mat Siscoe. We spoke with him about his reasons for signing a letter with 12 other Ontario Mayors requesting Premier Doug Ford give municipalities the power under the Notwithstanding Clause to remove homeless encampments from public parks and spaces. This proved to be a controversial debate. We were happy to have Mayor Siscoe on to provide his reas

Nov 26, 2024 • 40:25

Mayor Mat Siscoe backs his decision to request the Notwithstanding Clause

Mayor Mat Siscoe backs his decision to request the Notwithstanding Clause

On October 31st, 12 Mayors from across Ontario wrote a letter to Premier Doug Ford, requesting more powers to deal with the growing homeless and encampment crisis in our cities. Five of those mayors were from 905 cities.In the letter, the mayors went the extra step to request the Notwithstanding Clause be used if necessary to give them the ability to override court decisions regarding the Charter Rights of homeless. Needless to say this has proven to be a controversial point. Some have gone so f

Nov 12, 2024 • 33:28

Is Mississauga Changing the Ways Hospitals are Built in Ontario?

Is Mississauga Changing the Ways Hospitals are Built in Ontario?

For the better part of a decade, municipalities have been expected to chip in a portion of new hospital infrastructure. This practice was brought in under the previous Ontario Liberal government and is continued by the current Ontario PC. When hospital infrastructure runs upwards into the billions of dollars this can become quite the burden on a municipality's bottom line.This issue came to the forefront last week during Mississauga City Council's deliberation over whether or not to fund the Tri

Nov 5, 2024 • 44:25

905 Round-up: The Malicious Incompetence of Doug Ford

905 Round-up: The Malicious Incompetence of Doug Ford

There have been a few stories that popped onto our radar recently that made us think we ought to do a 905 Round-Up Episode to cover them all. In the course of our discussions about them though, we discovered a common thread. All of the problems we discuss are a result of the poor decision-making of the Ontario PC Government.The Mississauga LRT project is under threat of not being completed due to questions of where funding to pay vendors and suppliers will come from. The funding has turned into

Oct 29, 2024 • 59:58

Is Ontario Facing a Teaching Shortage?

Is Ontario Facing a Teaching Shortage?

As reported by Global News earlier this month, an internal document to then Minister of Education Todd Smith states that the province could be facing a teacher shortage.Too many teachers are leaving the profession with fewer new teachers joining their ranks. The Ministry of Education is predicting that as early as 2027 we could start seeing a gap in available teachers and the number of students. If this continues we could see an already burdened education system stretched to its limits.The curre

Oct 22, 2024 • 30:58

Does Marineland Have a Future in Ontario?

Does Marineland Have a Future in Ontario?

Last week saw news that another beluga whale died at Marineland.For years now, the Niagara Falls-based theme park has been under intense scrutiny, after evidence of animal mistreatment and deaths have emerged at the park. The Ontario Solicitor General has stated that the park is under inspection by the province but will not divulge what it has been examining or looking for. Meanwhile, the park has reduced its operations to a mere shadow of its former glory.The idea of Marineland overcoming its c

Oct 15, 2024 • 47:45

Ahmad Elbayoumi on What Happened at the Ontario Liberal AGM

Ahmad Elbayoumi on What Happened at the Ontario Liberal AGM

Last month the Ontario Liberal Party held their AGM in London.Normally this isn't newsworthy, but this time a few items put it on our radar. Policy proposals to change the nature of the party's provincial council, limiting the number of Young Liberals on it, as well as potentially changing the leadership review process allowing current Leader Bonnie Crombie to stay on, even if she does not deliver for Ontario Liberals in the next election.The proposals ultimately failed. However, the fact that s

Oct 8, 2024 • 47:03

905 Round-Up: We Call Out Doug Ford on his A-S-S

905 Round-Up: We Call Out Doug Ford on his A-S-S

The last week has seen many out-of-touch comments on the part of Ontario's Premier, Doug Ford.A visit to Hamilton saw him brush off criticism of his failure of the housing file by stating that the plight of homeless encampments in 905 cities would be solved if those living there got off their quote 'A-S-S' and applied for jobs. The fallback position of him to a Ronald Reaganesque quote demonstrates how out of touch he is with the problems his lack of action has caused on the number one problem o

Oct 1, 2024 • 44:20

Downtown Hamilton’s Future

Downtown Hamilton’s Future

It seems that downtown Hamilton has been under fire for the last few months.The federal tax court recently shut down citing gun violence.Tent encampments are a feature in city parks, and most recently the President of LiUNA made the outrageous claim that busloads of homeless people were being brought into the city to take advantage of services in the downtown core.The problems downtown Hamilton is facing are monumental. Development of affordable housing is desperatelyneeded, as well as encourage

Sep 24, 2024 • 56:11

Walking for Mental Health In Burlington

Walking for Mental Health In Burlington

This week we’re talking to Melanie Walker, co-chair of “Walk to the Lighthouse” in Burlington, and social worker in Mental Health and Addiction Services at Burlington’s Joseph Brant Hospital, where she has worked for 22 years, in addition to her own private practice.In the previous decade Jo Brant hospital received a major expansion and renovation via a large new patient tower, funded by the province, the city and community donations. At the time this was described by people involved - even some

Sep 17, 2024 • 40:02

905 Round- Up: Ontario is Failing It's Children

905 Round- Up: Ontario is Failing It's Children

Warning this episode deals with child abuse and endangermentWe welcome back to the podcast Ajay Sharma for this episode.As we prepared to cover this episode several news items broke ground in Ontario that we felt could not be ignored. First was the Ontario PC government's plan to back out of the $ 10-a-day daycare funding formula for private daycare providers. The result could be disastrous for parents, children, and ECEs who were enjoying a $2 an-hour pay increase. This sudden reversal is going

Sep 10, 2024 • 43:21

It's the End of Summer, Where are Bonnie and Marit?

It's the End of Summer, Where are Bonnie and Marit?

It's the end of summer and Ontario and the 905 are returning to work and school.We thought it prudent to take a moment and look back on the summer that was. This summer, Doug Ford faced the first LCBO strike ever, suddenly shut down safe consumption sites across the province based on his gut feeling, and lost his Education Minister at the last minute just before the start of the school year. Normally this would be the cause for alarm and stress in the Ontario PC government. At least that's what

Sep 3, 2024 • 48:19

Will a San Francisco Start-Up Make EVs Cheaper in the 905?

Will a San Francisco Start-Up Make EVs Cheaper in the 905?

We are back from vacation folks!After some needed time off Roland and Joel are back to talk shop and of course the first you do when getting back to work is...cleaning out the ol' email inbox. In the process, we discovered an interesting email from a San Francisco start-up Optiwatt.Optiwatt is partnering with The Atmospheric Fund here in Ontario to offer an app that can lead to cheaper rates to charge electric vehicles in the 905. As the push for electrification of the auto industry intensifies,

Aug 27, 2024 • 36:01

905 Roundup - Is Downtown Hamilton Too Dangerous to Work?

905 Roundup - Is Downtown Hamilton Too Dangerous to Work?

A day late, but hopefully not a dollar short. Joel is away, and for technical reasons the upload is a little later than usual, but hopefully you'll forgive us.Standing in for Joel, we have a return visit from Ajay Sharma, professor in the political science department at the University of Guelph, and a contributor to the Toronto Star on recent political events in Mississauga.We take a look at a couple of stories. First, the decision of the Canadian Tax court to unexpectedly and apparently unilate

Aug 8, 2024 • 46:31

905 Round-Up: Climate Change Doesn't Affect the 905

905 Round-Up: Climate Change Doesn't Affect the 905

The news moves fast and people are moving on from the flooding in the 905 last week. However, those affected by the intense rainfalls still struggle to make themselves whole again.Joel's neighbourhood was one of the most intensely impacted by flooding, and thus he attended a neighbourhood meeting with his city councillor to discuss what came next. What he took away from the meeting is that ten years ago, the province, region and city response to this level of damage was monumentally different. A

Jul 30, 2024 • 42:53

The 905 Flooding Is Only the Beginning

The 905 Flooding Is Only the Beginning

Last week the 905 saw flooding that overwhelmed many parts of its respective cities. Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga and Toronto saw an estimated $3.1 billion in damage to infrastructure and homes.This isn't an isolated incident either. In the last few years, the region and Canada have seen an increase in the frequency and severity of storms and conditions affecting our communities. The fact is that this is exactly what scientists predicted would happen as a result of climate change. As we emi

Jul 23, 2024 • 1:01:54

What's Behind the LCBO Strike?

What's Behind the LCBO Strike?

It looks like this is going to be a dry summer for Ontarians.Just as schools let out, the government's talks with LCBO Unionized employees broke down. All LCBO retail locations are closed for the summer, leaving only grocery and convenience stores available for Ontarios to purchase wine or beer. For the union, this is to ensure that LCBO locations retain the sale of ready-to-drink cocktails from private retailers.The Doug Ford, Ontario PC Government isn't backing down. They are doubling down on

Jul 16, 2024 • 39:36

We ask Emma McIntosh: Where are the plans for Highway 413?

We ask Emma McIntosh: Where are the plans for Highway 413?

The proposed Highway 413 is the Doug Ford government's landmark project. It has been promised for years by the Ontario PC, despite facing court battles and criticism from grassroots organizations and environmentalists. It has been heavily criticized for its effectiveness and the environmental impact it could have on habitats and farmland. Yet despite all this opposition, the project is still being pushed forward at the highest levels of the Ontario government.So with the pressure to move forward

Jul 9, 2024 • 45:21

905 Round-Up - Doug Keeps Teasing Hamilton's LRT

905 Round-Up - Doug Keeps Teasing Hamilton's LRT

Last week, Premier Ford visited Burlington's small business community. The purpose of which, of course, was to find clout with the small businesses. In the lead-up to a potential election? Who knows. During the visit, however, Premier Ford was asked about Hamilton's LRT project, and when it would begin construction. Ford reiterated his government's support for the project, but the question remains...when will it start being built? For almost 6 years now, the LRT has been just a promise on p

Jul 2, 2024 • 55:04

Ajay Sharma on the Raw Deal of Ontario's Cities

Ajay Sharma on the Raw Deal of Ontario's Cities

We planned on finishing our coverage of the Mississauga Mayor's By-Election with our episode last week. However, something crossed our path that we couldn't ignore.A column appeared in the Toronto Star, titled Good luck, Mississauga. With your new mayor, you’re going to need it. The column was written by Ajay Sharma, a university political science lecturer specializing in municipal governance. His column outlined many of the problems involved with the system we have for electing municipal politi

Jun 25, 2024 • 57:23

Nokha Dakroub on the Mississauga Mayor By-Election

Nokha Dakroub on the Mississauga Mayor By-Election

When Bonnie Crombie stepped down as Mayor of Mississauga to be the Ontario Liberal Party leader, it triggered a by-election to replace her in the city's top seat.Twenty people put their names in the ring to run for Mississauga Mayor. Of those twenty, four rose to the top as contenders for the job. Dipika Damerla, Alvin Tedjo, Steve Dasko and Carolyn Parrish. A close four-way race emerged, with polls showing Carolyn Parrish maintaining a lead while Dipika Damerla and Alvin Tedjo bit away at her s

Jun 18, 2024 • 39:00

905 Round-Up: Doug Shuffles Cabinet then Takes a Break

905 Round-Up: Doug Shuffles Cabinet then Takes a Break

It's a good old-fashioned 905 Round Up!The Ontario government is on break now until October. However, Doug Ford shuffled his cabinet before he let out the Ontario Legislature. It's not anything incredibly noteworthy in our opinion. However, one raised our attention, and we thought threw fuel on the rumours from last week of an early election in Ontario.Stephen Lecce is out of the Ministry of Education and into the Ministry of Energy. With such little time left until the actual scheduled election

Jun 11, 2024 • 1:03:10

Sabrina Nanji Talks Early Ontario Election Rumours

Sabrina Nanji Talks Early Ontario Election Rumours

Rumours are circulating in Queen's Park of Doug Ford's interest in an early election for Ontario. Polls show he is riding high, possibly earning another majority for the Ontario PC party. He just won two by-elections in Milton and Lambton Kent Middlesex. He is moving ahead on the construction of the new Highway 413 in the 905 and is currently announcing beer in corner stores by year's end. All in all it's been a good year so far for Doug Ford and the Ontario PC Party.So is it no wonder that the

Jun 4, 2024 • 44:10

Is the 905 Pushing Back Against More Housing?

Is the 905 Pushing Back Against More Housing?

A couple of stories caught our eye the previous week.In Newmarket, the town council heard pushback from the community over a proposed 9-story condo project, over concerns that a Tim Horton's drive-thru down the road could face increased times at the window. In Oakville, the Town Council received a harsh letter from Federal Liberal Housing Minister Sean Fraser threatening to withdraw their Housing Accelerator money due to its refusal to grant higher density in the city around Sheridan College.Are

May 28, 2024 • 53:00

Are Loblaws Days Numbered?

Are Loblaws Days Numbered?

Times are tough these days. It's getting harder and harder to make ends meet. Rent, mortgage, and gas are increasing, outpacing real wages and salaries for the average Canadian. Most noticeable to Canadians coast to coast is the price of food. It's harder and harder to stretch your dollar when feeding your family these days after stepping foot in a supermarket.Politicians like Pierre Poilievre like to espouse that it is taxation that has caused the increase in prices. Justin Trudeau on the other

May 21, 2024 • 43:58

Pam Damoff Talks Civility in Politics

Pam Damoff Talks Civility in Politics

At the beginning of May, Pam Damoff, the Liberal MP for Oakville - North Burlington announced that she would be retiring from federal politics at the end of this term. She would not be seeking re-election.Her reasoning was a common refrain from female politicians across all party lines. The misogynistic and violent threats to her personhood and family had become too great to make the job worth it. While it takes tough skin to make it in politics it's another thing entirely when it becomes imposs

May 14, 2024 • 36:36

Milton Votes Tory, So We all Get the Highway 413

Milton Votes Tory, So We all Get the Highway 413

Well, the Milton By-Election has come and gone.The people of Milton handily supported Zee Hamid and the Ontario PC’s to represent them in the Ontario Legislature until the next general election.During the by-election, Doug Ford gave special attention to the riding.  In the last week of the campaign, Doug Ford made a point to reiterate that the controversial Highway 413 construction would begin in 2025.The proposed highway would connect Milton to King City bridging the 401 and 400 highways. Doug

May 7, 2024 • 41:19

Taking Ontario to Court over Basic Income

Taking Ontario to Court over Basic Income

When we started this podcast, one of the first episodes we ever did was covering the aftermath of the basic income pilot project here in Ontario. One of the first acts the then-newly elected Doug Ford government did was to break their word and cancel the project without warning. In that episode, we interview Jessie Golem, a resident of Hamilton who was one of the recipients of basic income. We spoke with her then about the impact the project had on her life and what the repercussions were of the

May 3, 2024 • 39:27

Are Ontario Municipalities Safe Against Cyber Attacks?

Are Ontario Municipalities Safe Against Cyber Attacks?

The City of Hamilton saw itself come under attack by cybercriminals in early 2024. City Council, apps, phone communication and the city's library system were all inaccessible or unavailable. Criminals used malware to hold the city hostage until it paid a ransom. The city did not pay and eventually, and order was restored.This is not an isolated event though. Toronto Public Library saw its system become unusable for a year due to a cyber attack, and numerous small municipalities in Ontario have r

May 3, 2024 • 51:22

Taking Ontario to Court Over Basic Income

Taking Ontario to Court Over Basic Income

When we started this podcast, one of the first episodes we ever did was covering the aftermath of the basic income pilot project here in Ontario. One of the first acts the then-newly elected Doug Ford government did was to break their word and cancel the project without warning. In that episode, we interview Jessie Golem, a resident of Hamilton who was one of the recipients of basic income. We spoke with her then about the impact the project had on her life and what the repercussions were of the

Apr 30, 2024 • 42:12

Are Ontario Municpalities Safe Against Cyber Attacks?

Are Ontario Municpalities Safe Against Cyber Attacks?

The City of Hamilton saw itself come under attack by cybercriminals in early 2024. City Council, apps, phone communication and the city's library system were all inaccessible or unavailable. Criminals used malware to hold the city hostage until it paid a ransom. The city did not pay and eventually, order was restored.This is not an isolated event though. Toronto Public Library saw its system become unusable for a year due to a cyber attack, and numerous small municipalities in Ontario have repor

Apr 23, 2024 • 54:07

Sabrina Nanji Talks About the Milton By-Election

Sabrina Nanji Talks About the Milton By-Election

Sabrina Nanji of the QPObserver joins us on this episode as we get into the weeds with the Milton By-Election.When Parm Gill announced that he was stepping down from the Ontario PC's to run for Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives, it of course opened up a By-Election to replace him as Milton's MPP. Normally, By-Elections are sleepy affairs with little fanfare, however, this one has an undercurrent of importance to it. To start, the Ontario PC's need to show that they are still relevant in the 905,

Apr 16, 2024 • 50:48

Cameron Kroetsch Vs the Hamilton Police Board

Cameron Kroetsch Vs the Hamilton Police Board

Hamilton Police have been having a pretty bad start to 2024.Last month, the Hamilton Police Board made headlines when it took disciplinary action against one of its members, Ward 2 Councillor Cameron Kroetsch for asking questions surrounding its budgetary process. As of this airing date, Councillor Kroetsch is suspended from serving on the Police Board in Hamilton.This bold action on the part of the police board raises serious questions about how much oversight and accountability do our elected

Apr 9, 2024 • 52:27

What Happened to the Hamilton Jewish Film Festival?

What Happened to the Hamilton Jewish Film Festival?

Last month, we released an episode on the rise of anti-semitism in the 905. We released it and thought it would be some time before we might have to revisit the topic. We were shocked to find out that only a few weeks later the topic would rear its ugly head once again in Hamilton.On March 19th, without warning The Playhouse Cinema in Hamilton announced unilaterally it would be postponing the Hamilton Jewish Film Festival, slated to happen in April, citing concerns from emails and social media s

Apr 2, 2024 • 37:46

Mayor Liz Roy Asks Where's Whitby's Hospital?

Mayor Liz Roy Asks Where's Whitby's Hospital?

For years, the Doug Ford government has promised Whitby a new hospital. As the region continues to grow it is becoming apparent that the status quo in terms of its health care will not do. In a notoriously safe PC riding like Whitby and Durham, it seems like they would be a shoo-in for a brand spanking new hospital, just like Doug promised. So where is it? Why hasn't the Doug Ford PC's started the process of fulfilling their promise to the people of Durham Region?In a notoriously safe conservati

Mar 26, 2024 • 43:40

Scott Radley on Hamilton's Looming Gridlock

Scott Radley on Hamilton's Looming Gridlock

A few weeks ago, Hamilton City Council voted to redesign its major street running into its downtown core.The new plan is to essentially divide Main St, a one-way six-lane wide boulevard running through the middle of its downtown into a two-way street, despite concerns from city staff that this would create a problem with traffic, leading to congestion. Their concern is that this move will limit the ability to travel down and through the downtown. Is this a pointless and ultimately futile move on

Mar 19, 2024 • 50:19

Paolo De Buono on Catholic Education in Ontario

Paolo De Buono on Catholic Education in Ontario

Coming off our previous episode, we wanted to examine the state of Catholic education in Ontario. Sparked by the recent York Catholic school board controversy, along with the stories of Catholic school boards fighting against raising the Pride flag, we were wondering about its future in Ontario. What is the support for Catholic education, and does it have a purpose in today's multicultural and diverse mosaic in Ontario?To dive into this topic we reached out to Paolo De Buono. Paolo is a former C

Mar 12, 2024 • 57:11

905 Round Up - York Catholic Sex Ed and Higher Education Woes

905 Round Up - York Catholic Sex Ed and Higher Education Woes

A few things in the world of public education cropped up on our radar this week.In the York Catholic District School Board, the Our Lady of the Lake Academy, saw students upset at what they viewed as an inappropriate presentation from a right-wing anti-abortion organization. The Canadian Centre for Bio-Ethics gave a presentation in the school auditorium, as reported by City News contained graphic depictions of aborted fetuses and upset many students and teachers with its content. In light of its

Mar 5, 2024 • 51:01

How to Fix Political Culture in Ontario?

How to Fix Political Culture in Ontario?

The Doug Ford government is looking to protect political staffers in Ontario's city halls. As reported by The Spec on February 21, 2024, Minister of Municipal Affairs Paul Calandra will be tabling legislation that would see Mayors and Councillors thrown out of office for workplace harassment. Ontario Liberal MPP Stephen Blais had similar legislation defeated by the Ford Government, at the time Min Calandra cited that the voter should be the one with the final say to remove an elected official fr

Feb 27, 2024 • 45:51

Lorraine Sommerfeld Returns

Lorraine Sommerfeld Returns

Lorraine Sommerfeld, author of the long-running Motherlode column in the Hamilton Spectator and multi-award-winning journalist at Driving.ca returns to discuss her new novel "A Face at the Window", before taking the time to dive into what on earth is going on with the recent driving-related announcements from the provincial government."A Face at the Window" by Lorraine Sommerfeld is published by Winding Road Stories and is available from your local independent bookstore, as well as from Chapters

Feb 20, 2024 • 40:18

The Coming Change in the 905

The Coming Change in the 905

Anyone who has looked at the news in the past 6 months knows of the enormous shift in political leanings happening.Polls from various sources have shown that an enormous shift is coming in the federal government. According to the polls, the overwhelming number of Canadians in the 905 and the country at large want Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative Party of Canada to form the next government.However, on the ground, it's almost impossible to find someone who is eager for this shift in politics.

