NEWS RELEASE
MAYOR MARTIN RITSMA
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Hello everyone.
I would like to take a few moments to talk about something that is likely on everyone’s mind right now – the tariffs just imposed on Canada by the United States.
For most of us, myself included, the news of these tariffs brought about a mixture of anger, disappointment and, of course, a great deal of anxiety.
How will this affect us in the City of Stratford? What will the impact be on our local economy, our manufacturing sector, tourism, small businesses and our citizens?
We don’t know exactly, but it is safe to say that this 25% tariff on Canadian goods will be felt here, and for many, it will be painful.
We didn’t ask for this, but we will have to deal with it.
And if the recent pandemic taught us anything, it’s that we are resilient, and we will get through this if we work together.
So I would like to reassure everyone that I, along with all of City Council and staff, am committed to supporting you whenever, wherever and however we can.
We have already started having conversations and will continue to reach out to our upper levels of government through the Premier’s Office and the Prime Minister’s Office to advocate on behalf of our community, and those most affected by the tariffs.
But let’s focus on what we can control ourselves here in Stratford.
First, buy local. Shop at local stores, buy locally made products, and eat at local restaurants. Let’s continue to support the Stratford and area businesses that make our community such an amazing place.
The tariffs will require some adjustments, and that extends to the City budget currently being considered. City Council will continue to look for opportunities to reduce the impact on local ratepayers without negatively affecting the important programs and services we provide.
We also need to remember that the United States is still our biggest and most important trading partner and neighbour. We’ve had disputes with neighbours before, and we’ll get past this one too. Our close cultural and economic connection with the U.S. will continue long after the tariffs have ended.
So let’s continue to have those conversations with our neighbours, our friends and family members across the border.
Most importantly, let’s remain calm, let’s support one another, and let’s be united.
And let’s remember that the resourcefulness, the creativity and the compassion of our community will see us through this challenge. Together.
- Mayor Martin Ritsma
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