Josh Matlow will fight for a better Toronto. A Toronto that is safe, affordable and livable for all Torontonians.
Josh is a father, a city councillor and a trusted friend to so many community members. For decades, he has fought for tenant protections, youth hubs, seniors supports and dignity and resources for those who are homeless. He loves his family, his 10-year-old daughter and he cares deeply about this city.
Josh is the only candidate with a real plan that spells out exactly how he will pay for it. He is a doer, who uses facts and evidence to push for real improvements to Toronto, and he is the one to lead Toronto into its next chapter.
As Mayor, Josh will stand up to Doug Ford and his plan to sell off Ontario Place for a private spa, and demand a review of the Eglinton Crosstown construction delays and costs.
He will reverse transit cuts so that you can count on the TTC to run on a full and reliable schedule, and he’ll get Scarborough moving with LRTs, busways and new cycling and walking trails.
Josh will support tenants by cracking down on shady renovictions and bad landlords, and for all residents, he’ll create more housing options so it’s easier to find a home in your budget.
He’ll bring together neighbours by opening schools evenings and weekends for community spaces and recreation, and every library branch on Sundays all year round. And he’ll make this city vibrant by fully investing in arts, culture and festivals to bring life back to all corners of the city.
A Toronto with Josh Matlow as Mayor is a better Toronto.
Our plan to raise new revenues and secure long-term stable funding from the provincial and federal governments to make our city safer, more affordable and livable for everyone.
Watch my video about why the cost of living has become so high in Toronto
Fully costed platform
Our plan to raise new revenues and secure long-term stable funding from the provincial and federal governments to make our city safer, more affordable and livable for everyone. Read the full news release
Long-term strategic plan
Toronto must present a long-term strategic plan with City funding for the services and infrastructure our three million residents need.
We will deliver on these priorities by finally securing the stable, long-term and predictable funding Toronto needs to support our residents. His approach is to:
Watch my video on why finding a home in Toronto has become a nightmare
Comprehensive Housing Plan
We will addresses both the urgent housing and homelessness crises facing Torontonians today with an investment of $407.6 million to lower the cost of housing, support homeless residents and create more great places to live in neighbourhoods that include childcare, schools, infrastructure and parks.
This will be funded through the Community Health & Safety Fund and City Works Fund. Read the full news release
Public Build Toronto
We will establish a new City agency that will allow us to build housing at cost on City-owned lands, making it easier for you to find a home in your budget.
This will be funded with $300 million in seed funding from the City, and by waiving all municipal fees including property taxes and development charges. Read the full news release
Tenant Support Program
This program will improve affordability for rentals and strengthen protections against fraudulent evictions and poorly maintained buildings. Read the full news release
TransformTO Funding
The first plank of our environment policy includes a $200 million annual investment to ensure Toronto can meet its TransformTO commitment to be net zero by 2040.
This will be funded by the creation of a new commercial parking lot levy. Read the full news release
Ontario Greenbelt Leaders Council
We will bring together local mayors and Indigenous leaders to form a Greenbelt Leaders council. The council will work with the federal government to safeguard farmland, forests and water sources and protect the vital Greenbelt from development. Read the full news release
Watch my video about why the TTC has been getting worse lately
Transit Funding
We will reverse TTC cuts and return service to pre-pandemic levels so that it's easier for you and your family to get around the city.
This will be funded through the City Works Fund, and later through the climate action levy (see above: Environment). Read the full news release
Scarborough Moves
We will launch a comprehensive transportation network in Scarborough that includes a connected network of public transit routes (with over 40 stops) and cycling and walking trails that will shorten commute times and improve quality of life.
This will be funded through the City funds already earmarked for Eglinton East LRT, the climate action levy, City Works Fund, and savings from rebuilding the east portion of the Gardiner at ground level. Read the full news release
Congestion
Waterfront East LRT
Torontonians want public park, not private spa
We will stop Doug Ford’s plan for a private spa at Ontario Place by withholding 16 acres of City-owned property to ensure that everyone has access to this important part of the waterfront. Sign the pledge to keep Ontario Place in public hands
Josh has also proposed that the federal government step in to protect the land from expropriation Read the full news release
Community Health & Safety Fund
We will establish a $115 million fund to address well-known risk factors for criminal behaviour, including poverty, racism and trauma, which will make the TTC and city safer.
