Bradford Banter

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What does it really take to cover a municipal election? From months of campaign coverage to the fast-paced demands of election night, there's a lot happening behind the scenes in a newsroom.

In this episode of Bradford Banter, I'm joined once again by Chris Simon, editor of Village Media's BradfordToday and InnisfilToday, for a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into covering a municipal election and keeping residents informed.

We chat about how journalists prepare and strategize for election night, how they prioritize stories and results, and how election coverage has evolved over the years, particularly as our communities grow, the number of candidates increases and newsroom resources become more limited.

We also compare Bradford and Innisfil's 2026 municipal elections, discussing common issues, campaign strategies, resident engagement and some of the results that stood out. Chris shares his experience moderating Bradford's all-candidates meeting and reflects on some of the memorable moments from his years covering elections at the municipal, provincial and federal levels.

We also dive into the bigger picture: the role local journalism plays in democracy, holding elected officials accountable and helping residents make informed decisions.

Join me for another great conversation about local politics, election coverage and the ever-changing world of journalism.

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Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

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On this episode of Bradford Banter, I welcome back Jonathan Scott, Bradford West Gwillimbury’s Ward 2 councillor, for a conversation as he approaches the end of his term and prepares to leave municipal politics.

We reflect on his time on council, the accomplishments he’s most proud and the challenges facing Bradford as our town continues to grow.

With municipal election day approaching, we also discuss the current campaign and some of his public endorsements. I ask Jonathan what he believes Bradford needs moving forward, what lessons the next council should take away from the current one, and what he hopes to see accomplished in the years ahead.

Plus, we talk about what comes next for Jonathan after his time in public office.

Join me for an honest conversation about local politics, public service, and the future of Bradford West Gwillimbury.

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Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

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In this episode of Bradford Banter, I’m joined by Kimberley Harvey, who is running for Ward 1 councillor in Bradford West Gwillimbury in the 2026 municipal election.

Kimberley has called Bradford home for 12 years and brings experience as a small business owner, entrepreneur and volunteer, including 14 years as an instructor with the Air Cadets.

We discuss why she decided to run for council, what she believes Ward 1 residents need, and the issues she wants to tackle if elected.

Kimberley shares her thoughts on rising property taxes, attracting more businesses and employment opportunities to Bradford, managing growth and infrastructure, improving transparency and accountability at council, and making local roads safer.

We also talk about community involvement, working collaboratively with fellow councillors, and the priorities she would focus on during her first six months in office.

Tune in to hear directly from Kimberley Harvey about her background, campaign priorities and vision for Bradford West Gwillimbury.

Connect with Kimberley Harvey:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DJNoKvCZJ/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: Instagram

Email: [email protected] 

Phone: (905) 715-1638

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Bradford Banter, I sit down with Brent Fellman, who is running for Ward 6 councillor in the 2026 Bradford West Gwillimbury municipal election.

Brent discusses why he’s running for Council, the issues he believes matter most to residents, and his vision for Bradford’s future. The conversation explores municipal spending and property taxes, the proposed new Town Hall, responsible development, protecting the Holland Marsh and agricultural lands, public safety, traffic concerns, and the importance of transparency and accountability at Town Hall.

Brent also shares his thoughts on attracting more commercial and industrial investment, ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with growth, and giving residents a stronger voice in municipal decision-making.

What would he prioritize if elected, and how does he believe he can make a difference for Ward 6?

Tune in to hear directly from Brent Fellman about his campaign, priorities, and plans for Bradford West Gwillimbury.

Connect with Brent Fellman:

Website:
https://sites.google.com/view/brentfellmanFacebook 

Brent's Facebook Page

Email: [email protected]

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Bradford Banter, I sit down with Elizabeth Lambert, candidate for Ward 6 councillor in Bradford West Gwillimbury, ahead of the 2026 municipal election.

A lifelong Bradford resident who has called Ward 6 home for more than 20 years, Elizabeth brings over 35 years of experience in the financial industry. She was also named Bradford West Gwillimbury’s 2026 Volunteer of the Year for her work as treasurer of the Portuguese Cultural Centre of Bradford.

Elizabeth shares what inspired her to run for council and discusses her priorities for responsible growth, financial accountability, transparency and community engagement. We also talk about balancing development with infrastructure needs, property taxes and how she hopes to represent Ward 6 residents if elected.

Connect with Elizabeth Lambert:

Website: lizfor6.com

Facebook: Elizabeth Lambert for Ward 6

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (905) 715-4772

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

Send us Fan Mail

On this episode of Bradford Banter, I’m sitting down with Salvatore Morra, who is running for Ward 4 councillor in the 2026 Bradford West Gwillimbury municipal election.

