Municipalities across Quebec are calling on all provincial political parties to give serious consideration to their pressing concerns on homelessness, housing and infrastructure as the province’s election campaign draws near. The coordinated appeal, issued on Friday, seeks to ensure that local issues are placed at the forefront of party platforms before voters head to the polls.
Local officials say the timing of the appeal is critical because the provincial election campaign is set to begin shortly. With parties preparing their messages and policy proposals, municipal leaders want to influence the debate early, rather than after campaign narratives have solidified. They argue that without direct input from cities and towns, the unique challenges faced by communities risk being overlooked.
The municipalities’ request focuses on three core areas. First, homelessness remains a growing problem in many urban and rural locales, prompting councils to ask parties for concrete, funded strategies. Second, housing affordability and supply are highlighted as urgent priorities, with officials urging parties to commit resources to new construction and rental support. Third, aging and overburdened infrastructure—from roads to water systems—has been identified as a barrier to economic growth and quality of life, leading municipalities to call for clear investment plans.
Provincial parties have not yet responded publicly to the municipalities’ appeal, but the collective voice of local governments adds pressure to address these topics in upcoming campaign speeches and policy documents. By engaging directly with parties before the campaign launch, municipalities hope to shape a platform that reflects the day‑to‑day realities of Quebec’s residents.
If successful, the push could lead to more detailed party commitments on homelessness mitigation, housing initiatives and infrastructure renewal, aligning provincial policy with the needs expressed by municipalities throughout the province.