This will be funded by stabilizing the annual police budget of $1.16 billion for three years. Read the full news release
Traffic Safety
We will redesign Toronto’s most dangerous intersections and stretches of road by increasing annual traffic safety capital spending to $56 million from $23 million over two years.
This will be funded through the City Works Fund. Read the full news release
City Works Fund
A new property tax that would cost the average homeowner about $67 per year and generate $390 million over five years to improve vital city services. Read the statement
Addictions
Addiction and substance use issues are health issues and need to be treated as such. I support the decriminalization of illicit drugs for personal use. I also support the evidence behind safe-injection sites. For these sites to be successful, I advocate that we make sure to implement them with appropriate wraparound supports and services in place.
Bike lanes
Our streets must be designed to improve comfort and safety for all users. The more people who have a safe and reliable way to bike around our city means fewer people in cars in front of us creating the traffic that we are all part of. To make it easier to get around, my traffic safety plan will boost capital investment in road improvements by $33 million to fix the city’s most dangerous intersections and roads. This shift in the budget focus from operating investments in behavioural modification measures like signage, distracted driving and red-light cameras to capital investments in infrastructure and street improvements will make it safer to walk, bike and drive. Read the full news release
YouthStart
Our plan will boost job prospects, build skills and improve individual and community health and well-being for youth across Toronto.
This will be funded through the Community Health & Safety Fund. Read the full news release
Open Schools Toronto
Our program to utilize schools as community centres on evenings and weekends will provide neighbours with more opportunities to come together for recreation programs, continuing education classes and social activities.
This will be funded through the Community Health & Safety Fund. Read the full news release
Libraries Open on Sundays
We will open all Toronto Public Libraries on Sundays so that everyone can access technology, classes and important resources every day of the week.
This will be funded through the Community Health & Safety Fund. Read the full news release
Culture, Creativity + Community
We will invest more in our arts and culture sector to create more affordable spaces for artists and community culture events, expand our festivals and make Toronto a leader for film and television production.
This will be funded through the City’s hotel tax and by reducing the City’s consulting spend. Read the full news release
Age-Friendly Toronto
A plan to make Toronto one of the healthiest cities to age well in. Plan includes lowering TTC fares for seniors and investing in social connections, promoting independence and quality of life.
This will be funded through the Community Health & Safety Fund and City Works Fund. Read the full news release
East-End Rebuild
Rebuild the crumbling 2.4 kilometres of the aging elevated highway east of Jarvis Street at ground level in order to redirect $568 million to other pressing priorities. Read the full news release
Josh Matlow respects our communities and is committed to investing in strong neighbourhoods through social development plans. His evidence-based approach to fixing our city gives Torontonians the respect they deserve.
WALIED KHOGALI ALI
Community Leader, Toronto Centre
I believe Josh is the best Mayor for the times we are in. Josh has integrity and the most credible track record of action, inclusion and practical ideas to tackle the real problems Toronto has today. He has the energy and optimism to inspire all of us to care about our city, too, and to do what we can to make Toronto a place we are proud of
GERARD KENNEDY
Former Minister of Education, MP, MPP and Executive Director, Daily Bread Food Bank
I’ve known Josh for many years. I have seen his hard work, persistence and fearlessness up close. He cares passionately about Toronto, and has presented a strong vision for our city. Josh has the energy and commitment to make it happen.
DAVID SOKNACKI
Former Scarborough East City Councillor & Budget Chief under Mayor David Miller
Both my wife and I are impressed with Josh's passion for helping his constituents and his knowledge of what it takes to get results from local government. His common sense approach to problem solving makes him the leader Toronto needs. I can't think of a better candidate for Mayor.
NICK KYPREOS
Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni & Sportsnet Broadcaster
Josh's passion is to fight for the people of Toronto. No matter the issue, he dives into the details to gather all the facts. With his extensive experience on Council, he knows the history, knows what hasn't worked, and knows how to take us all forward together!