Feb 13, 2024 • 1:13:28

Laura Babcock on Mayor Horwath Abandoning Hamilton's Homeless

Laura Babcock on Mayor Horwath Abandoning Hamilton's Homeless

In previous episodes, we examined the City of Hamilton's flirtation with the Tiny Shelters project—a collection of shed-sized shelters with heat and power for the homeless to get back on their feet. However, the project has bordered on failing for the better part of last year. Hamilton City Council has yet to build support for the project and find a suitable location.In the meantime, homelessness has continued to grow. Tent encampments are becoming increasingly common in Hamilton's parks and str

Feb 6, 2024 • 56:58

The 905 Round-Up: Niagara & Gaza, Foreign Student Shortfalls and Liberal Milton

The 905 Round-Up: Niagara & Gaza, Foreign Student Shortfalls and Liberal Milton

A lot of stories have come through the news cycle this week. Roland and Joel have taken several of them to follow up with for a 905 Round-Up!Coming off our episode on Anti-Semitism in the 905, we travel down the QEW to Niagara Region. This week past at Niagara Regional Council, the Middle East found its way onto the Council's agenda. A motion was made to call for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip to be endorsed by the Niagara Regional Council. St. Catharines Mayor and Chair Jim Siscoe put a stop to

Jan 30, 2024 • 1:02:01

Doug Ford Sells Us Out to Staples

Doug Ford Sells Us Out to Staples

In the last few months of 2023, while we were all preparing for Christmas and New Year, Doug Ford was busy with plans to further privatization of Ontario's public service. Namely Service Ontario.This month, Richard Southern of CityNews reported that Doug Ford sold several privately operated Service Ontario locations to Staples Canada. The sale would see Staples Canada move the locations inside their stores and operate by Staples employees. To further complicate matters, the contract was sole-sou

Jan 23, 2024 • 50:34

Confronting Anti-Semitism in The 905

Confronting Anti-Semitism in The 905

In October, Hamas launched an attack on Israel that killed 1,300 people and kidnapped 250 hostages. Israel launched a retaliatory strike campaign into the Gaza Strip to destroy Hamas and rescue its citizens. Around the world, countries saw protests against Israel's retaliation and for it pop up. Here in Canada and around the province, news has been highlighted with Pro-Palestinian organizations marching along overpasses, at city halls and interrupting public gatherings.Along with those protests,

Jan 16, 2024 • 34:53

Life with Peel Region:  Doug Ford Goes Back On His Word for Mississauga

Life with Peel Region: Doug Ford Goes Back On His Word for Mississauga

Happy New Year 2024!After a welcomed break we are back and ready to dive into what awaits us in 2024! To start the year though, it appears that for Mississauga and Peel region, it will be more of the same.As loyal listeners of this podcast know, we interviewed then-Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie back in May about her push to see Mississauga leave Peel region. Shortly after that episode aired, Premier Doug Ford announced a special team to investigate how to accomplish this within two years. And

Jan 9, 2024 • 47:24

Merry Christmas 2023! A year-end Recap and Whats Next for 2024!!!

Merry Christmas 2023! A year-end Recap and Whats Next for 2024!!!

This is it! Our final episode for 2023!As is usual for our year-end spectacular, and is the norm for every other news podcast and show, we wanted to focus on the year that was. What were the big stories, and how close did we get our predictions for this year? Well, as it turns out...we were pretty close. In 2022, we thought that the Greenbelt scandal would still prove to be a thorn in the side of Premier Doug Ford. Little did we realize how big of a thorn it truly was.We talk about the fantastic

Dec 25, 2023 • 46:10

905 Round-Up: Proof of What We've Been Saying All Along

905 Round-Up: Proof of What We've Been Saying All Along

It's a good old-fashioned 905 Round-Up! There have been a few stories that have cropped up in the last few weeks that have caught our eye. Rather than try to pick which one to spend time on, we decided to do a few for this episode. Our theme has been stories which back up things we've stated in the past on this podcast. Hamilton City Centre has been slated to be redeveloped into a four-tower condo project adding some 2,000 badly needed units for the city. Last year, the city approved the proposa

Dec 19, 2023 • 51:56

What is the Future of the Ontario Liberal Party?

What is the Future of the Ontario Liberal Party?

We are closing off a series of episodes we did at the beginning of the summer on the Ontario Liberal Party leadership. Originally we interviewed all the candidates in separate episodes so you'd have a chance to hear their priorities and plans for Ontario and the 905. When the Ontario Liberal Party chose former Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie to lead them into the next election, we thought it prudent to cap off those discussions and see what the path forward for them. The Ontario Liberal Party i

Dec 12, 2023 • 49:02

Michael Geist on the Hypocrisy of Bill C-18

Michael Geist on the Hypocrisy of Bill C-18

Last week, the federal government announced a deal with Google to keep Canadian news indexed on their search engine. This was fortunate for us on a few levels. The first was that we had been waiting for a while to learn what Google would do in the face of Bill C-18. As we had reported earlier, we were caught up in the Bill C-18 fiasco when Meta decided to block our posts on their platforms. We were waiting to hear whether or not Google would follow suit. With this new agreement, it appears that

Dec 5, 2023 • 55:27

Why Does Milton Want Doug Ford's Boundaries?

Why Does Milton Want Doug Ford's Boundaries?

The provincial government has rolled back all of its greenbelt and development policies. Being caught in one of the biggest scandals in Canadian history tends to do that. Included in that rollback have been the urban boundary changes the province introduced for Halton, Hamilton and other communities in the 905.The consensus around this move is that it's a welcomed reset and in general what people in the 905 want. A return to protected environment and farmlands, and hopefully a renewed focus on i

Nov 24, 2023 • 45:06

Mayor John Taylor on Why Ontario's Housing Plan Falls Short

Mayor John Taylor on Why Ontario's Housing Plan Falls Short

Part of the Ontario government's plans to address the housing crisis was to break up the 1.5 million new homes needed among the various municipalities in the province. Each municipality would be obligated to build an amount of the total housing in exchange for funds. Every municipality in the province signed on except for one. Newmarket Mayor John Taylor refused to sign the province's pledge, bringing the criticism of Premier Ford on him. He was often cited by the Premier as being an example of

Nov 21, 2023 • 38:02

FORGEing a Dynasty in Hamilton

FORGEing a Dynasty in Hamilton

An underreported story in the 905 happened a few weeks ago. The Canadian Premier League championship was played at Tim Horton's Field. In extra time Béni Badibanga Diata, scored on a corner kick to win the game for Forge FC against their rivals Calgary Calvary FC. The victory secured a fourth championship title. In the five years since the league and the franchise's founding, Hamilton Forge FC has won 4 of the 5 championship titles. That level of accomplishment is rare in any professional sports

Nov 14, 2023 • 53:46

The Story of Corruption in Ontario

The Story of Corruption in Ontario

Last episode we spoke with Tim Gray of Environmental Defense, about their ongoing legal action against the Ontario Government to get to the bottom of the Greenbelt Scandal. Little did we know how deep the rabbit hole went. A few days after the episode aired, Environmental Defense alongside Eco Justice released close to 7,000 pages of documents obtained under an FOI request. Those documents illuminated the shady backroom politics and deals that have been a symptom of this Ontario government. News

Nov 7, 2023 • 46:16

What Comes Next in the Greenbelt Scandal?

What Comes Next in the Greenbelt Scandal?

The Greenbelt scandal is a fast-moving story. Each week it seems that a new layer to the shady backroom deal to carve up sensitive protected land for a select few developers is revealed. Just how far down the rabbit hole does this story go? Thanks to grassroots organizations like Environmental Defense and Eco-Justice, as well as independent news like The Narwhal, we are learning more and more about how this scandal operates. Last week, Environmental Defense and Eco-Justice announced that they wo

Oct 31, 2023 • 53:14

Joey Coleman Weighs in on Doug Ford Silencing Sarah Jama

Joey Coleman Weighs in on Doug Ford Silencing Sarah Jama

In the last few weeks, news of the horrific attacks by Hamas against Israel shocked the world. As was expected, Israel responded aggressively against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. We aren't going to get into the midst of that conflict on this podcast. That isn't our beat. What is our beat however is local politicians. Namely how they have responded to the attacks in the Middle East. One MPP has waded into the highly politicized and contentious issue through a public statement affirming her support fo

Oct 24, 2023 • 33:43

It's a Housing Crisis...Who's Doing the Building?

It's a Housing Crisis...Who's Doing the Building?

We like to keep ahead of what we see as important to the 905 and Ontario. As such, we think we've been keeping you informed on the intricacies of developments and housing before they became household topics. In that spirit, we wanted to focus this episode on an aspect of the housing crisis that hasn't had a lot of focus to date. Our federal political leaders like to speak about tax cuts and red tape elimination to spur development, and here in Ontario, the provincial government is mired in the G

Oct 17, 2023 • 1:00:05

The Myths and Realities of Housing in Ontario

The Myths and Realities of Housing in Ontario

We've been wanting to do this episode for a few weeks now—however, other more immediate stories needed to be addressed fully. However, we are getting back on schedule and talking to set the matter straight on the issue of housing in the 905 and Ontario at large. This summer, it seemed that the Conservative Party of Canada would be taking the lead on the housing issue. Pierre Poilievre surged to take a massive lead in the polls over Justin Trudeau with his addressing the housing crisis and placin

Oct 10, 2023 • 52:55

Ontario High Schools Face 16 Bomb Threats and Ford Says Nothing?

Ontario High Schools Face 16 Bomb Threats and Ford Says Nothing?

You can support our podcast by visiting our website at https://905er.caSeptember is supposed to be busy for students as they head back to school. Get acquainted with new schedules and expectations for a productive school year.Instead at four Hamilton high schools, a total of 16 bomb threats have forced four high schools to close for student safety over four separate days. Hamilton police have open investigations into all of them, and preliminary reports have the threats linked to anti-LGBTQ+ and

Oct 3, 2023 • 56:36

**Special**A Follow Up from the Frontlines

**Special**A Follow Up from the Frontlines

Please support us by visiting our website https://905er.ca We bring to you a special follow-up episode from our report on the front lines of the 1MillionMarchforChildren. As our host, Joel MacLeod reported in our last episode at the end of the protest he had the opportunity to speak with a group of teenagers who attended the Halton District School Board who identified on the trans spectrum. At the time, it was peculiar that a protest which was essentially held to protect their issues and concern

Sep 28, 2023 • 28:05

From the Frontlines of the 1MillionMarch

From the Frontlines of the 1MillionMarch

Please support our work at our website https://905er.ca On Wednesday last week, crowds appeared in cities across the country protesting pro-LGBTQ+ student policies in school boards. Remnants of the Freedom Convoy, have transformed from being anti-vaccine mandates into anti-LGBTQ+ policies in school boards. Under the guise of protecting students, these groups argue that pronouns should be disclosed to parents, as well as the elimination of gender identity and sexual orientation education from the

Sep 26, 2023 • 55:03

Can Hamilton Find a Place to Hang it's HATS?

Can Hamilton Find a Place to Hang it's HATS?

You can support the work we do by visiting our website at https://905er.ca Last week a civic meeting at the Bennetto Community Centre in Hamilton was shut down due to attendees' disruptive behaviour. The issue of the meeting was to inform the local community about the proposed site for the Hamilton Alliance for Tiny Shelters, or HATS. We've spoken about the HATS project before on the podcast. However, over the last year, what seemed to be an innovative way to address the tent encampments and ris

Sep 19, 2023 • 45:07

Jennifer Keesmaat Draws the Line on the Greenbelt Scandal

Jennifer Keesmaat Draws the Line on the Greenbelt Scandal

You can support us by visit our website: https://905er.ca The Greenbelt scandal continues to grow and become a bigger and bigger albatross around his government's neck. Each day new revelations add a new level to the scandal. How deep does this scandal go? And how is it undermining our belief in good and responsible government? Our guest today wants to examine exactly that. Jennifer Keesmaat is the former city planner for Toronto, and founder of the not for profit development firm Markee Develop

Sep 12, 2023 • 49:14

The Hon. Kathleen Wynne on What is at Stake with Student Pronouns

The Hon. Kathleen Wynne on What is at Stake with Student Pronouns

Please support our work at our website https://905er.ca As families and students get prepared to return to school for another year, the LGBTQ+ community is coming under undo scrutiny once again. Over the summer, New Brunswick and Saskatchewan provincial governments changed their policies regarding notifying parents of a student's wish to change their pronouns or assigned name from birth. Here in Ontario, the Minister of Education Stephen Lecce voiced support for the policy and opened the door to

Sep 5, 2023 • 49:49

Our Libraries Tell the Stories of The 905

Our Libraries Tell the Stories of The 905

Please support our work at https://905er.ca Now and again we come across what seems to be a small idea that could have a significant impact. The Burlington Public Library has one of those ideas. Their Digital Archive was recently launched, putting their collection of historical documents online for the world to see. Now while most would see this as just an added service that the library would offer to its citizens, we see it as something more profound. When we started this podcast, we knew that

Aug 29, 2023 • 30:21

Are 905 Cities Able to Deal with our Homeless?

Are 905 Cities Able to Deal with our Homeless?

Support us at https://905er.ca We bring to you our second part of our dive into the homelessness crisis in the 905. In our previous episode we talked with Michelle Bilek of the Ontario Alliance to End Homelessness, to get the grassroots perspective of the issue. This episode, we speak with two councillors of two of the largest cities in the 905 to find out what barriers our cities are facing to address the issue of affordable housing and homelessness head on. Joining us are Maureen Wilson, Hamil

Aug 22, 2023 • 49:37

**Special!!!** 905 Round-Up: We were all right about Doug Ford!

**Special!!!** 905 Round-Up: We were all right about Doug Ford!

Support the Podcast at https://905er.ca We know we were supposed to bring you the second episode in our discussion about homelessness this week. That is still coming however something really important happened in the week between. Ontario's Auditor General, Bonnie Lysyk released her report on the Ontario PC Government's Greenbelt opening, and it did not go well for Premier Doug Ford and Minister Steve Clark. Essentially everything that we and every other respectable pundit has been saying about

Aug 15, 2023 • 47:44

The Summer of the Tent is a Failure of Housing Policy

The Summer of the Tent is a Failure of Housing Policy

This summer and this year has seen tent encampments spring up across not just the 905 but across the entire country. As housing prices continue to skyrocket and wages remain stagnant, a very real and very immediate economic crisis has emerged. More and more people are being forced out of their rental properties and homes due to them becoming more and more unaffordable. The result has seen a crisis of homelessness on our streets. It is virtually impossible for one to walk through their community

Aug 8, 2023 • 44:30

The 905er Looks for a New Liberal Leader - Adil Shamji

The 905er Looks for a New Liberal Leader - Adil Shamji

Support our work at our website https://905er.caWe complete our interviews with the Ontario Liberal Party Leadership candidates by sitting down with the last candidate to jump into the fray, Adil Shamji.Adil is one of two leadership candidates who currently has a seat in the Ontario Legislature. He is also a doctor who was on the front lines of COVID and ran and won in the last provincial election. So what drove Dr. Shamji to leave a promising career in medicine to jump into the mess that is Ont

Aug 1, 2023 • 44:44

Matt Cundill on How Bill C-18 Hurts Podcasters

Matt Cundill on How Bill C-18 Hurts Podcasters

Support our work by visiting us at https://905er.caA few weeks ago, we received an alarming notification on our Instagram page. Meta would no longer be sharing our content in Canada, in retaliation against the Federal government's Bill C-18.We had though that maybe we'd be too small to be affected by this move, however it turns out we were wrong. Instead we have found ourselves to be reduced to collateral damage in the fight between the federal government and two tech giants. So then, what are o

Jul 25, 2023 • 44:22

Nathaniel Arfin Asks Why Are Teachers The Last to Be Asked on Teaching?

Nathaniel Arfin Asks Why Are Teachers The Last to Be Asked on Teaching?

Now on Fountain.fm fountain.fm/the_905er987 Support us there and help keep the podcast going! The Ontario government recently announced a new curriculum for teachers to implement this fall concerning literacy. While it is based on updated techniques and science concerning children's development, it is of course not without controversy. Usually in developing and unrolling curriculum, it is a slow process. Testing to see what works and doesn't and ensuring that all teachers have the best tools to

Jul 18, 2023 • 44:28

The 905er Crosses Over With The Breakdown AB

The 905er Crosses Over With The Breakdown AB

Now on Fountain.fm fountain.fm/the_905er987 Support us there and help keep the podcast going! We are venturing outside the 905 today. In fact outside the province all they across the prairies to the great province of Alberta. Don't worry we aren't changing our address, but in light of the aftermath of the recent Alberta provincial election of Danielle Smith we wanted to look at the effects of it on the 905. This might seem like a stretch for an episode but there is a method to our madness. For s

Jul 11, 2023 • 1:39:40

The 905er Looks for a New Liberal Leader - Ted Hsu

The 905er Looks for a New Liberal Leader - Ted Hsu

Now on Fountain.fmfountain.fm/the_905er987Support us there and help keep the podcast going!Our conversations with the Ontario Liberal Leadership contenders keeps going!We sit down with the only Ontario Liberal Leadership candidate who currently holds a seat in the legislatures. Kingston and the Islands MPP Ted Hsu joins us to discuss why he wants the top job in the Ontario Liberal Party.In the 2022 Ontario election, Ted successfully won back his home riding of Kingston and the Islands from the N

Jul 4, 2023 • 35:53

David Moscrop on Why Catholic Education Needs to End in Ontario

David Moscrop on Why Catholic Education Needs to End in Ontario

Now on Fountain.fm fountain.fm/the_905er987 Support us there and help keep the podcast going! In May, the York Catholic District School Board voted to not fly the Pride flag at it's properties for Pride Month. Followers of this podcast will know of our coverage of the Halton Catholic School Board's year long debate over raising the flag at it's properties and how contentious that proceeding was. The result was a questioning of how accepting are York Catholic schools for their LGBTQ+ students and

Jun 27, 2023 • 55:18

The 905er Looks for a New Liberal Leader - Yasir Naqvi

The 905er Looks for a New Liberal Leader - Yasir Naqvi

Now on Fountain.fmfountain.fm/the_905er987Support us there and help keep the podcast going!Our conversations with the Ontario Liberal Leadership contenders continues!On his episode we sit down the Federal Liberal MP, Yasir Naqvi to talk about his career and why now he wants to run for the top job in the party.Yasir is the Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre, and was the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Emergency Preparedness and President of the King’s Privy Council prior to steppin

Jun 20, 2023 • 45:56

The 905er Looks For a New Liberal Leader - Nate Erskine-Smith

The 905er Looks For a New Liberal Leader - Nate Erskine-Smith

The Ontario Liberal Party leadership race is finally kicking off.For the last two election cycles, the Ontario Liberals have failed to attain even official party status in the Legislature. The party has failed to seemingly capture the imagination and the support of the Ontario public. Many are seemingly writing off the party as a shell of it's former self. No longer a contender in Ontario politics.For Ontario Liberals though the hope is that this leadership race and rekindle momentum to

Jun 13, 2023 • 30:17

Chandler Levack: "I Like Movies" in the 905 region

Chandler Levack: "I Like Movies" in the 905 region

Now on Fountain.fmfountain.fm/the_905er987Support us there and help keep the podcast going!“I Like Movies” is the debut film from Chandler Levack, set in 2003, and telling the story of Lawrence Kweller, a 17 year old boy attending Aldershot School in Burlington who is obsessed with movies and movie-making and who is hired to work in his local video store.Levack grew up in Burlington and attended the real-life Aldershot School, and so the film has a clear autobiographical side, but Levack chose t

Jun 6, 2023 • 41:03

Frank Domenic Returns to The 905er

Frank Domenic Returns to The 905er

Now on Fountain.fmfountain.fm/the_905er987Support us there and help keep the podcast going!We welcome back to the podcast Frank Domenic!Frank joins Roland and Joel to recap two previous episodes and look at where we stand now on their issues.Previously we had on Karen Brown, President of the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario to discuss violence in Ontario schools against teachers. Frank is a teacher himself and so his insight into the dynamic in the classroom was invaluable. We also talk

May 30, 2023 • 59:20

The End of Peel Region

The End of Peel Region

Now on Fountain.fmfountain.fm/the_905er987Support us there and help keep the podcast going!Well its happening.Last week, the Minister of Municipal Affairs Steve Clark announced that they would be tabling legislation to break up Peel Region. The Town of Caledon, City of Brampton and the City of Mississauga after 50 years together will now be going their separate ways. What will this mean for the billions of dollars in shared costs and infrastructure between the municipalities? According

May 23, 2023 • 37:06

Dale Bracewell Shows How Vancouver Could Help the 905 Get Around

Dale Bracewell Shows How Vancouver Could Help the 905 Get Around

Continuing from our previous episode on cycling in the 905, we are taking a trip outside of the region. All the way across the country to Vancouver to speak with Dale Bracewell. Metaphorically of course.Dale was in attendance at the Ontario Bike Summit in Hamilton that happened earlier this month. He was there to showcase the work he did in Vancouver to transform that city into a more cycling-friendly urban environment. We asked him to talk with us about the accomplishment, as well as t

May 16, 2023 • 43:30

Can the Ontario Biking Summit Show the Way Forward?

Can the Ontario Biking Summit Show the Way Forward?

Now on Fountain.fmfountain.fm/the_905er987Support us there and help keep the podcast going!Last week, in Hamilton the Ontario Biking Summit was held. A conference to discuss how we can implement new policies and build infrastructure to create safer biking communities.This is a topic that comes up frequently in the 905. As we become a more denser and urban community, biking is a more and more viable option to get around. Biking lanes on major roadways, bike paths through our cities, and

May 9, 2023 • 47:07

Mike Moffatt Critiques Canada's Housing Plan

Mike Moffatt Critiques Canada's Housing Plan

Now on Fountain.fmfountain.fm/the_905er987Support us there and help keep the podcast going!We are welcoming back to the podcast for his third time at the microphone Mike Moffatt.We’ve been wanting to do this episode for sometime now but had trouble with scheduling. Finally the stars aligned and we were able to make it happen.As no doubt you are aware both the provincial and federal governments layed out their budgets for the year. Billions upon billions are tabled to be spent. So one wo

May 2, 2023 • 54:19

Do Police in the 905 Need More Power?

Do Police in the 905 Need More Power?

An article on the CBC caught our eye. The Hamilton Police Services has spent $30,000 to purchase drones for use. According to the report the drones have been used for simple search and rescue missions, as well as for use to monitor university parties, and protests against Justin Trudeau. This is such a wide range to use this tool we pondered what was the criteria for it being implemented? More importantly, what happens to the footage recorded? What might come of future decisions to impl

Apr 25, 2023 • 46:48

Karen Brown of ETFO Talks Violence in our Schools

Karen Brown of ETFO Talks Violence in our Schools

Over recent months there have been some high profile stories in the media that concern Ontario’s schools, and even specifically schools in the 905 region. Some attracted a lot of media attention, and some attracted the sort of attention from far right groups that makes our stomach sink. But here’s the thing. Speak to a teacher, and it’s unlikely that the issues that have been prominent in the media are remotely what they see as the important challenges currently being faced in Ontario’s

Apr 18, 2023 • 47:51

Are 905 Cities Being Set Up to Fail?

Are 905 Cities Being Set Up to Fail?

Today we are joined by Laura Steiner once again from the Milton Reporter!The Ontario government is in a race to build 1.5 million new homes by 2031 in the province. In an effort to do so Minister of Municipal Affairs Steve Clark has reached out to the various municipalities to get them to pledge to build a specific number of homes by the provinces deadline. What is surprising to us is the number of municipalities in the 905 who are eagerly agreeing to the provinces demands.A number of t

Apr 11, 2023 • 49:15

What is the State of Healthcare in Ontario?

