Mayoral candidates talk trade as reciprocal tariffs come into effect

September 10, 2026 · 0 Comments

The ongoing trade war between Canada and the United States has left many local businesses feeling extra pressure.

It’s set to be a hot-button issue across the country in the months ahead, and Aurora is no exception.

As the 2026 Municipal Election Campaign kicks into high-gear following Labour Day, Aurora’s Mayoral Candidates were asked how, amid the current trade tensions, they would prioritize/advocate for as Mayor at the municipal level to not only protect local businesses that rely on cross-border trade, but also Aurora-based employees that rely on these jobs.

SHAWN DEANE

“As Mayor, the most immediate and impactful change I plan to bring local business and homeowners alike, is the promise to present Council with a 0% increase on property taxes and water bills, as part of the 2027 Budget. Additionally, I will recommend to York Region Council, to expand the existing York Link tariff support and services to create a joint task force consisting of all nine municipal Economic Development Committees and Chambers of Commerce, in order to centralize the intake of an engagement survey designed to capture specific local business concerns, as well as connect them with financial support resources. Furthermore, I would engage, support and promote any programs already developed by higher levels of government since the first round of Trump tariffs began last March.”

JOHN GALLO

“Municipalities cannot control tariffs or international trade policy, but we can control how effectively we support the businesses and workers affected by them. As Mayor, I would work directly with Aurora businesses to understand where trade disruptions are creating the greatest pressures, particularly for companies dependent on U.S. customers, suppliers or cross-border supply chains. Our Economic Development team and Aurora Economic Development Corporation should be proactive partners, helping businesses access provincial and federal programs, explore new markets and strengthen local supply chains. I would also advocate with York Region and other levels of government to ensure the needs of Aurora employers and their employees are heard and reflected in available support programs. Locally, we should reduce unnecessary barriers, support local procurement where appropriate, and continue making Aurora an attractive place to invest and create jobs. Protecting local employment starts with listening, responding quickly and working alongside our business community through economic uncertainty.”

TOM MRAKAS

“Aurora’s businesses are part of the heart of our community. They employ our neighbours, support local families and contribute so much to the Town we call home. My priority would be to make sure they know their Town is standing behind them. We can’t control international trade policy, but we can control how we respond here in Aurora. I would continue to work with the Aurora Chamber of Commerce to strengthen our Shop Local initiatives and encourage residents to support the businesses in our own community. During the pandemic, I saw firsthand how important it was for the Town and our business community to work together. I would re-establish the Business Continuity Task Force, bringing businesses of all sizes to the table so we can hear directly what they’re facing and determine how we can help. I would also continue our policy, which I introduced back in February 2025 of prioritizing Canadian businesses and Canadian-made products in municipal purchasing wherever permitted, and we further explore every tool available to support local employers and advocating for provincial and federal assistance. We may not control decisions made in Washington or Ottawa, but I will always fight to make sure Aurora businesses, workers and families have a strong voice here at home.”

YAFANG SHI

“I would bring together affected business leaders and the Chamber of Commerce representatives to listen to their concerns and identify practical ways the Town can address their issues. The Town’s Economic Development Department would provide a dedicated online portal with up-to-date information on the trade situation and available government support programs. I would advocate with other municipalities across York Region for stronger support from the provincial and federal governments. I would encourage the creation of Business Improvement Areas to empower local businesses, including entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. I would champion our local businesses and encourage residents to shop locally, support local jobs, and keep our local economy strong.”

By Brock Weir
Editor
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter