Halifax mayoral candidate vows to tackle housing crisis and improve healthcare access

Riley Murphy, a community leader and former manager of Seaside-FM, is stepping into the political arena with a mission to address Halifax’s most pressing challenges: housing, healthcare, and government accessibility.

Gbenga Akintokun – Local Journalism Initiative

"During my time at Seaside, I learned how much our community needs change. We attended almost every event and heard firsthand about the struggles of residents," Murphy shared on Community Update. He believes his leadership experience managing a small team and connecting with volunteers is key to his vision for the city.

In discussing Halifax’s housing crisis, Murphy noted, "Housing falls under the provincial umbrella, but the municipality can do more. I propose incentivizing landlords who charge affordable rent and streamlining the permit process to build more housing faster."

When asked about his leadership style, Murphy emphasized the importance of working across party lines, stating, "We need to check our egos at the door. Whether you wear red or blue, at the end of the day, we’re all here for the betterment of Halifax."

Murphy’s focus on accessibility extends to healthcare. He proposed an opt-in extended healthcare plan for residents without workplace benefits. "It wouldn't be taxpayer-funded, but it would provide affordable mental health and dental coverage for those who need it."

In a final note, Murphy stressed the importance of community, saying, "A strong community looks out for each other. If we act like the close-knit neighborhoods I’ve seen, Halifax will thrive."