Salvatore has called Bradford home since 2010 and is making his first run for municipal office. We chat about what brought him to Bradford, what he loves about the community, his decision to enter municipal politics and what he hopes to bring to the council table.

We also get into some of the biggest issues facing Bradford, including growth, property taxes, infrastructure, public services and how we can maintain the small-town feel that so many residents value.

And because I always want you to get to know the person behind the campaign, we have some fun along the way, including talking about his favourite things to do in Bradford, family, travel, and his love of playing piano. 

More information about Salvatore Morra’s campaign and platform:

Website: Salvatore Morra Campaign

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 416-568-7938

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Bradford Banter, I sit down with Jeff Bellamy, a candidate for Ward 1 Councillor in the 2026 Bradford West Gwillimbury municipal election.

Jeff is a lifelong Bradford resident, longtime Ward 1 resident, local business owner and someone who has been involved in our community and youth sports for many years.

We talk about why he decided to run for Council and what he believes Ward 1 needs over the next four years.

I ask Jeff about Bradford’s rapid growth, traffic and infrastructure, responsible spending, property taxes, recreation, youth sports and supporting local businesses. We also talk about what he believes Council could be doing differently and what it means to be an accessible and accountable councillor.

With municipal voting just around the corner, I wanted to give Ward 1 residents an opportunity to hear directly from Jeff, get to know him beyond the campaign signs and learn more about what he would bring to the Council table.

Learn more about Jeff's campaign here: Jeff Bellamy | Ward 1 Councillor | Bradford West Gwillimbury

Email: [email protected] 

Instagram 

Facebook

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

Send us Fan Mail

On this episode of Bradford Banter, I’m joined by Margaret Prophet, Executive Director and co-founder of the Simcoe County Greenbelt Coalition, to talk about CLASS — Community Leaders for a Sustainable Simcoe.

CLASS is a non-partisan initiative focused on encouraging and supporting constructive participation in local democratic decision-making. We chat about the CLASS pledge for municipal candidates, growth and development, protecting farmland and water, building complete communities, public engagement, and how residents can become more informed and involved in local politics.

With the 2026 municipal election approaching, Margaret explains what CLASS is all about and the resources available to residents and candidates.

Learn more about CLASS:
CLASS — Community Leaders for a Sustainable Simcoe

Connect with the Simcoe County Greenbelt Coalition:
Website
Simcoe County Greenbelt Coalition — Facebook
Simcoe County Greenbelt Coalition — Instagram

Email: [email protected]

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Bradford Banter, I sit down with Peter Dykie, the current Ward 7 Councillor for Bradford West Gwillimbury, who is seeking re-election in the 2026 municipal election.

A lifelong Bradford West Gwillimbury resident, Peter has spent more than 40 years involved in the community and more than 42 years as the owner of Bradford Jewellery in the downtown core. He talks about his experience on council, his record over the past four years and the priorities he believes are important for Ward 7 and the future of BWG.

We discuss keeping taxes affordable, roads and sidewalk maintenance, economic growth, Bradford Highlands, medical office expansion, the proposed Luxury Park development, affordable housing, traffic safety, accessibility and managing the community's continued growth. Peter also talks about his involvement in local events and organizations and what motivates him to continue serving the community.

And, of course, we get to know the person behind the councillor with some more personal questions about his life, his connection to Bradford and what he loves about the community he's called home for more than four decades.

Learn more about Peter's campaign:
🌐 Website: peterdykieforward7.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: 905-830-8035
📘 Facebook: Facebook
📸 Instagram: Instagram

Peter's campaign says his priorities include affordable taxes, infrastructure, economic growth, Bradford Highlands, healthcare services and Luxury Park, along with community events, sports, affordable housing for older adults, traffic safety and transparent representation.

Tune in for the conversation with Peter Dykie on Bradford Banter.

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Bradford Banter, I’m joined by Emil Alkhanov, local entrepreneur, Treasurer of the Bradford Farmers’ Market and candidate for Mayor of Bradford West Gwillimbury in the 2026 municipal election.

Emil shares his background and what motivated him to enter the mayoral race. We talk about his campaign priorities, including municipal finances, responsible growth, infrastructure, transportation, the Bradford GO station, protecting the Holland Marsh, supporting local businesses, healthcare access and transparency at Town Hall.

We also take a break from politics to get to know Emil on a more personal level — including what he enjoys doing in his spare time, his family and what he loves about being part of the Bradford West Gwillimbury community.

Whether you’re following the 2026 municipal election or simply interested in the future of our community, this conversation gives listeners an opportunity to hear directly from Emil about his background, priorities and campaign.

Learn more about Emil and his campaign:

🌐 Website: emil4bwg.ca

📘 Facebook: Emil Alkhanov for Mayor

📸 Instagram: @emil4bwg

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.