October 21, 2024
MARKHAM, ON – Ontario’s Big City Mayors (OBCM) have intensified their appeal to the provincial and federal governments to take immediate action regarding the homelessness, mental health, safety, and addictions issues affecting cities throughout the province.
On Friday, OBCM convened in Markham where we dedicated much of our time discussing the mental health, addiction, and homelessness crises that challenge us all. This has emerged as a key concern for our mayors. Our conversation was open and honest about the significant difficulties these issues present. This dialogue builds upon OBCM’s efforts through our Solvethe Crisis. ca campaign which urges both levels of government to act now to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding on our streets.
The Mayors adopted a resolution (full motion here) which included a request for the provincial government to:
Urgently review, consult on, and update the Mental Health Act and the Health Care Consent Act, neither of which adequately reflect the current state of this crisis across the province. Implement Diversion Courts throughout the Province while expanding their scope with an emphasis on rehabilitation rather than punitive measures Together with the federal government, introduce legislation banning public use of illicit drugs and prohibiting public intoxication; and Review, consult on, and update the Trespass to Property Act including options to help communities handle aggressive or repeat trespass situations (“repetitive trespass”)
It is essential that before any new actions are taken, the province quickly formulates a plan to create numerous supportive housing units. These should specifically cater to individuals who have started treatment but require shelter, care, and additional support as they progress in their recovery journey. For this reason, OBCM’s motion also calls for both Ontario’s provincial government and federal government to establish a comprehensive plan for building thousands of necessary beds along with identifying funding sources and municipal funding programs needed.
OBCM mayors believe these requests should be prioritized to assist our most vulnerable residents while ensuring community safety.
During this meeting, new Executive Committee members were elected who will begin their terms in December of this year. For more details about this election please visit our website here.
The Mayors also listened to Ehren Cory, CEO of Canada Infrastructure Bank regarding their Infrastructure for Housing Initiative. Ontario’s Big City Mayors identified housing-enabling infrastructure as one of their main priorities. OBCM aims to collaborate with both provincial and federal governments in developing new consistent funding models that municipalities can utilize for creating complete communities as housing developments increase across Ontario.
For more information about OBCM’s Solve the Crisis campaign including specific requests directed at provincial and federal governments-and how you can help-please check out our website – www. solvethecrisis. ca
Quotes
“These are tough issues and tough conversations, with a legitimate range of perspectives among our members and in the community. Our mayor’s caucus worked hard to reach consensus on our resolutions and recommendations that will achieve the best outcome for all members of our community.”
– Marianne Meed Ward – Mayor of Burlington
Chair of OBCM
“Today’s meeting made it clear that our municipalities are struggling, and our Mayors are frustrated about lack of resources and programs needed to tackle this homelessness issue alongside addictions safety concerns head-on. Municipalities cannot manage this crisis alone; as winter approaches we need action from provincial and federal governments regarding this humanitarian emergency taking place on our streets. Major changes must happen immediately.”
– Josh Morgan – Mayor of London
Vice-Chair of OBCM (acting Chair at Friday’s meeting)
About Ontario’s Big City Mayors
Ontario’s Big City Mayors (OBCM) is an organization consisting of mayors from 29 single-tier cities each having populations over 100 thousand collectively representing nearly 70 percent Of Ontario’s population. OBCM advocates concerning important issues impacting Ontario’s largest cities.
Media Contacts
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward , Chair Michelle Baker , Executive Director
chair@obcm. ca michelle@obcm. ca
(905)-335-7777 (647)-308-6602
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