Housing

Barrie pledged to facilitate 23,000 new homes by 2031. The province keeps score, and its own numbers show the city clearing the 2023 target and missing the 2024 one. That reversal, and what the City can actually do about it, is the housing argument in this election.

What is Barrie's housing pledge?

In the City's own words: "In February 2023, the City of Barrie pledged to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to facilitate the construction of 23,000 housing units by 2031. At the time of the pledge, the City had 13,916 housing units approved."

The verb matters. A municipality approves; builders build. The City's own pledge page says so plainly, noting that "approximately 30% of all units approved since 2015 have been constructed". A council can change zoning, fees and process; it cannot start a crane.

Source: Municipal Housing Pledge (City of Barrie page), City of Barrie, dated February 1, 2023. Original document. The pledge in the City's own words: 23,000 units by 2031, made February 2023, with 13,916 units already approved at the time. Also states that "approximately 30% of all units approved since 2015 have been constructed" — the City's own account of why approvals and completions are different measures. Retrieved August 11, 2026.

Is Barrie meeting its provincial housing target?

Barrie against its provincial housing target, from Ontario's published dataset
Year	Target	Progress	Percentage	Province's status
2023	1,687	1,716	101.72%	Exceeded
2024	1,917	1,459	76.11%	Not met

Sources: Ontario's housing supply progress, January–December 2023 (dataset), Government of Ontario — data.ontario.ca, dated December 31, 2023. Original document. The province's own scorecard. Barrie row verbatim: "Barrie,23000,3991,1687,1716,101.72%,Exceeded". Ontario's housing supply progress, January–December 2024 (dataset), Government of Ontario — data.ontario.ca, dated December 31, 2024. Original document. Barrie row verbatim: "Barrie,23000,5450,1917,1459,76.11%,Not met". The same series that recorded 101.72% for 2023. All retrieved August 11, 2026.

Cumulative progress toward the 23,000 total was 3,991 units after 2023 and 5,450 after 2024, as published in the same dataset. The 2023 cumulative figure is 2,275 units more than that year's progress of 1,716, so the province's running total includes units from before the first target year; the dataset does not say from when, and this site reproduces the figures as published. The province has not published a 2025 figure, so the table stops at 2024.

What did the 2023 result earn from the Building Faster Fund?

Clearing the target carried money. In March 2024 the province announced $6,344,201 for Barrie through the Building Faster Fund, on the basis that the city had "exceeded its 2023 housing target, breaking ground on a total of 1,716 new housing units last year". The fund pays municipalities reaching at least 80% of their annual target. Barrie's 2024 result of 76.11% falls below that threshold. Whether that cost Barrie a 2024-year Building Faster Fund allocation is the obvious next question; this site has not located a document stating whether an allocation was made or withheld, and says so rather than inferring one.

Source: Ontario Rewards Barrie With $6.34 Million for Exceeding 2023 Housing Targets, Government of Ontario — Premier's Office, dated March 15, 2024. Original document. States the payment ($6,344,201), the 1,716 starts behind it, and the Building Faster Fund's 80%-of-target payment threshold. Retrieved August 11, 2026.

What can council actually do about housing?

Zoning. By-law 2024-043, passed April 2024, permits up to four residential units on a residential lot.
Incentives. The Housing Community Improvement Plan carries per-door grants, tax-increment equivalent grants and a bonus for affordable additional residential units, against stated targets of 15% affordable units city-wide and 20% within the Urban Growth Centre and Major Transit Station Areas. The City reports the plan has supported 248 affordable units since 2020.
Development charges. On September 16, 2026 council cut residential development charges by 50%, effective the next day and retroactive to building permits issued from March 30, 2026. It followed the mayor's April 1 written direction (MDIR003-26) to reduce them by up to half for three years, and made Barrie eligible for the federal-provincial Development Charge Reduction Program: $129,184,724, announced September 28. Development charges are what growth pays toward the roads, pipes and facilities it needs, so the cut is a choice about who carries that cost; the mayoral candidates' views on it are below.
Land. From January 2026 the city is physically larger: see the annexation, which the province justified partly as unlocking "up to 8,000 new homes".

Sources: Housing Community Improvement Plan (City of Barrie page), City of Barrie. Original document. The City's affordable-housing incentive suite and its stated targets: 15% of new units city-wide, 20% within the Urban Growth Centre and Major Transit Station Areas. Retrieved August 11, 2026. Municipal Housing Pledge (City of Barrie page), City of Barrie, dated February 1, 2023. Original document. The pledge in the City's own words: 23,000 units by 2031, made February 2023, with 13,916 units already approved at the time. Also states that "approximately 30% of all units approved since 2015 have been constructed" — the City's own account of why approvals and completions are different measures. Retrieved August 11, 2026. Barrie chops residential development charges in half to spur housing, BarrieToday (City of Barrie news release, published in full), dated September 18, 2026. Original document. The City's release: on September 16, 2026 council amended the development charge by-law to cut residential rates by 50%, effective September 17 and retroactive to building permits issued on or after March 30, 2026. Retrieved October 7, 2026. Mayoral decisions and directions, the signed documents (MD001-23 to MD0014-26, MDIR001-24 to MDIR007-26), City of Barrie. Original document. Every one of the ninety register entries links to a one- or two-page signed document; all ninety are archived and their text extracted. Retrieved September 15, 2026. (Update) $129 million from province to Barrie for development charge cut, Barrie 360, dated September 28, 2026. Original document. $129,184,724 to Barrie through the Development Charge Reduction Program, announced September 28 after the 50% cut made the City eligible. CompassNews (October 1) reports "up to $129.2 million from the federal and provincial governments" for cutting charges in half for three years. Retrieved October 7, 2026.

Does Barrie regulate short-term rentals like Airbnb?

Not as their own category. Barrie has no licence, registration or cap for short-term rentals; they fall under the same rules as any other home. The zoning by-law's nearest use is the bed and breakfast, which in residential zones must be in a detached, owner-occupied house with at most three guest rooms (five in the City Centre). A March 2025 staff report, using the provincial tourism ministry's data, counted 560 short-term rentals in May 2024 and 503 listings that December. Council's response, on April 9, 2025, was to send the report back to staff "to investigate a complaint-based enforcement model with options related to zoning and Official Plan"; no report back appears in the minutes this site has read.

What Barrie does do is tax short stays. A 4% Municipal Accommodation Tax on stays under 30 days began on January 1, 2019, was extended to online platforms such as Airbnb that June, and is now 6%; the City's share goes to its Tourism Reserve.

One federal rule turns on what the City decides. Since 2024 the Income Tax Act denies expense deductions for a "non-compliant" short-term rental: one the municipality does not permit at that location, or one without the registration, licence or permit the municipality requires. Barrie requires none, so that part of the rule has nothing to apply to here; a registration system would change that.

Sources: Comprehensive Zoning By-law 2009-141 (consolidated to July 31, 2026), City of Barrie. Original document. Defines "Data Processing Centre" as "a building used for the input, processing and printing of computerized data" and permits it in the C1-C4 commercial zones (Table 6.2) and the BP, LI, HI and GI industrial zones (Table 7.2); site-specific provision 13.3.40 (By-law 2011-066) sets parking for 625 Veterans Drive while that zone "contains only a Data Processing Centre". Retrieved October 7, 2026. Short-term rentals in Barrie impact housing availability, hotel industry: Riepma, BarrieToday, dated March 24, 2025. Original document. Reports the March 2025 staff report: the provincial tourism ministry identified 560 short-term rentals in Barrie in May 2024, and 503 listings in December 2024. Retrieved October 7, 2026. General Committee Minutes, April 9, 2025, City of Barrie — General Committee, dated April 9, 2025. Original document. 25-G-061: the March 26, 2025 report on regulating short-term rentals referred back to staff "to investigate a complaint-based enforcement model with options related to zoning and Official Plan"; adopted by council the same day. Retrieved August 9, 2026. Municipal Accommodation Tax, Tourism Barrie. Original document. A 4% tax from January 1, 2019 on hotel, motel and short-term stays under 30 days; extended to internet accommodation platforms (council, February 11, 2019; Airbnb remitting from June 1, 2019); raised to 6% by council on March 27, 2024. Retrieved October 7, 2026. Operating Budget and Financial Overview — 2026 Business Plan, City of Barrie. Original document. Retrieved August 9, 2026. Income Tax Act, s. 67.7 (non-compliant short-term rentals), Government of Canada (Justice Laws). Original document. Denies expense deductions for a "non-compliant short-term rental": one the municipality does not permit at that location, or one that lacks the registration, licence or permit the municipality requires. Retrieved October 7, 2026.

What does renting cost in Barrie?

Two official measures, two geographies, kept apart. CMHC's October survey of purpose-built apartments across the metropolitan area shows the average two-bedroom rent rising from $1,393 (2020) to $1,755 (2025) — up 26% in five years — while the vacancy rate more than doubled from 1.6% (2021) to 4.3% (2025), a statistically significant loosening. And the 2021 census, for the city proper: median tenant shelter cost $1,510 a month, with 42.5% of tenant households spending 30% or more of income on shelter (owners: 19.3%) and 26.1% of tenants in core housing need.

1-bedroom 2-bedroom

CMHC October survey, Barrie CMA (which includes Innisfil and Springwater), purpose-built private apartments. These are average rents across occupied and vacant units, not asking rents — a listing today runs far higher: the July 2026 Rentals.ca/Urbanation industry report (an industry source, not official) put Barrie asking rents at $1,874 for a one-bedroom and $2,164 for two. Vacancy, same survey: 2.1% (2020), 1.6% (2021), 2.1% (2022), 2.6% (2023), 3.4% (2024), 4.3% (2025).

Sources: CMHC Rental Market Survey data tables — Barrie CMA, October 2020–2025, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Original document. Six Octobers (2020 to 2025) of average rents and vacancy rates for purpose-built rental apartments in the Barrie CMA, which includes Innisfil and Springwater. These are average rents across all units, occupied and vacant. They are not asking rents for vacant units, and the two cannot be read as one series. Retrieved August 17, 2026. Census Profile, 2021 Census of Population — Barrie (City and CMA), Statistics Canada, dated May 11, 2021. Original document. Census day was May 11, 2021. Figures for both the city and the census metropolitan area (CMA), which also takes in Innisfil and Springwater: 147,829 and 212,856 people. Retrieved August 9, 2026.

What gets built in Barrie, and why the counts differ

The provincial target counts the city; the construction data counts the metropolitan area, which reaches past the city limits into Innisfil and Springwater. They answer different questions, so this site never adds them together — but the CMA series is the best available picture of whether the cranes are moving:

Starts Completions

Dwelling units, Barrie CMA — a larger geography than the city the provincial target measures. Annual sums of CMHC's published monthly figures; the record, and the lag between a start and a completion, are on housing starts.

Two limits on everything above, stated plainly. Nothing retrieved for this page explains why 2024 fell short of its target: interest rates, labour and material costs and the pace of private financing are not municipal decisions, and no document apportions the cause. A candidate who says the shortfall is entirely council's doing, or entirely not, is going past the record. And population — the other half of every housing argument — is at population, on the same geography caution.

What the candidates have said

Verbatim, attributed, dated. Every passage below is copied exactly from an archived copy of its source — a campaign website, a news article, or the candidate's own social media post — and links to it. Nothing is paraphrased by this site and no for-or-against label is applied: read the words, follow the link. Passages from news coverage say whether they are the candidate quoted, the reporter's reported speech, or the reporter's characterisation.

Compiled in a research batch dated September 11, 2026, reviewed by hand before publication on October 8, 2026. Passages are capped at 60 words and listed newest first. Campaign pages are undated, so only the retrieval date is shown for them, and they sort by it. A candidate with nothing located on an issue is listed as such, with the date their sources were checked; a race is shown only once every candidate in it has been checked. See methodology.

Mayor

Alex Nuttall

Complete 800 affordable housing units.

Source: alexnuttall.ca, Commitments page, 'Homes and affordability', item 05 '800 affordable homes'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. inferred site
Reduced development charges by 50% for eligible home ownership projects in partnership with federal and provincial governments.

Source: alexnuttall.ca, Term in Review page, 'Housing', fourth item. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. inferred site

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Prioritized Barrie residents for Barrie affordable housing, including young people and seniors.

Source: alexnuttall.ca, Term in Review page, 'Housing', second item. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. inferred site
By cutting residential development charges by 50 per cent, we are taking real action to increase the supply of housing and give Barrie families more opportunities to own a home,

Source: As quoted in CompassNews, Barrie cuts residential development charges by 50 per cent, September 25, 2026 (paragraph 7). Read October 7, 2026. news
Nuttall said this council has also added 800 future affordable housing units through incentives and the County of Simcoe.

Source: As reported by barrietoday.com, BARRIE ELECTION: Mayoral candidates asked about top issues facing city, August 31, 2026 (paragraph 6). Read September 11, 2026. news reported

The record shows: The City reports its affordable-housing Community Improvement Plan has supported 248 affordable units since 2020; the site holds no City count of "future" units. What council controls in housing.
And I will help people who are homeless find dignified housing – no one should live in a tent in Barrie.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, BARRIE ELECTION: Mayoral candidates asked about top issues facing city, August 31, 2026 (paragraph 7, second quotation, last sentence). Read September 11, 2026. news
He also framed affordability as a dual challenge – housing costs and access to local jobs – saying the city has reduced development charges to spur housing construction and is working to expand industrial lands to attract employers.

Source: As reported by CompassNews, Nuttall kicks off re-election campaign in Barrie, May 6, 2026 (paragraph 14). Read September 10, 2026. news reported

Tanya Saari

Before supporting additional development charge reductions or waivers, I will require a public analysis showing the cost, the expected benefit, what taxpayers may have to absorb, and what results are expected in return.

Source: tanyasaari.ca, Commitments page, Commitment Four, under 'Making sure growth pays its fair share'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site
For City-controlled housing programs like the Community Investment Program (CIP), I will push for affordability measures that look at people’s incomes, not simply whether a unit is priced below the current market.

Source: tanyasaari.ca, Commitments page, Commitment Four, under 'Defining affordability honestly'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site

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Saari also raised concerns about whether the 50% reduction will be passed on to homebuyers.

Source: As reported by Frequency News, Barrie Council Reduces Development Charges by 50%; Recognizes General Manager of Access Barrie, September 28, 2026 (paragraph 6, second sentence). Read October 7, 2026. news reported
More housing, but with the roads, transit, parks, and services to match so growth makes life better, not harder, for people already here.

Source: tanyasaari.ca, Home page, Priorities, under 'Smart Growth'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site
If we want fewer encampments, we need to give people somewhere else to go. That means more focus on permanent and supportive housing and working with the county, province, health-care providers and community organizations to make that happen.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, BARRIE ELECTION: State of emergency debated after full year in effect, September 10, 2026 (paragraph 6). Read September 11, 2026. news
If we want fewer encampments, we need to give people somewhere else to go. I want us putting more of our energy into long-term solutions that actually move people out of homelessness, particularly supportive housing.

Source: As quoted in CompassNews, Mayoral candidates’ visions for homelessness & affordability, August 28, 2026 (paragraph 16). Read September 11, 2026. news
We’re growing. We need more housing; we want new investment, new jobs

Source: As quoted in CompassNews, Second candidate jumps into Barrie mayoral race, July 9, 2026 (paragraph 15). Read September 10, 2026. news

Russell Tighe

I support approaches that increase supply, reduce barriers and protect dignity.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Tighe says 'lived experience' has provided insight into system gaps, September 30, 2026 (paragraph 9, third sentence). Read October 7, 2026. news
Bridging the gap between low income and affordable housing through removing stigmatism surrounding this crisis.

Source: As quoted in Simcoe.com, There are four candidates running for mayor of Barrie. Here's why they're running, what their priorities are, and why you should care, September 13, 2026 (under 'Russell Tighe', 'What are your priorities?', first sentence). Read October 7, 2026. news

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Tighe said there needs to be a good place to live for everyone.

Source: As reported by barrietoday.com, BARRIE ELECTION: Mayoral candidates asked about top issues facing city, August 31, 2026 (paragraph 18). Read September 11, 2026. news reported
We need to use every opportunity and gather more ideas to support low-income families, so a choice is never made to feed themselves or have shelter.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, BARRIE ELECTION: Mayoral candidates asked about top issues facing city, August 31, 2026 (paragraph 19, second quotation). Read September 11, 2026. news
Affordable housing is likely his biggest issue.

Source: As reported by barrietoday.com, Fourth candidate for Barrie mayor emerges, August 15, 2026 (paragraph 8). Read September 11, 2026. news context
The housing initiative is probably my biggest one, I want to say,

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Fourth candidate for Barrie mayor emerges, August 15, 2026 (paragraph 9, first quotation). Read September 11, 2026. news
The low-income housing list is really something that’s been on my case for a while.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Fourth candidate for Barrie mayor emerges, August 15, 2026 (paragraph 9, second quotation). Read September 11, 2026. news

No published statement on this issue located for one candidate. No campaign website on the City's list: Kay Sayer. Indexed news coverage checked October 7, 2026: none quoting them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.

Ward 1

Shaughna Ainsworth

Barrie is growing fast — but growth must work for existing residents, not just developers. I will work to ensure new development respects the character of Ward 1 and delivers the infrastructure our community needs.

Source: ainsworth4ward1.ca, Platform page, section '02 Responsible Growth', intro paragraph. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site
To be honest, I am not a cheerleader for the ‘bigger the better’ crowd, but I understand progress and opportunity and sometimes even need never stops knocking. I do stand firmly, however, that growth must pay for itself, and costs cannot be factored into the existing home tax levy.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Ainsworth running on safety, accountability in Ward 1, August 25, 2026 (paragraph 7, after the 'Responsible growth:' label). Read September 11, 2026. news

Brent Bowser

More housing options and steadier costs, so young families and seniors can afford to stay.

Source: brentbowser4ward1.com, Home page, 'Priorities', under 'Housing & affordability'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site
Barrie needs rental housing. We also need rental properties to be safe, properly maintained and respectful of the neighbourhoods they’re part of.

Source: brentbowser4ward1.com, Rental properties post, opening section, fifth line. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site
I am open to looking at additional measures if we identify a gap in the current system, including whether some form of proactive rental-property inspection would improve conditions. But I don’t want to introduce another program simply because another municipality has one.

Source: brentbowser4ward1.com, Rental properties post, under 'Where Do We Go From Here?'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site

Hafiz Rahman

I want to advocate for supportive housing initiatives that provide people with a safe place to live while connecting them with mental health services, nutritious meals, life-skills programs, and community support.

