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Individual Documenters posts that are only to be accessible from their main post from their respective year

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CreateTO Raise Employee Wages and Discuss Housing Progress

by Amelia Singh
written by Amelia Singh

On March 6, 2026, CreateTO held a public meeting to discuss cost of living adjustments, ongoing development and the province’s science centre and convention centre announcements.

Photo of March 6 Create TO meeting – Christian Malong/Documenters Toronto

On March 6, 2026, CreateTO held a public meeting to discuss cost of living adjustments, ongoing development and the province’s science centre and convention centre announcements.

The meeting included a proposal to adjust compensation for its employees to align with an increased cost of living and an update to CreateTO’s ongoing development projects. CreateTO held the meeting online and in-person at City Hall. 

Chair Bruce Davis opened the meeting by thanking the City’s employees. “We can’t build housing, we can’t build a ferry terminal, we can’t build bridges without you,” he said.

CreateTO’s CEO Vic Gupta mentioned the province’s announcement of a new convention centre and a new site for the Ontario Science Centre. He said they were monitoring the situation. 

He added that the announcement of the new science centre would lead to conversations about what happens to the old one and about CreateTO developments in the area. Councillor Paula Fletcher said it seemed unclear what the implications of a new convention centre would be for the Canadian National Exhibition.

CEO Gupta proposed an adjustment to their staff’s pay due to a higher cost of living. In his report, he recommended a one per cent increase in order to pay a competitive rate and to help retain employees amid moderate inflation in the Canadian economy.

The CEO also proposed that they receive an update on how their housing projects are developing.

Out of their ongoing construction projects, they expect people to begin living in one of them in 2027 and for people to begin living in the remaining five of them in 2029. One more site at 1113-1117 Dundas St. W. is set to enter the construction phase in July this year. 

They have also added “Dunn House Phase 2” as a new project. This is going to be a partnership between all three levels of government and the University Health Network to provide 54 units of geared-to-income housing with health and social services accessible to tenants on site.

When discussing these updates, they also talked about how the opening of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT will affect their plans. Members discussed whether sites along the Crosstown corridor should be a higher priority.

Chair Bruce Davis also expressed frustration with a project underway at 705 Warden Ave. It’s meant to provide 600 new rentals but the project has stalled over the past few years. He wondered out loud about how to get the federal government to put money into it.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • CreateTO has one housing project set to house people in 2027, and five projects set to house people in 2029.
  • CreateTO has voted to give a one per cent raise to their staff members to match the rising cost of living.
  • CreateTO discussed reprioritizing development opportunities along the Eglinton Crosstown LRT.

On-the-ground observations from our documenter, Christian Malong

I think it’s good that they decided to give a raise to their employees. We’ve all felt the rising cost of living firsthand and it’s good that the city is trying to keep up. I’m not entirely sure whether or not a one per cent increase is enough though.

I also think it’s good that these housing projects are underway but I’m a little concerned about how far away some of them are from completion. 2029 is three years away and there’s a need for homes in the meantime.

Of course, I can’t expect an entire apartment building to pop up in a week or two but I am left wondering whether these developments are enough to keep up with demand.

The part of this meeting that I found really interesting was how surprised they were by Doug Ford’s announcements about a new convention centre and the new science centre. I kind of expected our city councillors and bureaucrats to have been aware of it beforehand, but it seems like they found out around the same time we did. I’m wondering about how it’ll affect CreateTO’s plans and the City’s plans, and I guess they’re wondering about that too.

CHECK YOUR FACTS

Documenter

Christian Malong headshot

Meeting documented by Christian Malong

Visit the original post on the Documenters Toronto page.

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A white metal signed reading "Community Room" with an arrow pointing right. Underneath it, a fabric flag reading "ACORN Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now"
Documenters

East Hamilton ACORN Members Prioritize Tenant Safety, Bill 60 and Food Access

by Amelia Singh
written by Amelia Singh

Members of ACORN Canada in East Hamilton met to discuss local priorities, selecting unsafe conditions at 355 Melvin Ave. for immediate action.

A white metal signed reading "Community Room" with an arrow pointing right. Underneath it, a fabric flag reading "ACORN Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now"
Our Documenter Jack Cochrane took a photo of the ACORN logo on Feb. 26, 2026.

On Feb. 26, the East End Hamilton chapter of ACORN met at Pat Quinn Parkdale Arena for its second organizing committee meeting.

