Ontario is by far the province with the biggest population, and is growing fast, but it’s the second worst when it comes to building homes.

In this conversation, journalist Cara Stern and economist Mike Moffatt discuss the severe housing crisis in Ontario, highlighting the province's poor performance in building new homes relative to its population growth. They analyze the types of homes being constructed, the impact of homelessness, and the responses from municipal leaders. The discussion also compares Ontario's housing policies with those of British Columbia and Quebec, emphasizing the wild increase of development charges and zoning regulations. Cara and Mike think a provincial election is imminent and that political accountability is needed. Ontario’s home building record is dismal and the Ford government is ignoring its own housing promises.

Links:

Ontario Communities Falling Behind on Homebuilding

Ontario will build 1.5 million homes, housing minister promises as projections slump

Hotdog meme - we’re all trying to find the guy who did this

Four Pathways To Housing Affordability

Mass Timber Can Get Homes Built Faster

Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern

Produced by Meredith Martin

This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

In this episode, Cara and Mike discuss the ongoing housing crisis and its political implications, emphasizing the need for effective solutions to enhance affordability. They unpack the four key pathways to housing affordability, including the integration of transportation costs, the impact of utility bills, and the challenges of homeowners insurance. The conversation highlights the importance of deregulation and innovative policies to create more affordable housing options while addressing the political landscape surrounding these issues.

Links for further reading:
Ontario Communities Falling Behind on Homebuilding
BLUEPRINT FOR MORE AND BETTER HOUSING
Abacus Data
Example of pyramid shaped condo

Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern

Produced by Meredith Martin

This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.

This conversation explores the potential of mass timber as a sustainable building material, its role in the housing construction sector, and the skills needed for young people to thrive in this emerging industry. The discussion highlights the growth of mass timber, the educational requirements for entering the field, the challenges faced in its adoption, and the broader opportunities in decarbonizing industries.


Links:
Canada's Green Skills Transition

Guest: Nicholas Renzetti

Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern

Produced by Meredith Martin

This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.