TORONTO, March 21, 2024 – More Neighbours Toronto (MNTO), a leading housing advocacy group, is disappointed by Premier Ford’s recent comments catering to NIMBYs, reflecting his government's decision to scrap the recommendation from the 2022's Housing Affordability Task Force to legalize fourplexes and four storeys by-right.
"This is a slap in the face to every Ontarian struggling to afford a home. The Ontario government has been quick to criticize others as NIMBYs (Not-In-My-Backyard) but action has been glacial." remarked Eric Lombardi, President of More Neighbours Toronto.
The announcement was a disheartening moment for conservatives who champion property rights, uphold the sanctity of strong families, advocate for the success of blue-collar entrepreneurs, and stand for low taxes. It is particularly sombre for those weary of witnessing young Ontarians forced to seek opportunities elsewhere. Today, Doug Ford told the future of this province that the housing crisis is here to stay and that prosperity is best found somewhere else.
"The stark contrast between Ontario Progressive Conservatives leaning into anti-housing regulation, and the BC NDP enacting strong market reforms, is not lost on us at MNTO. BC's policies are inspired by Ontario's Housing Affordability Task Force, and it'd be wise for the Ford government to take a page from their own playbook" suggested Director Bilal Akhtar.
Densification is the key to building more attainable and affordable housing options and to ensure well-paying jobs for Ontarians.
The government's focus on appeasing a small group of entrenched property owners over evidence-based solutions is irresponsible. This decision condemns countless Ontarians, especially young people and families, to a future of unaffordable rents and a life on pause.
Enough is enough!
MNTO urges Premier Ford and his government to:
- Implement the recommendations of its own Housing Affordability Task Force, including by-right fourplexes provincewide
- Prioritize building a variety of housing types, including apartments, across Ontario.
- Implement real incentives for municipalities to embrace densification.
- Work with communities to develop plans that address concerns while creating a more affordable future for all.
The housing crisis isn't going away. Ontarians deserve leadership, not absence. MNTO calls on all residents who value a future where everyone has a safe and affordable place to call home to raise their voices.
Together, we can encourage the government to take real action on housing.
For more information, please contact:
Eric Lombardi, President
More Neighbours Toronto
About More Neighbours Toronto
More Neighbours Toronto is a volunteer-only organization of housing advocates committed to building more multi-family homes of all kinds in Toronto. The organization advocates for reforms to increase the city’s capacity for homebuilding and counterbalances the anti-housing agenda that has dominated local politics, exacerbating the housing affordability crisis.