HAROUT MANOUGIAN
Chair, Armenian National Committee of Toronto
Josh leads with integrity. As my City Councillor for 12 years, he has worked tirelessly for residents, solving problems by bringing people together. He has a compelling and fully costed vision for a better Toronto. Josh Matlow is the Mayor our city needs right now.
ERICA EHM
Entrepreneur
Toronto urgently needs intelligent, creative leadership. Josh loves his city and knows City Hall. He is whip-smart and not locked in to any one party's agenda, which allowshim to be flexible and inventive in dealing with our present and future. We’d be lucky to
have him as Mayor.
GUY GAVRIEL KAY
Author and Toronto resident
Josh is a progressive whose heart is in the right place. He also has a well-developed ability to think priorities through. When a goal is important, Josh won’t cave in the face of resistance that is based on faulty evidence
MICHAEL BLACK
Pedestrian and Cycling Safety Advocate
Josh wants to see this city succeed, and his plan is for all of Toronto. As an Indigenous Torontonian, I’m supporting him for these reasons. Along with his solidarity on a number of Indigenous issues, Josh has come to our events showing full support of our communities. I’m asking Toronto to choose the right candidate in this upcoming election. I’m choosing Josh Matlow.
GEOFF DAYBUTCH
Skabewiis
From affordable housing and transit improvements to environmental sustainability and community engagement, Josh has a proven track record of effective leadership. His ability to bring diverse voices together will ensure that Toronto thrives under his leadership. Vote for Josh as our next Mayor and let’s transform Toronto into a city that works for everyone.
VINCE BORG
Former Executive VP, Barrick Gold Corp. & Past President, Ontario Liberal Party
I have seen the commitment Josh has brought to communities we have represented together. He will bring the same dedication to the whole city as Mayor. Josh connects with diverse communities in Thorncliffe and Flemingdon Parks and has been the strongest voice to keep the Science Centre in the community. Josh is the Mayor Toronto needs.
HON. ROB OLIPHANT
Member of Parliament, Don Valley West
I support Josh Matlow for Mayor because, for the last few years as a councillor, he has clearly responded to the key issues facing Toronto with intelligent and workable solutions. Josh is in the fight for Toronto for the long term, and he is someone you can trust to do the right thing.
JOHN SEWELL
Former Mayor of Toronto
Josh is a good friend, but beyond that, he is a great candidate for Toronto Mayor. He really does want what is best for Toronto. He knows what the problems are and has good ideas on how to fix them. And, he has figured out how to pay for those fixes. It doesn't get better than that.
SHARON HAMPSON & BRAM MORRISON
Children’s Entertainers
I met Josh through my work in Little Jamaica. He not only talks the talk of wanting to see Little Jamaica thrive, but shows up for community meetings, moves motions in Council and follows up with City staff when things seem a little too quiet. His solutions-oriented mindset will serve Toronto well as we face the many crises currently impacting the city.
ROMAIN BAKER
Little Jamaica Community Advocate
Josh has never been afraid to speak truth to power. He has been at the forefront trying to make Toronto better for its residents. Now, he has a credible plan to revitalize public services, be honest when it comes to city finances and foster confidence in civic administration. It’s a difficult task. But Josh has the energy and determination to do the job as your new Mayor.
GREG SORBARA
Former President, Ontario Liberal Party & Former Ontario Finance Minister
Josh is my local city councillor and the man who created the pathway for the Afro Caribbean Farmers' Market. He removed many obstacles and provided the resources not often afforded to people in my community to make good things happen. He is my choice and the only real solution Toronto has to be the great city we all know it can be.
LORI BEAZER
Founder, Afro-Caribbean Farmers' Market
We need a Mayor who is passionate about realizing Toronto's potential. From youth to seniors, community spaces to affordable housing, Josh has a plan for the city and a concrete plan for how to pay for the plan. I enthusiastically endorse Josh and look forward to working with him as our Mayor.
