Tenant organizer says residents being priced out as landlords continue to increase rents
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing says that their “balanced approach” to the rental market is working. The evidence, they say, is that purpose built-housing rental construction has hit “record-high” numbers.
However, renters in Waterloo Region are facing their own record highs. According to rentals.ca, landlords are now charging $1,935 a month for a 1-bedroom in Kitchener, and more than $2,327 for a 2-bedroom. Prices are higher in Waterloo.
Organizations advocating for stronger protections for renters have maintained their focus on landlords and the various levels of government. One such organization is the Social Development Council of Waterloo Region.
This show features an interview with Megan Walker, a tenant organizer in the Eviction Prevention program at the Social Development Council. Walker discusses her work and responds to statements the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing made to CKMS News.