Mayor’s Statement on OBCM Motion for Chronic Homelessness and Mental Health Crisis

October 21, 2024  

I fully support the Motion on Chronic Homelessness, Mental Health, Safety, and Addictions Crisis approved by the Ontario Big City Mayors Caucus (OBCM). The motion highlights two clear realities: the growing humanitarian crisis affecting our communities, and the immediate action needed from both the provincial and federal governments.

This crisis is being exacerbated by the lack of proper support for people facing homelessness, mental health issue and addictions.  Ontario’s cities have been left to deal with this crisis without adequate resources, legal authority and support—even though mental health care, addiction treatment and housing are provincial responsibilities. The motion rightly points out that the provincial government is responsible for housing, homelessness, and healthcare, including providing timely and proper support systems. Without leadership and investment from the province, our community’s problems will only get worse.

I firmly support the request by OBCM of the province to take on intervenor status in court cases that limit municipalities’ ability to manage public spaces and encampments, and to create a clear legal framework that balances individual rights with community safety. We desperately need properly-funded, compassionate care and treatment programs focused on mental health and addiction, and our legislation must be modernized to reflect the realities of this crisis. Expanding Diversion Courts to prioritize rehabilitation, and reviewing the Trespass to Property Act to help municipalities address public safety, are also vital steps.

I strongly support the OBCM’s call for a single, dedicated Minister and ministry to lead the response to the crisis. This focused leadership would ensure accountability and make efforts to address the crisis more efficient. We are also asking for the immediate creation of a task force that brings together all levels of government, experts, community partners, first responders, and – most importantly - those directly affected. This teamwork is essential to creating a solution that meets the diverse needs of Ontario’s communities.

This motion is a pivotal step in pushing the provincial and federal governments to start treating this crisis with the same level of urgency as we do at the municipal level. We urge the provincial and federal governments to follow the OBCM’s recommendations and start delivering the urgent action and funding needed to support those suffering and make our communities safer and stronger for everyone.

View the full motion HERE.