Source: votehafiz.net, Home page, under 'Supporting Mental Health with Stable Housing', third bullet. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

Pauline Stevenson

Barrie is growing. The question isn’t whether we grow, but how and where we grow.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Absentee landlords, speeding among top issues for Ward 1 candidate, September 13, 2026 (paragraph 5, first two sentences). Read October 7, 2026. news
I will make sure development respects the character of our neighbourhoods and that infrastructure and services are in place to support growth.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Absentee landlords, speeding among top issues for Ward 1 candidate, September 13, 2026 (paragraph 6, first sentence). Read October 7, 2026. news

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The question isn’t whether Barrie will grow. The question is how and where we grow.

Source: stevenson4ward1.ca, Home page, priority 01 'Responsible Growth and Development', first paragraph. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 11, 2026. site
Residents must have a meaningful voice in decisions that impact their neighbourhood. Development must make sense, and when it doesn’t, I will be a strong advocate for change.

Source: stevenson4ward1.ca, Home page, priority 01 'Responsible Growth and Development', third paragraph. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 11, 2026. site
I will also pursue an active partnership with Georgian College and look at best practices from other post-secondary communities to tackle recurring issues related to student housing.

Source: stevenson4ward1.ca, Home page, priority 02 'Well-Maintained Neighbourhoods and Responsible Landlords', third paragraph. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 11, 2026. site

No published statement on this issue located for 2 candidates. Campaign website did not answer when checked (October 7, 2026): Stefano Agostino. No campaign website on the City's list: Christian Cadera. Indexed news coverage checked October 7, 2026: none quoting any of them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.

Ward 2

Frank Casera

Once they're gone, they're gone. Protecting them means making thoughtful decisions about how and where our city grows and realizing what we might lose as well as what we might gain.

Source: buildbarriebetter.com, Pride page, paragraph beginning 'The unique places'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site
We need to be thoughtful about how we manage change, make good decisions and make sure our success works for everyone.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Ward 2 candidate running on 'show up or hush up' principle, September 25, 2026 (paragraph 11, second quoted sentence). Read October 7, 2026. news

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We can make better use of planning and zoning tools to encourage housing, consider partnerships that create more accessible and affordable options, and support effective programs where they can make a measurable difference.

Source: buildbarriebetter.com, Dignity page, paragraph beginning 'We can use the tools we have'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site
Growth should build on what makes our communities special and not simply add more density them.

Source: buildbarriebetter.com, Pride page, paragraph after 'That means thoughtful planning'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

Shanicka Edwards

Growth must bring better housing, thriving businesses and safer streets while respecting the neighbourhoods that make our community special. Most importantly maintaining the integrity of our oldest streets.

Source: www.voteedwards.ca, Stats & Solutions page, under 'Barrie is Rapidly Growing.', closing paragraph. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site
Barrie needs more housing, but growth must be thoughtful. We need housing that is affordable, accessible, and appropriate for different stages of life.

Source: www.voteedwards.ca, Compass News Responses page, answer to 'How do you balance the need for new housing'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site
Building more housing matters, but approval alone are not success. We need homes that working families, seniors, young people and people living with disabilities can actually afford.

Source: www.voteedwards.ca, Stats & Solutions page, under 'Thousands of homes are proposed but affordability remains the question'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

Craig Nixon

Ward 2 is growing. I will ensure new development is well planned, protects our waterfront and neighbourhood character, and delivers the infrastructure and services our community needs.

Source: nix2026.ca, Ward 2 Priorities page, under 'Managing Growth Responsibly'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

Ajmal Noushahi

Review policies for secondary suites, home offices and other legal home-based uses. Reduce unnecessary delays while maintaining inspections and safety standards.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Barrie must find ways to generate more revenue, says Ward 2 candidate, September 23, 2026 (paragraph 9, after 'Simplify approvals.'). Read October 7, 2026. news
Help residents use their properties for home-based businesses, second suites, and permits to earn more — and fight for genuinely affordable housing.

Source: voteforajmal.ca, Platform page, under 'Home Business & Affordable Housing'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

Tracy Strohm

Many of the developers are sitting on projects, leaving land vacant and continuing to flip their properties to increase the profits. Each time they are flipped, concessions are requested.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Change needed to fix downtown Barrie, says Ward 2 candidate, September 21, 2026 (paragraph 8, first two sentences). Read October 7, 2026. news
We need to put limits and fines on holding lands for too long.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Change needed to fix downtown Barrie, says Ward 2 candidate, September 21, 2026 (paragraph 8, third sentence). Read October 7, 2026. news
Strohm has been critical of past development decisions in the downtown core and said the city needs stronger policies to ensure that approved projects move forward in a timely manner.

