NDP: Homes Ontario will get the province back on track

TORONTO AND OTTAWA - With housing construction stalled and layoffs mounting, the Ontario NDP is calling on the Ford government to stop dragging its feet while workers and families pay the price. The NDP is urging the adoption of Homes Ontario — a bold plan to build affordable homes, protect good jobs, and get the province back on track.

“Ford keeps pointing fingers at interest rates and the federal government instead of using the tools available to his own government,” said NDP Finance and Treasury Board Critic Jessica Bell (University–Rosedale). “The Premier and this government have no one to blame but themselves. The private sector alone cannot solve this crisis. We need a real plan that gets the government back to building homes that people can afford and create good jobs. Construction workers can’t depend on Ford’s gimmicks to keep food on the table. Ontarians need a government with a serious plan to build housing and protect good jobs.”

“This government’s inaction is not only deepening the housing crisis, it’s putting people out of work,” said NDP Housing Critic Catherine McKenney (Ottawa Centre). “Ford has the tools to lower costs, support builders, and invest in affordable housing – but instead he’s sitting on his hands while families and workers pay the price. Our Homes Ontario plan is about investing in people, creating stability in the housing market, and ensuring workers can rely on good jobs that build the homes Ontarians need. It means more affordable housing options, more non-profit and co-op homes, and good-paying jobs in communities across Ontario. Housing is about more than just numbers and games. It’s about the security of families, the livelihoods of workers, and the future of our communities. Ford’s approach is failing Ontario – we need Homes Ontario now.”

The Ontario NDP Homes Ontario Plan would:

• Easier, Cheaper Home Building: Change zoning rules to make it easier and more affordable to build semis, townhomes, fourplexes, and midrises near transit.
• Support for Municipalities: Upload housing, shelter, and homelessness costs back to the province, and work with municipalities to incentivize affordable housing.
• 60,000 Supportive Homes: Build 60,000 supportive housing units to move people from encampments and shelters into permanent homes with mental health and addiction supports.
• Fair Funding for Municipalities: Upload downloaded costs like provincial highways and provide stable funding for local roads, bridges, and infrastructure, with extra help for small and Northern municipalities.