Addressing the present, building for the future

In a passionate and inspiring fireside-type conversation, Mayor Dan Carter outlined his vision of a strong and resilient Oshawa to a sold-out audience of business and community leaders at the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Mayor’s Luncheon on March 6.

For the first time at the annual event, Mayor Carter engaged in a dynamic conversation, led by Jennifer Alsop, Director of External Relations and Partnerships at Ontario Tech University. The discussion centred on Oshawa’s future, community partnerships, economic growth and transformative innovation. View our highlight video. 

Mayor Carter began by addressing the pressing issue of U.S.-imposed tariffs. He reassured the audience that the City is committed to understanding the complexities of these tariffs and their impact on the local economy and Oshawa businesses.

He shared that he is actively meeting with local businesses to understand their unique challenges. Mayor Carter emphasized his ongoing commitment to tirelessly advocate for them at all levels of government, aiming to influence policy and program decisions that protect local jobs and economic well-being of the city to increase our competitiveness and improve productivity.

Highlighting Oshawa’s diversified economy, the City’s zero development charges for industrial projects and all downtown developments and strong talent pool, Mayor Carter noted that these factors have positioned the city as a prime destination for investment, attracting global industries and quality new jobs. He attributed this success to a new customer-centric service model at Oshawa City Hall, which is driving investment and improved community service levels across the city.

When asked about the significant challenges of homelessness and the opioid crisis, Mayor Carter stressed the City’s dedication to working with all levels of government to find recovery-based solutions that offer a continuum of care. He discussed the innovative programs the City has advanced to help those in need, while also investing more than $3 million annually in health and safety support for residents and businesses, including specialized by-law and security staff, daily downtown cleanup, and graffiti removal.

As the conversation concluded, Mayor Carter emphasized the importance of working together to find solutions and to come together as a community and a nation.

“Oshawa is ready to meet the challenges of the future. Our strength lies in our resilience and diversification of our economy,” said Mayor Carter. “Together, we will support our local businesses and protect jobs. Our spirit of innovation and collaboration will guide us through these uncertain times, and I am confident that the great city of Oshawa will emerge stronger than ever.”

For City of Oshawa updates, visit oshawa.ca/NewsCentre.

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