What is the State of Healthcare in Ontario?

It is impossible to ignore the headlines on the state of Ontario's healthcare system. In Doug Ford's second term as Premier, despite a promise not to privatize the system, it seems that is exactly what is happening in Ontario. For private clinics are now part in parcel for healthcare in this province. Brought in under the pretence that it would help to alleviate the overburdened and crumbling system. Or at least thats how it's being sold to us by the government.A critic of that framing

Apr 4, 2023 • 45:01

How Project Arrow is Going to Change Canada

How Project Arrow is Going to Change Canada

We welcome back to the podcast President of the Auto Parts Manufacturers Association of Canada, Flavio Volpe.A while back we had Flavio on, to discuss their still just and idea concept car, Project Arrow. At that time we promised that we'd have him back on once it was completed and unveiled.Well that time as come. This year Project Arrow was finally revealed to the public at the Consumer Electronics Show and later at the Toronto Auto Show. The potential of this car to reshape the automo

Mar 28, 2023 • 45:52

The 905 Round-Up: Big Change Announcement

The 905 Round-Up: Big Change Announcement

After a bit of back and forth, Roland and Joel have made a decision on how the 905er is going to be structured going forward.We're looping all of you in on our decision making process and announcing how we'll be producing this podcast going forward.Have a listen.It takes money and time to create two podcasts a week. We love doing what we do, but please consider supporting us if you can so we can keep improving, and keep paying the bills.You can become a monthly or yearly patron on our w

Mar 23, 2023 • 16:05

Why You Are Going to Need Climate Change Insurance

Why You Are Going to Need Climate Change Insurance

Climate change is the biggest threat to our existence. Its effects can be seen all around us. So it's no surprise to find efforts being made to combat it's effects.Its common place these days to find companies engaging in public relations campaigns to showcase their efforts to be more conscious of climate change. Whether that's in the promotion of a more sustainable product or service, or perhaps trying to highlight a campaign to give back to environmentally friendly causes. However one

Mar 21, 2023 • 52:12

Has the 905 Turned into Car Jack City?

Has the 905 Turned into Car Jack City?

Long time friend of the podcast Laura Steiner returns!It's not news per se, that Peel region is a hot bed of car thefts. It's so common now, that you can find videos of thefts in broad daylight posted on social media. Cars have been reported found in shipping containers in Montreal or Halifax destined for the other side of the world to be resold by organized crime rings. Police have yet to make a dent in the ring, and it appears to be expanding. Laura shares her reporting on Halton Poli

Mar 16, 2023 • 36:55

905 Round-Up: Brian Lilley Ruins Everything

905 Round-Up: Brian Lilley Ruins Everything

Brian Lilley waded into the Hamilton Centre By-election with an accusation of antisemitism against the NDP. The Liberals jumped on his bandwagon with candidate Deirdre Pike demanding an apology from NDP candidate Sarah Jama to the Jewish community. Jama fought back by accusing Pike of racism. Jama and Pike have both dedicated their lives to activism on behalf of disadvantaged and persecuted groups. So it makes perfect sense to have an election that paints career community activists as a

Mar 14, 2023 • 51:50

The 905 Round-Up: Liberal Rebirth and Third Party Validation

The 905 Round-Up: Liberal Rebirth and Third Party Validation

The Ontario Liberal Party for the better part of last year was written off for dead. A humiliating result from the last provincial general election made many in Ontario think that the party would quietly fall into the trash bin of history. With no gains of seats in the legislature, the Ontario Liberal Party does not even have party status at Queen's Park. It's former leader Steven Del Duca resigned on election night, and for sometime it was a question of why would anyone want to take on

Mar 9, 2023 • 54:22

Stella Ambler Explains What is Municipal Watch

Stella Ambler Explains What is Municipal Watch

We like to pride ourselves on being open to opposing view points. We concede that sometimes we don't always get it rightHowever, we also pride ourselves on offering the chance for those opposing viewpoints to come on and clear the record.Which is sort of the story on how we invited our guest this week to the podcast.Last week we listened to another local podcast called What's the Point, produced by the fine people at the Pointer. They had on to their podcast Stella Ambler, former Conser

Mar 7, 2023 • 55:46

Joey Coleman: The First 100 Days of Hamilton's New Council

Joey Coleman: The First 100 Days of Hamilton's New Council

Nobody works harder than Joey Coleman to monitor and report everything done at Hamilton City Hall. His opinions demand respect. After October's change election saw major changes in personnel on Hamilton council, there were high expectations for not just a change in tone at City Hall, but an activist and courageous council. Yet it came into being with perhaps its greatest challenge already determined by the province, when the Ford government declared as the new council was being sworn in

Mar 2, 2023 • 55:09

The 905 Round-Up: Halton School Board Fails and Highway Follies

The 905 Round-Up: Halton School Board Fails and Highway Follies

The 905 Round-Up is coming to you early this week!A follow up on stories we've already touched upon on the podcast. Starting with the Halton District School Board. Last year, the board made international headlines when a transgender teacher was photographed wearing enormous prosthetic breasts in a shop class at Oakville Trafalgar High School. At the time the board stated that it had no dress code policy to enforce teacher attire. It's concern was over the potential human rights violatio

Feb 28, 2023 • 49:08

The 905 Round-Up: Hey Doug, Where’s our Housing?

The 905 Round-Up: Hey Doug, Where’s our Housing?

It shouldn't surprise you to know that housing is at a crisis in not just the 905, but all of Ontario.  In fact, across Canada, housing prices and supply are in crisis mode.  Our supply of housing in whatever form you wish to choose, whether it's a detached house, a condo or rental isn't keeping up with the population.  We have just not built enough to keep up our numbers.  We do not have enough places to live, is what it comes down to basically.Which is what Bill 23 was supposed to hel

Feb 23, 2023 • 42:43

Kojo Damptey on Why Black History Month Matters

Kojo Damptey on Why Black History Month Matters

February as many of you are aware is Black History MonthEach year through the month of February figures and prominent individuals of african origin whether they be activists, politicians, artists, musicians, authors or historical figures, are front and centre in our schools and libraries.People of African descent have lived and worked on this continent since the first Europeans arrived.  Slavery was a part of colonisation of the continent and is tied to the foundations of Canada as much

Feb 21, 2023 • 44:02

How Did The 15 Minute City Become a Conspiracy Theory?

How Did The 15 Minute City Become a Conspiracy Theory?

If you're a fan of this podcast, then you'll no doubt be aware of our fan of smart urban design.  For years the car guided how we designed and built our cities.  The idea was that we would alway require a car to get from place to place where we live.  Spawl became a way of life and almost official policy for development in the 905.  In recent years however, sprawl has become problematic.  We have come around to the notion that we cannot keep building over greenspace to accomodate the gr

Feb 16, 2023 • 38:39

The 905 Round-Up: Stag and Doughs and Resignations

The 905 Round-Up: Stag and Doughs and Resignations

The Premier hosted a Stag and Doe for his daughter's wedding last year and surprisingly all of his closest developer buddies got an invite whether they liked it or not to attend. To literally hand over envelopes of cash. How this does not topple his Premiership is a mystery to us. This event singlehandedly might make Doug Ford's government the most corrupt in Ontario political history. So where are the calls for his resignation? And speaking of resignations, we look at the resignation o

Feb 14, 2023 • 48:45

The 905 Round-Up: The Nuclear Option

The 905 Round-Up: The Nuclear Option

Another weekly brace of stories affecting the 905. When is disrupting a democratic meeting appropriate? Uncle Doug is building nuclear power plants. Uncle Justin is thowing money at the provinces to spend on healthcare to make up for the fact the premiers won't throw enough money at it themselves. Isn't that just rewarding the delinquents? And is the fact Canada's 'fiscally prudent' premiers are all demanding more money from the feds than they're being offered an example of nauseating h

Feb 9, 2023 • 42:38

Postcards from the Tram - What Edinburgh Can Teach the 905 About LRT

Postcards from the Tram - What Edinburgh Can Teach the 905 About LRT

Roland spent most of January in Scotland, and took the time to record his impressions of Edinburgh's Tram network, which opened it's first phase in 2014. The tram's construction was anything but smooth (sound familiar?), but now it's here, what's it like?It takes money and time to create two podcasts a week. We love doing what we do, but please consider supporting us if you can so we can keep improving, and keep paying the bills.Why not buy us a coffee?Or you can support us by becoming

Feb 7, 2023 • 29:06

The 905 Round-Up - Hurricane Hazel Departs

The 905 Round-Up - Hurricane Hazel Departs

Laura Steiner sits in for Joel as we discuss the late Hazel McCallion's legacy for Mississauga and the 905 region. And we share some first impressions (recorded before Tuesday's interview with Kate Graham - go and listen to it if you haven't heard it yet) on the 40 Liberal insiders who have put their names to an attempt to co-opt Mike Schreiner from the Ontario Greens.It takes money and time to create two podcasts a week. We love doing what we do, but please consider supporting us if yo

Feb 2, 2023 • 41:36

Kate Graham Talks About That Liberal Letter

Kate Graham Talks About That Liberal Letter

At 10am on Sunday former Ontario Liberal leadership hopeful Kate Graham posted an open letter on her Twitter account which certainly achieved something Ontario's Liberals have not done too often lately--it got people talking about the Ontario Liberals.The letter was a public invitation, signed by forty prominent Liberals, including such noteable party grandees as Greg Sorbara, Deb Matthews and Lyn McLeod, for Mike Schreiner, leader of the Ontario Green Party, to throw his hat into the r

Jan 31, 2023 • 31:40

The 905 Round-Up: Roland Returns to the Show!

The 905 Round-Up: Roland Returns to the Show!

Roland returns to the show, and Joel has the privilege of bringing him up to speed on all he's missed around the 905 and the province in his absence.  Share in the shock and awe!We recap privatization of health care.  It turns out Hazel McCallion, who made her reputation on sprawl in Mississauga is now over seeing the Greenbelt. And speaking of which it appears our property taxes are poised to take a hike.It takes money and time to create two podcasts a week. We love doing what we do, b

Jan 26, 2023 • 49:04

Michael Twigg Shares with The 905er a New Vision for The Greenbelt

Michael Twigg Shares with The 905er a New Vision for The Greenbelt

The Greenbelt continues to be front stage in Ontario politics.  Doug Ford's reversal on his stance to allow developers to begin building inside the Greenbelt is proving to be rather unpopular to say the least.According to the Ontario Progressive Conservative government the land is too valuable to not build housing on.  However, is that the only way to view the Greenbelt?  As a plot of land waiting to build housing on?  Michael Twigg of the Smart Prosperity Institute says otherwise.He he

Jan 24, 2023 • 33:55

The 905 Round-Up: Laura Babcock Guest Hosts

The 905 Round-Up: Laura Babcock Guest Hosts

Joel is joined by guest host Laura Babcock for this episode.The last municipal election saw Hamilton being the only municipality which saw real change.  An old council was effectively replaced by fresh blood.  Bringing in new ideas and perspectives to solve long time problems in the city, and possibly re-shape the relationship between the city and possibly the 905 and the province.A few months later, we ponder has the lustre been lost from that vision?  Laura chats with Joel about how n

Jan 19, 2023 • 44:41

Frank Domenic Chats with The 905er

Frank Domenic Chats with The 905er

While searching for stories to cover on this podcast, we often look through social media to keep an eye on what we think is relevant to life in the 905.  In that process, we come across various personalities online.If you’re on Tiktok and follow anything political, chances are you’ve come across Frank Domenic.  If you’re not entirely familiar with his online content we’ll provide a link to his profile in our show notes for you to get caught up.Those of you who do follow Frank, you are n

Jan 17, 2023 • 38:42

The 905 Round-Up: Laura Steiner Guest Hosts

The 905 Round-Up: Laura Steiner Guest Hosts

With Roland on a break for a bit, we reached out to a former guest of the podcast, Laura Steiner to come on and fill in on the mic.We pick up on our closing story of 2022, and how Doug Ford's greenbelt troubles are only starting.  This week the OPP announced they were looking into what actually happened in Bill 23.  As well what the results of no development charges will actually mean for a town like Milton and others like it in the 905.  And lastly, it seems Burlington got a win, or di

Jan 12, 2023 • 49:37

Karl Dockstader and The 905er Ponder the Thin Blue Line

Karl Dockstader and The 905er Ponder the Thin Blue Line

We are back from our break for 2023.Just prior to the New Year, word spread around the province of the tragic killing of OPP Officer Gzregorz Pierzchala in the line of duty, just outside of Hamilton.  The accused in that case have been apprehended and will face their charges in a court of law.  This episode is not about the details of that case.Instead this is about a tweet.  Just after news of this tragedy spread across the province, condolences and messages of sympathy were expressed

Jan 10, 2023 • 53:17

The Year That Was 2022

The Year That Was 2022

This is our last episode for 2022 folks!As per a yearly tradition, Roland and Joel look back at what they saw as their top stories of 2022.  Without going too much into detail, the Halton Catholic School Board's fight over the Pride Flag as well as the surprising twists and turns of the Hamilton Municipal race topped out the stories.  As we highlight in the episode, Hamilton is turning into a new media ecosystem with more and more new media filling in gaps in coverage.  It's a trend we'

Dec 22, 2022 • 39:10

Greenbelt Sell-Off Scandal: Tim Gray of Environmental Defence discusses the call for a Police Investigation

Greenbelt Sell-Off Scandal: Tim Gray of Environmental Defence discusses the call for a Police Investigation

(Updated with corrected interview file.) Once again we are looking today at the Ford government’s attack on environmental protections, and its handing of power and financial windfalls to a small number of major developers who just happen also to be major PC donors.Last week Environmental Defence and Democracy Watch formally called for a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding apparent insider information leaks to developers ahead of the announcement of lands being remove

Dec 20, 2022 • 39:16

The 905 Round-Up: Doug Ford Vs. Women

The 905 Round-Up: Doug Ford Vs. Women

Doug Ford in a public interview shot back at criticism of his Bill 23 from Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie, by saying she should 'quit her whining'.  Earlier this month he shot back at Auditor General Bonnie Lysyk's analysis of his government's handling of casino money laundering by telling her to stay in her lane.  Why would he use such sharp language to these public figures?  Our theory is that it's because they are both women.  Which leads us to ask if Doug Ford has a problem with w

Dec 15, 2022 • 44:56

Dawn Danko Dishes on the HWDSB’s New Masking Policy

Dawn Danko Dishes on the HWDSB’s New Masking Policy

This month the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board reinstituted a masking policy. A decision which to no surprise drew the attention of both sides of this contentious debate. After a few pauses in the meeting, and a few removals of people by the police, the board was able to become the first board in Ontario to put in place an official masking policy. Why did the board decide to wade into this hotbed issue? We invited on board chair Dawn Renchko Danko to the podcast to find out the

Dec 13, 2022 • 36:28

Our 200th Episode Spectacular with a Special Guest

Our 200th Episode Spectacular with a Special Guest

This podcast started as a bit of a passion project at the start of COVID-19.  We wanted to be able to talk about the issues and news of the region in a way that legacy media just wasn't able to.  A podcast seemed to be the best option to do that.Two years later, this is still a passion project for us but it's grown so much beyond just that for us.  We have been wanting to grow and expand to reach more people and take this project to a next level.  Recently an opportunity has presented i

Dec 8, 2022 • 41:07

Amber Crawford from AMO talks with the 905er about Bill 23

Amber Crawford from AMO talks with the 905er about Bill 23

The latest law to upset Ontarians by the Doug Ford government is the More Homes Built Faster Act.  Or Bill 23 as it's more affectionately referred to.  This act is going to carve up 7,400 acres of the Greenbelt for developers to use free from oversight from conservation authorities and in violation of Premier Ford's word to Ontarians to leave the greenbelt alone.  A major critic of the act is the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, or AMO.  AMO is the go between organization for m

Dec 6, 2022 • 36:17

905 Round-Up: Sewage Leaks, HATS in Hamilton and Greenbelt Spin

905 Round-Up: Sewage Leaks, HATS in Hamilton and Greenbelt Spin

It turns out that the city of Hamilton continues to have problems with sewage.  This time it appears that for 26 years raw sewage has been emptying out into Hamilton Harbour.  The good news in this situation is that it also appears that Hamilton City Council is not covering it up and working to act proactively on the issue.  A sign of things to come? We shall see.A few weeks ago we talked with now Councillor Ted McMeekin about the Hamilton Alliance for Tiny Shelters or HATS.  For someti

Dec 1, 2022 • 37:36

Nick Morrison Shares Safe Streets Halton’s Vision for The 905

Nick Morrison Shares Safe Streets Halton’s Vision for The 905

A question we constantly come back to on this podcast is what do we want our communities to be like. One of the ways to accomplish this is to ensure that our streets are pedestrian focused and safe for all who are on them.  This year a grassroots organization mobilized to bring this issue to the forefront of Halton politicians.Safe Streets Halton is a community organization focused on the elimination of traffic-related deaths and serious injuries in Halton region while promoting sustain

Nov 29, 2022 • 38:05

905 Round-Up: Is Doug Ford Good for Democracy?

905 Round-Up: Is Doug Ford Good for Democracy?

There is a disturbing trend emerging in Ontario politics from the Doug Ford government.As Doug Ford pursues his vision of paving over the greenbelt to help out his developer friends, resistance is popping up in unexpected places.  Most recently the Association of Municipalities of Ontario has made public their concerns regarding Bill 23.  Namely that they project a cost of approximately $1 Billion a year to municipalities due to loss of development fees.  As well as the untold projected

Nov 24, 2022 • 42:13

Franz Hartmann Talks to The 905er About Saving the Greenbelt

Franz Hartmann Talks to The 905er About Saving the Greenbelt

Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act is the latest controversy from the Doug Ford Ontario PC Government.  It is an abrupt violation of a promise Premier Ford made to voters last election to NOT touch the Greenbelt under any circumstances.  Well apparently his word doesn't count for very much.The More Homes Built Faster Act would open up 7,300 acres of Greenbelt land to development.  Letting sprawl spread once again over Ontario's fragile farmland.  Despite the government's own Housi

Nov 22, 2022 • 39:10

The 905 Round-Up: Health Care Collapse and Land Grabs for the Rich

The 905 Round-Up: Health Care Collapse and Land Grabs for the Rich

There is a lot to get to on this episode of the 905 Round-Up!We start off with a brief summary of the Halton District School Board's inability to come up with a dress code for it's teachers in light of the enormous controversy it found itself in last month.Then we dive into the ongoing issue of the collapse of our health care system in Ontario.  As hospital after hospital reports their emergency rooms and ICU's closing due to staffing shortages where is the priority in fixing this crisi

Nov 17, 2022 • 35:31

Sex Workers Rights in The 905

Sex Workers Rights in The 905

In 2012, the supreme court handed down a landmark ruling which struck down many of the laws surrounding prostitution and sex work in Canada, citing that the laws violated sex workers charter rights as they imposed a greater risk of harm on sex workers.  The court gave at that time the Stephen Harper government time to re write the laws.The result was the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act.  A law which at the time was viewed as just rearranging the deck chairs of the is

Nov 15, 2022 • 47:41

905 Round-Up: Doug Ford Rolls Over for CUPE

905 Round-Up: Doug Ford Rolls Over for CUPE

WOW!!! What a week!Doug Ford blinked before the entire province this week by capitulating to CUPE and revoking Bill 28.  Meaning the imposed contract on CUPE workers is nullified as well as the use of the Notwithstanding Clause to trample worker's rights.  All of this happened as a result of the mobilization and solidarity of the labour movement in Ontario.  The likes of which haven't really been seen in a few generations.While that might sound like a reason to celebrate (it is), Doug F

Nov 9, 2022 • 43:51

Heidi Bernhardt: ADHD Mythbusting

Heidi Bernhardt: ADHD Mythbusting

I’m writing this introduction at 1am, about 6 hours before this episode goes live. I’m doing so despite the fact I could have written and recorded this introduction more conveniently at almost any time in the last five days. Instead, I left it to the very last minute, and literally the most inconvenient and unpleasant time to write and record.The reason why I’d do such a counterintuitive and counterproductive thing is, I learned about three years ago, because I have ADHD, like some thre

Nov 8, 2022 • 41:10

905 Round-Up: Doug Ford Uses the Nuclear Option to Get his Way

905 Round-Up: Doug Ford Uses the Nuclear Option to Get his Way

In Ontario there is only one thing anyone is talking about right now.As negotiations with CUPE hit an impasse, Doug Ford and Stephen Lecce are forcing a contract on CUPE members and invoking the Notwithstanding Clause in the process.  The Clause essentially ignores the fact unions have a Charter right to negotiate in good faith with their employers.  The precedent that this move would set is a dangerous one for all Ontarians going forward.  When the clause was introduced into the Charte

Nov 3, 2022 • 39:38

Lorraine Sommerfeld: Auto Destruction.

Lorraine Sommerfeld: Auto Destruction.

We welcome back multi-award-winning journalist Lorraine Sommerfeld to the podcast. For readers in the Hamilton and Halton area, Lorraine may be most loved for her long-running Motherlode column in the Hamilton Spectator, but she is best known across Canada as an auto journalist who has worked for all of Canada’s three big national newspapers over he past two decades, and now writes for the National Post. But Lorraine is no stooge for the auto industry, nor is she someone who thinks all

Nov 1, 2022 • 39:33

The 905 Round-Up: Doug Ford Ignores the Municipal Election

The 905 Round-Up: Doug Ford Ignores the Municipal Election

We recap a three and a half hour live stream of coverage of the municipal election results in the 905 region.  What did we learn from Monday night's results? Also what should we expect from council tables in the region.  All eyes are on Hamilton as the only city to actually embrace change in the region and elect new faces to their council.  What are the challenges to be faced going forward?  The Doug Ford government already is taking action to establish it's relationship with the munici

Oct 27, 2022 • 42:22

Municipal Election Live Stream Catch-up

Municipal Election Live Stream Catch-up

Did you miss the fun of the live results show on Monday? You did? Well do we have a treat for you. Over three hours of talk and analysis as the election results came in from across the province. We know you'll want to listen to every minute.And, you know what, the results were a lot of fun in some cities. There was genuine excitement in three cities at least where the mayoral race was extremely close, and it was an evening that saw a significant amount of change in quite a few places, e

Oct 27, 2022 • 3:17:09

905 Round-Up: Bad Trustees, MEXIT and Who’s Ahead in Hamilton?

905 Round-Up: Bad Trustees, MEXIT and Who’s Ahead in Hamilton?

This week, for your listening pleasure, we look at the contents of two previously confidential code of conduct reports against two controversial Halton Catholic School Board trustees and ask what it says about them and the trustee system; Mayor Bonnie Crombie's call for 'MEXIT' for Mississauga (more like 'MEH-XIT', amiright?); and the latest poll from Hamilton and whether it confirms our by-the-seat-of-our-pants guesswork last week about where the mayoral race seemed to be going, or whe

Oct 20, 2022 • 50:15

Kojo Damptey Talks to the 905er About Why He Won’t Quit

Kojo Damptey Talks to the 905er About Why He Won’t Quit

Racism has entered the Hamilton municipal race.Last week in Ward 14, candidate Kojo Damptey's bus shelter ad was vandalized by a poster saying "White Lives Matter" along with a link to a social media platform advocating white supremacist literature.  The Hamilton Police Services have stated that they are treating this as a hate crime investigation.  When something like this happens it draws our attention.  We wanted to speak with the target of this intimidation, the candidate himself Ko

Oct 18, 2022 • 41:12

905 Round-Up: Cowardly Candidates and Who’s Winning in Hamilton?

905 Round-Up: Cowardly Candidates and Who’s Winning in Hamilton?

For this episode of the Round-Up we examine a disappointing trend in Halton of candidates for public office not showing up for debates.In the race for Halton Catholic School Board Trustees, a major debate was cancelled due to numerous candidates declining the invitation to attend.  The Regional Chair position isn't fairing any better.  These elections matter due to the power and influence they can have on the places we live.  What is driving this troubling trend?  What should we do abou

Oct 13, 2022 • 51:08

Halton Regional Chair Race  - Andrea Grebenc

Halton Regional Chair Race - Andrea Grebenc

As we’ve mentioned before, we can’t cover every race, but we can highlight some of the races we think are most interesting. This week we're focusing on the Halton Regional Chair race. For the first time since the position became elected in 2000, there are three candidates in the race with clearly established credentials and contrasting platforms.Or, we assume they're contrasting, because two candidates have so far skipped all the debates, and also didn't reply to our invitation.Andrea G

Oct 11, 2022 • 51:48

905 Round Up: Activists, Coyotes and Politics What More Do You Need?

905 Round Up: Activists, Coyotes and Politics What More Do You Need?

It seems that in the 905, it belongs to the coyotes and we just live here. Coyotes continue to dominate the discussion around dinner tables in Burlington where 4 coyotes have been put down. Response from City of Burlington has been its people's fault for feeding or leaving food sources open for wild animals. This information isn't new to officials though. A conservation group Coyote Watch Canada put out a blog posting stating that as far back as 2014 they urged the City of Burlington to better e

Oct 6, 2022 • 42:07

Taking the P Out of Politics: Racing to the Bottom in ’Bramton’ and the Hammer

Taking the P Out of Politics: Racing to the Bottom in ’Bramton’ and the Hammer

Regular guest Alan Kan joins us again to chat about the latest news from the municipal election trail. And leading the pack for 'oh, good grief, really?' moments in this election are the good cities of Brampton and Hamilton.We look at the latest stories from those two cities, asking whether Patrick Brown's main challenger is much of an alternative, and whether what some assumed was a 'slam dunk' win for Andrea Horwath is being undone by, well, Andrea Horwath.Read and listen to Alan Kan at https:

Oct 4, 2022 • 49:28

905 Round-Up: When the Landlords Make the Rules

905 Round-Up: When the Landlords Make the Rules

It's rare that we get to focus on federal politics when talking about the 905 region.  However, we found our chance to with a story by Davide Mastracci over at Readpassage.com.  His hard work discovered that close to 40% of all MP's were either landlords or invested in the housing market in some way.  This list included recently crowned Conservative party Leader, Pierre Poilievre.  Who got that crown by claiming he'd take on the gatekeepers holding back housing affordability.  Well it seems that

Sep 29, 2022 • 51:16

Caryma Sa’d On Why the Freedom Convoy Came to Oakville

Caryma Sa’d On Why the Freedom Convoy Came to Oakville

Last week, a picture shared to social media of a trans woman teacher at Oakville Trafalgar High School erupted into an international controversy. The showed the teacher in question wearing overly large prosthetic breasts covered with a tight sweater, with the outline of the prosthesis nipples visible.   Needless to say this attracted a lot of attention to the school and the school board.  While the Halton District School Board rushed to contain the public relations story, elements on the far rig

Sep 27, 2022 • 43:40

The 905 Round-Up: Corruption, When it Fits

The 905 Round-Up: Corruption, When it Fits

It was brought to our attention that Burlington Councillor Paul Sharman's campaign was collecting donations from developers, which was helping to fuel his fourth time being elected to Burlington City Council. It brought people claiming that he was corrupt to come forward. We wanted to take a look at this and so we did. The thing is nothing Councillor Sharman has done is corrupt or in the wrong. It's all perfectly legal and in keeping with his self proclaimed values and priorities. If we're going

Sep 22, 2022 • 32:08

The Race for Milton: Zeeshan Hamid

The Race for Milton: Zeeshan Hamid

It may be over 20 years since Gord Krantz faced a serious challenger in Milton. Back then it was Colin Best who got as close as 1000 votes to beating Krantz, before settling for a long career as a Milton councillor. Zeeshan Hamid, first elected in 2010, has the background and credibility to launch a serious challenge to a mayor so confident in his position he acts as if it's 1965 and email hasn't been invented. Whatever the relative merits of Hamid and Krantz, we think this is a race worth watc

Sep 20, 2022 • 44:35

905 Round-up: Scrooge McFord and the Coyotes

905 Round-up: Scrooge McFord and the Coyotes

We live in a country where the prime minister can't even declare a national day of mourning. So Ontario's workers will work while millions upon millions elsewhere in Canada and the Commonwealth nations either spend the day watching the funeral of the late Queen Elizabeth II, or, just as validly, enjoying one of the tangible benefits of living in a constitutional democracy via an unexpected day off. But Uncle Doug knows best, right? Right. Two stories from Burlington. Is City Hall successfully w

Sep 15, 2022 • 35:16

The Race For Hamilton - Keanin Loomis

The Race For Hamilton - Keanin Loomis

In the run up to the municipal election on October 24th we want to give our listeners the opportunity to hear directly from candidates in some of the most hotly contested and important races. Unfortunately we simply can’t cover every candidate in every race, but there are certain high profile races where we hope to bring you interviews with the candidates who seem to us to be among the front runners.Nevertheless, exactly who we interview will depend as much on the candidates as on us. We can onl

Sep 13, 2022 • 45:06

905 Round-up: Another Fight with the Teachers is Brewing; Corporate Donations Still Dominating Politics

905 Round-up: Another Fight with the Teachers is Brewing; Corporate Donations Still Dominating Politics

On the first day back at school we ask whether the province is looking for another fight with teachers, to restart the battle that was called off in March 2020. But teachers have been on the frontline of the COVID battle for the last two years, so don't they at least deserve pay increases that keep their salaries in line with inflation? The province says no.A story from the campaign trail in Hamilton highlights two points: the role of Third Party Advertising and the role of 'personal' donations

Sep 8, 2022 • 43:13

The 905er Asks: ”What Makes a Strong Mayor”

The 905er Asks: ”What Makes a Strong Mayor”

As is the PC government's style since 2018, especially when it comes to municipal matters, a surprise announcement with major implications for at least two cities was announced as part of the throne speech on August 9th. It wasn't in the PC election platform (because they didn't publish a platform) and there wasn't even the pretence of consultations ahead of the announcement of a finalized plan to legislate. That announcement was the plan to introduce 'strong mayors' in two Ontario cities - Tor

Sep 6, 2022 • 46:32

Alan Kan and Laura Steiner Bring The 905er Up to Speed

Alan Kan and Laura Steiner Bring The 905er Up to Speed

We have on this episode, old friends of the podcast! Laura Steiner of the Milton Reporter and Alan Kan of the Munipoli Matters Substack join us to give us their expert analysis of what this falls' municipal election could look like. As  well as what to look for in the various races around the 905. You won't want to miss out! This episode of The 905er is brought to you by our sponsor: South River Brewing.  Listen to this episode to see how you can save money on your next order by visiting the

Sep 1, 2022 • 55:42

The 905 Round-Up - We’re Back from Summer!

The 905 Round-Up - We’re Back from Summer!

Well we're back folks! After a restful recovery over the summer, from the tumult which was our most recent Ontario election, Joel and Roland decided to return to behind the microphones.  Just in time for another election!  This falls' municipal election. With the deadline to register as a candidate recently passed, we decided to take a look at who was throwing their hat in the ring for this election to decide the course of action for our communities in the 905 for the next four years.  Let's j

Aug 30, 2022 • 43:28

Rebroadcast - The 905 Round-Up: Mayoral Rumours and Hamilton Social Media Hijinx

Rebroadcast - The 905 Round-Up: Mayoral Rumours and Hamilton Social Media Hijinx

As one Ontario election ends, it appears that immediately we look at the upcoming municipal election in the fall. More specifically the rumours surrounding former Ontario NDP Leader, Andrea Horwath.  For a little while now, the rumour mill has been circulating that Ms. Horwath is possibly looking to throw her hat in the ring for Hamilton Mayor this fall.  What are her chances of winning?  Should she run?  More importantly, should the people of Hamilton reward another politician shopping around

Aug 25, 2022 • 38:24

Rebroadcast - The 905 Round-Up: Bully Councillors and Secret Sales

Rebroadcast - The 905 Round-Up: Bully Councillors and Secret Sales

Last week Mississauga's city council got in the news for something they didn't do.  Specifically failing to address allegations of intimidation and vandalism on the part of one Councillor against another.  Karen Ras repeatedly brought to the attention of the city that her car was being vandalized in her parking spot at city hall.  Upon investigation by Peel police, they allege that her fellow Councillor Ron Starr.  Why did the integrity commissioner fail to act for two years, and why was

Aug 23, 2022 • 36:52

Rebroadcast - The 905 Round-Up: The Tories True Colours on Development

Rebroadcast - The 905 Round-Up: The Tories True Colours on Development

Originally aired on April 5, 2022  Don't worry, you didn't miss the week!  Due to a scheduling conflict, our Thursday episode of The 905 Round-Up is today!This week had huge news in Hamilton.  Local area MPP Donna Skelly earned some local headlines, by saying that #Hamilton city council made the wrong call in not expanding its urban boundary earlier this year.At the same time, the PC government tabled legislation based on the Housing Task Force report, and this gives a lot of power to d

Aug 18, 2022 • 38:57

Rebroadcast - A Stony Silence? Sarah Harmer, Graham Flint and Greg Sweetman debate the call for a moratorium on gravel mining.

Rebroadcast - A Stony Silence? Sarah Harmer, Graham Flint and Greg Sweetman debate the call for a moratorium on gravel mining.

Originally aired on March 22, 2022   If you live in the 905 Region, there is a good chance you live relatively close to a gravel quarry, and there’s a good chance that the existence of the quarry is or has been controversial. Aggregates, to give them their proper name, are one of the constituent ingredients in a huge amount of infrastructure. Multiple environmental groups have recently formed the Reform Gravel Mining Coalition aimed at province-wide change to the aggregates industry. They are

Aug 16, 2022 • 51:42

Rebroadcast - 2022 Provincial Election: The Ontario PC Platform (Somewhat)

Rebroadcast - 2022 Provincial Election: The Ontario PC Platform (Somewhat)

Originally aired May 24, 2022   Last but not least, we present our review and take on the Ontario PC Party's platform, or lack thereof, for the provincial election. This episode of The 905er is brought to you by our sponsor: South River Brewing.  Listen to this episode to see how you can save money on your next order by visiting the link below: South River Brewing It takes money and time to create two podcasts a week. We love doing what we do, but please consider supporting us if you can s

Aug 11, 2022 • 49:17

Rebroadcast - Flavio Volpe Discusses the Aftermath of the Truck Blockades

Rebroadcast - Flavio Volpe Discusses the Aftermath of the Truck Blockades

Originally aired on March 1, 2022 Last year, we had on to the podcast Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association of Canada.  We discussed their made in Canada entry into the world of electric vehicles.  A bold and ambitious project to show to the world that the automotive industry here in Canada is poised to take on the 21st Century.  We had followed developments of the project and wanted to reach out to him to give us an update and see how it was all unfolding.Tha

Aug 9, 2022 • 38:03

Rebroadcast - The 905 Round-Up: Peel Trouble and Green Steel in Hamilton

Rebroadcast - The 905 Round-Up: Peel Trouble and Green Steel in Hamilton

On this episode of The 905 Round-Up, we have a special guest.  Alan Kan writes a municipal politics blog titled #munipoli Matters.  He is from Mississauga and often writes about what is going on in Peel Region.  We invited him on to the podcast to give us a different perspective on what has been happening at Mississauga City Council with Karen Ras resigning over allegations of bullying and intimidation on part of another councillor. Then we look at Brampton City Council and its ongoing

Aug 4, 2022 • 48:57

Rebroadcast - Denise Davy Discusses the Root Causes of Homelessness in the 905

Rebroadcast - Denise Davy Discusses the Root Causes of Homelessness in the 905

In the last few weeks for this podcast, you might have noticed that a theme has appeared.  Homelessness has crept into the forefront of discussions here in the 905.  Especially in Hamilton, where the city has struggled to get a handle on the problem and find proper solutions.  The public reception to the city’s policies has been controversial.In November, the police dismantled the homeless encampments in J.C. Beemer park leading to a large amount of criticism of excessive force and ques

Aug 2, 2022 • 44:13

Rebroadcast - 905 Round-Up: Patrick Brown wants out of Brampton; and is the 905er anti-Urbanist?

Rebroadcast - 905 Round-Up: Patrick Brown wants out of Brampton; and is the 905er anti-Urbanist?

Originally aired March 10, 2022 You just can't keep Patrick Brown out of the news this week, as his plan to run for the federal CPC leadership sees him put one story behind him, while another story is exploding in Brampton. We discuss what it says about him that he's trying to jump ship on another job.Then we look at a little bit of criticism we received for not being tough enough on Mayor John Taylor and what role the municipalities played in the creation of the Affordability Task Forc

Jul 28, 2022 • 36:40

Rebroadcast - Mayor John Taylor Takes on the Housing Affordability Taskforce

Rebroadcast - Mayor John Taylor Takes on the Housing Affordability Taskforce

Originally aired March 8th, 2022     On February 8th, the province’s Housing Affordability Task Force released its report on how to make housing more affordable in this province.  Nobody can claim the recommendations aren't radical. And while the objectives of housing affordability are shared by all, and some of the ideas contained in the recommendations have been championed by advocates for less car-centric cities, many have argued that the specific recommendations would not achieve their

Jul 26, 2022 • 37:03

Glyn Bowerman of Spacing Radio

Glyn Bowerman of Spacing Radio

Originally Aired June 14, 2022   This week we are joined by Glyn Bowerman of the Spacing Radio podcast. Spacing is something special and increasingly rare - a quarterly magazine printed on paper. But Spacing is also an important website and a highly recommended monthly podcast, hosted by Glyn. It all its formats, Spacing exists specifically to promote ideas and discussion relating to urbanism in Canada’s cities. Although it looks especially at urban issues in Canada’s big cities - Toronto, Mon

Jul 21, 2022 • 45:16

Halton’s Boundary Expansion Vote - Paul Sharman and Jane Fogal Share Their Perspectives

Halton’s Boundary Expansion Vote - Paul Sharman and Jane Fogal Share Their Perspectives

Originally Aired February 22, 2022   Halton Regional Council has just taken one of the most important votes it is likely to take this decade. At a meeting that went late into the evening last Wednesday, with over 50 delegates attending to give their opinions, the regional councillors voted 15-9 for a motion that will prevent the Region from updating its Official Plan to allow boundary expansion for further development. In doing so, Halton became the second council in recent months to vote

Jul 19, 2022 • 39:23

Rebroadcast - Grandmother’s Voice - Indigenous Women Leading a New Type of Healing and Reconciliation

Rebroadcast - Grandmother’s Voice - Indigenous Women Leading a New Type of Healing and Reconciliation

Originally aired June 21, 2022 At the same time as the history of the Residential Schools was exploding on the front pages of newspapers, two women in Halton were creating something new and unprecedented with the potential to do much to bring about a genuine knowledge of the truth, and a real road towards reconciliation. They are seeking to bring healing to all based on indigenous treatments for, in their words, “healing of the body, mind, soul and spirit while connecting to the land.”Jody Harbo

Jul 14, 2022 • 43:04

Rebroadcast - Alex Bishop: Whatever Happened to Vision Zero In Hamilton?

Rebroadcast - Alex Bishop: Whatever Happened to Vision Zero In Hamilton?

Originally Aired April 12, 2022   There is carnage on the streets of Hamilton in recent weeks. It's too easy in the world of journalism and current affairs to reach for overly dramatic language when describing a problem. Too easy to suggest a disagreement is a crisis, or an inconvenience is a calamity. But if there is any word other than 'carnage' to describe what has been happening on Hamilton's streets in recent months, we'd like to hear it. Death after serious injury after death has been

Jul 12, 2022 • 36:46

Rebroadcast - The 905 Round-up: The Shawna Stolte Saga

Rebroadcast - The 905 Round-up: The Shawna Stolte Saga

Originally aired on April 21, 2022We have talked about a lot of bad behaviour at city halls in the two years this podcast has been running. We've seen bullying and threats on social media. We have seen councillors who see their entire reason for existence as disrupting and derailing council meetings. We've seen activists and volunteers abused and cross-examined for hours as councillors call their integrity into question. There are councillors who don't understand the most basic aspects of their

Jul 7, 2022 • 41:01

ReBroadcast - The Canadian Way: Eleanor McMahon and the Trans Canada Trail

ReBroadcast - The Canadian Way: Eleanor McMahon and the Trans Canada Trail

Originally aired on March 15, 2022   Among the unexpected consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, surely one of the better ones is a nationwide rediscovery of the Canadian outdoors. Today we are joined by Eleanor McMahon, President and CEO of the Trans Canada Trail. Eleanor has over 30 years of experience within the private, public and non-profit sectors in a resume that defies easy summary because of the sheer number of areas in which she has played a leading and influential role. But she

Jul 5, 2022 • 38:32

905 Round-Up: Rent’s Up, Gary’s Back, and Peel School Board is Dysfunctional

905 Round-Up: Rent’s Up, Gary’s Back, and Peel School Board is Dysfunctional

In our last episode before our summer break, we look at some different stories from around the 905. Rents have jumped in the last year. Why, and what are we doing about it? Gary Carr has announced he is running for Regional Chair again, torpedoing Jane McKenna's hope of an easy election to be regional chair of Halton. Does McKenna have what it takes to be a serious challenge to Carr? We look for evidence. And Peel District School Board has a racism problem, as trustees resist doing what the prov

Jun 28, 2022 • 40:22

905 Round-Up: Alan Kan talks about what to expect this falls Municipal Elections

905 Round-Up: Alan Kan talks about what to expect this falls Municipal Elections

We invited back to the podcast, fellow amateur municipal political pundit Alan Kan.  For those who might not remember Alan writes the #munipoli matters newsletter, focusing on the news and politics of municipalities not just here in the 905 but across the country as well.  Today we talk with him and ask him to share his take on what he predicts will be the more interesting municipal elections in the region.Coming off the provincial election outcome, the fall's municipal election is already start

Jun 23, 2022 • 41:57

905 Round-up: Withering House Prices / Whither the Ontario Liberals after a Second Electoral Calamity

905 Round-up: Withering House Prices / Whither the Ontario Liberals after a Second Electoral Calamity

For the first time in a long time home-owners and home-buyers in the 905 are facing the prospect of house prices that go down instead of up. Is this entirely bad? A needed but hopefully limited adjustment triggered by interest rates? An unexpected fix to affordability? Or none of the above? The Ontario Liberals are beginning a new phase of reflection and self-analysis after finishing the provincial election exactly where they finished in 2018 - with a handful of seats and without official party

Jun 16, 2022 • 39:50

Myles Rusak Jams withThe 905er about the Sound of Music Festival

Myles Rusak Jams withThe 905er about the Sound of Music Festival

It's time to look forward to summer again. One of the largest music festivals in Canada happens right here in the 905.  This year bands like Finger Eleven, The Trews and The Tea Party are playing to crowds of hundreds of thousands on Father's Day weekend in downtown Burlington.  And most important, it's free.  Yes, that's right free! The previous two years have been challenging for artists and live music fans due to the pandemic restrictions.  However, as we start to put that behind us, it's t

Jun 7, 2022 • 37:09

Join Us On YouTube For Our Live Election Webcast

Join Us On YouTube For Our Live Election Webcast

Join us on YouTube at 9pm this evening (2nd June) when the polls close as Roland, Joel and special guests discuss the Ontario election results and what they mean for the 905 region. Here's the link you'll need: https://youtu.be/AMBnJb-JqT0   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 2, 2022 • 1:22

905 Round-Up: Ontario’s Election is Missing, Presumed Dead

905 Round-Up: Ontario’s Election is Missing, Presumed Dead

Don't miss our election night live stream on Thursday. We'll spice up this election or die trying. Either way, it should be a fun evening for our listeners, and we're hoping to have some special guests. Join us and drown your sorrows or unexpectedly celebrate the (what colour do you get if you merge Green, Orange and Red?), er, 'Brown Wave'© of 2020.But, so far, this is not looking to be an election for the ages, unless something very unexpected happens on Thursday. Doug Ford's government has sp

May 31, 2022 • 38:55

The 905 Round-Up: Bateman Highs and Lows

The 905 Round-Up: Bateman Highs and Lows

The saga surrounding Robert Bateman High in Burlington continues! First off we look at the Aird & Berlis report clearing the City Council of wrong doing in the Shawna Stolte disciplinary matter.  While technically they are in the right, there is a big caveat of whether or not they should keep going with how they have been acting so far.  Roland lays out a big criticism of the city council that still lingers over the whole affair. Then after the break, Joel looks at the city finally getting aro

May 26, 2022 • 39:03

The 905 Round-Up: The Proof is in the Polling

The 905 Round-Up: The Proof is in the Polling

Here is The 905 Round-Up! Coming off our episodes on the Green Party, NDP and Ontario Liberal Party platforms, we get a chance to dive into some polling data!  Abacus Data issued a poll on Monday, May 16th, which seemed to back up a lot of what Roland and Joel have been saying about the performance of the so-called progressive parties in this election.   Then after the break, we look at a story from The Spec showing that a ban on drinking in public parks by law, hasn't existed since 2005.  So

May 19, 2022 • 39:55

2022 Provincial Election - The Ontario Liberal Platform

2022 Provincial Election - The Ontario Liberal Platform

In keeping with our coverage to date of the Ontario Provincial Election, here is Joel and Roland's take on what works and what doesn't in the Ontario Liberal Party Platform.This episode of The 905er is brought to you by our sponsor:South River Brewing.  Listen to this episode to see how you can save money on your next order by visiting the link below:South River BrewingIt takes money and time to create two podcasts a week. We love doing what we do, but please consider supporting us if y

May 17, 2022 • 43:21

The 905 Round-Up:Tory Riding Bonuses and Scandal in the Red Hill Valley

The 905 Round-Up:Tory Riding Bonuses and Scandal in the Red Hill Valley

This week saw the media and political parties foam at the mouth at the revelation by the NDP that Lisa MacLeod, Ontario PC MPP in Nepean was given an allowance of $44,000 over the last four years from her riding association.  Further investigation saw that up to 8 other PC MPPs took thousands of dollars from their riding associations in similar manners.  Including here in the 905, Mississauga East-Cooksville MPP, Kaleed Rasheed.  While many at first looked at this as a clear scandal of financial

May 12, 2022 • 37:32

2022 Provincial Election: The Green Party Platform

2022 Provincial Election: The Green Party Platform

The Green Party of Ontario's platform gets the 905er treatment today. But first, are we even smart enough to manage to download the darn thing? Listen to find out.This episode of The 905er is brought to you by our sponsor:South River Brewing.  Listen to this episode to see how you can save money on your next order by visiting the link below:South River BrewingIt takes money and time to create two podcasts a week. We love doing what we do, but please consider supporting us if you can so

May 10, 2022 • 39:05

The 905 Round-Up: Elections Season is Here, so Off My Lawn!

The 905 Round-Up: Elections Season is Here, so Off My Lawn!

Joel and Roland take a look away from the Ontario election beginning and focus on the municipal candidates declaring their candidacy for this falls election.  Why is there such ridiculousness around the public property not being used for campaigning?  It is publicly owned and are we not smart enough to know a campaign when we see it?  They are already used enough by sitting councillors and mayors in between elections.  Level the playing field. Then we look at the potential legal minefield the C

May 5, 2022 • 31:14

2022 Provincial Election - The NDP Platform

2022 Provincial Election - The NDP Platform

Following our interviews with the leaders of the Greens and Ontario Liberals in the last two weeks, we take a look today at the NDP's platform for the election which gets properly underway on Thursday. The NDP are first out of the gate with their full platform, and we choose the things we think are good and not so good from the NDP's program for government.In the coming weeks we'll turn our attention to the other party platforms as and when they become available.This episode of The 905e

May 3, 2022 • 44:56

The 905 Round-Up: A Mayor’s Response and COVID’s Unfinished Business

The 905 Round-Up: A Mayor’s Response and COVID’s Unfinished Business

The 905 Round-Up is up and running! Coming off our coverage of the Burlington City Council's decision to reprimand Councillor Shawna Stolte we look at the very public and lengthy response to the situation from Mayor Marianne Meed-Ward.  The Mayor pins the situation as a necessary task for the common good and explains the decision by relying on the integrity commissioner's report.  However, there is a nuance to be explored here.  And the secretive nature of Burlington City Council's repeated use

Apr 28, 2022 • 40:18

The Party Leaders Speak – Steven Del Duca

The Party Leaders Speak – Steven Del Duca

In the second of our interviews with Ontario party leaders, this week we are joined by Steven Del Duca, leader of the Ontario Liberal Party. Steven Del Duca was first elected to the legislature in 2012 when he became MPP for Vaughan following the retirement of Greg Sorbara. In 2014 he became Minister of Transportation, one of the most high-profile ministries in the Wynne government. He lost his seat in 2018 as part of the Liberal collapse, but in the ensuing leadership election in March 2020, h

Apr 26, 2022 • 37:56

The 905er Asks the Leaders the Tough Questions - Mike Schreiner

The 905er Asks the Leaders the Tough Questions - Mike Schreiner

As promised, we are bringing you our talks with the leaders of the major Ontario political parties prior to the campaign starting next month. We had wanted to do this for some time leading up to the election.  A chance to sit down with the various leaders and get a sense of how well they grasp the issues and problems we face here in the 905.  Our goal was a simple interview where they would answer our questions, free from soundbites, spin and rhetoric.  A chance for them to really project their

Apr 19, 2022 • 37:31

The 905 Round-Up: The Downside of Nomination Meetings

The 905 Round-Up: The Downside of Nomination Meetings

This episode of the 905 Round-Up is short and sweet this week.  Due to Joel feeling under the weather it was decided to keep this episode to the point.  As well, despite Joel's assertions, the day after recording this episode he tested again and discovered indeed that he contracted COVID.  Reminder folks! Masks work!The NDP made news this week when sitting MPP Kevin Yarde in Brampton was ousted by his own riding association in a nomination meeting for Sandeep Singh.  In Brampton North,

Apr 14, 2022 • 26:59

Halton Police Chief Steve Tanner Discusses the Opioid Epidemic

Halton Police Chief Steve Tanner Discusses the Opioid Epidemic

[The incorrect file was initially uploaded with this episode. It has now been corrected.] At the same time as society has been dealing with COVID-19, another public health crisis has been taking place. This is the epidemic of deaths being caused across North America by overdoses above all from synthetic opioids like Fentanyl. To discuss the scale and nature of the problem, we spoke to Halton Regional Police Service Chief Steve Tanner. Chief Tanner was born in Oakville and entered the police se

Apr 7, 2022 • 32:23

Halton Police Chief Steve Tanner Discusses the Opioid Epidemic

Halton Police Chief Steve Tanner Discusses the Opioid Epidemic

At the same time as society has been dealing with COVID-19, another public health crisis has been taking place. This is the epidemic of deaths being caused across North America by overdoses above all from synthetic opioids like Fentanyl. To discuss the scale and nature of the problem, we spoke to Halton Regional Police Service Chief Steve Tanner. Chief Tanner was born in Oakville and entered the police service in 1982. After stints in Guelph, Belleville and Kingston, he returned home to Halton a

Apr 7, 2022 • 34:31

The 905 Round-up: Keanin, Bob and Judi too.

The 905 Round-up: Keanin, Bob and Judi too.

The mayoral race is heating up in Hamilton as a familiar face finally throws his hat into the ring. Meanwhile, Waterdown and Flamborough area councillor Judi Partridge announces she’s not running again, bringing the remaining Hamilton council to the verge of ‘lame duck’ status. Last week the announcement that Halton District School Board was re-allocating all its librarian teachers caused a stir online—a total of 90 school librarians will no longer be librarians. What’s it all about, and if

Mar 31, 2022 • 35:16

Maureen Wilson and Rory Nisan: Where was the Debate over Mask Mandates?

Maureen Wilson and Rory Nisan: Where was the Debate over Mask Mandates?

Rory Nisan is a city and regional councillor for Ward 3 in Burlington and Halton and Maureen Wilson is a councillor for Ward 1 in Hamilton.  Both of them join us today to give their perspective on why the municipal votes in Hamilton and Halton to repeal mask mandates were so one-sided when the public seems far from united on the wisdom of abandoning masks. Last month, Doug Ford announced that vaccine passports and mask mandates would be a thing of the past. For many across Ontario, this was

Mar 29, 2022 • 42:21

The 905 Round-Up: Fewer Masks & Why Can’t Parties Get Along More Often?

The 905 Round-Up: Fewer Masks & Why Can’t Parties Get Along More Often?

We are joined by a special guest on this Round-Up.  Milton Reporter, Laura Steiner returns to The 905er to share her insight on 905 politics! Doug Ford and the PC government is lifting mask mandates across the province, however...they forgot to tell the 905 municipalities.  So every regional and municipal government in the 905 is rushing to hold special council meetings to repeal the mask mandates.  We just ask, where is the debate over this?  Shockingly there seems to be very little resista

Mar 24, 2022 • 46:45

The 905 Round-Up: Absent Mayors and Leadership Contests

The 905 Round-Up: Absent Mayors and Leadership Contests

On this episode of The 905 Round-Up, it's all political. Mayor Patrick Brown has announced his campaign to become the leader of the Conservative Party of Canada.  One might think this would make his being mayor of Brampton rather difficult.  We agree.  Roland and Joel ponder what does it mean for the people of Brampton, now that they have a part-time mayor?  And just what are Patrick's odds of winning anyways?  Either way, it doesn't appear that the people of Brampton will come out on top.

Mar 17, 2022 • 44:06

The 905 Round-Up: Paying Tribute to Mayor Mulkewich

The 905 Round-Up: Paying Tribute to Mayor Mulkewich

This week, Burlington lost an elder statesman of local politics. Former Mayor Walter Mulkewich passed away this week.  His legacy in Burlington and Hamilton's civic as well as political life will be missed by many.  If you were involved in local politics in Burlington, there wouldn't be any doubt that in some circle or another Walter Mulkewich would be a figure.  And always for the better.  Roland and Joel take time to remember the legacy of Burlington's former mayor and how he was truly a rare

Mar 3, 2022 • 36:02

The 905 Round-Up: Boundary Issues and Missing Populations

The 905 Round-Up: Boundary Issues and Missing Populations

Coming off our well-received episode on the #halton boundary debate, Joel and Roland look at both sides and how we think the debate over land use needs to progress in #the905.After that, we look at recent statistics provided by our friend Alan Kan on #Mississauga's apparently drop in population.  And lastly, we look at Doug Ford's loss of candidates leading up to this spring's #Ontario Election.  Particularly Burlington MPP Jane McKenna's decision not to run again.  What does it mean for the reg

Feb 24, 2022 • 39:11

Ted McMeekin Discusses the Hamilton Alliance for Tiny Shelters (HATS)

Ted McMeekin Discusses the Hamilton Alliance for Tiny Shelters (HATS)

Last Thursday we mentioned a new idea that had been mooted in Hamilton media the same day as a way to solve the current homeless crisis. That idea is being advocated by the Hamilton Alliance for Tiny Shelters - HATS - an alliance of poverty reduction activists, churches and Hamilton residents looking to reproduce a successful project launched in 2019 in Kitchener. To discuss the background to the HATS project, and why it is being argued to offer an innovative approach to providing decent transi

Feb 8, 2022 • 38:18

The 905 Round-Up: Convoys and HATS for the Homeless

The 905 Round-Up: Convoys and HATS for the Homeless

On this episode of The 905 Round-Up:Of course, all we can talk about is the trucker convoy in Ottawa.  While the eyes of the country are on Ottawa right now, the convoy passed through the 905 drumming up supporters demonstrating at overpasses.  One day the convoy is going to end and these people will return home, here to the 905.  So what does that mean for our civil discourse and what ought to be done about it?Then on a note of good news, Hamilton has taken positive action towards the homeless

Feb 3, 2022 • 30:08

The 905er Takes Time to Reflect on National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

The 905er Takes Time to Reflect on National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

January is National Alzheimer's Awareness Month. Alzheimer's is the most common form of a range of diseases that is collectively referred to as dementia.  In Canada, dementia affects over 500,000 Canadians.  The annual costs to the Canadian health care system come in at around $10.5 billion.  In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, shortcomings in our health care system and more specifically our long-term care home system have been exposed.  As the baby boomer generation continues to age is no

Feb 1, 2022 • 58:12

The 905 Round-Up: Pride and Progressive Housing

The 905 Round-Up: Pride and Progressive Housing

On this episode of The 905 Round-Up:Roland and Joel look at the long journey to raise the #prideflag at #HCDSB schools, and the perils of live-tweeting 5-hour long board meetings.Then Roland reviews the leaked proposals from the Housing Affordability Task Force as reported on by TVO.  Could this be the progressive policy to transform Ontario's housing market?  Will the Ford government follow suit on it?Lastly, Joel and Roland talk about the cruelty of #HamONT forcing away the homeless from getti

Jan 27, 2022 • 40:34

Todd Coleman Explains the Future of COVID-19

Todd Coleman Explains the Future of COVID-19

As the Omicron variant continues to paralyze the 905 and all of Ontario, we asked epidemiologist Dr Todd Coleman what we should be doing to live with COVID-19 as we enter the third year of this pandemic.Todd Coleman received his PhD in Epidemiology and Biostatistics in 2014 from the University of Western Ontario. After his PhD studies, I worked as a postdoctoral fellow at Ryerson University, then, as a Public Health Epidemiologist with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. Currently, he is an Assist

Jan 25, 2022 • 40:21

The 905 Round-Up - Poor Media & Last Development of Mississauga

The 905 Round-Up - Poor Media & Last Development of Mississauga

For this episode of The 905 Round-Up, Roland and Joel look at a story from Durham on the far side of the region and ask why didn't the local media cover it better?  And on that note, why doesn't the local media in the 905 do a better job of covering the issues and stories that make an impact on the region.  Well, thank goodness there is the 905er!Following up on that story, we look at a story from the start of the year in Mississauga and the last developable land being sold off.  What does this

Jan 20, 2022 • 41:06

Brenda Agnew Tries to Fly the Pride Flag at the HCDSB One More Time

Brenda Agnew Tries to Fly the Pride Flag at the HCDSB One More Time

Download episode One of the biggest stories we have covered since this podcast began was last year's decision by Halton Catholic School Board over a motion brought that, if passed, would have seen the Pride flag fly over Halton's Catholic Schools during Pride month, along with a variety of other measures to demonstrate and support acceptance of LGBTQIA+ students in HCDSB schools. The motion, brought by Trustee Brenda Agnew following an initial question raised by a student, was not so much defe

Jan 18, 2022 • 39:11

The 905 Round-Up: Covid Deja Vu, Lawn Sign Loopholes and More Pride for HCDSB

The 905 Round-Up: Covid Deja Vu, Lawn Sign Loopholes and More Pride for HCDSB

Roland and Joel are back at it!Our first episode of 2022, has our intrepid hosts looking down the barrel of another lockdown and shutting of schools to mark the start of the year.  At this point it's clear our provincial government in Ontario is winging this pandemic from wave to wave, with parents, students and the economy considered collateral damage.  What are we all to do going forward with Premier Ford at the helm?Then Roland looks at the city of Hamilton adjusting their rules surrounding l

Jan 13, 2022 • 38:02

The Year 2021 in Review

The Year 2021 in Review

Here it is!  Our last episode of #2021! Joel and Roland look back on the year that was and select our top three stories that we'll be keeping an eye on in #2022. We look at the HCDSB Pride Flag debate, the impact the Federal election will have on this year's provincial election in Ontario and of course the story of Burlington Taxi's closure in Burlington! You can listen to those episodes by clicking on the links here: The HCDSB Pride Debate:  https://905er.ca/2021/04/a-question-of-pride-f

Dec 23, 2021 • 47:04

Urz Heer Shares How a Peel Community Turned the Tide on COVID-19

Urz Heer Shares How a Peel Community Turned the Tide on COVID-19

This is our Penultimate episode before the holidays.  So we wanted this to be a good news story. Back in January, we did an episode on Peel Region's struggles with COVID-19.  At that time Peel was an epicentre of the pandemic struggling to get a handle on the situation. Today, the region is the top spot in Canada for Vaccination rates.  A big factor in that turnaround was the mobilization of various communities to get their people vaccinated.  Groups like the Canadian Muslim COVID-19 Ta

Dec 21, 2021 • 35:26

The 905 Round-Up: Cabs, Council and Politics

The 905 Round-Up: Cabs, Council and Politics

We look at what we learned from our explosive interview with Scott Wallace of Burlington Taxi.  Where is the outrage from Burlington City Council towards the failure of staff to follow through on its directive? Then Joel and Roland look at a recent poll of Ontario political leadership that shows a big uphill battle for Ontario Liberal Party Leader, Steven Del Duca as well for Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horvath.  What do they need to turn things around in the #newyear?  Stop operating like

Dec 16, 2021 • 41:32

Scott Wallace of Burlington Taxi Sets the Record Straight

Scott Wallace of Burlington Taxi Sets the Record Straight

On November 26th Burlington Taxi, which began operation 53 years ago, shut down for good, leaving many local services and the residents who depended on them without any immediate replacement means of transportation. In the days that followed, it became apparent that there were more factors at work than just the inability of the company to remain profitable. A key element appeared to be the failure of City of Burlington staff to follow through on a council direction back in 2018. Somehow, an

Dec 14, 2021 • 43:09

The 905 Round-Up: Hospital Short Changes and Bad Calls

The 905 Round-Up: Hospital Short Changes and Bad Calls

In this episode of The 905 Round-Up, Joel and Roland take a look at Peel region.  Specifically, the fact that while Mississauga is getting massive funding for a badly needed hospital.  To the tune of $3 billion.  While its neighbour to the north is getting nothing.  This isn't the first time Brampton has called for more attention to its health care system.  And it isn't the first time they've been ignored.  Since the start of the pandemic calls from Brampton has fallen on deaf ears at Queen's Pa

Dec 9, 2021 • 33:15

Graham Crawford Shares what Hamilton Thinks of its Politics

Graham Crawford Shares what Hamilton Thinks of its Politics

It is a tumultuous time in Hamilton, with major stories concerning the city's present and future cropping up every week. Events such as the recent violence associated with the clearing of the homeless living in J. C. Beemer Park, the successful Stop Sprawl HamONT campaign to persuade council to vote against urban expansion, and the ongoing saga of the behaviour of some of the most longstanding councillors.iElectHamilton, who we spoke to in the spring when their campaign for change at City Hall w

Dec 7, 2021 • 39:27

The 905 Round-Up: Park Protests and Political Plans

The 905 Round-Up: Park Protests and Political Plans

Over the weekend saw violence erupt in J.C. Beemer park in Hamilton over the tent encampments there.  Protesters from Hamilton Encampment Support Network clashed with police.  The details are being investigated by the province's SIU.  However, the episode has brought to the forefront the issue of affordable housing in the city.  Joel and Roland discuss the interconnection of the various issues that keep popping up in Hamilton, and the seeming unwillingness of city leadership to prop

Dec 2, 2021 • 42:56

Lisa Kearns Discusses Why 905 Cities Need a Better Deal

Lisa Kearns Discusses Why 905 Cities Need a Better Deal

Today's episode goes to the heart of the planning and development debate in the 905.The new council elected in Burlington in 2018 has undoubtedly achieved significant change to Burlington’s downtown planning framework, and extracted major concessions from the province--at least, it has on paper.Previously, the presence of Burlington’s provincially designated Urban Growth Centre and a Metrolinx Major Transit Station Area (MTSA) in the downtown acted like large neon signs pointing downtown which s

Nov 30, 2021 • 45:52

The 905 Round-Up: A Grassroots Victory & First Nations Solidarity

The 905 Round-Up: A Grassroots Victory & First Nations Solidarity

This week saw a major victory for the grassroots organizers to protect the remaining rural area of Hamilton from development.  Hamilton City Council voted not to expand it's Urban Boundary.  This came after a sustained grassroots pressure from groups such as Stop Sprawl Ham ONT organized and campaigned to stop the expansion.  Joel and Roland look at what this victory will mean for the city as it's undergoing a grassroots empowerment movement, and they ponder if this is a sign of a shi

Nov 25, 2021 • 35:19

How Do We Get Daycare Funding in Ontario?

How Do We Get Daycare Funding in Ontario?

Something all parents are all too aware of is the price of daycare.  Not just in #the905 but across the province.  In some cases, the cost is comparable to a second mortgage on a family's expenses. Finally, the federal government is getting a plan in place across the country to help bring the cost of daycare down to $10 per day.  However, to date, only New Brunswick and Ontario have yet to sign.  We asked the Federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Karina Gould to c

Nov 23, 2021 • 27:13

The 905 Round-Up - Bad Democracy and Civil Wars

The 905 Round-Up - Bad Democracy and Civil Wars

Today Joel and Roland look over the Minister of Municipal Affairs finally moving the Urban Growth Centre.  Spoiler it's a gift that's actually not a gift.  The devil is in the details and it appears that Burlington is probably not getting what it actually wants.  The fact is the development in this province under this government progresses no matter what. We then look at Hamilton City Council's decision to job interview for a new Ward 5 Councillor rather than ask the people of Ward 5 themsel

Nov 18, 2021 • 43:17

The Need for a Living Wage in the 905

The Need for a Living Wage in the 905

This month the Ontario government announced it would be raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour.  A reversal of the decision to cancel the minimum wage increase when they came into power four years ago.⁠⁠As the Ontario economy recovers from COVID-19 the question of why now, and whether or not this is too little too late permeates the discussion.  Some who are saying this doesn't go far enough are the people at Ontario Living Wage Network.  They released their numbers for what the living wage in

Nov 16, 2021 • 42:18

The 905 Round-Up - Bad Councillors and Redrawn Maps

The 905 Round-Up - Bad Councillors and Redrawn Maps

Today Roland and Joel discuss the recent report by the Hamilton Integrity Commissioner on Councillor Terry Whitehead's conduct.  Spoiler alert...it's not a favourable one.  Both our hosts discuss the antics that go on at City Hall and what ought to be done to hold bad municipal politicians to account. And in keeping with the Hamilton theme, the folks at Stop Sprawl Ham ONT have shaken up the debate surrounding the Urban Boundary Expansion.  By using their know-how and hard work, they hav

Nov 11, 2021 • 35:08

The 905 as Inspiration for Thrills

The 905 as Inspiration for Thrills

Something we take for granted in the 905, is how unique a setting our own backyard can be.  It can be a terrific backdrop to our imagination and whisk us away on adventures.  One local Burlington author has done exactly that. Doug Cockell is a local author who has written a trilogy of supernatural mysteries, all taking place in the Niagara Escarpment. His novels: Requiem for Thursday, Requiem for Noah and most recently Requiem for Mary Mac are all currently on the Amazon Bestsellers list.  Requ

Nov 9, 2021 • 30:42

The 905 Round Up -Disappointing Development and HCDSB Bad News

The 905 Round Up -Disappointing Development and HCDSB Bad News

Burlington is in a pickle.  Recently the Ontario Land Tribunal ruled in favour of developers at Lakeshore and Pearl to increase their height to 29 stories.  Over the objection of council and citizens.  This sparked a public statement from the Mayor.  Joel and Roland analyze the situation that the city is in and what options they really have. Then it appears that the Halton Catholic School Board can't keep its bad news out of the press.  This time a well-intentioned webinar for parents of

Nov 4, 2021 • 30:30

The Fight To Protect the Greenbelt from Highway 413

The Fight To Protect the Greenbelt from Highway 413

In recent days Doug Ford and the PC government have been doubling down on their intention to build Highway 413, an additional radial highway planned to run almost entirely through Green Belt lands from Halton at the 407 and Winston Churchill, between Brampton and Caledon, joining Highway 400 a few kilometres north of Canada's Wonderland. Irene Ford joins us from the grassroots Stop the 413 group to discuss the latest developments and the many reasons why she believes Highway 413 should be st

Nov 2, 2021 • 46:08

905er Round-Up - Sprawl, Bikes, Vaccines and Persistence

905er Round-Up - Sprawl, Bikes, Vaccines and Persistence

Coming off our episode this week with Stop Sprawl Ham ONT, Roland looks at using bike share and cycling as an innovative tool to help curb sprawl in 905 communities.Afterwards, Joel questions if the current Ontario government is giving up on getting vaccines in the arms of the remaining 20% of the population to be inoculated, as it appears all masking and vaccine mandates will be lifted in the new year.It takes money and time to create two podcasts a week. We love doing what we do, but please co

Oct 28, 2021 • 38:45

Nancy Hurst of Stop Sprawl HamONT Draws the Line on Hamilton‘s Boundary

Nancy Hurst of Stop Sprawl HamONT Draws the Line on Hamilton‘s Boundary

If you've been following Hamilton municipal politics recently, then no doubt you are aware of the contentious debate over whether or not the city should expand its urban boundary.   The small sliver of land of viable farmland that exists between the developed part of Hamilton and the border of the greenbelt is the current battleground for developers in the 905.  The current city council is in vigorous debates over whether or not to allow the boundary to extend into this space.  Developers are

Oct 26, 2021 • 42:25

905 Round Up - Del Duca Makes a Statement, and the Tories have Boundary Issues

905 Round Up - Del Duca Makes a Statement, and the Tories have Boundary Issues

On this episode of the 905 Round Up we are focusing on politics. This past weekend, Ontario Liberal Party leader Steven Del Duca made a bold proclamation.  Declaring that ranked ballots would be returning not just as an option for Ontario municipalities, but will be the way we elect our provincial legislature going forward.  As well the Basic Income pilot project that the Progressive Conservatives cancelled, would be reinstated and the Liberals would introduce a four day work week.  Thes

Oct 21, 2021 • 32:08

Kristin Archer Tells Us What‘s Cool About Hamilton

Kristin Archer Tells Us What‘s Cool About Hamilton

Cities are made up of more than just buildings and roads.  It's the people and the entrepreneurs that live and work in them that come together to create something unique.  Each city has its own quality that makes it what it is.  Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver...all of them have a distinct image in your mind.  Part of what makes each city its own is the arts and culture that the city creates. We wanted to take a look at Hamilton's music and culture scene this week.  And how it is working to def

Oct 19, 2021 • 41:39

Rebroadcast - Jason Cassis Opens Up About Opening Ontario Up

Rebroadcast - Jason Cassis Opens Up About Opening Ontario Up

Originally aired - July 15   Almost exactly a year ago, Jason Cassis of Equal Parts Hospitality was one of the first guests on the 905er Podcast, discussing the impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry. He returns now to give us an update on all that has happened in the interim - and there is a lot. While everybody knows that restaurants, bars, and so many other businesses have been hurt by COVID, Jason's description of the full spectrum of challenges - which are not likely to disappear

Oct 14, 2021 • 43:51

Rebroadcast - 905 Round-up: Homage to Caledonia?

