Summerside mayoral debate focuses on economy

Basil Stewart and Bill Martin went head to head at a mayoral debate in Summerside Thursday night.

The Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce hosted the event at the Harbourfront Theatre, which drew a crowd of about 400.         

Topics ranged from reducing debt and crime to public trust and transparency.

But the majority of time was spent debating economic development.

Martin says he's looking to add 1,000 new jobs in Summerside.

"My plan is to go to these major cities, attract and talk to successful small businesses who need to expand, want to expand, have no room to expand," said Martin.

"I want 40 companies, 25 jobs, $16 to $20 an hour."

Stewart, the city's long-time mayor questioned that.

"What I will not do is make false promises," said Stewart. "You get politicians coming to your door promising you the moon. Just watch it, because they can't deliver it."

Martin says it's not a promise, but a goal.

Stewart has his own plans for economic development. He says Summerside's wind farm is solid.

"We are now in a position to harness that in order to stabilize and reduce power rates. This will help attract and grow business."

Voters head to the polls Nov. 3rd.