The cost of living is on the rise across Ontario, and Prince Edward County is joining a growing number of municipal governments calling on the provincial and federal governments to act.
During Tuesday’s council meeting, Prince Edward County Council voted to call on the provincial and federal governments to establish a guaranteed livable income program.
The request, in the form of a letter, is being sent to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Bay of Quinte MP Ryan Williams, Bay of Quinte MPP Todd Smith, and other high ranking government officials. Copies of the resolution are also being sent out to all other municipalities in Ontario.
Councillor Bill Roberts, who originally tabled the motion, said that the low income was causing numerous problems in Prince Edward County, from food insecurity to poor workforce retention.
“Income and income distribution are key factors and social determinants of overall health, it may even be more important than medical care itself,”said Councillor Roberts. “No one wins when poverty is rampant.”
Over 1000 families are on a wait list for subsidized housing in Prince Edward County, while food bank usage is up 26%.
Councillor Sam Branderhorst supported the motion, pointing out that existing supports like the Ontario Disability Support Program aren’t keeping up with what recipients need to live.
“I frequently hear in conversations with people, we live in such a lucky wealthy country, how do we have this housing crisis or how do we have this degree of poverty,” said Councillor Branderhorst.
Belleville and Napanee have previously passed similar motions.