Rebroadcast - 905 Round-up: Homage to Caledonia?

Originally aired - July 6, 2021   In today's episode, Roland and Joel look at three different aspects of modern Canada, and their ties to the past. The refusal to even acknowledge the dead being identified at Residential Schools across the nation by seemingly all PC and Conservative politicians on Canada Day. The environmental catastrophes seen in locations like Chedoke Creek, and the urgent need to change the nature of our relationship with the environment and our failure as 'stewards of the

Oct 12, 2021 • 42:42

What is Happening on Ontario University Campuses?

What is Happening on Ontario University Campuses?

In recent news, the misbehaviour of Ontario university students has been in the headlines.  Recently at McMaster University, vandalism and violence were the hallmarks of an unsanctioned homecoming party.  And at the beginning of the year, the University of Western Ontario was dealing with allegations of widespread sexual assault in one of its residences.   This trend made us wonder what made this year so unique for bad behaviour at our post-secondary institutions?  To investigate, we invited Ni

Oct 7, 2021 • 30:37

905 Round-up: Vax, Tracts and Macs

905 Round-up: Vax, Tracts and Macs

We cover the stories from around the 905 this week, including Joel's suggestion for reaching the final 20% of unvaccinated Ontarians, the latest development in the Haldimand Tract land dispute, and the physical and reputational damage done at the unofficial and unauthorized homecoming at McMaster University in Hamilton last weekend. It takes money and time to create two podcasts a week. We love doing what we do, but please consider supporting us if you can so we can keep improving, and keep pay

Oct 5, 2021 • 41:08

905-Round-up: Lauren Wallis of Halton Parents for Change

905-Round-up: Lauren Wallis of Halton Parents for Change

Following our Tuesday episode with Halton Catholic School Board Chair Patrick Murphy, we speak with Lauren Wallis of Halton Parents for Change (https://haltonparentsforchange.ca/, @HaltonPFC).Lauren gives her perspective on Chair Murphy's account of recent dysfunction at HCDSB and the Pride flag debate, and what needs to be done to make the board function effectively.Lauren is a mom of two, a data analyst for a healthcare company, and a graduate of HCDSB schools. She is a founding member of Halt

Sep 30, 2021 • 32:12

100: HCDSB Chair Patrick Murphy Discusses Dysfunction at the Board

100: HCDSB Chair Patrick Murphy Discusses Dysfunction at the Board

For our one-hundredth episode, we welcome back Halton Catholic School Board Chair Patrick Murphy for an in-depth interview. In June, the board took the unusual step of ordering an investigation into itself - to see whether the frequently argumentative behaviour of trustees at board meetings went as far as breaking their policies of civil behaviour, and whether there was behaviour contrary to the interests if the board and students. Included in under that remit were discussions of allegations ma

Sep 28, 2021 • 38:43

The 905 Round Up - Vaccine Passports are finally here, and what the Election results tell us about Hamilton

The 905 Round Up - Vaccine Passports are finally here, and what the Election results tell us about Hamilton

Vaccine Passports are finally being unveiled in Ontario.  However, after being requested by public health for the summer, the rollout has been typical of the Ontario PC government.  It's messy and uncoordinated.  However, they are here now and what does that mean for avoiding a possible fourth lockdown in the 905?  And is it about time for the vaccinated to stand their ground and say enough is enough with anti-vax and anti-mask protestors?As well, Roland and Joel look at some of the numbers from

Sep 23, 2021 • 35:28

905er Election Night Special!

905er Election Night Special!

We livestreamed election night, focusing on the 905 of course. We had a great time, with some terrific questions answered live on the podcast. Thanks to everybody who joined us. Not an election that will go down in the history books as being particularly memorable, when all is said and done, but we talked a lot about the way this election was run, and just why the opposition parties, above all the CPC, couldn't seem to make any significant headway against Trudeau and the Liberals. As Trudeau

Sep 21, 2021 • 3:34:49

Election 2021: Adam van Koeverden on the Liberal Party‘s Record in Government and Platform for the 905

Election 2021: Adam van Koeverden on the Liberal Party‘s Record in Government and Platform for the 905

In our second interview with candidates from the 905 Region ahead of the Federal Election, we talk today to Adam van Koeverden, who is seeking re-election as the MP for Milton for the Liberals, a seat he won just two years ago when he defeated former Conservative minister Lisa Rait. Van Koeverden was a Canadian household name as an Olympic Gold, and multi-Silver and Bronze medal winner in Sprint Kayak before entering politics. In his first term as an MP he served as Parliamentary Secretary to t

Sep 16, 2021 • 39:55

Keith Brooks of Environmental Defence Reminds Us Why Climate Change is Important This Election

Keith Brooks of Environmental Defence Reminds Us Why Climate Change is Important This Election

This summer, saw climate change creep back into the headlines, stealing attention away from COVID-19.  And for good reason. This year saw a record-breaking heatwave sweep the west coast, resulting in a town burning to the ground. Climate change is killing people.And yet, it seems barely been a point of debate in this election. In keeping with our effort to focus on the issues that are important to the 905 we invited Keith Brooks from Environmental Defence to the podcast.  Keith is Programs Direc

Sep 14, 2021 • 39:51

Thursday Roundup - Who‘s afraid of the 905er? Why won‘t CPC candidates speak about their platform?

Thursday Roundup - Who‘s afraid of the 905er? Why won‘t CPC candidates speak about their platform?

Every CPC candidate in Canada is gagged---forbidden from talking to podcasts---or so we were told by a party operative. As some of the worst aspects of modern political campaigns dominated headlines and anti-vax PPC supporters threw stones, we searched in vain for a CPC candidate willing to take a free 30 minutes to talk about their platform in depth.Although actually we did find candidate keen to chat. A highly touted one, well capable of representing their party. Listen to the podcast to find

Sep 9, 2021 • 31:24

Election 2021: Roberto Henriquez Discusses the NDP Platform

Election 2021: Roberto Henriquez Discusses the NDP Platform

In the first of our 905 candidate interviews, we speak to Roberto Henriquez, who is running for the NDP in the Hamilton West--Ancaster--Dundas riding. Henriquez moved to Hamilton as a student, and now practices law where he represents 'everyday Hamiltonians'. We dive into the NDP's platform and look in particular at the housing affordability crisis that is a concern for millions of people across our region, as well as First Nations reconciliation and the NDP's environmental and climate change p

Sep 7, 2021 • 35:33

Election 2021: How not to suck at politics

Election 2021: How not to suck at politics

In our Thursday 905 roundup this week we give our impressions of the early days of the 2021 election and why all the parties seem so far to be struggling to break through the apathy barrier, or find exactly what this election is about. The media landscape is dominated by pointing at the flaws of other parties rather than the qualities of their own platforms. It's a well-worn path, certainly, but does it have to be this way? Why does it seem like all the mainstream parties are falling over themse

Sep 2, 2021 • 35:40

Election 2021: Mike Moffat discusses what the parties should do to end the housing affordability crisis

Election 2021: Mike Moffat discusses what the parties should do to end the housing affordability crisis

Weeeee'rrrrrreeee back from our August break a few days early so we can fit in some great election coverage that focuses on the issues the 905 is facing. We promise as close to zero coverage of partisan games and gotcha politics as we can get, and a maximum of investigating real, honest-to-goodness policies, both those that the parties should be promising, and exploration of the policies the parties are promising. We kick off our election coverage with the return of Mike Moffat, Senior Director

Aug 31, 2021 • 38:42

Rebroadcast: Paradise Lost?

Rebroadcast: Paradise Lost?

[First broadcast on April 15th 2021] They didn't pave Paradise. Instead the City of Hamilton released 24 billion litres of untreated sewage into it. Thursday's episode covers three 905 stories: the latest changes of direction on our schools and an education minister with egg on his face; $5 million for Burlington City Hall's front yard; a new stinky mess in Cootes Paradise. But don't worry, the rotting mass of odiferous gunk is 'just algae', although that algae may be a product of damage cause

Aug 26, 2021 • 37:04

Rebroadcast: Hassan Basit and Janet Sumner - Throwing Conservation Under the Omnibus?

Rebroadcast: Hassan Basit and Janet Sumner - Throwing Conservation Under the Omnibus?

[First broadcast on November 20th 2020.] We are joined this week by Haassan Basit, CEO of Conservation Halton, and Janet Sumner, Executive Director of CPAWS Wildlands League, to talk about the province's proposed major changes to the powers of Conservation Authorities in Ontario as part of the budget 'omnibus' Bill 229, which, it is argued, weaken key protections that ensure safe development and prevent flooding. We explore the proposals, the justifications provided by the province and the imp

Aug 25, 2021 • 43:15

Rebroadcast: 905 Round-up: Bratina Announces Plan to Quit in a Huff Over LRT, Eventually.

Rebroadcast: 905 Round-up: Bratina Announces Plan to Quit in a Huff Over LRT, Eventually.

[First broadcast on May 20th 2021] Bob Bratina, MP for Hamilton East--Stoney Creek is a man of principle, of that there can be no doubt. His outrage at the federal government's plan to invest unprecedented sums into his home city has distressed him so much that he has announced he is going to quit in disgust at a moment convenient to his own career interests. Namely, at the next election, which could be as late as 2023. In the mean time he will keep his backbench salary and the Liberal Party wh

Aug 19, 2021 • 37:58

Rebroadcast: Alyssa Brierley Fights for the Right for Affordable Housing

Rebroadcast: Alyssa Brierley Fights for the Right for Affordable Housing

[First broadcast on January 19th 2021] Alyssa Brierley, Executive Director of the Centre for Equality Rights in Accomodation, joins us to discuss the waves of evictions that have been happening in Ontario since the summer under the auspices of the Landlord and Tenant Board, despite assurances earlier in the year about protections for tenants in financial difficulties because of the pandemic. These evictions are carried out via an online video process that places many tenants at a strong disadva

Aug 18, 2021 • 46:12

Rebroadcast: Mike Moffatt - A Moving Story of Ontario's Rising House Prices

Rebroadcast: Mike Moffatt - A Moving Story of Ontario's Rising House Prices

[First broadcast on March 23rd 2021] Where Ontarians are moving is moving. Mike Moffat joins us to explore how, as the seemingly never-ending upward spiral of housing costs in the GTHA continues, and the population increases rapidly, many Ontarians are looking further afield for housing, with the result that some unexpected areas have become among the fastest-growing cities in the province. For instance, London and Woodstock. These are places that haven't necessarily planned for rapid populati

Aug 17, 2021 • 45:59

Rebroadcast - Laura Babcock Asks: Why Can't Hamilton Have Nice Things?

Rebroadcast - Laura Babcock Asks: Why Can't Hamilton Have Nice Things?

[First broadcast May 18th 2021]With the guarantee of over $3 billion in funding from the federal and provincial governments to fund LRT - and only LRT - in Hamilton, Laura Babcock joins us to ponder why Hamilton City Council is still hesitant to move ahead.Laura is owner of POWERGROUP Communications a PR firm in Hamilton and media contributor on current affairs nationally, host of the OShow in Hamilton Thanks to those who help us put this together:Thanks to our patrons! You can join them at http

Aug 12, 2021 • 42:14

Rebroadcast - A Lack of Integrity in Hamilton, Cameron Kroetsch

Rebroadcast - A Lack of Integrity in Hamilton, Cameron Kroetsch

[First broadcast October 13th 2020] In this episode we explore why Hamilton City Council decided to launch an investigation by its Integrity Commissioner into the actions of a volunteer chair of one of its advisory committees - Cameron Kroetsch. We speak to Cameron to get his side of the story, and ask whether the claims against him have merit, why council would want to appear so heavy-handed with regard to the actions of a volunteer, and what message they are sending to the wider community. S

Aug 11, 2021 • 32:58

Rebroadcast - Graham Crawford Explains How iElectHamilton.ca Can Change Hamilton- Part 1

Rebroadcast - Graham Crawford Explains How iElectHamilton.ca Can Change Hamilton- Part 1

[First broadcast June 8th 2021]This episode was recorded before the hate-fuelled killing of a four members of Muslim family in London, Ontario. We added a short pre-amble in light of that horrific event.Our guest this week is Graham Crawford, one of the leads and spokespeople of iElectHamilton.ca, which was launched two weeks ago. In two short weeks, iElectHamilton.ca has provoked a wave of positive support from many Hamiltonians, and a storm of angry reaction from some of the city’s political g

Aug 10, 2021 • 39:54

Rebroadcast: A Question of Pride for Halton Catholic School Board

Rebroadcast: A Question of Pride for Halton Catholic School Board

[First broadcast April 20th 2021]Tonight will be a momentous night for the Halton Catholic District School Board.For weeks, the board has been wrestling with itself over whether or not the Pride flag ought to be raised over its schools. A motion brought by Trustee Brenda Agnew under the title "Supporting Our Diverse School Community" would direct the Pride flag to be flown over HCDSB schools and mandate a safe space poster in every class "to ensure that students in the 2SLGBT community are suppo

Aug 5, 2021 • 33:18

Rebroadcast: Back to School in a Pandemic

Rebroadcast: Back to School in a Pandemic

As we recharge the batteries with a summer break, we hope you enjoy some highlights from the 905er's first year. In our second episode, first broadcast August 4th 2020, Roland Tanner and Joel MacLeod were joined by Cindy Cosentino, who recently retired after 32 years as a teacher in Hamilton and Halton school boards teaching science and math. Cindy shares her concerns, and the concerns of many of her colleagues, at what is being asked of teachers as children head back to school, and we explore

Aug 4, 2021 • 38:15

Gerry Kavanaugh and the Importance of the 905 to the Canadian Economy

Gerry Kavanaugh and the Importance of the 905 to the Canadian Economy

Gerry Kavanaugh is an entrepreneur and CEO of Formula Solutions in Burlington. He started his first business at the age of twenty after initially trying his hand at motorsports. Since then he has built two successful companies in the field of carbon fibre composites, collaborated in creating equipment that helped Canada's snowboarders win gold at the Vancouver Olympics, and is now focussed in the field of commercial aerospace with major contracts that will see him hiring seventy new staff over t

Jul 29, 2021 • 36:02

905 Round-up:  Hotspots in Burlington, Go Transit in Hamilton, Confrontation in Thornhill

905 Round-up: Hotspots in Burlington, Go Transit in Hamilton, Confrontation in Thornhill

Joel and Roland look at three more stories from the 905 region, including the implications of COVID spikes in Burlington, a Go Transit announcement in Hamilton, and the behaviour of a Rebel Media journalist in a confrontation with a CPC candidate in Thornhill.If you like the what the 905er does, please consider supporting us at Patreon. For a week, for a month, for a year --- it all helps cover our costs and helps us cover more of the stories you want to see.Thanks to:Nicholas Paul: sound editin

Jul 27, 2021 • 32:48

905 Round Up - Division at Burlington City Hall

905 Round Up - Division at Burlington City Hall

Over the last few weeks, observers of Burlington city politics have noticed a growing rift in council.  So much that when Joan Little of the Spectator commented on it in one of her columns, the Mayor decided a rebuttal was in order.  What is going on in Burlington City Hall?  Joel and Roland discuss what we know and what it means.   Then we take a stroll down to Hamilton, where this week Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was in the city to announce funding for 95 social assisted housing units.

Jul 22, 2021 • 39:08

Flavio Volpe targets the future of the Car Industry with Project Arrow

Flavio Volpe targets the future of the Car Industry with Project Arrow

This week we are joined by Flavio Volpe, President of the Auto Parts Manufacturers Association, who talks to us about Project Arrow, and how it has the potential to change the auto industry in Canada, internationally, and be part of the electric future of transportation. Flavio was a wonderfully engaging guest, and you won't want to miss hearing him speak about the innovation and discovery that is happening in one of Canada's most economically crucial sectors, as it faces the the challenge of m

Jul 20, 2021 • 47:06

10,000 Reasons For Better Cities

10,000 Reasons For Better Cities

We have another milestone to celebrate, and two stories that remind us why the news in the 905 Region needs more coverage, because they are issues that you are unlikely too see receiving much coverage in legacy media.  In the dock this week ... Hamilton and Brampton duke it out for the 'most dubious council behaviour' award. If you like the what the 905er does, please consider supporting us at Patreon. For a week, for a month, for a year --- it all helps cover our costs and helps us cover more

Jul 15, 2021 • 43:52

Taking Names: Roundtable with Laura Steiner of the Milton Reporter.

Taking Names: Roundtable with Laura Steiner of the Milton Reporter.

Roland and Joel welcome Laura Steiner, editor of the Milton Reporter to discuss the awakening to history that is happening right now, and the challenges it poses for our national self-image as 'Canada the Good'. Along the way we dive into how one of Ontario's oldest highways came to be named for a Scottish aristocrat who never visited Canada - Henry Dundas - and the problematic and contradictory aspects of his life.* Then we turn our attention to one of Canada's fastest growing municipalities,

Jul 8, 2021 • 46:19

Jay Kana of Modern Mississauga Shares His Take on the Flavour of the 905

Jay Kana of Modern Mississauga Shares His Take on the Flavour of the 905

This week we’re turning our attention to Mississauga and asking whether Canada’s sixth largest city is maybe one of the most misunderstood and underestimated cities, not just in the 905, but across Canada. To discuss this with us, we invited on Jay Kana, the owner and editor in chief of modernmississauga.com. Modern Mississauga explores Mississauga through the lens of the 21st century, covering culture, living, technology, arts, entertainment, community, history, and much more. As is so often th

Jun 29, 2021 • 42:41

The 905 Round Up - Whats in a Name? Talking about John A Macdonald Statues and Ryerson Public Schools Renaming

The 905 Round Up - Whats in a Name? Talking about John A Macdonald Statues and Ryerson Public Schools Renaming

The debate over statues of John A. Macdonald and keeping the name of Egerton Ryerson on public schools has rekindled in the last month.  The discovery of 215 children in unmarked graves in Kamloops and the continued discovery of more unmarked graves in various Residential Schools across the country have given cause to examine these men's legacy.Roland wrote a piece for the 905er website which made explicit the case that statues and names on building does not make a historical legacy.  Joel and R

Jun 24, 2021 • 33:12

Lisa Kohler of Halton Environmental Network asks "how do we have a sustainable economy?"

Lisa Kohler of Halton Environmental Network asks "how do we have a sustainable economy?"