Source: As reported by CompassNews, Ward 2 race heats up, June 24, 2026 (paragraph 18). Read September 10, 2026. news reported

Ward 3

Amy Courser

It means supporting responsible development without sacrificing green space, neighbourhood character or the infrastructure residents rely on.

Source: amy4ward3.com, About page, under 'People First, Community Always', line 27, second sentence. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 11, 2026. site
I focus on safer, walkable neighbourhoods, protecting parks, green spaces and the environment, supporting responsible growth and housing people can actually afford.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Ward 3 candidate vows to be 'independent voice' on Barrie council, August 31, 2026 (paragraph 7, second sentence). Read September 11, 2026. news

Ben Hughes

I believe growth should be judged by whether it makes Barrie stronger—not simply by population totals, development activity or additional revenue.

Source: benhughesbarrie.ca, Growth & Development position page, first paragraph after the summary, second sentence. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site
I believe growth decisions should consider both the people arriving in Barrie and the people who already live here. New areas need proper services, while established neighbourhoods and existing infrastructure must continue to receive attention and investment.

Source: benhughesbarrie.ca, Growth & Development position page, under 'Planning for Existing and Future Residents'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site
When housing, property taxes and everyday necessities become increasingly difficult to afford, the effects are felt throughout the city. Financial pressure can contribute to housing insecurity, homelessness, crime and greater demand on community services.

Source: benhughesbarrie.ca, Affordability page, paragraph 1, sentences 1-2. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

Ryan Rijo

As a homeowner, I understand the challenges facing working families today and how important it is to have a city where people can afford to put down roots and build a life.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Baseball helps shape Ward 3 candidate's attitude toward teamwork, September 4, 2026 (paragraph 4). Read September 11, 2026. news

No published statement on this issue located for one candidate. No campaign website on the City's list: Bryan Jones. Indexed news coverage checked October 7, 2026: none quoting them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.

Ward 4

Iradat Ahmad

Sometimes we tend to overlook residents and quality of life in our plans for growth

Source: As quoted in CompassNews, Ward 4 candidates focus on safety, roads, growth and affordability, September 12, 2026 (paragraph 25 (section 'Traffic calming and road safety')). Read October 7, 2026. news

Lori Galeazza

Galeazza also wants greater communication between planners, developers and residents as new projects are proposed.

Source: As reported by CompassNews, Ward 4 candidates focus on safety, roads, growth and affordability, September 12, 2026 (paragraph 21, first sentence (section 'Speaking up about problems')). Read October 7, 2026. news reported
'I'll be the squeaky wheel at every development meeting, demanding growth that's planned for the people who already live here,' says Lori Galeazza

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Listening, problem-solving 'second nature' to Ward 4 candidate, September 5, 2026 (Feed summary (article page not archived)). Read September 11, 2026. news
We need smart, well-planned growth.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Listening, problem-solving 'second nature' to Ward 4 candidate, September 5, 2026 (paragraph 10). Read September 11, 2026. news

Arif Khan

I support growth, but only with clear checks and balances. Every project must demonstrate that it will improve the area and include the infrastructure and services it requires.

Source: arifforward4.ca, Priorities, 03 'Responsible Growth', under 'My Plan'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. inferred site
Barrie lost sight of the fundamentals by focusing on unit targets and embracing the flawed belief that growth will pay for itself. Mapleview construction and this year’s record snowfall exposed the consequences of poor planning, including compromised safety and avoidable cost overruns.

Source: arifforward4.ca, Priorities, 03 'Responsible Growth', under 'What Residents are saying'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. inferred site
While ensuring development pays for itself should be an objective, it is vital to ensure that our city's growth aligns with both provincial mandates and our local priorities.

Source: arifforward4.ca, Home page, under 'PRIORITIES', item 02 'Responsible growth', first paragraph. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 11, 2026. inferred site

No published statement on this issue located for 2 candidates. No campaign website on the City's list: Matthew Corbett, Patrick Harriott-Stewart. Indexed news coverage checked October 7, 2026: none quoting any of them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.

Ward 5

Duarte Da Silva

49 Miller Drive: Getting development right for the neighbourhood around it, not just the developer’s timeline.

Source: duarteforward5.ca, Home page, 'The Major 5 in Ward 5', third bullet. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site
He also wants the city to carefully consider proposed development, including plans involving 49 Miller Dr. and weigh potential economic benefits against the interests of existing and future Ward 5 residents.

Source: As reported by CompassNews, Ward 5 race pits experience against change, September 4, 2026 (paragraph 21). Read September 11, 2026. news reported

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While growth is certainly important in attracting the right business development opportunities for Ward 5 and Barrie at large, it should never be at the expense of the quality of life of Barrie

Source: As quoted in CompassNews, Ward 5 race pits experience against change, September 4, 2026 (paragraph 23). Read September 11, 2026. news
The idea that we cannot responsibly develop Barrie while protecting our lands and the interests of citizens is simply false. It’s all about transparency and robust public consultation, in partnership with people-centric developers.

