Syeda Jaana Ali

The Mayor and City Council

My priority would be making housing more affordable and secure for residents. I would focus on building and preserving affordable housing, protecting tenants, and preventing homelessness. For more than 15 years, I have led commercial strategy and organizational growth for global organizations, managing finances, using data to make decisions, building partnerships and delivering results. I would bring that same strategic, accountable & results-focused approach to City Council—listening to residents, and turning priorities into action.

Housing

Housing must be affordable, safe and secure. I would prioritize building more affordable and purpose-built rental housing, especially on public land, while protecting existing affordable units from being lost. I would strengthen RentSafeTO enforcement and tenant protections, expand eviction-prevention and rent-bank supports, and increase supportive housing. We also need stronger partnerships with provincial and federal governments so funding, housing supply and income supports work together. The goal: build, protect and prevent homelessness.

Cost of Living

I would prioritize making transit more affordable, starting with free TTC service for seniors. At the same time, Toronto must have the authority to make decisions based on the needs of Toronto residents. I oppose provincial measures that centralize municipal decision-making, including provisions in Bill 98 that limit local authority. Affordable transit, housing and services require local accountability. As Councillor, I will stand up for Toronto’s ability to set priorities and deliver solutions that work for our communities.

Safety in Public Spaces

I would prioritize safer, better-maintained public spaces through improved lighting, cleaning, visibility & faster responses to hazards, while increasing community-based safety initiatives. On transit and in parks, people should see a stronger, consistent presence of trained staff and outreach teams, with police resources focused where they are most needed. Safety also means prevention—supporting mental-health, housing & youth services that address issues before they become crises. Every resident should feel safe walking enjoying neighbourhood.

Getting Around the City

I would prioritize a reliable, connected transportation system that works for everyone—transit riders, drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. That means improving TTC reliability and frequency, fixing roads and sidewalks faster, and designing safer routes for walking and cycling. I would also support better coordination of construction and traffic management to reduce unnecessary congestion. Transportation policy should be practical, evidence-based and focused on moving people safely and efficiently, regardless of how they travel.

Confronting Hateful and Hostile Behaviour

I would prioritize a zero-tolerance approach to hate and discrimination, while investing in prevention. The City should strengthen reporting and rapid response to hate incidents, support community organizations and newcomer services, and ensure public spaces, transit and City facilities are welcoming and safe. We also need education and youth programs that build understanding across communities. Toronto’s diversity is our strength, and Council must actively protect the right of every resident to live, work and participate without fear.