Chow Honeymoons as Council Considers New Revenue Proposals

Posted by David Valentin
— 2 min read
Chow Honeymoons as Council Considers New Revenue Proposals
Photo by Filip Mroz / Unsplash

August 24, 2023 (Toronto, ON) – A new Liaison Strategies poll for the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC) shows Olivia Chow enjoying a honeymoon with voters at 73%.

Conducted from August 18-20, 2023, using interactive voice response technology, the poll surveyed 816 Toronto residents. The margin of error for the poll stands at +/- 3.43%, 19 times out of 20.

"Chow is posting strong numbers post-election," said David Valentin, principal at Liaison Strategies. "Which makes it clear that Torontonians are happy to give her a chance - even the ones that didn't vote for her. With a 73% approval rating - and only 9% not sure, Chow is a known commodity. It's a reflection of the high name recognition that helped her win."

"At the same time, 57% of Torontonians approve of the job that City Council is doing right now. It's majority support, but we are seeing higher numbers for Chow.

"This month we took a look at potential revenue tools that City Council might consider to help fill the budget deficit. Some proposals are more popular than others, with 73% of Torontonians supporting an increase to the Vacant Home tax.

"On the issue of a Toronto Sales Tax however, 52% oppose the move, while 43% support it. Toronto does not have the power to implement this on its own and it's clear that a Toronto Sales Tax would be divisive."

"Other proposals fare better with Torontonians to differing extents. Raising the municipal land transfer tax on homes over $3 million has 67% support, while allowing the Toronto Parking Authority to increase rates for on-street parking has 54% support."

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Toronto Poll, August 2023 | PDF
Toronto poll for the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada