Liberalize zoning; allow organic development

Housing is artificially scarce. This scarcity drives up its price. As Councillor I will liberalize zoning and broadly remove restrictions on property development. I will table legislation to amend the Official Plan and merge the Residential Semi-Detached, Residential Townhouse, and Residential Multiple zone categories into a single zone allowing multiplex development of up to 4 stories.

Additionally, I will lift height restrictions on the Avenues bordering major transit lines.

We need to allow more housing units to get built. There is pent-up demand that is not being satisfied.

We need to remove restrictions on mixed-use development. Any land use that does not create excessive noise, odours, and pollution should be permitted. You should be able to open a shop on the ground floor of your house. You should be able to access everything you need within your own neighbourhood.

We need to lift restrictions on property alteration. You should be able to, so long as it's structurally sound and meets the Fire Code, construct and rent or sell basement units, laneway units, accessory suites, coach houses, and other housing units on your own property.

Thousands of new residents move into this city every single month. They need places to live.

I will also seek more funding and relaxed access criteria for the Toronto Rent Bank so that people who fall behind can access the funds they need to stay housed.