The Big Story Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow reflects on 2025, looks ahead to 2026
Jan 1, 2026
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow reflects on her tenure and future plans. With a rich background in public service, she discusses key issues like affordability, highlighting fare stability for the TTC and grocery savings for families. Chow addresses the challenges faced during a February snowstorm and outlines improvements for future responses. Her relationship with Premier Doug Ford is candidly explored, emphasizing collaboration. Looking ahead, she focuses on accelerating affordable housing and shares insights on the Eglinton Crosstown LRT timeline. Personal touches reveal her holiday plans and love for skiing.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Affordability Measures Delivered Tangible Savings
- Olivia Chow says her administration made life more affordable through measures like keeping TTC fares stable and school SNAC savings.
- She frames these as concrete pocket savings for working families during tight budgets.
Snowstorm Failures Spurred Operational Overhaul
- Olivia Chow recounts the chaotic February snowstorms and flaws in prior snow contracts that limited removal.
- She describes steps taken: new staff, 200 extra workers, central command and returned leadership to improve responses.
Province Limits City Tools, Sparks Workarounds
- Chow says losing speed cameras and bike lanes hurts safety and congestion but lacks legal power to stop the province.
- She redirected efforts to speed construction, charge diggers more, and reallocate savings to transit and parks.