Source: As quoted in CompassNews, Ward 5 race pits experience against change, September 4, 2026 (paragraph 24). Read September 11, 2026. news

Robert Thomson

✔ Nearly $100 million secured for housing, infrastructure, and community safety initiatives

Source: thomsonward5.ca, Accomplishments page, 'Housing, Growth and Investment', first check item. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site
✔ Supporting the Province's goal of building 23,000 new homes in Barrie by 2031

Source: thomsonward5.ca, Accomplishments page, 'Housing, Growth and Investment', second check item. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

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Thomson said Barrie needs more housing and economic development, but not at the expense of established neighbourhoods or residents’ quality of life.

Source: As reported by CompassNews, Ward 5 race pits experience against change, September 4, 2026 (paragraph 12). Read September 11, 2026. news reported
We can accommodate growth while protecting the neighbourhoods that make Ward 5 a great place to live

Source: As quoted in CompassNews, Ward 5 race pits experience against change, September 4, 2026 (paragraph 13). Read September 11, 2026. news

Ward 6

Nasar George Nader

That’s why we need to create a solution for housing and mental health, so we can save people’s lives.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Ward 6 candidate hopes to 'bring residents together' in Barrie, August 27, 2026 (paragraph 12). Read September 11, 2026. news

Nigussie Nigussie

176 -unit affordable housing project approved

Source: www.votenigussie.ca, Results page, under 'Housing & Growth', bullet 1. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

Christel Pena

Housing affordability requires a balanced approach. We need more housing options including starter homes, townhomes, rental units, and housing for seniors, while ensuring new development is accompanied by roads, parks, schools, and community services.

Source: votechristel.ca, FAQs page, first answer to 'How can we manage growth without losing what makes Barrie special?'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site
Growth is inevitable. Poor planning is not.

Source: votechristel.ca, FAQs page, second answer to 'How can we manage growth without losing what makes Barrie special?', first line. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site
Ward 6 residents consistently tell me they want responsible growth that protects neighbourhood character, green spaces, and quality of life. Future development should support complete communities where people can live, work, shop, and enjoy recreation without overwhelming existing infrastructure.

Source: votechristel.ca, FAQs page, second answer to 'How can we manage growth without losing what makes Barrie special?', second paragraph. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. site

Ward 7

Gary Harvey

$80M invested in housing through DC waivers

Source: garyharvey.ca, Home page, under 'THE FIVE POINT PLAN', 'AFFORDABLE PLACE TO LIVE', fourth bullet. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 11, 2026. site
779 affordable homes approved

Source: garyharvey.ca, Home page, under 'THE FIVE POINT PLAN', 'AFFORDABLE PLACE TO LIVE', fifth bullet. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 11, 2026. site

The record shows: The City reports its affordable-housing Community Improvement Plan has supported 248 affordable units since 2020; the site holds no City count of units "approved". What council controls in housing.

Michael Lewis

How can the city provide affordable housing if we cannot choose the lots to build them upon?

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Homelessness, taxes among Ward 7's candidate's main issues, September 2, 2026 (paragraph 9). Read September 11, 2026. news

Ward 8

Samina Alim

Affordability varies from person to person. I support practical solutions that make stable housing more accessible and help people experiencing homelessness move into shelter, supportive or permanent homes.

Source: saminaalim.ca, Home page, 'My priorities for Ward 8', under '03 Housing, homelessness & addiction', introduction. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived October 7, 2026. searched site

Jim Harris

“If there is one issue that deserves continued attention from the next council, it is attainable and affordable housing,”

Source: As quoted in CompassNews, Ward 8 candidates focus on growth, safety and a changing city, September 25, 2026 (paragraph 11). Read October 7, 2026. news
“Not housing in the abstract, but homes that a young family starting out, a senior on a fixed income, or a worker trying to get a foothold in Barrie can afford.”

Source: As quoted in CompassNews, Ward 8 candidates focus on growth, safety and a changing city, September 25, 2026 (paragraph 12). Read October 7, 2026. news

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On development, Harris said growth should enhance rather than overwhelm existing communities.

Source: As reported by CompassNews, Ward 8 candidates focus on growth, safety and a changing city, September 25, 2026 (paragraph 13, second sentence). Read October 7, 2026. news reported
Advocating for more affordable and supportive housing funding from provincial and federal levels of government and exploring innovations that reduce housing costs will be needed to ensure Barrie has affordable housing for all residents.

