Olivia Chow

Chow seconded the motion to rename Yonge-Dundas Square as Sankofa Square. The choice of name, process and costs prompted prolonged controversy; in 2026, the matter remained an electoral issue.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

Chow's first budget imposed a combined residential property tax increase of 9.5% in 2024, the largest since amalgamation, followed by a further increase in 2025. In 2026, the increase was reduced to 2.2%, while opponents continued to target the cumulative rises.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

Toronto's bill for the 2026 World Cup and its funding arrangements attracted criticism. In 2026, the City largely abandoned a $10 fan festival admission charge following backlash, while Chow defended reselling thousands of tickets to businesses at a profit to reduce the net cost.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

After months of a gradual approach, the City cleared the Dufferin Grove encampment with security staff and police present. Some residents refused the places offered and condemned the operation.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

Chow proposed giving police less than the requested funding increase; the Police Chief warned of risks to public safety, and a public campaign followed. Chow eventually supported the full requested funding.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

Tens of thousands of homeowners received or disputed Vacant Home Tax notices despite occupying their homes or having submitted declarations. Chow apologised and had the process changed.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

A proposal to charge for stormwater management based on impermeable surfaces triggered significant national and international backlash. Public consultations were cancelled; Chow defended the objective of improving funding for flood management.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

Chow refused to join mayors calling on Doug Ford to invoke the notwithstanding clause to facilitate the removal of homeless encampments, prompting strong opposition from supporters of a tougher approach.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

A complaint accused Chow of mishandling a potential conflict of interest involving a policy director formerly associated with RideFairTO in a matter concerning ride-hailing licences. Following an investigation, the Integrity Commissioner concluded that appropriate safeguards were in place and that no conflict existed.

Attribution

Directly implicated

Following the Hamas attacks, Chow published a message also acknowledging Palestinian pain and losses. The post triggered an immediate backlash; she deleted it and explained that it had caused confusion and hurt.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

Chow and Jack Layton were criticised for living in a housing co-operative despite their high household income. They paid market rent, and a municipal investigation ultimately cleared them of wrongdoing.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated