As the dust emerges from today's elections, several candidates will become accustomed to the new role of metro mayors. However, they will also face the uncomfortable truth well known to existing leaders – there is no money.

In North America, away from the noisy politics of the White House, a novel solution to the dilemma may be emerging. Canada, in its quiet, thoughtful way, is attempting to resolve an intractable social problem and provide a revenue source for local councils by legalising cannabis.