From the rising number of tents in city parks to skyrocketing housing prices, many Ontarians are feeling the strain of a system stretched too thin.
The increasing cost of living, lack of affordable housing, homelessness and public safety are top concerns for Ontarians. Rental prices have risen significantly over the past two years, while inflation and wage growth have impacted household budgets. Despite the crises stemming from decades of provincial under-investment and inaction, municipal governments manage the fall out.
A better way forward
AMO (Association of Municipalities of Ontario), which represents Ontario’s 444 municipal governments, is urging all provincial parties to support investments to tackle long-standing challenges and improve quality of life in communities across the province.
”The provincial-municipal funding relationship is broken,” said AMO President Robin Jones. “Stronger provincial partnership is key to making our communities more prosperous, safer and healthier. Without it, municipalities will continue struggling to meet rising demands with resources that are already stretched to the breaking point.”
Investment in infrastructure and social supports is urgent as local governments can’t continue to subsidize the province.
With an early provincial election possible, AMO has launched a campaign to help voters understand the stakes in the next provincial election – and to choose a better quality of life when the time comes.
The campaign focuses on three factors that can improve quality of life and community well-being: ending homelessness, investing in local infrastructure to meet demand and ensuring property tax dollars aren’t needed to subsidize underfunded provincial responsibilities.
Homelessness crisis continues to spiral across communities
Over 80,000 Ontarians were homeless last year, with nearly 1,400 encampments in parks and public spaces. No longer only an urban challenge, homelessness is growing three to four times faster in rural and Northern communities. This scale demands stronger provincial leadership and resources.
To alleviate this challenge, AMO contends that the province should invest in social housing, mental health and addiction supports, and income assistance to address the root causes of homelessness.
AMO’s recent homelessness study concludes that $11 billion from the Province over the next 10 years could end chronic homelessness, while an immediate $2 billion could largely eliminate encampments. This would improve the lives of individuals, make our communities safer and more prosperous.
Provincial programs draw funding away from municipal services
$5 billion in property taxes fund provincial responsibilities like social services, health care, and housing support.
Ontario homeowners are paying among the highest property taxes in Canada, yet municipal services continue to face funding gaps threatening their future. The property tax base cannot sustain such costs, increasing the burden on residents and businesses. It also limits local governments’ ability to invest in police, parks, transit, and infrastructure that build strong, livable communities.
Infrastructure, housing and the economy
Meanwhile, Ontario’s ambitious goal to build 1.5 million new homes by 2031 cannot be achieved without critical investments in municipal infrastructure.
Building homes demands water systems, sewers, roads, emergency services, and community spaces. But without development charges, municipalities can’t fund the projects that enable housing development.
Without provincial support, municipalities must raise property taxes further, increase user fees, or reduce essential services – driving up the cost of living. Municipalities have shown they’re ready to do their part, but without stronger provincial support, local efforts can’t keep pace with the growing need.
Take action for your community
With strong provincial-municipal partnership, Ontario can build opportunity and deliver the quality of life that residents deserve. A stronger partnership isn’t just about solving today’s crises—it’s about establishing a foundation for lasting prosperity and stability. Together, we can create safer neighborhoods, expand affordable housing, and strengthen services that support families and businesses across Ontario.
Help build a stronger Ontario. Urge provincial representatives and candidates to act and demand clear plans for housing, homelessness, and infrastructure challenges. And when election day arrives, vote like your quality of life depends on it.
Visit VoteONqualityoflife.ca to learn more and help shape your community.