HON. CAROLYN BENNETT
MP, Toronto-St. Paul’s
I've worked with Josh for 10 years through a worsening homelessness and housing emergency. I'm glad to endorse him as Mayor. He has shown enormous commitment on these issues and has never wavered by calling out injustices within City Hall that have seriously harmed people.
CATHY CROWE
Long-time street nurse and housing advocate
This is a turning-point election for Toronto. We need a leader with experience, integrity and a demonstrated track record. We need a Mayor with the policy smarts and the gumption to stand up for Toronto. Josh is the best candidate on every point.
ANNE GOLDEN
Past President of United Way and Conference Board of Canada
Our next Mayor must halt the decline of our city and bring energy and optimism to address our urgent need for a safer, more affordable city that works. I believe Josh Matlow is the only candidate who meets this moment. It is my honour to endorse him for this vital leadership role.
MICHAEL COTEAU
Member of Parliament for Don Valley East
Josh has always been a passionate advocate for the environment. As Earthroots campaign director, he fought to protect the Oak Ridges Moraine and create the Greenbelt. As a school trustee, he helped create the Eco Schools program, and as a City Councillor was the leading voice against the Gardiner Expressway rebuild and has been a strong advocate for our City’s ravine system.
His environmental platform is by far the most ambitious and comprehensive of the candidates vying to lead Toronto. His transit, active transportation, greenhouse gas reduction and greenspace plans are fully funded and will deliver real positive change for Torontonians.
GORD MILLER
Ecologist and Former Environmental Commissioner of Ontario
Josh Matlow brings to the table a balanced approach, a willingness to listen and share ideas, the ability to negotiate, an understanding of municipal politics and, most importantly, the desire to solve problems, not create them. In other words, we need good government, not false promises. Good government is what Josh offers. Josh has my vote.
DONNA CANSFIELD
Retired MPP and Cabinet Minister
Josh Matlow's proposed Community Health and Safety fund just makes sense. Addressing the complex root causes of violence and anti-social behaviour – poverty, racism, and trauma – will make our neighbourhoods safer and provide opportunities for vulnerable and at-risk Torontonians. It would be a crime not to vote for Josh Matlow!
ELIZABETH J. DUNCAN
Award-winning mystery author
Josh is the right Mayor for this city and has demonstrated through his time on Council and his mayoral election campaign to be a champion for Black communities in Toronto. As the co-founder of an organization dedicated to community safety and the mother of a son who fell victim to gun crime, Josh's plan to ensure that our police service focus on core legislated responsibilities for effective policing, including assistance to victims of crime, is what is required. His plan to make public safety a holistic community effort will provide the balance we need for community well-being.
HABIBA ADAN
Co-Founder of Positive Change Toronto Initiative
I voted for Josh to end the rebuild of the Gardiner Expressway east and redirect more than $500 million to transit, bike lanes, housing and parks. No other city is building waterfront elevated highways. Don’t upload it; rebuild it on the ground!
BRETT HOUSE
Economist
The City of Toronto needs an experienced, hard working, visionary mayor with statesmanship quality to lead Canada’s largest City and its economic engine. That is why I am supporting Josh Matlow in this Toronto mayoral election campaign.
REZA MORIDI
Former parliamentarian and Ontario Minister
As a young family, we want to see investments in city services like libraries, the arts and culture. We also want to see Council take the climate crisis seriously. This is why our family is voting for Josh Matlow. Josh gets it. He's the Mayor we need.
GURPREET KAUR AHLUWALIA
Toronto Resident
Thank you for bringing the issues of refugees to the City Council. This shows how much you care for the community, how much you hear the community’s concerns and how much you want to bring change. I hope you win and I hope you become the next Mayor of the City of Toronto.
MESARET DEMEKE
Ethiopian Association of the GTA
This city desperately needs someone who will take on the structural failures within the city head on. That’s why I’m supporting Josh Matlow for Mayor of Toronto – a guy who’s got ideas! I’m endorsing Josh Matlow and I encourage you to do the same.
JOSHUA HIND
Project Manager and Designer
Our campaign is fighting to address issues that matter to Torontonians like you, and for a city that prioritizes:
I have a fully costed plan that will make our city work, join us for a better Toronto.
