LETTER: Councillors respond to Powlowski on temporary village

In response to MP Polowski’s Op-Ed:

While we appreciate thoughtful considerations brought forward by Member of Parliament Polowski addressing his opposition to temporary shelter, we feel compelled to offer an alternative perspective as people who have been working with front-line staff to address the epidemic of our shared constituent base. We find it highly unorthodox for a sitting MP to appeal to the public to lobby members of council. The member makes several statements that we wish to address.

Proximity to Services
MP Polowski proposes “other locations” for the temporary housing, and it is clear that he doesn’t want this type of infrastructure in his riding. We appreciate that he does receive calls on this. We receive calls too, and yet we are compelled to act. Temporary housing must prioritize accessibility for the homeless population. Proposing moving individuals from resources and services proposes challenges and risks that create significant barriers. Adding “free transportation” poses other logistical challenges that can be avoided by having these temporary shelters in already accessible locations. Homeless individuals deserve proximity to services and support to help rebuild their lives.

Shared Responsibility
While we understand the concerns of local businesses and residents, homelessness is a community-wide issue requiring collective responsibility. The MP states that property owners and businesses bear undue costs and he assumes that housing the homeless inherently damages neighbourhoods. However, evidence from cities like Toronto and Vancouver shows that well-managed housing projects can integrate successfully into communities without increasing crime or reducing property values. Rather than reject solutions outright, we should work to address these fears with facts and thoughtful planning. We welcome the MP to offer any solutions that he may propose through our Intergovernmental Affairs meetings.

Moral and Economic Imperatives
Leaving individuals to face Northwestern Ontario’s harsh winters in tents is not just inhumane; on this we can agree, but it is also economically shortsighted. Research consistently shows that providing stable housing reduces long-term costs to healthcare, policing, and social services. The upfront investment in temporary housing is far outweighed by the savings it generates and the dignity it restores to our most vulnerable citizens.

Avoiding Isolation
Relocating the homeless to unused land outside the city may seem like a compromise, but it risks reinforcing stigmatization and marginalization. Isolated housing strips individuals of their sense of belonging and creates logistical challenges for service providers. Temporary housing is most effective when integrated into existing communities, not relegated to underdeveloped or remote areas.

Balancing Rights and Obligations
While the rights of business owners and residents are important, they do not outweigh the fundamental right to life and security for our homeless population. Governments have a duty to protect the vulnerable while addressing community concerns through thoughtful implementation—such as robust security measures and support services for housing residents

As we consider solutions, we urge decision-makers like MP Polowski to come to the table with solutions and to embrace a balanced and inclusive approach that reflects all citizens in our ridings, not just those with homes. Thunder Bay’s response to this crisis has the potential to serve as a model of dignity, care, and shared responsibility for all. We do not know what the future holds for the homeless population. We do not have the answers that are demanded of us; all we have is the will and determination to see that all citizens are served with dignity and respect.

Yours Truly,
Councillor Shelby Ch’ng - Thunder Bay
Councillor Kristen Oliver - Thunder Bay