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Head-and-shoulders portrait of Gian Pileri, bald, with a beard, wearing clear-framed glasses and a light blue shirt.

Candidate for City Councillor

Gian Pileri

Ward 11 University-Rosedale

Candidate details

Email
info@gianpileri.ca
Phone
437-457-6939

Issue answers

The Mayor and City Council

What's the most important thing you'd act on as a City Councillor, and what experience or strengths would help you make it happen?

I want a proactive City that plans ahead, fixes problems early and sets clear service standards and public timelines. I’ve rented in Ward 11 for 15 years and raised concerns at City committees and the TTC Board. In higher education I work with colleagues to find innovative solutions, explain complex systems and improve them. As an independent councillor, I’ll listen to residents, consult experts and work with everyone involved, explain decisions and follow through. I’ll work for a proactive City Hall that listens, explains and delivers.

Housing

Housing costs weigh on Torontonians whether they rent or own, access to subsidized housing is limited, and a growing number of people have no home at all. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to help people find and keep a secure place to live?

I would protect affordable rentals through stronger RentSafeTO enforcement, enforceable tenant protections during redevelopment, early housing advice, rent and deposit help, and non-profits buying rental buildings. I would support non-profit and co-op homes near transit and lasting affordability on City land, and work with other governments to fund supportive housing. With councillors and tenant groups, I would press Ontario to reform and improve the Residential Tenancies Act to better protect tenants.

Cost of Living

The cost of daily life keeps climbing — housing, transit fares, city fees, etc. What is one thing you would prioritize on the next City Council to make Toronto more affordable, soon enough to matter to residents?

I would expand income-based savings through one application for transit, recreation and other City fees, plus a monthly healthy food credit at participating grocers and markets. Building on Toronto’s existing benefits account, residents could apply online, by phone or in person. Support would reflect income and household size, with eligibility expanded to more households. In the first budget, I would seek funding for a pilot with clear renewal rules and privacy protections, and publish household savings, participation and costs.

Safety in Public Spaces

Some Torontonians don't feel safe in parks, on transit, or on certain streets, even where reported crime is low. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to help people be and feel safe in the city's public spaces?

I would prioritize everyday safety through better lighting, clear walkways, clean parks and transit, and visible, trained staff. I would push for more visible, approachable police officers who build trust, offer help and treat everyone with respect. I would support consistent enforcement against threats, harassment and dangerous behaviour, alongside crisis workers who help people in distress. I would work with residents and local services to address recurring problems early. Reports should receive a clear response and follow-up.

Getting Around the City

Getting around the city is a source of frustration for many Torontonians, whether people drive, take transit, cycle, or walk. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to improve how people move around the city, however they travel?

I would prioritize reliable transit and safer, clearer routes for everyone. I would push for better TTC service and maintenance, safe crossings, accessible sidewalks and connected cycling routes. Construction should be coordinated, with clear timelines and safe detours for people walking, using mobility devices, cycling or driving. I would press for prompt repairs, reliable snow clearing and consistent enforcement against blocked sidewalks, bike lanes and intersections. Residents should know what is changing and when.

Confronting Hateful and Hostile Behaviour

Many Torontonians are concerned about hateful and hostile behaviour, which can disproportionately affect newcomers and members of racialized, marginalized, and equity-deserving communities. What would you prioritize on the next City Council to respond and keep Toronto safe and welcoming for everyone?

I would prioritize a clear, supportive response to hate and harassment. Residents should be able to report incidents easily, get help in their language and know what happens next. I would support training for City and TTC staff to respond sensitively, prompt removal of hate graffiti and services for people targeted. I would work with affected communities on prevention and seek funding for local programs that build understanding and belonging. I would speak out against hate and defend everyone's right to live in the city safely and without fear.

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