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

Syed Tirmizi

City/Township Council · Waterloo Ward 4

Back to candidates
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
  • Partner with non-profit and supportive housing providers
  • Focus primarily on market housing to reduce overall pressure
  • The long-term solution is not simply more shelters or enforcement. Along with housing and support, we should provide skills training and learning opportunities that help people become more independent, find employment, and reduce their long-term dependence on 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
  • Prioritize clearing encampments to maintain public access to shared spaces
C. Accountability and collaboration between levels of government
  • Establish clear regional leadership with coordinated municipal roles
  • Assign clear municipal responsibility for public-space management
  • Actively advocate to the province for defined funding triggers and program supports

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

I would support clear standards for encampments, combined with coordinated outreach and pathways to appropriate housing. Public spaces must remain safe and accessible, while people experiencing homelessness should have access to practical alternatives and support.

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

The long-term solution is not simply more shelters or enforcement. Along with housing and support, we should provide skills training and learning opportunities that help people become more independent, find employment, and reduce their long-term dependence on supportive housing.