The meeting was one in a series intended to help establish a stronger presence in the neighbourhood, identify local priorities and build toward a formal leadership structure. 

The discussion opened with introductions and a review of the chapter’s organizing structure. Kayla Leet, the chapter chair, and Jerry, an organizer with ACORN Ontario, reminded members that the first meeting had produced a broad list of neighbourhood and tenant concerns. This second meeting, they said, was meant to narrow those concerns into a smaller and more actionable set of priorities. 

Kayla and Jerry also outlined the organizing timeline ahead. That plan includes a short-term action to build momentum and visibility, a larger meeting in late March and a chapter election in April that will formalize leadership roles before a larger spring action. 

As members revisited the issues raised at the previous meeting, discussion increasingly focused on 355 Melvin Ave., where tenants have been organizing around poor living conditions. Members described persistent maintenance problems, unreliable or absent on-site staff, heating and elevator issues and one tenant injury reported to be connected to building conditions. 

Jerry then spoke about the options available to tenants, including coordinated bylaw complaints and joint applications to the Landlord and Tenant Board. By the end of that discussion, members agreed that 355 Melvin Ave. would become the focus of the chapter’s immediate small-action because it presented both urgent need and a clear target for organizing. Further details, including timing, are expected to be discussed at the next meeting. 

After settling on that short-term priority, the meeting shifted to broader issues that could shape the chapter’s larger campaigns. Much of that conversation focused on Bill 60, particularly Section 12, which Jerry and Kayla described as a threat to tenant protections. 

Jerry connected the bill to a broader provincial pattern of reforms that favours landlords and contributes to worsening housing instability, according to ACORN. 

The final major topic was food insecurity in East Hamilton. Members described parts of the neighbourhood as functioning like a food desert, pointing to limited grocery access, rising food prices and transportation barriers for residents who do not have access to a vehicle.

 Ideas discussed included mobile produce markets, expanded community gardens and working with grocery corporations to make food more affordable. While no single food-related action was finalized, members agreed that food access should remain a major organizing priority alongside rent caps and opposition to Bill 60. 

By the end of the meeting, attendees had identified three main campaign areas moving forward: rent caps, Bill 60 and food access. They also confirmed 355 Melvin Ave. as the focus of the chapter’s next immediate action and discussed holding another meeting in March and an April 23 neighbourhood election meeting at Solidarity Place.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• East Hamilton ACORN members selected 355 Melvin Ave. as the focus of their next immediate action because of reported unsafe and neglected building conditions.
• Members identified Bill 60, rent caps and food insecurity as the chapter’s main longer-term campaign priorities.
• The meeting was part of the East End chapter’s relaunch and helped set an organizing timeline that includes a larger March meeting and an April neighbourhood election meeting.

On-the-ground observations from our documenter, Jack Cochrane

From my perspective, this meeting was very focused and intentional. People were talking about what to do next and who to put pressure on. The discussion about 355 Melvin Ave. showed how serious these issues are. Reported lack of building maintenance and care can create a very real risk for tenants, particularly in icy conditions.

The meeting provided a lot of evidence that Bill 60 is a serious threat to tenant protections because it shifts power toward landlords and makes it harder for residents to stay safe and stable in their homes. I think rent caps are equally important since affordability directly affects whether families can meet basic needs. 

CHECK YOUR FACTS




Documenter

jack cochrane

Meeting notes documented by Jack Cochrane

Visit the original post on the Documenters Toronto page.

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A man dressed in a suit and tie, sitting in front of a microphone, speaking.
Documenters

The City of Toronto discusses traffic management for FIFA World Cup

by Amelia Singh
written by Amelia Singh

On March 10, 2026, the Executive Committee held a meeting to discuss traffic management for the upcoming soccer tournament.

A man dressed in a suit and tie, sitting in front of a microphone, speaking.
Screenshot of Josh Matlow speaking at the Executive Committee meeting by Emma Amodio on March 10, 2026

On Mar. 10, 2026 Toronto’s Executive Committee met at City Hall to discuss transportation planning related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As Toronto prepares to host matches, city staff and councillors are figuring out how transportation, traffic management and parking restrictions will operate during the tournament.

The conversation focused on how the City will move large numbers of visitors efficiently and safely around the downtown core, particularly near Exhibition Place where matches will take place. Committee members also raised concerns about communication with residents and businesses about traffic restrictions and planning timelines.

