Residents, businesses, and community groups in Montreal’s Mercier riding are voicing their desires for the upcoming Quebec election. Key concerns include affordability, the economy, housing, and local issues as the October 5th election looms.
Tony Argiropoulos, the proprietor of Alphabet Café in Mile End, emphasizes the importance of having a representative who listens to the community’s needs and voices.
While Québec solidaire has held a strong presence in Mercier since 2008, with Ruba Ghazal as the current representative, historically the riding has seen a swing between the Parti Québécois and Quebec Liberals.
Jimmy Zoubris, a former advisor to Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante and owner of Papeterie & Photocopie Zoubris Inc., highlights concerns about affordability and tariffs affecting local businesses, along with the need for support in culture, the arts, and infrastructure.
Zoubris stresses the importance of addressing local issues alongside broader economic and tariff uncertainties to attract voters considering other parties.
Community organizations, like Plein Milieu, are advocating for collaboration with the next MNA to tackle homelessness issues through resident and organizational partnerships.
Housing disparities within the riding, which encompasses parts of Plateau-Mont-Royal and Mile End, are a significant concern for residents, from affordable student housing to upscale condominium-dominated areas.
With its dense and diverse population, Mercier includes both long-time residents and newcomers, with immigration policy and support being key priorities for some, like Jessica Joly and Elisabeth Torija.
As the election approaches, Mercier candidates will need to address these multifaceted issues beyond party lines to win over voters.
