Stephanie Goertz

City/Township Council · Wilmot

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

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
Partner with non-profit and supportive housing providers

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
Create a coordinated triage and navigation system that recognizes that people living in encampments have different needs and different pathways out of homelessness. Some people may be able to regain stability relatively quickly with employment assistance, mental-health or medical support, income assistance, identification, family reunification or help navigating existing services. We should identify those opportunities early and connect people with the right supports rather than treating everyone in an encampment as though they require the same solution

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)

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

I would support a coordinated program that looks at what each person needs not only to leave an encampment, but to become stable and remain housed. People become homeless for very different reasons. Some may need long-term supportive housing, mental-health or addiction services. Others may have previously been financially stable but experienced job loss, high bills, illness, family breakdown or other circumstances that caused them to lose their housing. Their pathway back may look very different. Social connection can be an important part of stability. We should be building partnerships with community organizations, service clubs, faith communities, nonprofits and others that can help people rebuild connections to their community. That could include opportunities for employment, volunteering, recreation, mentorship and simply developing relationships with other people.