A taxi industry representative, Khamseh, also spoke to the committee about the potential role taxis could play in transporting visitors during the tournament. Khamseh said taxis could assist with moving visitors efficiently during the World Cup, emphasizing that taxis can operate through organized taxi stands, allowing passengers to approach vehicles directly rather than relying on app-based services.

“So taxi stands create order while random pickups create congestion,” said Khamseh.

Khamseh also highlighted safety features, such as cameras, within licensed taxis.

“These cameras provide an additional level of security for both passengers, drivers and can assist authorities if any incidents occur.”

Councillor Josh Matlow also questioned Mike Barnett, Director of Transportation Permits and Enforcement, and Paul Johnson, City Manager about street parking restrictions during the tournament.

“We will be limiting street parking and we will be looking at coming forward with a plan to the FIFA subcommittee on Mar. 30, that will provide details on exact restrictions for street parking,” said Barnett.

Staff indicated that restrictions will primarily focus on areas surrounding Exhibition Place and nearby neighbourhoods.

“It will be limited in specific areas around Liberty Village, Fort York. Again, in working with TTC to ensure we can provide the best movements and operations for transit,” said Mike Barnett.

Coun. Matlow also asked why a detailed traffic plan has not yet been released publicly, given that the tournament begins in June.

Mike Barnett responded that the timeline is tied to FIFA’s global planning process and coordination across host cities.

“Short answer is this is the time frame that all cities are working with FIFA on, so FIFA is looking at the plans, traffic plans across all the cities, and this is the time frame that that’s occurring in.”

Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik introduced a motion referring the item back to staff so it can be included in a more detailed transportation report expected later in March. 

Malik emphasized the importance of preparing neighbourhoods expected to experience the largest impacts, like Fort York and Liberty Village.

Deputy Mayor Mike Colle also spoke about the amount of planning already underway across multiple city departments.

“We’ve had city staff working on issues related to FIFA for the last year and a half,” said Councillor Colle.

Colle pointed to the scale of coordination required to host a global event like the FIFA World Cup. He said they have “everybody involved,” and that, similar to when Taylor Swift came to Toronto and everything worked out, so will this.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Toronto is developing transportation and traffic management plans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup which will be shared when the city receives the game schedule.
  • Street parking will be limited in certain areas of the downtown core, including Liberty Village and Fort York.
  • City staff plan to present a more detailed transportation and traffic plan to the FIFA World Cup Subcommittee on Mar. 30.
  • Taxi industry representatives encouraged the city to prioritize organized taxi stands as a transportation option during the tournament.
  • Councillors raised concerns about the timeline for communicating traffic plans to residents and businesses.
  • Deputy Mayor Malik introduced a motion referring the item back to staff so it can be included in the upcoming Mar. 30 report to the FIFA World Cup Subcommittee on transportation planning. The committee approved the motion.

On-the-ground observations from our documenter, Emma Amodio

During the meeting, much of the discussion centered on the complexity of planning transportation and traffic management for a major event like the FIFA World Cup.

What stood out to me was the tension between the urgency expressed by councillors who want clear plans communicated to the public and the explanation from staff that planning timelines depend on FIFA scheduling.

It was also notable that local industry representatives, such as those from the taxi sector, are already advocating for specific transportation strategies as the city continues to develop its plans. As someone who will be in Toronto during the games, it matters to me that they are addressing how the TTC will increase to meet the demands of locals and tourists alike.

UNANSWERED QUESTIONS

  • What specific streets will have parking restrictions or road closures during the tournament?
  • How will the City communicate traffic and transportation changes to residents and businesses before the World Cup begins?
  • What role will taxis, rideshare services and public transit each play in transporting visitors during the tournament?

CHECK YOUR FACTS

Documenter

Emma Amodio headshot

Meeting documented by Emma Amodio

View the original post on the Documenters Toronto page.

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People seated in chairs inside a church, with a large pipe organ visible in the background
Documenters

Kensington Market BIA discusses local business plans for 2026 FIFA World Cup

by Amelia Singh
written by Amelia Singh

On March 5, 2026, the KMBIA discussed plans impacting local businesses in preparation for the FIFA World Cup.

