It's one of the areas where some voters perceive David Miller as being vulnerable. So with just over a month left to go before you decide if he should be mayor of Toronto again, the incumbent came out swinging Thursday, unveiling his official crime platform.
Miller claims it's not that Toronto is an unsafe city, it's just that there are high poverty pockets where residents may be more at risk than others. And he wants to spend $13 million to put new programs in place in 13 higher crime neighbourhoods to give youths an alternative to violence.
He's also pledging to hire 450 more officers, take a more aggressive approach to gang violence and lobby the government for a complete handgun ban and a no-bail policy if criminals are caught committing an offence while armed.
While some have criticized Miller for being more concerned with social issues like the Island Airport or garbage than safety on the streets, he insists his record on fighting crime speaks for itself. It's all a question of approach, not intent.
"We've created thousands of employment, education, training, apprenticeship and recreation programs for young people from these communities," he explains. "The work we've done in the past three years has built strong neighbourhoods and safer communities."
Miller is facing stiff competition from his nearest competitor, Councillor Jane Pitfield, who has been openly critical of the mayor for his handling of the decision to replace former Toronto Police Chief Julian Fantino.
You'll get to decide whose vision you like best when the municipal election is held on November 13th.
- Still aren't sure who gets your vote?
Citytv's televised Mayor's debate may make the difference. You can see it live Sunday, October 22nd at 8pm on both
Citytv and
CP24.