Yesterday’s federal budget “Masters of our Destiny” included major investments in homelessness, infrastructure and housing, something municipalities have been calling for to help our communities during these uncertain times.
Ontario’s Big City Mayors are pleased to see continued investments in the Build Communities Strong Fund to support critical community infrastructure including the construction of hospitals, recreation centres, universities and colleges, bridges, water systems and public transit. These investments will not only support our growing communities but also create jobs, supporting our local economies.
We are also encouraged to see the government’s 10 year homelessness strategy that will build community mental health and addictions facilities to provide programs and services to people who are suffering. Additional investments through the Integrated Supports Fund, Reaching Home and Build Canada Homes will also support the build of transitional and supportive housing, an important step along the housing continuum to help those without homes get into the housing they need. These programs will need the commitment and partnership of the provinces and local governments, to ensure we are working together to create a successful model to address the homelessness, mental health and addictions crisis together.
We look forward to working with the federal government on many of these initiatives and programs, as we come together to help all our residents and communities prosper during these difficult times.
“We see the impact of tariffs, rising costs and economic uncertainty in our local industries, businesses and residents every day. As our country faces significant economic challenges, all levels of government must work together, to invest in Canada and Canadians, to protect jobs and local economies and to help those in need.”
Marianne Meed Ward
Chair of OBCM
About Ontario’s Big City Mayors
Ontario’s Big City Mayors (OBCM) is an organization that includes mayors of 29 single and lower-tier cities with a population of 100,000 or more, who collectively represent 70% of Ontario’s population and almost 30% of Canada’s population. OBCM advocates for issues and policies important to 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