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

Vikki Poirier

City/Township Council · Kitchener Ward 4

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All topics Housing Getting Around Climate Food Growth & Planning Budget & Taxes
This candidate finalized their responses after this guide and scoring methodology was published.

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
  • Use publicly owned land for permanent or interim 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 would support looking at City-owned land that could be used for supportive and truly affordable housing. The City can also speed up approvals for affordable housing, work with the Region and community partners, and set clear rules for temporary camping when people have nowhere else to go. The goal should be to help people move into safe, stable housing, not just move encampments from one place to another. At the same time, the City needs to keep parks, trails and public spaces safe and accessible for everyone. This means taking action where the City has control, while pushing the Region and Province to provide the housing, shelter and supports people need.