Ontario voters head to the polls on Thursday, Feb. 27, with voting open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET. In Barrie–Springwater–Oro-Medonte, NDP candidate Tracey Lapham is focusing on housing, healthcare, and food security. 

Lapham, who has worked in the non-profit sector for 16 years, emphasized the need for systemic change rather than short-term solutions. “You can put money into housing, mental health, or healthcare, but if we’re not changing how services are delivered, it’s just a band-aid solution,” they said. 

Why the NDP?
Lapham supports the NDP’s balanced approach to fiscal responsibility and public services. “I always wondered why it had to be either balancing the budget or funding services,” they said. 

Top Priorities

Housing: Support for denser, sustainable housing and doubling Ontario Works (OW) and ODSP payments to reduce poverty-related costs.

Food Security: Push for food sovereignty, community gardens, and policy changes to increase local food access.

Healthcare & Drug Crisis: Call for expanded mental health services and safe public spaces, advocating a collaborative, non-punitive approach.

Policing: Support for more outreach programs rather than expecting police to handle social issues.

Lapham pointed to their lived experience and community work as key strengths. “If you’re concerned but hopeful for a better future, vote orange,” they said.

Election Day is Feb. 27, with polls open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.