When Good Intentions Aren’t Enough

Edmonton’s “Housing First” policy was designed to help—but a one-size-fits-all
approach is failing both vulnerable individuals and the communities around them.
Burned-out bus shelters. Rising crime and vandalism. Garbage left behind. These aren’t
signs of progress. They’re symptoms of a system that doesn’t distinguish between those
truly in crisis and those exploiting the system.

Homelessness is complex. Solutions must be, too.

As your City Councillor, I will fight to:

• Initiate a review of the Good Neighbourhood Agreement for completeness and
  ensure mandatory compliance of the agreement. Advocate for operators who
  are appropriate for family-based communities
• In partnership with the community and businesses, ensure their voices are heard
  and their needs are included. Support policies that distinguish between those
  who need help and those abusing the system
• Demand real, 24/7 wraparound services and qualified staff — on-site, not just on
  paper 
• Invest in community-based policing and patrols
• Advocate to create rapid-response bylaw enforcement teams to protect
  neighbourhoods

Housing matters. But so do outcomes.
It’s time for leadership that can tell the difference and take appropriate actions for all.