People seated in chairs inside a church, with a large pipe organ visible in the background
Photo taken of the inside of St. Stephen-in-the-Fields Church by Emma Amodio on March 5, 2026

On March 5, 2026, the Kensington Market Business Improvement Area (BIA) held a community meeting at St. Stephen-in-the-Fields Church to discuss issues affecting businesses in the neighbourhood and potential programming connected to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As Toronto prepares to host matches in the City, the BIA is exploring ways Kensington Market can participate in neighbourhood celebrations and attract visitors.

Members of the Kensington Market BIA, including Michael Shepherd, David Beaver and Vezi Tayyeb, discussed potential programming tied to the tournament. One proposal involved creating culturally-themed areas within the neighbourhood to represent different countries participating in the World Cup.

Shepherd suggested highlighting cultures that already have strong ties to Kensington Market, such as Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Colombia.

“The market is very South American, […] so we’re trying to accent that a little more,” said Shepherd.

The goal would be to bring music, cultural programming and street activities to the market during the tournament period.

The group also discussed logistical considerations related to hosting events during the FIFA World Cup. Certain streets in the neighbourhood contain a mix of residential buildings and businesses, which makes full street closures more complicated. Because of this, Shepherd suggested focusing programming in areas where commercial activity is more concentrated and where street closures would be less disruptive to residents.

“The top of Augusta is a little bit wider,” said Shepherd. He emphasized that Nassau Street runs through Kensington Market and must remain clear, making the Augusta side more suitable for street activations.

Business owners also discussed the importance of attracting visitors to Kensington Market during major events like the FIFA World Cup. Many see the tournament as an opportunity to increase foot traffic and support local businesses.

However, the BIA noted that businesses in the area will not be permitted to directly market themselves using official FIFA branding. “You can say something about soccer or something like that, as long as you don’t use the people, logos, FIFA things and that sort of thing,” said Shepherd.

They also emphasized that outside vendors cannot operate in the market during large events. This is due to the fact that temporary vendors can compete with local businesses that already pay rent, taxes and BIA levies in the neighbourhood. They discussed ensuring vacant storefronts will have FIFA-related activations to prevent revenue from going to pop-up vendors instead of existing businesses.

“We don’t need people coming and competing with us,” said Shepherd, adding that by-law officers will be present during events.

Since Kensington Market includes both commercial spaces and residential housing, organizers noted that event planning must also consider noise, street access and crowd management.

At the end of the meeting, Shepherd encouraged community members and business owners to suggest bands who may be able to play the street festival. Additionally, they discussed future meeting plans to secure bands and vendors.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • The Kensington Market BIA is exploring programming tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
  • Organizers discussed creating themed areas representing countries participating in the tournament.
  • South American countries such as Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Colombia were mentioned as potential focal points for programming.
  • Street closures and event logistics remain a challenge due to the neighbourhood’s mix of residential and commercial spaces.
  • Local businesses hope the World Cup will bring increased visitors and economic activity to Kensington Market.

On-the-ground observations from our documenter, Emma Amodio

What stood out to me during this meeting was how local organizers are already thinking about the way global events like the FIFA World Cup will affect neighbourhood-level planning, particularly how Kensington Market can showcase its cultural diversity while attracting visitors during the tournament. 

It was also interesting to hear how organizers are considering the communities already present in the market when discussing potential programming tied to different countries participating in the World Cup.

At the same time, the discussion showed that large international events come with practical challenges for local neighbourhoods, including costs, logistics and how events affect residents and small businesses.

CHECK YOUR FACTS

Documenter

Emma Amodio headshot

Meeting documented by Emma Amodio

View the original post on the Documenters Toronto page.

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Documenters: Jack Cochrane

by Amelia Singh
written by Amelia Singh

Jack Cochrane is a 22-year-old originally from Hamilton and currently a student journalist at Toronto Metropolitan University. Their work spans a few different areas, from politics and tenant advocacy to the intersection of public policy and legal systems. Jack is also really interested in gaming culture, especially the preservation of retro formats and the evolving narratives of long-running franchises. Across everything they cover, they’re drawn to stories about power, community and how the various systems surrounding us shape everyday life.

Jack is focusing on the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN), a multi-issue, membership-based community union of low- and moderate-income people.

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Toronto's City Hall
Documenters

ACORN Members Discuss Rent Increases, Tenant Organizing and Bank Fee Reforms

by Amelia Singh
written by Amelia Singh

Members of ACORN Canada gathered for their monthly downtown Toronto chapter meeting to discuss rising rent increases, tenant organizing strategies and recent advocacy wins affecting low- and moderate-income residents.

