Transition Montréal: Protecting Nightlife in Municipal Elections
Transition Montréal Unveils Platform Focused on Local Business & Affordable Transit
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Transition Montréal, a newly launched political party, is making waves with a platform centered on supporting local businesses, addressing housing affordability, and expanding access to affordable public transportation. Led by Craig Sauvé, the party aims to present candidates in all of Montreal’s districts, starting with Tom Seivewright in Saint-Henri-Est-Petite-Bourgogne-pocinte-Saint-Charles-Griffintown.
Championing Local Businesses Against Big Brand Dominance
A key concern for Transition Montréal is the increasing dominance of large chain businesses in Montreal’s commercial areas. Party members point to the proliferation of large banners like McDonald’s and A&W as a symptom of high commercial rents, squeezing out smaller, local shops.
“As we can see, there are more and more large banners like McDo or A & W on our commercial arteries,” says Sergio Da Silva, highlighting the issue. Transition montréal proposes a regulation to limit the proximity of these large banners – capping them at 50 to 100 meters apart – to create more opportunities for local businesses to thrive. This initiative aims to revitalize commercial streets and foster a more diverse and vibrant local economy.
Addressing Inequality Through Property Surcharges & Affordable Transit
Beyond supporting local businesses, Transition Montréal is tackling issues of economic inequality. The party proposes a surcharge on luxury unifamilial properties, with an increase of 1.25% for properties valued over $3.5 million and 1.33% for those exceeding $5 million.
The revenue generated from these surcharges would be specifically allocated to combating homelessness – a pressing issue in Montreal. This targeted approach demonstrates a commitment to using progressive taxation to fund essential social services.
Recognizing the financial burden many Montrealers face, Transition Montréal also proposes a significant reduction in the cost of public transportation. They plan to offer a reduced collective transportation rate of $62.75 per year – a substantial decrease from the current $104.50 – for individuals with an annual income of less than $47,500. This initiative will make public transit more accessible and affordable, benefiting low-income residents and promoting sustainable transportation options.
A Familiar Face Leading the Charge
Craig Sauvé, the leader of Transition Montréal, brings a wealth of political experience to the table. First elected in 2013 under the Montreal Project banner, he was re-elected in 2017 in the Saint-Henri-Est district. He later left the Montreal Project caucus in 2021 to sit as an independent, demonstrating a willingness to forge his own path.
Sauvé’s political ambitions extend beyond municipal politics. He ran as an NDP candidate in the 2024 Lasalle-Émard-Verdun by-election and again in the 2025 federal elections, though he finished fourth in both contests behind candidates from the Liberal Party of Canada (PLC), Bloc Québécois, and the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada (PCC).
Transition Montréal’s launch in July signals a persistent effort to build a strong presence across the city,with the goal of fielding candidates in every district. The party’s focus on local economic development, social equity, and affordable transportation positions it as a compelling alternative for Montreal voters.