The Ontario government recently released the Housing Affordability Task Force report that makes 55 recommendations aimed at reining in home prices by dramatically boosting the supply of housing.
The report was released publicly on February 8, 2022, less than two months after Ford and Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark appointed the task force.
Read a copy of the report HERE.
Short Digest of Responses
Here is a short digest of commentators who have read the report and have provided informed opinions on the report contents. Many of the early news articles on the Task Force report appear to be repeating the talking points from the goverment’s news release.
The Conversation – February 10, 2022
“The province of Ontario’s task force has released 55 recommendations to address the growing housing crisis. But if an affordable housing report explicitly states that building affordable housing is outside its mandate and never once mentions the term “rent control,” is it really an affordable housing report?”
To read the full text of the article, click HERE.
Ottawa Citizen – February 24, 2022
“This is a housing affordability task force report that pays scant attention to affordability. It shouldn’t dictate policy. “Affordable housing (units provided at below market rates with government support) was not part of our mandate,” the report says.”
To read the full text of the news article, click HERE.
City of Mississauga – March 3, 2022
“City of Mississauga staff prepared a detailed response to the Report of the Ontario Housing Affordability Task Force that provides an analysis of the recommendations and considers the potential implications for Mississauga. Received by Council, the City’s response outlines serious concerns with Task Force recommendations that could adversely impact the quality of life in Mississauga without leading to improved housing affordability.”
To read a copy of the City’s press release, click HERE.
We need an Informed Debate
A quick review of online commentaries shows a clear divide between the building industry voices (as with, Build More, Quicker) and other voices that a pushing for building complete communities that offer affordability at all income levels.
We urge all of members and residents to read and digest both points of view to arrived at informed decisions. With the upcoming provincial and municipal elections in 2022, your input will help shape the direction of our communities.