All top contenders vying for Toronto’s next mayorship claim they can tackle the city’s homelessness issue without requiring a significant increase in spending, as per a recent poll indicating voters believe property tax revenue should be utilized for this purpose. Data from the Financial Accountability Office of Ontario (FAO) reveals a decrease of eight percent in homelessness in Toronto last year, but the problem still persists with over 19,000 individuals utilizing shelter beds or sleeping on the streets in 2024-25.
The issue of homelessness has become a focal point in the ongoing mayoral campaign, with candidate Chris Alexander emphasizing the urgency to address the visible presence of unhoused individuals in the city. Despite voter sentiments leaning towards allocating property tax funds to combat homelessness, the leading candidates – Olivia Chow, Brad Bradford, and Alexander – propose strategies within the existing $786 million homelessness budget, avoiding significant additional expenditure.
Chow’s campaign highlights her successful track record in reducing homelessness figures through initiatives like the Rent Bank funding, supportive housing, and shelter expansions. Bradford advocates for prioritizing supportive housing and leveraging external government support for individuals dealing with addiction, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions over increased bureaucracy. Alexander’s proposal involves repurposing unoccupied units for unhoused individuals, with an initial $26 million investment and subsequent cost savings as individuals transition from shelters to supportive housing.
While the candidates present plans that seemingly do not require extra city funds, experts express skepticism about effectively addressing the homelessness crisis affecting thousands without additional financial resources. Housing research consultant Nick Falvo and industry professor Steve Pomeroy caution that sustaining current budget allocations with improved efficiency may yield better outcomes but acknowledge challenges in reallocating funds among various stakeholders. As Toronto’s municipal elections approach, with early voting commencing and polling day scheduled for Oct. 26, the issue of homelessness remains a key concern among the 53 mayoral candidates.
In conclusion, the mayoral candidates are proposing strategies to combat homelessness within the existing budget, but experts question the feasibility of substantial progress without additional resources. The upcoming election will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s approach to addressing this pressing issue.