Source: votejimforward8.ca, Key Issues page, under 'Affordable & Supportive Housing'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

Amanda Fellows

Barrie is growing quickly, and I’m not opposed to growth. But I think we need to ask harder questions about how and where that growth happens.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, 'Harder questions' must be asked about Barrie’s growth, says Ward 8 newcomer, September 16, 2026 (paragraph 5). Read October 7, 2026. news
More affordable and diverse housing options, including supportive and non-market housing.

Source: amandafellows.ca, Home page, 'My Platform', under 'PEOPLE-FIRST LEADERSHIP', first bullet. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

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A stronger focus on housing options that people at different incomes and stages of life can actually afford.

Source: amandafellows.ca, Home page, 'My Platform', under 'THOUGHTFUL GROWTH', fifth bullet. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site
Barrie is going to grow, and Ward 8 will be part of that growth. I support development that adds needed housing and contributes positively to our city, but every development needs to be considered within the bigger picture.

Source: amandafellows.ca, Home page, 'My Platform', under 'THOUGHTFUL GROWTH', paragraph 2. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

Ward 9

Asmar Naveed

I support adding housing and accommodating Barrie's growth, but development needs to be accompanied by the infrastructure required to support it.

Source: asmarforward9.com, Ward 9 Forward page, item 2 'Infrastructure That Keeps Pace With Growth'. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site
This is a substantial development for the neighbourhood. As it moves forward, I'll continue following the project, including issues such as traffic, parking, neighbourhood impact and infrastructure, and provide updates here when new information becomes available.

Source: asmarforward9.com, 'What's Happening in Ward 9' page, '468-Unit Rental Development' entry, 'What this means' paragraph. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

Dave Weingarten

There are appropriate ways for Barrie to scale into a larger city, but not by over-developing our already congested downtown, and not by placing that financial burden on residents who are already struggling to get by.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Councillors have power to keep Barrie affordable, says Ward 9 candidate, September 7, 2026 (paragraph 10, second sentence). Read September 11, 2026. news

No published statement on this issue located for 2 candidates. Campaign website read, nothing located on this issue (October 7, 2026): Norm Costello, Sergio Morales. Indexed news coverage checked October 7, 2026: none quoting any of them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.

Ward 10

Bryn Hamilton

Approved 779 new affordable housing units

Source: brynforbarrie.ca, Home page, 'Delivering For Barrie' list, eighth item. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

The record shows: The City reports its affordable-housing Community Improvement Plan has supported 248 affordable units since 2020; the site holds no City count of units "approved". What council controls in housing.

Georgy Kapustin

We need new housing, but growth should not simply be about meeting development numbers. Infrastructure, roads, public transit, services and neighbourhood quality all need to keep pace.

Source: As quoted in barrietoday.com, Ward 10 candidate wants more thought put into Barrie's rapid growth, September 15, 2026 (paragraph 5, last two sentences). Read October 7, 2026. news
Barrie needs housing and investment, but growth decisions must account for transportation capacity, public services, neighbourhood impact, and the real cost of infrastructure.

Source: georgyk.com, Priorities page, under 'Responsible Growth', introductory paragraph. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

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Establish a rental property licensing program. Rental licensing should hold landlords accountable, reduce disruptive temporary rentals, and protect family-suitable homes.

Source: georgyk.com, Priorities page, under 'Responsible Growth', fifth bullet. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site
Require food and grocery services inside medium- and high-density developments. Everyday needs should be available within the building or development site to reduce app-based food delivery traffic and short car trips.

Source: georgyk.com, Priorities page, under 'Responsible Growth', first bullet. Page. The page is undated; retrieved and archived September 10, 2026. site

No published statement on this issue located for one candidate. No campaign website on the City's list: William Cadeau. Indexed news coverage checked October 7, 2026: none quoting them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.

School board trustees

None of the 19 trustee candidates across 7 races has a located statement on this issue; trustees do not decide it. Their statements are on the education page, and each candidate's own page says what was checked.

Common questions

Did Barrie meet its provincial housing target?

It did in 2023 and did not in 2024, on the province's own dataset: 1,716 units against a 1,687 target in 2023 (exceeded), then 1,459 against 1,917 in 2024 — 76.11%, marked not met. The province has not published a 2025 figure.

What is Barrie's housing pledge?

In February 2023 the City pledged to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to facilitate the construction of 23,000 housing units by 2031. The verb matters: a municipality approves, builders build — the City's own pledge page notes about 30% of units approved since 2015 have been constructed.

How much is rent in Barrie?

CMHC's October 2025 survey puts the average purpose-built two-bedroom rent in the Barrie metropolitan area at $1,755 and a one-bedroom at $1,582 — averages across occupied and vacant units, not asking rents. A listing today runs higher: the July 2026 Rentals.ca/Urbanation industry report put Barrie asking rents at $1,874 for a one-bedroom and $2,164 for two.