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DEPUTATION BY JENNIFER VAN GENNIP ON BEHALF OF SCATEH BARRIE CHAPTER REGARDING MOTION 21-P-010 CONCERNING THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING MONITORING REPORT 2018, 2019 AND 2020
Jennifer van Gennip on behalf of Simcoe County Alliance to End Homelessness (SCATEH) Barrie Chapter provided a Deputation in support of motion 21-P-010 concerning the Affordable Housing Monitoring Report 2018, 2019, 2020.
Ms. van Gennip advised that SCATEH is a local movement to prevent and end homelessness in Simcoe County and that they are primarily interested in the housing options for those with very low incomes with the ultimate goal of addressing the homelessness crisis in the City.
Ms. van Gennip noted SCATEH is in support of the report and recommendations made and commented on the City's affordable housing target of 840 units being surpassed and Council and City is of the understanding that regardless of hitting the target made six years ago, the average renter is looking for an affordable option and that barriers are worse off today than they were then.
Ms. van Gennip provided comments associated to the Affordable Housing Monitoring Report. She noted her concerns for renters with the default to average market rent which continues to increase, leaving many of the most marginalized neighbors un-housed. Ms. van Gennip acknowledged that SCATEH funding would need to come from all levels of government and is looking forward to the recommendations from the new Affordable Housing Task Force.
Ms. van Gennip provided information associated to policies seen in other jurisdictions and potential threats to affordable housing stock. She discussed the landlord and tenant boards current eviction blitz, which is devastating for those who are evicted, as well as the potential to decimate affordable housing stock through rent hikes during tenant turnovers. Ms. van Gennip advised of SCATEH's submission to the City associated to the new Official Plan.
In conclusion, Ms. van Gennip encouraged th...
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