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Photo of Paul Ainslie

Candidate for City Councillor

Paul Ainslie

Ward 24 Scarborough-Guildwood

Candidate details

Email
vote@voteainslie.ca
Phone
437-871-2024

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?

Housing affordability remains one of Toronto’s greatest challenges, and my priority would be expanding housing options across the city. We need a range of housing choices that help residents find and keep homes that meet their needs. I support initiatives that increase supply, strengthen neighbourhoods, and improve affordability while respecting the character and design of local communities. By working with other governments and community partners, we can secure investments that help more people access stable and affordable housing.

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?

My top priority on Council would be delivering practical results that strengthen communities through housing, transportation, infrastructure, and community safety. Toronto needs leaders who solve problems, build partnerships, and secure investments that improve daily life. As Deputy Mayor for Scarborough and a Councillor with more than twenty years of public service, I have experience working with all orders of government, listening to residents, and turning local concerns into action. My focus is always on accountability and tangible outcomes.

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?

To make Toronto more affordable, my top priority would be job creation and economic development. Residents need access to good-paying jobs close to home, and communities need investment that supports local businesses and attracts new employers. As an advocate for Scarborough’s fair share of resources and opportunities, I will work with government and the private sector to bring investment, employment, and growth to our communities. I will also work to keep property tax increases at or below the rate of inflation whenever possible.

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?

Everyone deserves to feel safe in parks, on transit, and in public spaces. I would prioritize community safety through strong partnerships with police, neighbourhood organizations, schools, and youth programs. A safer city requires both prevention and action, including support for local services that strengthen communities and address concerns before they escalate. By listening to residents and working collaboratively with community partners, we can improve public confidence and create welcoming spaces throughout Toronto.

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?

My priority would be securing investments in reliable public transit, safer roads, and infrastructure that works for everyone. Residents should be able to travel efficiently whether they take transit, drive, cycle, or walk. Reducing congestion and improving connections to jobs, education, health care, and recreation strengthens both our economy and quality of life. I will continue advocating for public transportation improvements that support growth, increase accessibility, and better connect communities across Toronto.

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?

Toronto’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and everyone should feel safe, respected, and included. I will continue working with community organizations, schools, faith groups, businesses, and residents to address hate through education, outreach, and accountability. By creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds to connect and participate, we can build stronger neighbourhoods and ensure Toronto remains a welcoming, inclusive, and united city for all.

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