Toronto's City Hall
City Hall – Unsplash Denis Umpleby

On March 5, the Downtown Toronto chapter of ACORN Canada held its monthly meeting at the Wellesley Community Centre. The meeting brought together members and community residents to discuss housing affordability, tenant rights and upcoming organizing efforts.

ACORN is a national advocacy organization that works with low- and moderate-income residents. Founded in 2004, the organization now operates more than 30 local chapters across five provinces.

The discussion opened with Stacey Semple, chair of the Downtown Toronto ACORN chapter, who highlighted the growing number of Above Guideline Increases (AGIs) affecting tenants across the city. AGIs allow landlords to raise rents above the provincial guideline if they claim major repairs or capital expenditures.

Semple said that although AGIs are legal, they often place additional financial pressure on tenants already facing rising housing costs.

Jonah, a chapter member, noted that there is little public information on how frequently landlords apply for AGIs. He suggested that tracking these applications could reveal patterns of repeated rent increases in specific buildings.

Jonah also said that while a single AGI may appear small, multiple increases over time can significantly raise rent costs. According to ACORN Canada reports, the number of AGIs has increased by 107 per cent over the past several decades.

The conversation then turned to possible tenant responses, including rent strikes. ACORN organizer Ty Riches said rent strikes can be effective because they directly impact landlords financially, but they can be difficult to coordinate.

Riches noted that some tenants who receive social assistance have their rent payments sent directly to landlords. This arrangement can make it harder for those tenants to participate in coordinated rent strikes.

Later in the meeting, Chxristopher, a tenant at 748 Bathurst St., shared their experiences since moving into the building.

They described the property as operating more like a rooming house than a typical apartment building, with individual rooms rented out instead of full units. According to Chxristopher, this creates frequent turnover and makes it difficult for tenants to know their neighbours.

Chxristopher also raised concerns about unfinished areas in the building and questioned whether the property was fully ready for occupancy. They said the landlord does not use the standard Ontario lease agreement and appears to target newcomers when renting rooms.

They have contacted a legal clinic to better understand their rights and determine whether the landlord’s practices comply with tenant regulations.

Semple encouraged Chxristopher to continue documenting conditions in the building and to connect with other tenants experiencing similar issues. Members also discussed plans to organize tenants at 748 Bathurst.

The meeting concluded with several organizational updates.

Semple told members that ACORN representatives recently met with city staff to discuss reforms to the RentSafeTO program, which regulates apartment building maintenance standards in Toronto. She said staff appeared reluctant to adopt some of the stronger reforms proposed by ACORN.

A follow-up meeting between ACORN members and city officials is scheduled for March 18 at 6:30 p.m. at Toronto City Hall in the Members’ Lounge.

Another update came from Amie, a local ACORN member, who highlighted a recent advocacy win related to bank fees. Beginning March 12, financial institutions will no longer be able to charge uncapped non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees on overdrawn chequing accounts.

Instead, fees will be capped at $10 and accounts that are short by less than $10 will not incur a fee.

ACORN will also host a tenant rights workshop on March 12 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. The session will provide guidance on rent increases, building compliance and other tenant protections.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • On March 5, the Downtown Toronto chapter of ACORN held its monthly meeting at Wellesley Community Centre to discuss tenant issues and advocacy campaigns.
  • Members raised concerns about the increasing number of Above Guideline Increases (AGIs) and the financial pressure they place on tenants.
  • A tenant from 748 Bathurst St. shared concerns about building conditions and leasing practices, prompting discussion about organizing tenants in the building.
  • ACORN members also discussed updates to the RentSafeTO program and a new federal cap on non-sufficient funds (NSF) banking fees.

On-the-ground observations from our documenter, Jack Cochrane

Community members in attendance were largely supportive of the strategies developed at the meeting, pHearing about 748 Bathurst was genuinely shocking. While I have thoughts on a lot of the issues raised in this meeting, Chxristopher’s descriptions of what is happening in their building absolutely took up most of my attention. It made me reflect on how vulnerable people (eg., the elderly, disabled, immigrants) can be in these kinds of buildings and how easily issues can go unnoticed. 

At the same time, I felt encouraged by the fact that tenants like Chxristopher are already documenting what’s happening and starting to connect with neighbours and organizations like ACORN. It gives me hope that through the organizational efforts to come, they can gain some control over an incredibly difficult situation.

