EVERY LEVEL OF GOVERNMENT CAN DO MORE
Municipal Government
Municipal governments in Ontario have been given primary jurisdiction over land use planning and housing policy by the Province. While it is worthwhile to correct many issues at the provincial level, municipalities have the tools they need to move on this issue independently. Our suggestions will improve city affordability, the financial sustainability of municipal government, improve services, and help Toronto meet it's climate objectives.
While The Big 5 Municipal Housing Plaform was created for 2022 City of Toronto elections, the principles and policies can apply to all municipalities in the province. They are:
- Legalize Housing For All
- Make Rules That Make Sense
- Build Affordable At Every Opportunity
- Ensure Consultation Reflects Communities
- Tax Equitably And Sustainably
Provincial Government
While every level of government must play a role in fixing the housing crisis, the provincial government has the greatest powers to change the trajectory of housing unaffordability in the province. It oversees municipalities and land use planning, infrastructure and services, and controls a significant portion of housing-related taxes. Increasing construction costs and fluctuating interest rates have contributed to uncertainty and added costs. Still, Ontario has performed particularly poorly, with housing starts down 18% in 2024, according to CMHC.
With the announcement of the February 2025 provincial election, More Neighbours Toronto we have updated our provincial policy position, with ideas in five categories: Setting Ambitious Goals, Building More, Housing Justice, Changing Behaviour and Aligning Incentives, and Scaling Up and Building Faster:
- Setting Ambitious Goals
- Building More
- Housing Justice
- Changing Behaviour and Aligning Incentives
- Scaling Up and Building Faster
Federal Government
Housing is a cornerstone of Canada’s long-term prosperity and resilience. With global trade uncertainties and Canada’s economy often pressured by larger partners, strengthening domestic industries like housing can provide stability . Boosting housing supply and affordability will not only ensure Canadians have homes – it will make our cities more competitive in attracting and retaining talent and investment.
- Lead the Conversation
- Pay for Results
- Reduce Bureaucratic Gatekeeping
- Disincentivize Bad Behaviour
- Non-Market and Social Housing
- Immigration and Housing