In this powerful 2-hour-34-minute conversation, third-generation Hamilton businessman Peter Turkstra — CEO of Turkstra Lumber — delivers an unfiltered look at why Hamilton is spiraling despite its enormous potential. From 23% property tax increases to wasteful spending, declining services, and crippling development charges, Peter explains exactly how current City Hall policies are hurting local businesses, workers, renters, and families. As a longtime employer and founder of the non-partisan platform Thrive Hamilton, Peter shares why he finally said “enough is enough” and what residents can do before the critical October 26, 2026 municipal election. Key Topics Covered: Why Hamilton is spiraling despite its location, institutions, and peopleThe real impact of 23% property tax increases and hidden use of reservesHow development charges and red tape are killing housing affordability and jobsWasteful spending, failed projects, and the $52 million cyber fraudStaff growth of nearly 1,000 people while services (potholes, transit, downtown safety) get worseThe culture of dysfunction, bureaucracy, and anti-business policies at City HallStrong mayor powers, lack of transparency, and the need for real accountabilityPractical steps for residents: informed voting and holding leaders accountableHope for a thriving Hamilton through fiscal responsibility and better leadership Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & Why Peter Launched Thrive Hamilton03:08 – The 23% Tax Increase & Its Impact on Families and Businesses08:19 – What “Hamilton is Spiraling” Really Means13:39 – Governance Failures, Strong Mayor Powers & Dysfunction20:31 – Launch of Thrive Hamilton & Community Response27:14 – Development Charges & the Housing Affordability Crisis36:16 – Construction Industry at a Tipping Point48:37 – Dogma-Driven Policies vs. Fiscal Reality55:27 – Transparency, Audited Statements & Failed Projects77:24 – The Role of Voter Engagement Before October 26, 202690:48 – What Good Non-Partisan Governance Should Look Like104:42 – Hamilton’s Hidden Gems & Path to Revival138:45 – The Existential Threat to Local Businesses147:56 – Final Message: Get Informed and Vote Resources & Links: Thrive Hamilton: https://thrivehamilton.caFollow Thrive Hamilton on Instagram: @thrive.hamiltonFollow Thrive Hamilton on Facebook: Thrive Hamilton Connect with Peter Turkstra: LinkedIn: [Peter Turkstra – Turkstra Lumber]Instagram: @pturkstra Final Call to Action: If you’re tired of rising taxes, declining services, and wasteful spending, this episode is for you. Get informed, get involved, and make your voice count in the October 26, 2026 municipal election. Your vote matters more than ever. Follow Thrive Hamilton for ongoing, fact-based updates and transparency in Hamilton city government.
