The increasing challenges across Ontario were on the agenda yesterday, Monday, as local leaders arrived in Ottawa for the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) conference.

Thousands attended the conference, representing 444 municipal governments with over 2000 people present.

The main issues included the opioid crisis, extreme weather, and rising homelessness.

Karen Redman, chair of the Waterloo Region, said, "Property tax cannot fund the infrastructure costs and the increasing demand for municipal services. We need a new deal. A new funding framework is essential to ensure the future financial viability of our organizations, cities, towns, and regions."

Municipalities also requested a meeting with the province to discuss how to fund and deliver public services in Ontario more effectively.

Leaders say their budgets are strained due to rising costs associated with homelessness, mental health, and addiction.

Colin Best, AMO President and Halton Regional Councillor, stated, "There are about 1400 homeless camps in Ontario in 2023, and last year, more than 2500 people died due to opioid use."