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

Matt Rodrigues

Regional Council · Region of Waterloo

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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
  • Prioritize rapid acquisition or conversion of existing buildings
  • 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)
  • Expand the hours and capacity of extreme-weather shelter protections beyond current levels
  • Require that enforcement actions be linked to the availability of adequate indoor alternatives
C. Accountability and collaboration between levels of government
  • Establish clear regional leadership with coordinated municipal roles
  • 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 multiple approaches to addressing this issue. I will continue to advocate to expand eviction prevention and portable rent supplements to help people stay housed and reduce pressure on emergency shelters and homelessness services.

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

My campaign priorities also include three additional housing-related actions: Commit to Waterloo Region Housing Revitalization and secure funding partnerships to deliver hundreds of new affordable homes over the next four years Use Regionally-owned land and buildings, including sites like the former Charles Street Transit Terminal, to support permanently affordable housing and strong mixed-income communities Expand supportive housing options with access to health, addictions, and social services, while recognizing the need for shelter of last resort