Ontario municipal elections must prioritize reliable infrastructure investment
The piece argues that the upcoming Ontario municipal elections should focus on consistent funding and development of local infrastructure, especially in the Greater Toronto Area.
Municipal infrastructure underpins community wellbeing, providing essential services such as clean water, power, and transit that support both current residents and future growth. In the Greater Toronto Area, the author observes that sporadic investment cycles lead to higher expenses, delayed housing projects, and reduced regional competitiveness. This stop-start approach forces developers to pass infrastructure costs onto buyers, driving up housing prices.
He urges voters in Ontario’s October municipal elections to demand a steady, forward-looking infrastructure strategy that balances renewal of existing assets with new construction. The proposal also calls for a clearer funding formula that involves ratepayers rather than relying solely on higher levels of government or new developers. Dave Wilkes, president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association, emphasizes that reliable infrastructure benefits all homes, old and new.
Why it matters
Infrastructure decisions will shape housing costs and service reliability for Ontario residents.
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