Message from the Mayor by Mayor Josh Morgan mayor@london.ca 519-661-4920
an all-time record 22,890 new units of housing last year, and our Office-to-Residential conversion program is in the process of transforming more than 100,000 square feet of unused commercial space into new units in the downtown. • London Police have partnered with mental health and addictions workers to curb blatant public drug use, offering people a way forward while ensuring our shared public spaces remain safe for all. More than 400 highly supportive housing units have now either been developed or are included in endorsed proposals, while London was also awarded a Homeless and Addiction Recovery Treatment hub by the Ontario Government. • Less than a year after making the single-greatest public safety investment in London’s history, we’re already seeing progress. Response times are faster, there’s been a 48% reduction in gun violence, and for the first time in over 10 years, London’s Crime Severity Index is below the national average. We expect even greater improvements this year. We know the work isn’t done – far from it. But it’s important to recognize the progress we’re making together, step by step. I’ll continue to push forward on the priorities that matter to you, and I encourage you to stay connected. Contact me at: mayor@london.ca with your comments or questions, or follow along on your favourite social media platform.
As the days grow longer and the warmth of spring settles in, I hope you’re finding time to enjoy the season and look ahead to a great summer. It’s been a busy and productive stretch at London City Hall, and I wanted to take a moment to share a few highlights of the work we’ve been doing on your behalf:
• The London Economic Response Team has been launched to support local businesses, and safeguard our economy in response to U.S. tariffs. As Mayor, I’ve also collaborated with the Prime Minister and Finance Minister, and joined Premier Ford in Washington, D.C. to advocate against tariffs directly to U.S. lawmakers, businesses, and other American stakeholders. • Housing starts in London are up 101% year over year, the third biggest increase in all of Canada. Council also approved
London City Council approves 2025 – 2035 ReconciliAction Plan On May 13, 2025, London City Council approved the 2025-2035 ReconciliAction Plan that commits the City to work alongside the Indigenous community to implement 155 actions addressing the impacts of colonialism, and build greater equity across muni- cipal programs and services. Key strategies and actions include enhancing ac- cess to essential services such as housing, trans- portation, and social services, increasing Indigenous representation in employment opportunities within the City’s workforce, increasing Indigenous repre- sentation in all levels of municipal decision-making, strengthening intergovernmental relations with First Nations, and fostering collaboration between the City of London and Indigenous organizations. Wrote Mayor Josh Morgan, “On behalf of London City Council, it is an honour to share this message of hope and renewal as we deepen our commitment to reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities in London. At the heart of the City of London’s mission is a pledge to ensure that every resident has the opportunity to thrive. Reconciliation is not just a goal—it is a necessity in building a more inclusive, equitable, and united London.” Information from London.ca/ReconciliAction.
City of London 2025-2035 ReconciliAction Plan
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Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • June 2025 • Page 3
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