CHECK YOUR FACTS




Documenter

jack cochrane

Meeting notes documented by Jack Cochrane

Visit the original post on the Documenters Toronto page.

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A person with grey hair sits at a desk in a conference room, viewing a presentation on a large monitor.
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Toronto Community Housing discuss housing equity and review air conditioning

by Amelia Singh
written by Amelia Singh

Toronto Community Housing’s Tenant Services Committee held a public meeting to discuss housing equity, their violence reduction program and air conditioning.

TCHC Tenant meeting Feb. 12
Photo of Feb. 12, 2026 TCHC meeting – Christian Malong/Documenters Toronto

On Feb. 12, 2026, Toronto Community Housing’s Tenant Services Committee held a public meeting to discuss housing equity, their violence reduction program and air conditioning.

Toronto Community Housing (TCHC)’s Tenant Services Committee (TSC) held the meeting online and in-person at City Hall. The agenda included approval of the Office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity’s 2025 Work Plan Performance Appraisal, a closing report on its violence reduction program, and an information session on the status of air conditioning across the TCHC portfolio.

Speaking on the issue of housing equity, Walied Khogali Ali with the Regent Park Neighbourhood Association (RPNA) wanted to address an eviction crisis within social housing. Ali said that, according to TCHC data, evictions from social housing increased by over 100% in two years. This coincides with the persistence of “hidden evictions,” which don’t appear in official data, and include informal displacement.

They are calling for a city-wide moratorium on evictions from social housing, and are calling on tenants to share their experiences with them. He also called for TCHC data to include race, noting that without this context, it would be impossible to assess potential systemic anti-Black impacts of evictions. Forty-two per cent of TCHC tenants identify as Black.

Committee member Dan McIntyre replied saying that while housing people is one of their highest priorities, sometimes all other options are exhausted and evictions happen.

One deputant was concerned about cooling during the summer. TCHC prohibited window AC units and previously ran an exchange program for tenants to replace them for a portable floor AC. The deputant said that this didn’t meet the needs of the tenants. The floor ACs were extremely noisy, had cheap hoses that broke and needed to be patched with duct tape, didn’t cool enough for a one-bedroom unit, and broke down after just two years.

The deputant said that there would be an extraordinary cost and complexity to retrofit all of TCHC’s housing stock and that all levels of government would need to step up. They noted that in the meantime, the city’s most vulnerable residents are relying on TCHC for habitable housing amid the health risks of extreme heat, and added that experts warned that this summer may be even hotter than last year’s. 

They suggested an audit of the 259 TCHC buildings that do not have in-suite air conditioning. They emphasized the need for urgency in order to purchase and install air conditioning by May 1. TCHC opens cooling rooms in communal areas during heat warnings, but the deputant suggested that the rooms be open in alignment with the city’s cooling centres.

This would have them open from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.  seven days a week, rather than having to depend on weather reports or the discretion of site staff. A representative of the Regent Park Safety Network spoke about TCHC’s violence reduction program, noting that five buildings lack CCTV cameras on the upper floors. He also discussed other concerns in the community. Some residents complained of irritating noises keeping them up at night. The representative suggested that units be soundproofed. He also complained about narcotics being sold in some units.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • According to the TCHC’s COO Nadia Gouveia, the TSC found that its Violence Reduction Program had meaningful results, including “strengthening community partnerships, supporting youth and tenant-led initiatives, improving cross-system coordination and contributing to long-term violence reduction across many of the participating sites.”
  • The TSC found that the program’s site-specific, resource-intensive model had limitations, including “staffing constraints, shifting community needs, and the need for broader consistency across the portfolio.”
  • The TSC heard from Walied Khogali Ali  with the Regent Park Neighbourhood Association (RPNA) that the group is concerned about a rise in evictions from public housing. TCHC data shows an increase of over 100% in two years. The RPNA called for a moratorium on evictions from social housing.
  • The TSC received a report from the community about their air conditioning window exchange program, which had tenants trade window air conditioners for floor air conditioners. Tenants say these floor air conditioners provided less cooling, were significantly louder, and most broke down within two years.