It seemed until the first week of June that Halton Region's opposition to the proposed Highway 413 was set in stone. And then a routine vote suddenly saw Milton Council reverse its position out of the blue. This sparked a wider discussion about what needs to happen in the 905 region generally to manage climate change and build for a sustainable post COVID-19 economy. Lisa Kohler Executive Director of Halton Environmental Network (haltonenvironet.ca/) and Halton Climate Collective (climatecolle

Jun 22, 2021 • 49:18

905 Round-up: Two steps forward, one step back?

905 Round-up: Two steps forward, one step back?

In our Thursday 905 Round-up this week we have three stories that have dominated news cycles in different parts of the 905, in some cases for almost a decade. Two will be viewed as positive steps, and one seems entirely negative. Judge for yourselves. Trustees at Halton Catholic and Hamilton Wentworth Public School Boards are in a hole and determined to keep digging. Hamilton councillors vote at committee to proceed with LRT. But can the anti-LRT/Stoney Creek alliance delay and disrupt the pr

Jun 17, 2021 • 50:57

Sarbjit Kaur Joins The 905er to Explain How our Institutions Need to do Better on Racism

Sarbjit Kaur Joins The 905er to Explain How our Institutions Need to do Better on Racism

The combined tragedies of the discovery of 215 unmarked children's graves in Kamloops, followed by the horrific act of Islamophobia resulting in the murder of a family in London, has shaken this country.  Canada can no longer hide behind the polite veneer of multiculturalism and ignore the realities of life in this country for millions.  Hate exists in this country.  It takes on the form of Islamophobia, Homophobia, Antisemitism and any other form of racism you can think of.  When individual men

Jun 15, 2021 • 49:58

Graham Crawford and iElect Hamilton Part 2 - Positively Main Street (and King Street)

Graham Crawford and iElect Hamilton Part 2 - Positively Main Street (and King Street)

The second part of our interview with Graham Crawford of iElectHamilton.ca. If you heard part one of the interview on Tuesday, you’ll know that Graham and a group of Hamiltonians have created an organization to campaign for a better Hamilton council to be elected in 2022, and for candidates to come forward who can bring a new look to city hall, replacing councillors who have been in place for decades on end in some cases, who are associated with the sewergate and Red Hill scandals, and who conti

Jun 10, 2021 • 21:43

Graham Crawford Explains How iElectHamilton.ca Can Change Hamilton- Part 1

Graham Crawford Explains How iElectHamilton.ca Can Change Hamilton- Part 1

This episode was recorded before the hate-fuelled killing of a four members of Muslim family in London, Ontario. We added a short pre-amble in light of that horrific event.Our guest this week is Graham Crawford, one of the leads and spokespeople of iElectHamilton.ca, which was launched two weeks ago. In two short weeks, iElectHamilton.ca has provoked a wave of positive support from many Hamiltonians, and a storm of angry reaction from some of the city’s political grandees. It has already been de

Jun 8, 2021 • 39:50

905 Roundup: Clown Cars and Crosswalks

905 Roundup: Clown Cars and Crosswalks

Hamilton councillors couldn't talk about a $3.1 billion investment in their city without first losing quorum and then voting to deferring any decision at 5pm, thereby risking losing control of the entire LRT approval process until after the approaching summer recess. What is it about Hamilton council that means they can't even seem to stay in the (virtual) council chamber? A non-905 city you may have heard of thought it would plan for the thing their city very much lacks - a major landmark cent

Jun 3, 2021 • 45:57

The 905er Gets Real about the Pride Flag, and the Power of Symbols in Halton Region

The 905er Gets Real about the Pride Flag, and the Power of Symbols in Halton Region

In our episode coinciding with the first day of Pride Month, we talk to two high school students, Hannah Strom and Annie Wang, and their teacher Caitlin Grieve, about their successful efforts with the other students in 'Ridge Pride', the Gay-Straight Alliance at Iroquois Ridge High School, to have three Rainbow Crosswalks installed in Oakville. We are also joined by Whitney Ross, one of the co-leads for Pflag Halton - the local Halton region chapter of Pflag Canada. Pflag is a national non-prof

Jun 1, 2021 • 46:06

Look Out Larry, It's the Leftists!

Look Out Larry, It's the Leftists!

There is a spectre haunting Hamilton--the spectre of university graduates. All the powers of old Hamilton may enter into an alliance to exorcise that spectre.*So suggests former Hamilton mayor Larry Di Ianni, who this week claimed Hamilton was facing a 'left wing takeover' by 'university and other elites'. This was in reaction to the launch of ielecthamilton.ca, a website calling for 'new leadership for a better Hamilton'. Roland and Joel unpack what it means when politicians start using the 'E'

May 27, 2021 • 35:24

Justin Chandler Reports on Hamilton's Rebecca Towers

Justin Chandler Reports on Hamilton's Rebecca Towers

Three Hamilton apartment buildings have seen major outbreaks of Covid-19 in recent weeks, all of the more transmissible UK-origin variant. The worst instance was in Rebecca Towers, where well over 100 cases have been identified. These outbreaks immediately seemed to highlight Covid-19’s gift for seeking out the more vulnerable members of our communities. But did it also highlight the failure of multiple levels of government to protect those who - after long term care residents and front-line hea

May 25, 2021 • 37:58

905 Round-up: Bratina Announces Plan to Quit in a Huff Over LRT, Eventually.

905 Round-up: Bratina Announces Plan to Quit in a Huff Over LRT, Eventually.

Bob Bratina, MP for Hamilton East--Stoney Creek is a man of principle, of that there can be no doubt. His outrage at the federal government's plan to invest unprecedented sums into his home city has distressed him so much that he has announced he is going to quit in disgust at a moment convenient to his own career interests. Namely, at the next election, which could be as late as 2023. In the mean time he will keep his backbench salary and the Liberal Party whip, while working to undermine Liber

May 20, 2021 • 37:32

Laura Babcock Asks: Why Can't Hamilton Have Nice Things?

Laura Babcock Asks: Why Can't Hamilton Have Nice Things?

With the guarantee of over $3 billion in funding from the federal and provincial governments to fund LRT - and only LRT - in Hamilton, Laura Babcock joins us to ponder why Hamilton City Council is still hesitant to move ahead.Laura is owner of POWERGROUP Communications a PR firm in Hamilton and media contributor on current affairs nationally, host of the OShow in Hamilton Thanks to those who help us put this together:Thanks to our patrons! You can join them at https://www.patreon.com/the905er. S

May 18, 2021 • 42:24

Crisis? What Crisis? Why Do Local and Provincial Responses to Climate Emergency And Pandemic Suck?

Crisis? What Crisis? Why Do Local and Provincial Responses to Climate Emergency And Pandemic Suck?

Joel and Roland roll up their pant legs and wade into a political mire of floods, climate emergencies, enfeebled and unambitious politicians and government staff and the absurd decision to halt delivery of the Astra-Zeneca vaccine and risk prolonging pandemic by Canada's two most science and evidence-resistant provincial governments. Along the way we give a demonstration of some important Anglo-Saxon verbs and nouns, because the CRTC can't stop us. Yet.   Learn more about your ad choices. Vis

May 13, 2021 • 34:18

The 905er Checks on the State of Our Mental Health

The 905er Checks on the State of Our Mental Health

A year into Covid-19 and our already-stretched mental health services in the 905 region are seeing unprecedented levels of demand. Adults and children alike are finding the uncertainty and isolation of life during pandemic to be a challenge, and as months have become over a year, those challenges only become more difficult.In today's episode Joel and Roland talk to Melanie McGregor of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Halton Branch, about how Covid-19 has affected our mental health service

May 11, 2021 • 46:16

Can't We Do Better Than NIMBY or YIMBY? With Shannon Gillies

Can't We Do Better Than NIMBY or YIMBY? With Shannon Gillies

Joel and Roland welcome back 905er regular, first ever '3rd time guest' and awesome Patreon supporter Shannon Gillies to discuss some of the problems with how debates on urban planning and intensification are discussed, how inevitable public resistance to change is handled, and how it can prevent us approaching the more complex discussions that need to happen if we are to design the best possible cities for our future. And do we need stronger city governments and stronger democracy to overcome t

May 6, 2021 • 44:00

The 905er Returns to 1492 Landback Lane with Karl Dockstader and Sean Vanderklis

The 905er Returns to 1492 Landback Lane with Karl Dockstader and Sean Vanderklis

Today we are welcoming back Karl Dockstader and Sean Vanderklis to speak again about the latest developments that touch on the dispute at 1492 Land Back Lane on the edge of Caledonia and the Six Nations Reserve about 20 km south of Hamilton. Sean and Karl co-host the fantastic 1 Dish 1 Mic radio show on Sunday Mornings at 10am on AM 610 CKTB. You can also listen to current and past episodes. Thanks to those who help us put this together: Thanks to our patrons! You can join them at https://www.

May 4, 2021 • 55:46

Pride and Prejudice: The Aftermath of the HCDSB Pride Flag Debate, plus Vaccinations and Sick Days

Pride and Prejudice: The Aftermath of the HCDSB Pride Flag Debate, plus Vaccinations and Sick Days

Joel gives a full account of the HCDSB meeting on Monday where the motion to fly the Pride Flag was 'compromised' out of existence among a campaign of obstructionism and delay and time-wasting by the anti-flag trustees. Later in the show, Joel shares what it's like to get the vaccine, and we talk some more about paid sick days.   Thanks to those who help us put this together: Thanks to our patrons! You can join them at https://www.patreon.com/the905er. Supporting the 905er with a monthly don

Apr 29, 2021 • 40:27

The 905er asks: "What is the true cost of COVID-19"

The 905er asks: "What is the true cost of COVID-19"

A year into the Covid-19 pandemic, we wanted to take stock and remind ourselves why we locked down. Amidst the sound and fury of the political debates, the voices of those who have experienced Covid-19 have largely been drowned out.Ashley Comrie spent two months in hospital with Covid-19 a year ago. She is still recovering and dealing with serious ongoing physical and psychological health challenges caused by the nightmare of Covid. A few weeks ago she wrote a Twitter thread about the government

Apr 27, 2021 • 45:58

The 905er Tries To Figure Out What Happened at the HCDSB

The 905er Tries To Figure Out What Happened at the HCDSB

We are joined today by Dr Alexandra Power, a GP who works extensively with young adults through her practice at York University. Dr Power was one of the people who delegated on Tuesday night to Halton Catholic District School Board in support of a motion to fly the Pride flag over schools in June to show support for LGBTQ+ students in a motion brought by trustee Brenda Agnew. But on Tuesday night there was no decision. The numerous delegates who attended the meeting spoke and were questioned at

Apr 22, 2021 • 35:48

A Question of Pride for the Halton Catholic School Board

A Question of Pride for the Halton Catholic School Board

Tonight will be a momentous night for the Halton Catholic District School Board.For weeks, the board has been wrestling with itself over whether or not the Pride flag ought to be raised over its schools. A motion brought by Trustee Brenda Agnew under the title "Supporting Our Diverse School Community" would direct the Pride flag to be flown over HCDSB schools and mandate a safe space poster in every class "to ensure that students in the 2SLGBT community are supported throughout the school year".

Apr 20, 2021 • 33:22

Paradise Lost?

Paradise Lost?

They didn't pave Paradise. Instead the City of Hamilton released 24 billion litres of untreated sewage into it. Thursday's episode covers three 905 stories: the latest changes of direction on our schools and an education minister with egg on his face; $5 million for Burlington City Hall's front yard; a new stinky mess in Cootes Paradise. But don't worry, the rotting mass of odiferous gunk is 'just algae', although that algae may be a product of damage caused by the sewage spill. Joel and Rolan

Apr 15, 2021 • 37:04

"They Don't Know How The System Works" - Andrea Grebenc and Patrick Murphy Speak Frankly About Provincial Education Mistakes

"They Don't Know How The System Works" - Andrea Grebenc and Patrick Murphy Speak Frankly About Provincial Education Mistakes

"We should have approached [COVID-19] aggressively." "Now the scale has moved." "A target on our back." "Commodification and privatization." "A freight train that has already left the station." "They don't know how the system works." These quotes, taken from a wide-ranging discussion with Andrea Grebenc, chair of Halton District School Board, and Patrick Murphy, Chair of Halton Catholic District School Board, in an episode recorded on April 8th, illustrate the frustration felt by schools boards

Apr 13, 2021 • 54:06

Parks and Vaccination: failures of logic and imagination by multiple levels of government

Parks and Vaccination: failures of logic and imagination by multiple levels of government

Joel and Roland tackle the latest Covid news in the 905 - and there's plenty of it. Peel's Medical Officer of Health possibly signalled a breaking point this week where regional public health officials demonstrated their lack of faith in provincial policy, and their willingness to overrule it, when he closed down Peel's schools. Spending on park 'ambassadors' in Burlington raises questions about municipal priorities when malls are open and crowded, but a city hall choses to police people doing

Apr 8, 2021 • 34:58

San Grewal of The Pointer talks about the politics of the 905.

San Grewal of The Pointer talks about the politics of the 905.

San Grewal, award-winning journalist and founder of The Pointer (https://thepointer.com/) joined Joel and Roland to talk about legacy media's and politicians' lack of interest and knowledge about the 905 region, even while the stories that affect the 905 are the biggest in the entire province right now. Hours later, Peel's Medical Officer of Health made one of the clearest statements yet about the failure of the Ford government to make the right decisions for cities like Brampton and Mississaug

Apr 6, 2021 • 56:59

50 Shades of Grey - Is Ontario Heading Into A Third Lockdown?

50 Shades of Grey - Is Ontario Heading Into A Third Lockdown?

While Joel and Roland were recording this podcast, twice, due to technical problems, news was emerging of what appears to be a third lockdown starting this Easter Weekend. Our intrepid hosts give their reactions to the latest reports - which were yet to be confirmed at the time of recording. A provincial policy of confusing grey areas seems to be sending us all back into grey zones. Is their any truth to the premier's attempt to blame everything on Ottawa? Why are mass vaccination locations sit

Apr 1, 2021 • 27:20

Shawna Stolte: The Myths and Reality of Life as a Councillor

Shawna Stolte: The Myths and Reality of Life as a Councillor

We pay attention to politics in inverse proportion to the extent it affects our lives. The political junkies among us religiously watch Power and Politics and have complex and well-informed opinions about what’s going on this week in Ottawa. But the same political junkies often struggle to remember the name of their city councillor. And yet at both city and regional councils, councillors make decisions that affect our lives every single day in a way the federal government seldom does. This d

Mar 30, 2021 • 53:45

Election Fever?

Election Fever?

Media is talking elections, and, whether it makes sense or not, history suggests that someone will blink and force a federal election before long. The 905 region could well play 'kingmaker' again. But is our region getting the attention and credit it deserves for it's outsized influence on elections, and the contrasting needs and motivations that shape the 905 cities' poulations? Which party would stand to win most from an election, and is there any significant hunger for change? And, it's bud

Mar 25, 2021 • 42:57

Mike Moffatt - A Moving Story of Ontario's Rising House Prices

Mike Moffatt - A Moving Story of Ontario's Rising House Prices

Where Ontarians are moving is moving. Mike Moffat joins us to explore how, as the seemingly never-ending upward spiral of housing costs in the GTHA continues, and the population increases rapidly, many Ontarians are looking further afield for housing, with the result that some unexpected areas have become among the fastest-growing cities in the province. For instance, London and Woodstock. These are places that haven't necessarily planned for rapid population growth, and don't necessarily have

Mar 23, 2021 • 45:59

Brick (Thick as A) - Who is Paying for Bad Opinions and Bad Decisions at Queens Park?

Brick (Thick as A) - Who is Paying for Bad Opinions and Bad Decisions at Queens Park?

MPP Sam Oosterhoff apparently found the provincial advice to cover his mouth with a piece of paper or cloth overly arduous last year, and was proudly photographed ignoring the rules the rest of us are expected to keep. But this week he has again shown he is willing to advocate government control of a far more intimate part of women's anatomy. Why won't the premier get to grips with his unruly backbencher? Joel and Roland also look at the uneven vaccine rollout, and the missed opportunities to t

Mar 18, 2021 • 36:20

Briar Emond paints a picture of being an artist in the pandemic

Briar Emond paints a picture of being an artist in the pandemic

One of the reasons we began this podcast was to counter the perception of the 905 region as culturally irrelevant. We simply couldn’t accept that a region of 4 million people - larger than some small countries - should be routinely perceived as being uninteresting from the perspective of art and culture. And of course, there is a huge amount of innovative and exciting work happening for among of our regions different communities for anyone who cares to look.This week we’re speaking to Burlington

Mar 16, 2021 • 45:12

What the fraternity can do about equality.

What the fraternity can do about equality.

Like many subjects we've covered over the last six months, we're only too aware that other people are more informed on the subject of gender equality and an end to violence against women. But there's an important point. Men too often view 'women's issues' as something that they don't have to worry about. That's the reverse of the truth. Only men can fix the appalling levels of violence against women. And men have to be champions of, rather than passive spectators to, the changes needed to br

Mar 11, 2021 • 38:27

The Hon. Paddy Torsney talks International Women's Day and 25 Years of the IWD Breakfast

The Hon. Paddy Torsney talks International Women's Day and 25 Years of the IWD Breakfast

Every International Women's Day in the 905, Paddy Torsney organizes and host an IWD Breakfast Event.  The event focuses on the highlights and accomplishments of women of note in the region.  This year marks a significant milestone of 25 years.  We wanted to talk about this accomplishment, and the importance of International Women's Day for our society.  As well as the impact adding more women to leadership roles can have for our society.   Paddy is a long time friend of both Roland and Joel, s

Mar 9, 2021 • 47:16

Our 50th Episode!

Our 50th Episode!

It's taken almost six months to get here, but Roland and Joel reflect on the journey so far.Its been a winding path, but a lot the help comes down to our Patreon supporters.  Their support has helped us grow this into what it's become so far.  We are grateful for their support.This podcast has provided us a chance to talk about the forces that are shaping the region, and talk with the people who are influencing what that shape becomes.  We hope to continue this for another 50 episodes and beyond

Mar 4, 2021 • 32:48

Queen's Park Round-up - Three Stories About the Provincial Government and the 905

Queen's Park Round-up - Three Stories About the Provincial Government and the 905

Three stories, all relating to decisions and actions of the provincial government, and all directly affecting our region. Who said what, when with COVID-19? Did the politicians overrule the scientists? I the province trying to blame Dr Williams for their own failings, or do they have a point that he was slow to acknowledge what other scientists accepted much earlier in the year? Is the province running scared on Highway 413? Recent statements by the House Leader suggest maybe. Is there anyth

Mar 2, 2021 • 40:00

413 Reasons Why: A Vision For Vibrant Cities In A Post Commuter World

413 Reasons Why: A Vision For Vibrant Cities In A Post Commuter World

Joel and Roland talk share their admiration for the Community Climate Council's webinar on Highway 413, get all misty eyed about the idea of after-work drinks in a pedestrian-friendly downtown, and then discuss a rare win for the City of Burlington at LPAT - why it was a win, and whether it will stay a win. Spoiler alert - probably not.Finally they discuss Halton Region's unanimous request to the Province and whether, for once, the Region is actually making a fair point.Thanks to those who help

Feb 25, 2021 • 46:55

How Green Is My Greenbelt?

How Green Is My Greenbelt?

A roundup of news from around the 905 with Joel and Roland, including the province's surprise announcement that it's considering an expansion to the Greenbelt ... coincidentally announced in a week it was taking a lot of heat regarding its plans for a new Highway 413. Hamilton Council decides to spend $20,000+ on a cause it admits is lost. Meanwhile a councillor reminds us that we're all lazy and can't be trusted.   Thanks to those who help us put this together: Thanks to our founding patrons

Feb 23, 2021 • 40:27

Racism in Our Schools (Part 2) - Students Speak Up YCDSB and Hamilton Students For Justice

Racism in Our Schools (Part 2) - Students Speak Up YCDSB and Hamilton Students For Justice

In part two of our episode this week we continue our conversation with Abisola Asha and Malik Scott of Students Speak Up YCDSB, and Greg Dongen of Hamilton Students for Justice. Make sure you listen to this episode to hear Abisola, Malik and Greg share their experiences of daily routine racism in our school systems. Find out more about Students Speak Up YCSDSB at https://www.instagram.com/studentsspeakupycdsb/ Find out more about Hamilton Students for Justice at https://hs4j.ca/   Thanks to

Feb 18, 2021 • 36:37

Racism in Our Schools (Part 1) - Students Speak Up YCDSB and Hamilton Students For Justice

Racism in Our Schools (Part 1) - Students Speak Up YCDSB and Hamilton Students For Justice

In a two part episode this week we speak to Abisola Asha and Malik Scott of Students Speak Up YCDSB, and Greg Dongen of Hamilton Students for Justice.Abisola, Malik and Greg have been at the forefront of recent stories about widespread and institutional racism in Hamilton Wentworth and York Catholic District School Boards. In York, Students Speak Up organized a student strike to protest racism in November. Last week in Hamilton, after the allegations of racism by trustees by a former student tru

Feb 16, 2021 • 33:51

Cindy Cosentino - Who Wins from School Boards Employing Non-Teachers as Directors of Education?

Cindy Cosentino - Who Wins from School Boards Employing Non-Teachers as Directors of Education?

Today we are talking about schools again, and it seems that education in the 905 Region is seldom out of the news. This week’s story revolves around the appointment in York Catholic District School Board of someone with only three years of experience as a teacher - at a private school, after a long career in the private sector - under rules introduced this summer by the provincial government. The appointment has provoked outrage among many parents and students. To dig into why there has been su

Feb 11, 2021 • 46:57

Joey Coleman Returns to talk about the Charter of Rights and Hamilton City Hall

Joey Coleman Returns to talk about the Charter of Rights and Hamilton City Hall

Friend of the podcast Joey Coleman, editor of Hamilton's crowdfunded The Public Record, returns to discuss the latest goings on at Hamilton City Hall, including a potential Charter of Rights and Freedoms violation via a move to prevent letters critical of the councillor conduct. Then we look at the disturbing pattern of seemingly excessive and counterproductive hostility towards any avenues by which citizens might be more involved or provide comment on what is happening at Hamilton City Hall.Whe

Feb 9, 2021 • 40:51

Rage Against the Machine - Are Ontarians directing their anger where it is most deserved?

Rage Against the Machine - Are Ontarians directing their anger where it is most deserved?

