Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow Meets with Federal Housing Minister Amid Controversy Over Sixplexes and Housing Funding

Strategic Insights -

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow met with federal Housing Minister Gregor Robertson on Thursday, but the discussion did not result in an end to the controversy over the city's refusal to allow sixplexes across the city. The issue is tied to Ottawa's demand for Toronto to meet a requirement for millions in housing funding. Mr. Robertson has previously called the city's decision to only allow sixplexes in certain wards "disappointing," and there are concerns that the federal government may reduce Toronto's $118-million share of the Housing Accelerator Fund as a result.

Ms. Chow highlighted the city's plans for high-density development and showed Mr. Robertson a list of approved housing projects totaling 30,000 units, which she said would proceed immediately with federal cash to waive development charges. The mayor emphasized that approving more sixplexes would only result in a few hundred extra homes, while her discussion with Mr. Robertson focused on much bigger housing projects.

Key Takeaways:

  • The meeting between Ms. Chow and Mr. Robertson did not resolve the controversy over the city's refusal to allow sixplexes across Toronto.
  • Mr. Robertson has previously called the city's decision "disappointing" and may reduce Toronto's $118-million share of the Housing Accelerator Fund.
  • Ms. Chow highlighted the city's plans for high-density development and showed Mr. Robertson a list of 30,000 approved housing units.
  • The city is on track to overperform on its overall commitment under its housing agreement with Ottawa to build about 60,000 new homes over three years.
  • Approving more sixplexes would only result in a few hundred extra homes, while the city's discussion with Mr. Robertson focused on 30,000 units.
  • The city passed a compromise motion in June allowing sixplexes in nine of Toronto's 25 wards.

Statistics:

  • The city's three-year housing agreement with Ottawa commits to building about 60,000 new homes.
  • The Housing Accelerator Fund provides Toronto with $118-million.
  • The city's plans for high-density development could add 30,000 new housing units.
  • 3,500 refugee claimants make up about 40 per cent of those in the city's emergency shelter system.
  • The city has already spent most of the $107-million in federal funding earmarked for sheltering refugees.

Sources:

  • "Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and Federal Housing Minister Gregor Robertson Met on Thursday." The Globe and Mail.
  • "Housing Minister's office cancels press conference." Toronto.com.
  • "Mayor Olivia Chow meets with Federal Housing Minister amid sixplex debate." CBC News.