As the Federal Government moves into phase 2 of the National Infrastructure Plan and with the expected release of the National Housing Strategy this fall, Mayor Linda Hepner presented to the Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Infrastructure as part of a FCM delegation in Ottawa.
“The second phase of the federal Investing in Canada Plan holds great promise for revitalization across a number of sectors, from public transit to affordable housing to climate change initiatives,” said Mayor Linda Hepner. “Climate change affects all Canadians and requires the involvement of all levels of government.”
Mayor Hepner’s presentation to the Ministers is an example of the intergovernmental collaboration required to ensure successful implementation of both those federal initiatives.
“The National Housing Strategy can transform Canada, but only if it focuses on fundamentals and not quick fixes,” continued Mayor Hepner. “By investing in urgent repairs to threatened social housing and building new mixed income housing in our communities, it is our chance to collectively bring hope to 1.5 million families across the country who don’t have a safe, affordable home.”
Mayor Hepner and the FCM delegation addressed a number of other issues including:
• cost-sharing to maximize investment and long-term economic growth
• the need for affordable housing in concert with wider infrastructure needs
• building inclusive communities through culture and recreation
• the importance of supporting a low-carbon, green economy
This was the second annual meeting where local leaders were present at the table with their federal and provincial counterparts. The FCM delegation is a united municipal voice that is focused on working with all levels of government to build a better country.
