Ajax homelessness plans are a point of difference in the town’s mayoral race, with candidates proposing expanded housing and services while disagreeing over how much responsibility local government should assume.
Four of the five mayoral candidates responded to a DurhamRegion.com questionnaire published October 20. The newspaper asked what each would do as mayor to address homelessness and limited individual answers to 125 words. Vian Persad did not respond to that question.
The responses are campaign proposals, not approved spending commitments or new municipal services. They range from co-ordination with other governments to more direct local action on shelter space, treatment and employment.
Crawford emphasizes housing and partnerships
Marilyn Crawford said she would seek more supportive and affordable housing while working with Durham Region and community agencies. Her answer connected housing options with access to mental-health care, addiction services and employment support.
She also pointed to advocacy through Ontario Big City Mayors and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, saying a response requires several levels of government as well as service providers and the wider community.
Fenn calls for measurable local action
Carion Fenn proposed stronger partnerships involving the Region, police, service providers, faith groups, businesses and community organizations. She said these relationships should help expand supportive housing, outreach and mental-health and addiction resources.
Fenn also advocated provincial and federal funding and policies that support housing at different affordability levels. She cited assistance delivered through her charity and criticized current and previous councils’ response. That criticism is her campaign position, not an independent finding about council performance.
Hinds focuses on shelter, treatment and jobs
Richard Hinds proposed additional shelter space alongside mental-health and addiction support. He described job training as a route toward permanent housing and financial independence for people who accept that assistance.
Hinds argued that Ajax should take ownership of the problem rather than expect provincial or federal governments to provide all the solutions. He also said he would raise concerns with other mayors about people being brought to Ajax. The questionnaire did not establish that such transfers had occurred.
Khan seeks transitional housing and progress reports
Ashmeed Khan proposed working with the Region, Ontario and community organizations to expand transitional housing, treatment and rehabilitation. He also called for accessible washrooms and showers, stronger outreach and routes toward stable housing and work.
Khan said moving people between locations would not address underlying causes. He advocated measurable outcomes, regular reporting and attention to public spending, while treating people experiencing homelessness with dignity.
Ajax’s official election website confirms residents can vote online or by telephone until October 26 at 8 p.m. Voter information letters contain instructions, and assistance is available through the town’s election team and voter assistance centres.
Featured image: illustrative stock photo; not a photograph of the people, business, property, event or location reported.
