Visitor parking should not be used by corporate landlords to make a profit. That’s why I joined to support MPP Jennie Stevens on her motion calling on the Ford government to ban paid visitor parking in multi-residential rental buildings.
This growing practice is hurting seniors, low-income tenants, and anyone who relies on support from family, friends, or home care workers. Landlords like Starlight and Homestead Land Holdings are stripping away guest parking and replacing it with meters, charging exorbitant rates for what used to be a basic service.
Milton Parissis, chair of the Summerhill Tenant Association, spoke powerfully at our press conference about the impact of this policy. At his building, Starlight has eliminated half the guest parking and started charging steep hourly fees. As a result, PSWs and even pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart are refusing to visit unless someone pays for parking. That means residents must cover the cost or go without the care and medication they need.
No one should have to pay to receive home care, get medication delivered, or see loved ones at their own home.
Do you live in a building with paid visitor parking? We want to hear from you.
Email [email protected] or call 416-535-7206.