Zooming out from Tuesday's interview with Chair Jeff Knoll of the Halton Police Services Board, Joel and Roland reflect on the growing importance of podcasts in providing a place for long-form interviews with public figures.They also discuss the wider implications of the spate of resignations following on from Rod Phillips' resignation. Public frustration, anger and a desire for punishment for those found contravening the expectations placed on us all is understandable, but does it risk acting a

Feb 4, 2021 • 48:44

Jeff Knoll, Chair of Halton Police Services Board, addresses the Chief Tanner controversy

Jeff Knoll, Chair of Halton Police Services Board, addresses the Chief Tanner controversy

It's understandable at a time when so many are being asked to give up so much - including financial security and the ability to care for loved ones in their time of greatest need - that most Canadians have little patience for people in positions of leadership who feel they are exempt from the rules and standards of behaviour being demanded of us. Amid the scandal and resignation of Ontario finance minister Rod Phillips and the subsequent resignation or firing of multiple other politicians and p

Feb 2, 2021 • 30:57

Joel and Roland Ride the Road to Nowhere

Joel and Roland Ride the Road to Nowhere

Expanding on our conversation with Sarah Buchanan of Environmental Defence earlier in the week, Joel and Roland ask why the Ontario government is so determined to build roads. What is the logic, who does it help, and does the revolution in working from home arising from COVID-19 promise a permanent change in commuting habits that a smart government might seize upon? Along the way we ask 'when did Conservatives stop being a party the believed in efficiency?' and 'what would happen if political pa

Jan 28, 2021 • 36:54

Sarah Buchanan Defends the Greenbelt from Highway 413

Sarah Buchanan Defends the Greenbelt from Highway 413

Our interview today is with Sarah Buchanan, Ontario Climate Program Manager with Environmental Defence (https://environmentaldefence.ca/), one of Canada's leading environmental advocacy groups, about the revived proposal for a new 400 series highway between the 400 north of Vaughan and Halton. Sarah explains why the highway plan was cancelled back in 2018, the threat it poses to the Greenbelt, and who stands to benefit most if the highway is built. We'll give you three guesses ...Thanks to those

Jan 26, 2021 • 42:28

Joel and Roland look for an affordable solution to housing

Joel and Roland look for an affordable solution to housing

Our previous episode gave us a lot to talk about, in terms of the housing and eviction crisis that is looming here in the 905 and the province as a whole.  Joel and Roland sit down to examine a possible solution to the supply and demand problem of housing in the province.  As well, they take a look at development as it currently stands and whether or not it truly meets the needs of our communities.   Thanks to those who help us put this together:Our founding patrons! You can join them at https:/

Jan 21, 2021 • 45:28

Alyssa Brierley Fights for the Right for Affordable Housing

Alyssa Brierley Fights for the Right for Affordable Housing

Alyssa Brierley, Executive Director of the Centre for Equality Rights in Accomodation, joins us to discuss the waves of evictions that have been happening in Ontario since the summer under the auspices of the Landlord and Tenant Board, despite assurances earlier in the year about protections for tenants in financial difficulties because of the pandemic. These evictions are carried out via an online video process that places many tenants at a strong disadvantage.Then we go on to discuss the wider

Jan 19, 2021 • 46:12

Joel and Roland Wonder Where Have our Leaders Gone?

Joel and Roland Wonder Where Have our Leaders Gone?

As 2021 began, a torrent of news came forward that a number of leaders in our communities, from the federal to the provincial and now we've learned the municipal levels weren't following COVID-19 protocols.  Namely that they left the country for personal recreation.  Joel and Roland talk about this abdication of leadership on the part of those who are trying to lead us through this pandemic. Then, Joel and Roland look to the atrocious events on Jan 6th at the US Capitol and wonder can that happ

Jan 14, 2021 • 46:16

Dr. Amanpreet Brar Makes the Case for Multicultural Media During the Pandemic

Dr. Amanpreet Brar Makes the Case for Multicultural Media During the Pandemic

As case numbers continue to rise in the 905 region.  Specifically in Peel region, one doctor has highlighted a glaring gap in the province's COVID-19 communication strategy.  Dr. Amanpreet Brar recently wrote an opinion piece in The Toronto Star highlighting the lack of use of multicultural media in Peel region to help communicate vital COVID-19 information to the communities in the region.It is estimated that close to 60% of the population of Peel region do not consider english as their native

Jan 12, 2021 • 37:10

Shannon Gillies gives us the inside scoops of being a political candidate

Shannon Gillies gives us the inside scoops of being a political candidate

Our listeners have requested this topic of a while, and we thought it'd be a good time to do this episode.  Many future political campaigns are a few years away.  But it takes time and preparation to do a good job.  We talk today about what it takes to be a candidate for political office, and what goes on behind the scenes.Shannon Gillies joins Roland and Joel, to give her insight as a former municipal candidate in Burlington.  All three have had experience either behind the scenes or as a name

Jan 7, 2021 • 50:37

Shannon Gillies joins us to start off a new year on The 905er

Shannon Gillies joins us to start off a new year on The 905er

We are back at it!  After a brief break for the holidays, Joel and Roland are back to talk about what's in the headlines at the start of 2021!  Friend of the podcast Shannon Gillies joins us to give a new perspective on the headlines. We talk about Rod Phillips jaunts to the tropics, politicians who like to do the opposite of what they say, vaccine roll outs, and one of us makes a bold prediction for the coming year!  Find out who by listening!   Thanks to those who help us put this together:

Jan 5, 2021 • 40:13

32: The 905er Looks Back on the Year That Was, Part 2

32: The 905er Looks Back on the Year That Was, Part 2

In the final two episodes of 2020, Joel and Roland look back over the first six months of the 905er podcast and themes that emerged. In part two, it's Joel's turn to pick the stories that he enjoyed most. Thanks to: Our founding patrons! You can join them at https://www.patreon.com/the905er. Supporting the 905er with a monthly donation enables us to do this podcast, to make it better and better, and to make sure it reflects your priorities. Please consider joining our growing team. Wendy Nich

Dec 22, 2020 • 28:38

31: Review of 2020 Part 1 - 'A New Hope'

31: Review of 2020 Part 1 - 'A New Hope'

In the final two episodes of 2020, Joel and Roland look back over the first six months of the 905er podcast and themes that emerged. In part one, Roland picks the episodes that stood out most to him. Thanks to: Our founding patrons! You can join them at https://www.patreon.com/the905er. Supporting the 905er with a monthly donation enables us to do this podcast, to make it better and better, and to make sure it reflects your priorities. Please consider joining our growing team. Wendy Nicholson

Dec 17, 2020 • 30:43

30: A Rabbi and a Reverend walk on to a Podcast...

30: A Rabbi and a Reverend walk on to a Podcast...

Continuing our December theme of finding some positive lessons from 2020, Joel and Roland speak to two of the 905 region's religious leaders, Rabbi Stephen Wise of Shaarei-Beth El Reform Synagogue in Oakville and Canon Stuart Pike, rector of St Luke's Anglican Church in Burlington. Rabbi Wise and Canon Pike describe how Covid has affected their congregations, and how they adapted to meet the challenges of 2020 as religious and community leaders. Thanks to: Our founding patrons! You can join th

Dec 15, 2020 • 41:33

29: Vaccination Nation

29: Vaccination Nation

The first undisputed case of what later was named COVID-19 was seen on December 1, 2019 in Wuhan, China. One week over a year later, the first vaccine has been approved for use in Canada following clinical trials involving almost 44,000 participants showed 95% efficacy.In a dark year for so many, Joel and Roland discuss this apparently clear reason for celebration as we enter the Holidays, what it says about scientific research and investment in education, and the ability of our global community

Dec 10, 2020 • 32:31

28: Trevor and Sandy Take the905er to Their Favourite Restaurants

28: Trevor and Sandy Take the905er to Their Favourite Restaurants

Trevor Poczynek and Sandy Stark's part time hobby on Facebook may have helped hundreds of restaurants in the 905 from going under during the pandemic. We talk with them about ONRestaurants+ and their plans for the future. Listen to the podcast and check out OnRestaurants+ for your part of the 905. Burlington Hamilton Oakville Also mentioned in this episode are some Facebook groups run by other people serving a similar purpose, two of which are: Niagara Durham Thanks to: Our foundi

Dec 8, 2020 • 33:18

27. Let's start the holidays on a good note this year

27. Let's start the holidays on a good note this year

As we wind down each year, we tend to reflect on what has passed.  Let's face it though, 2020 has been a year most of us would wish we'd forget.  We'll take a moment to do that reflection on a future episode.  However, we've decided that for the month of December, we will focus on more upbeat and optimistic stories to share with you.To kick it off, Roland and Joel reminisce a bit about their personal holiday stories, as well as some interesting holiday trivia you may or may not have known about

Dec 3, 2020 • 21:52

26: Dylan Buskermolen Shows Us The Kids Are Alright

26: Dylan Buskermolen Shows Us The Kids Are Alright

Dylan Buskermolen is originally from Burlington and was studying at Queen’s University with plans to pursue a law degree when he was diagnosed with lymphoma, a type of blood cancer. The diagnosis changed this life, and while it has brought enormous challenges that he is still having to confront, it has also led Dylan in positive directions in his life and career that he never considered before. Read more about Dylan at https://dbuskermolen.com/Canadian Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.ca/Thank

Dec 1, 2020 • 39:41

25: All the Premier's Men - Developers, Donations and the Destruction of Environmental Protections

25: All the Premier's Men - Developers, Donations and the Destruction of Environmental Protections

Leading on from Tuesday's episode looking at the proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities, Joel and Roland discuss the connection between political donations and the policy priorities of the Ford government. If any single subject can be said to encapsulate the priorities of the provincial government since 2018, it must be the efforts to weaken the legislative checks and balances on what can be built where, and who gets to have a voice in shaping development proposals. Bill 108 was descr

Nov 26, 2020 • 32:25

24: Hassan Basit and Janet Sumner - Throwing Conservation Under the Omnibus?

24: Hassan Basit and Janet Sumner - Throwing Conservation Under the Omnibus?

We are joined this week by Haassan Basit, CEO of Conservation Halton, and Janet Sumner, Executive Director of CPAWS Wildlands League, to talk about the province's proposed major changes to the powers of Conservation Authorities in Ontario as part of the budget 'omnibus' Bill 229, which, it is argued, weaken key protections that ensure safe development and prevent flooding. We explore the proposals, the justifications provided by the province and the implications for safe development in the 905

Nov 24, 2020 • 43:15

23: Seeing Red - Could the Stricter COVID Regulations Have Been Avoided with more Foresight?

23: Seeing Red - Could the Stricter COVID Regulations Have Been Avoided with more Foresight?

Joel and Roland discuss the latest changes to COVID-19 restrictions across the 905 and ask whether we could have avoided reaching this stage with some better planning from the province and less dickering from some municipalities. Thanks to:Our founding patrons! You can join them at https://www.patreon.com/the905er. Supporting the 905er with a monthly donation enables us to do this podcast, to make it better and better, and to make sure it reflects your priorities. Please consider joining!Gayle L

Nov 19, 2020 • 31:36

22: Laura Meffen and Jill Davis explain the Forgotten Costs of COVID-19

22: Laura Meffen and Jill Davis explain the Forgotten Costs of COVID-19

Laura Meffen and Jill Davis are not doctors. Nor are they nurses or PSWs. But nobody knows the price to be paid for being on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic better than they do. Residents in long term care, and the family members who love them, are paying a heavy price for our debates about what should be opened or closed and the province's focus on the needs of business. More relaxed levels of social isolation for the rest of us mean that the most basic levels of human contact are forb

Nov 17, 2020 • 53:35

21: The 905er Remembers the Battle of Normandy

21: The 905er Remembers the Battle of Normandy

We talk to Alex Fitzgerald-Black of the Juno Beach Centre headquartered in Burlington, about how the centre came to be, its mission, and the challenges of COVID-19.Make sure you check out the www.junobeach.org, which provides a fantastic resource for anybody wishing to learn more about Canada's role in the second world war.Also take a listen to the Juno Beach Centre's own podcast, available here.The museums we spoke to in episodes 20 and 21 for Remembrance week do fantastic work, and depend on p

Nov 12, 2020 • 39:45

20. The 905er Remembers the Battle for Europe's Skies

20. The 905er Remembers the Battle for Europe's Skies

This week we talk to Dave Rohrer, CEO of the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum (warplane.com) in Hamilton about their mission in preserving Canadian history, and the challenges of COVID-19.   Thanks to: Our founding patrons! You can join them at https://www.patreon.com/the905er. Supporting us with a small monthly amount enables us to do this podcast, to make it better and better, and to make sure it reflects your priorities. Please consider joining. Gayle Laws: research Wendy Nicholson: sou

Nov 10, 2020 • 36:19

19: How to Win Friends and Influence Premiers.

19: How to Win Friends and Influence Premiers.

Our Thursday episode this weeks looks back at our fascinating interview with Sean Vanderklis and Karl Dockstader earlier this weeks. Joel and Roland discuss what they learned, and the our institutions are weighted against allowing Canada's First Nations getting a fair hearing. Political leaders, the police and judges have all demanded the protesters from the Six Nations Reserve outside Caledonia vacate the disputed property before they can 'sit at the table' to discuss the claims at issue. But w

Nov 5, 2020 • 23:10

18. Sean Vanderklis and Karl Dockstader Converse about Caledonia

18. Sean Vanderklis and Karl Dockstader Converse about Caledonia

This week's episode we travel 15 minutes south of Hamilton to Caledonia.  This year as seen a second dispute over land development arise between a planned housing project called MacKenzie Meadows, and the Haudenosaunee peoples of the nearby Six Nations Reserve.  For the people of Caledonia, this is the second dispute over development in 15 years.  For the Haudenosaunee people, this dispute has been ongoing since their ancestors signed the Treaty of 1784. This dispute goes to the heart of Canada

Nov 3, 2020 • 42:29

17: Mayor Meed Ward Makes the Case for Ranked Ballots - and Halton's Letter to the Public Health Officer

17: Mayor Meed Ward Makes the Case for Ranked Ballots - and Halton's Letter to the Public Health Officer

With last week's stunning news that the province intended to take away municipalities right to consider ranked ballots, we reached out to multiple politicians who had been at the forefront of adopting ranked ballots, or, in Burlington's case, beginning the process of public consultation.Mayor Marianne Meed Ward generously made herself available for a long interview on the importance of municipalities being able to make their own decisions on subjects like local democracy, and discusses some of t

Oct 29, 2020 • 48:41

16: Jesse Helmer Helms our Chat on Ranked Ballots

16: Jesse Helmer Helms our Chat on Ranked Ballots

Jesse Helmer is deputy mayor and councillor in London, Ontario.  He is one of a tiny handful of Canadians - all in London - who have experience of being elected by both "First Past the Post" and "Ranked Ballot", in 2014 and 2018. He was a leading advocate for the adoption of ranked ballots in Ontario. He was shocked to discover at the same time as every other Ontarian that the provincial government had decided to ban ranked ballots as part of its omnibus bill, which is ostensibly about Covid-19

Oct 27, 2020 • 33:47

15: Wave of Obfuscation. Has the Province made the Second Wave Worse?

15: Wave of Obfuscation. Has the Province made the Second Wave Worse?

This week's Thursday episode follows up on Tuesday's discussion with Mike Gibbs about the province's messaging on Covid-19, and what appears to many to be contradictory and confusing statements about about what we should all be doing to keep each other safe. Each week we talk about 'other news' in the 905. But what is this week's other news? Yep, it's the Covid-19 second wave, and it increasingly looks like the 905 won't get off as lightly as it did in the spring. Why? Is it a non-compliant pub

Oct 22, 2020 • 29:12

14: Mike Gibbs Makes Sense of COVID-19 Communications

14: Mike Gibbs Makes Sense of COVID-19 Communications

Mike Gibbs is a former communications staffer with Public Health Ontario. He experienced Toronto's SARS outbreak first hand and has worked on pandemic planning in public health offices across the country.  He has been highly critical of the current Ford government’s handling of COVID-19 communications and is author of a Twitter account (@Mikeggibbs) that provides Covid-19 policy opinion from an informed perspective. We invited him on to the podcast this week to share his expertise about how we g

Oct 20, 2020 • 48:17

Episode 13: A Lack of Integrity in Hamilton - Part 2, Joey Coleman

Episode 13: A Lack of Integrity in Hamilton - Part 2, Joey Coleman

Joey Coleman, editor of The Public Record, joins us for part 2 of our examination of the reasons and justifications for Hamilton Council launching an Integrity Commissioner investigation into a citizen volunteer on an advisory committee. Joey has explored the legal context in detail and suggests there are major problems with the City of Hamilton's arguments that Cameron Kroetsch released confidential information, and its claim that the Integrity Commissioner has the right to investigate advisory

Oct 15, 2020 • 46:07

Episode 12: A Lack of Integrity in Hamilton - Part 1, Cameron Kroetsch

Episode 12: A Lack of Integrity in Hamilton - Part 1, Cameron Kroetsch

This week, for the first time, we shall be releasing two episodes of the 905er podcast, on Tuesday and Thursday. In our 'two part' episode, we take a deep dive into Hamilton politics, and explore why Hamilton City Council decided to launch an investigation by its Integrity Commissioner into the actions of a volunteer chair of one of its advisory committees - Cameron Kroetsch. We speak to Cameron to get his side of the story, and ask whether the claims against him have merit, why council would wa

Oct 13, 2020 • 32:58

Episode 11: Hope and Betrayal - the human stories and human cost of Ontario‘s cancelled Basic Income Pilot

Episode 11: Hope and Betrayal - the human stories and human cost of Ontario‘s cancelled Basic Income Pilot

Originally Aired October 6, 2020   ______   There cannot be two people better placed to speak about Ontario's Basic Income Pilot than Deirdre Pike and Jessie Golem. Created by the Ontario Liberal government in the final years before it lost power, and canceled (contrary to assurances to the contrary) by the incoming PC government in 2018, the Basic Income Pilot was intended to provide hard data on how a basic income based on tax returns, replacing the mishmash of benefits currently on offer,

Oct 6, 2020 • 1:10:37

Episode 10: Trouble on the Grapevine?

Episode 10: Trouble on the Grapevine?

Some of the industries hit hardest by Covid-19 are those providing some of the more fun things in life - for instance food and drink, entertainment and tourism. As we find out this week, the Niagara Peninsula's wine industry touches on all three of those categories, with many smaller wineries dependent on tourist 'cellar door' purchases to remain profitable. But like so many other areas, businesses are innovating at an incredible rate to meet the challenges they are facing and finding new ways t

Sep 29, 2020 • 51:33

Episode 9: What's Up With Hamilton? (With Lorraine Sommerfeld)

Episode 9: What's Up With Hamilton? (With Lorraine Sommerfeld)

Politics is a rough business, but is it ever ok for councillors to insult and belittle members of the public? Lately some councillors in Hamilton appear to be making a habit of behaving towards the public and other council members in ways that - well, let's just say they lack 'decorum'. We're joined by Hamilton Spectator columnist, National Post auto journalist and onetime city hall volunteer Lorraine Sommerfeld, as we discuss some of the themes from the last few weeks in light of the behaviour

Sep 22, 2020 • 53:52

Episode 8: Dave Meslin - Fixing Democracy in the 905

Episode 8: Dave Meslin - Fixing Democracy in the 905

This week we're pleased to welcome Dave Meslin to the podcast. Dave was described by Andrew Coyne as ‘a force of nature - a one man think tank/pressure group who won’t stop until he sees his ideas for better democracy put into action’. He’s also been called a ‘wizard’, ‘mastermind’, ‘ultimate ideas guy’ and a ‘mad scientist’. His Ted Talk, “The Antitdote to Apathy” has nearly two million views. Dave has been the most prominent voice encouraging the adoption of ranked ballots in municipal electi

Sep 15, 2020 • 1:04:46

Episode 7: 90 minutes from Toronto - what do people moving to the 905 want to find in their new home towns?

Episode 7: 90 minutes from Toronto - what do people moving to the 905 want to find in their new home towns?

A new generation moving out of Toronto want more than just a house with a double garage. Audra Williams and her partner Haritha Nanaratna have created a website named ninetyminutesfrom.com. It's a website that quantifies and categorizes the communities of the 905 region on factors you won't find on many real estate websites.  Such as Black Lives Matter support, LBGTQ and Pride organizations, indigenous issues awareness and voting patterns. We invited them on to the podcast to chat with us abo

Sep 8, 2020 • 54:23

Episode 6: Who runs our cities? Burlington's Official Plan and struggle to control local government.

Episode 6: Who runs our cities? Burlington's Official Plan and struggle to control local government.

After 4 years, is Burlington's Official Plan almost complete? The marathon process of developing a new Official Plan for Burlington has in many ways typified the challenges being faced in every city in the 905 region - both in creating coherent visions for our future, and in implementing local democracy. This week we discuss the provincial background to how our cities are run with Zac Spicer, Director of Research at the Institute of Public Administration in Canada. Zac provides a wealth of insi

Sep 1, 2020 • 49:18

Episode 5: Crisis and Community: Can Hamilton's Hospitality industry innovate itself back to health?

Episode 5: Crisis and Community: Can Hamilton's Hospitality industry innovate itself back to health?

Perhaps no industry has been hit harder by Covid-19 than the hospitality industry, and even as businesses reopen there is no avoiding the massive challenges that still exist for restaurants, cafes bars and the places where people have always gathered to eat, drink and socialize. But in the midst of crisis we came across a story of innovation and hope developing in Hamilton. This week we speak to Jason Cassis, founder and partner of Equal Parts Hospitality Inc which owns some of Hamilton's best

Aug 25, 2020 • 49:49

Episode 4: Pandemic Planning Part 2 - The Trustees Perspective

Episode 4: Pandemic Planning Part 2 - The Trustees Perspective

This week on the 905er podcast we are delighted to be joined by two people intimately involved in planning for children returning to school in September. Andréa Grenbenc, chair of Halton District School Board and a trustee in Burlington, and Marvin Duarte, vice-chair of Halton Catholic District School Board, trustee for Milton, join us an answer questions on the preparations being made for a safe return, the financial challenges being faced, the experience with online learning, and much more. L

Aug 18, 2020 • 53:46

Episode 3: 10,000 statements that Black Lives Matter

Episode 3: 10,000 statements that Black Lives Matter

On June 4th, an estimated 7 to 10,000 people marched in Burlington in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter protests then happening across the US. It was an astonishing and unexpected display for a city not known for mass activism, overwhelmingly made by younger Burlingtonians. This week Joel and Roland speak to Isabella Mallon and Korede Balogan, two of the organizers of the event, about their motivations and expectations for the event, and their plans and hopes for building on their success i

Aug 11, 2020 • 45:55

Episode 2: Back to School in a Pandemic - Is Ontario's Back to School Plan Safe?

Episode 2: Back to School in a Pandemic - Is Ontario's Back to School Plan Safe?

Roland Tanner and Joel MacLeod are joined by Cindy Cosentino, who recently retired after 32 years as a teacher in Hamilton and Halton school boards teaching science and math. Cindy shares her concerns, and the concerns of many of her colleagues, at what is being asked of teachers as children head back to school, and we explore the many unanswered questions about how the province's plan can be implemented safely. Is the provincial plan ultimately more about protecting the economy than the interes

Aug 4, 2020 • 38:15

The 905er Podcast - Episode 1:Introductions

The 905er Podcast - Episode 1:Introductions

Roland Tanner and Joel MacLeod introduce the 905er podcast - a podcast for the Ontario GTHA's 905 region outside Toronto. "The 905" is the economic powerhouse of Canada and home to 4 million people and growing, but receives little media coverage. We'll be uploading a weekly podcast discussing the important issues for our region, with interviews, round-tables and analysis of what's happening in our city halls and on our streets.   Comments, corrections? Email info@905er.ca   Learn more about your

Jul 28, 2020 • 53:24

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