Guelph's Vision: Innovation, Tourism, and Community Leadership with Mayor Cam Guthrie

Andrew Siegwart interviews Mayor Cam Guthrie of Guelph, Ontario, exploring how the city is setting new standards for mid-sized urban centres. Mayor Guthrie shares his personal journey into municipal leadership and highlights Guelph’s reputation as a sustainability leader and economic innovator. The discussion covers the city’s diverse economy, including its strong agri-food and automotive sectors, and the challenges of infrastructure and housing development. Mayor Guthrie explains how Guelph leverages the municipal accommodation tax to boost tourism and support local events, while also investing in both large-scale festivals and grassroots initiatives. The episode delves into Guelph’s commitment to sustainability, climate resilience, and community safety, emphasizing partnerships and innovative approaches to social services. Mayor Guthrie also reflects on the importance of regional collaboration and public engagement, offering insights into the city’s forward-thinking, community-driven approach to growth and well-being.