Anna Meksavanh

Regional Council · Region of Waterloo

All topics Housing Getting Around Climate Food Growth & Planning Budget & Taxes Water

Housing & Homelessness

How should municipalities and the Region balance providing permanent housing with the management of encampments in public spaces?select up to 3 per part

A. Pathways to permanent housing

Partner with non-profit and supportive housing providers
Use publicly owned land for permanent or interim housing
Increase funding for deeply affordable and supportive housing

B. Interim management of encampments

Establish and maintain clear minimum standards (sanitation, safety, outreach)
Require that enforcement actions be linked to the availability of adequate indoor alternatives
Allow temporary encampments to persist while permanent housing options are actively being developed

C. Accountability and collaboration between levels of government

Establish clear regional leadership with coordinated municipal roles
Actively advocate to the province for defined funding triggers and program supports
Publish ongoing performance metrics (e.g. housing placements, shelter bed access)

Please describe one concrete policy, program, or decision you would support to address both encampments and permanent housing.candidate's own words

I support a policy that prioritizes outreach and addiction support in a housing-first strategy. I believe a holistic and equitable approach is necessary, as a single large-scale housing project cannot fix the complex social issues driving this crisis. To ensure this strategy succeeds, I would support decisions made in direct partnership with existing community supports to: 1) Address the root causes of homelessness through immediate, specialized outreach. 2) Provide permanent, safe housing that gives individuals immediate stability. 3) Wrap tailored supports around residents, including addiction and mental health services so they can truly thrive and regain independence.

Would you like to provide any additional context for your views on housing?candidate's own words

I firmly believe that safe housing is a human right, and our policies must reflect that reality. When people lack a stable place to live, it becomes nearly impossible to maintain a job, stay healthy, or keep children succeeding in school. By investing in accessible, affordable housing and protecting renters, we aren't just helping individuals, we are building a stronger, safer, and more economically resilient community for everyone.