On-the-ground observations from our documenter, Christian Malong

I think that, amid Toronto’s growing unhoused population, the RPNA’s concern with evictions is warranted. The CBC reported that the unhoused population more than doubled over three years. I think that the call to include race-based data was a good point, and that seeing demographic information is necessary. Other than that, I have the good fortune of having air conditioning and I can’t imagine being stuck in a hot room over the summer with a broken AC. Cities are exceptionally hot due to dark surfaces like asphalt absorbing heat and releasing it back into the air. Twenty-two percent of TCHC tenants are 65 or older and the elderly are at greater risk in extreme heat. I agree with the deputant the TCHC needs to start addressing the air conditioning right away, in order to be prepared for the summer. I also agree with the suggestion to have set times that align with the city’s cooling centres. The added clarity will not only help tenants access cooling, but help them to advocate for themselves if it isn’t provided.

CHECK YOUR FACTS


Documenter

Christian Malong headshot

Meeting documented by Christian Malong

Visit the original post on the Documenters Toronto page.

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A woman speaks with a laptop in front of her during a FIFA World Cup 2026 Subcommittee session.
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FIFA World Cup 2026 Subcommittee Reviews Procurement Plan

by Amelia Singh
written by Amelia Singh

On Feb. 9, 2026, the FIFA World Cup 2026 Subcommittee met at City Hall to discuss updates to the City of Toronto’s procurement plan ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

FIFA PROCUREMENT PLAN
Screenshot taken of FIFA World Cup 2026 Subcommittee meeting on Feb. 9, 2026

On Feb. 9, 2026, the FIFA World Cup 2026 Subcommittee met at City Hall to discuss updates to the City of Toronto’s procurement plan ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The meeting focused on updates related to the procurement plan, which is the City of Toronto’s formal strategy for acquiring the goods and services needed to deliver FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and related event operations in the city. 

The procurement plan was originally approved by Toronto City Council in July 2024 under the item titled FIFA World Cup 2026: Toronto Host City Procurement Plan. This authorized City staff to proceed with the plan and outlined how contracts would be negotiated for necessary services and supplies.

Questioning was led primarily by Councillor Amber Morley. Sharon Bollenback, Executive Director of FIFA World Cup 2026, was also in attendance along with Coun. Mike Colle, serving as chair. Committee members discussed updates to the procurement plan including how the FIFA team is handling the standards set out during the initial procurement plan.

Community members from institutions such as Humber College and the diverse suppliers identified through the procurement plan will have a stake in the City’s next steps.

In relation to Destination Toronto’s calendar of events around Toronto, Coun. Morley said she was glad to hear that there would be “options outside of FIFA fan festival and just other things to see and do in the city while they’re visiting. I know it’s going to be important for us to ease pressure on the downtown, with the stadium itself and FIFA Fan Festival having limited capacity.” 

The subcommittee discussed Humber College’s role, with its contribution focused mainly on engaging students to support planning, delivery and the volunteer program leading up to and during the tournament.

As procurements roll out, the City is using early planning strategies to encourage Black- and Indigenous-owned businesses and social enterprises to bid on both open and competitive solicitations.

More than 90 Black- and Indigenous-owned or diverse suppliers have been identified across all procurement areas.

The City is issuing 60 grants to community organizations, totaling $1.7 million, with at least one grant in every ward.

The committee also discussed community events tied to the World Cup. Promotion of launches or watch parties through City channels is possible but only for events that have official licenses issued by FIFA and Bell Media. City staff said they are monitoring applications for licensed public viewing parties and will include eligible events in City promotions as they are confirmed.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Community World Cup events that have received grants will be on the City’s website. 
  • To promote the event, the City suggests organizers to apply for consideration to Destination Toronto’s events calendar. 
  • Humber College is contributing mainly by engaging students to support planning, delivery, and the volunteer program.
  • Promotion of events like launches or watch parties is possible through City channels but only for those with official licenses issued by FIFA and Bell Media.
  • Staff are monitoring applications for licensed public viewing parties and will include eligible events in City promotions as they are confirmed.

On-the-ground observations from our documenter, Emma Amodio

What initially attracted me to this topic was the magnitude of the World Cup and its ability to generate significant attention and excitement within the host city. During the meeting, it was clear that many of the key decisions shaping the event are happening through the procurement process.

While there was discussion about supporting Black- and Indigenous-owned businesses and spreading events across the city, I was left with questions about how Toronto will ensure these intentions turn into action as the procurement plan moves forward. I was also curious about how decisions will be made around licensing and which types of city events will ultimately be prioritized on the tourism calendar.

