Guelph Council officially opposes to use of notwithstanding clause

Guelph City Council has passed a motion to officially oppose the province’s plan to use the notwithstanding clause to allow municipalities to evict homeless encampments.

This comes in opposition to the mayor’s stance, who is on record as wanting to have those powers.

Mayor Cam Guthrie was one of the thirteen mayors who signed a letter to the premier requesting stronger tools to address problematic encampments. During the debate, Ward 4 Councillor Linda Busuttil said the blame for the situation being as bad as it is lies with all levels of government.

“We are all extremely frustrated with all levels of government, including the federal government and the lack of response to the housing crisis in a very concrete way.”

Ward 2 Coun. Erin Caton tabled the motion. She told council it’s her belief the province created the legislation to avoid having to actually deal with the crisis.

“I think the call out from Premier Ford was bait. It was bait because the policies the province has been making and the underfunding of our social services, which we have been taking up on our property taxes, is the cause for this crisis worsening.”

For his part, Guthrie told council that he is thankful to have a partner in the province to help uphold the city’s Public Space Use bylaw but he’s not without compassion.

“I’m very passionate about this because I’m passionate in both ways. I want to help the people in these circumstances but I also want to be having our public spaces safe for everyone.”

The original motion contained three items. The first was the declaration against the notwithstanding clause, which passed with three votes opposed, including Guthrie. The third item was for council to officially support the Solve the Crisis Campaign; which passed unanimously. The second item was differed for further discussion.

On Thursday, Mayor Guthrie took to social media following the premier’s announcement of the legislation that would allow for the use of the notwithstanding clause.

“Guelph is ready to partner with our social services manager and with the government to ensure we have positive outcomes for those struggling with addictions, mental health and housing needs in our community.”

The legislation also includes $75.5 million for homeless prevention programs.