CHECK YOUR FACTS

Documenter

Emma Amodio headshot

Meeting documented by Emma Amodio

View the original post on the Documenters Toronto page.

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Traffic sign reading Weston Road
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ACORN Weston Chapter Organizes Tenants Amid Rent Increase and Building Condition Disputes

by Amelia Singh
written by Amelia Singh

Tenants raised concerns about above-guideline rent increases, building conditions and inspection standards at the ACORN Canada Weston Chapter’s monthly meeting on Feb. 12, 2026.

Traffic sign reading Weston Road
Photo of Weston Road street sign taken by Jack Cochrane/Documenters Toronto

On Feb. 12, 2026, Tenants raised concerns about above-guideline rent increases, building conditions and inspection standards at the ACORN Canada Weston Chapter’s monthly meeting.

The meeting took place at the Weston-King Neighbourhood Centre at 2017 Weston Rd. at 6 p.m. ACORN (Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) has been advocating for low- and moderate-income residents across Canada since 2004 and is organized into 30 local chapters in six provinces. Monthly meetings provide updates on tenant rights issues and serve as organizing spaces for community members.

Marcia Stone, the Weston Chapter lead, chaired the meeting and invited tenants to share ongoing concerns.

The first speaker, Richard, a tenant at 1524 Lawrence Ave. W., updated attendees on a dispute over alleged annual above-guideline rent increases (AGIs). He said tenants are challenging the proposed increases through a hearing at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), part of Tribunals Ontario, which resolves disputes between landlords and tenants.

Richard said residents received less than the required 30 days’ notice for the hearing due to postal disruptions. He also raised concerns about building conditions, claiming that most elevators have been inoperable, with only one “that only sorta works.” He described the landlord’s representative arriving nearly an hour late to a previous LTB hearing before experiencing a medical emergency, leading to an adjournment. A new hearing date has not yet been announced. This will be the third hearing scheduled on the matter.

Stone then opened the floor to tenants from 20, 30 and 40 Falstaff Ave., buildings owned and operated by the same company. Residents described heating and cooling issues, water leaks and concerns about staff conduct. One tenant said she leaves her stove on during some winter days to stay warm. Another alleged intimidation when raising maintenance complaints. A third tenant questioned whether her household may be paying rent above what she believes is permitted based on income.

After discussion, attendees agreed to organize a tenant meeting on March 11 at 6 p.m. in one of the Falstaff buildings. The meeting will be open to residents of all three addresses and other community members to raise awareness and coordinate next steps.

Stone also updated attendees on broader city issues, including recent consultations on the City’s RentSafeTO program. ACORN leaders met with city councillors last month to advocate for stronger inspection standards. According to Stone, the program currently requires inspections of common areas but not individual rental units. ACORN is calling for more thorough inspections and expanded tenant protections. A public feedback form for Toronto renters is currently available, and a virtual meeting to gather tenant input is scheduled for March 4 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.. ACORN plans to bring collected feedback to City Hall in early April.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Tenants at 1524 Lawrence Ave. W. continue to challenge above-guideline rent increases through the Landlord and Tenant Board.
  • Residents at 20, 30 and 40 Falstaff Ave. raised concerns about heating, leaks and alleged intimidation by building staff.
  • ACORN will host a tenant organizing meeting on March 11 to coordinate action at the Falstaff buildings.
  • The Weston Chapter is advocating for reforms to the City’s RentSafeTO program, calling for more comprehensive unit inspections.

On-the-ground observations from our documenter, Jack Cochrane

Community members in attendance were largely supportive of the strategies developed at the meeting, particularly the plan to organize tenants at 20, 30 and 40 Falstaff Ave. and to continue fighting the AGI at 1524 Lawrence Ave W. The tone in the room suggested frustration but also determination. For tenants, these issues are not only financial but about safety and accessibility. In high rise buildings like these, elevator outages are more than an inconvenience: they shape daily mobility and everyday life.

From my understanding of the area, many residents are working class families, newcomers and seniors who rely heavily on rental protections to remain housed. These ACORN meetings function as both information sharing spaces and sites of collective empowerment within a housing market that often feels weighted against tenants.

CHECK YOUR FACTS




Documenter

jack cochrane

Meeting notes done and documented by Jack Cochrane

Visit the original post on the Documenters Toronto page.

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