Josh Matlow
A prominent progressive voice on Toronto City Council, consistently advocating for increased social services, transit reliability, tenant protections, and democratic accountability. He is frequently critical of mayoral powers, provincial overreach, and budget priorities that favour policing over community services, often dissenting on procedural and transparency issues.
Strongly supports tenant protections (RentSafeTO), affordable housing requirements, and the legalization of rooming houses. Often critiques development proposals that lack sufficient affordability or community benefits.
A vocal advocate for transit reliability and expansion, often challenging delays (Eglinton Crosstown) and supporting bus priority lanes (RapidTO). Critiques P3 models and provincial interference in transit planning.
Frequently votes against police budget increases, advocating for reallocating funds to community safety and mental health. Consistently proposes amendments to increase funding for libraries, parks, and youth services.
Notable Votes & Deviations
Police Budget Increase 2024
Voted against the majority to oppose police budget hikes, prioritizing social services.
Strong Mayor Powers usage
Consistently opposes the use of Strong Mayor Powers, arguing for democratic council supremacy.
Gardiner Expressway Hybrid Rebuild
Long-standing opposition to the Gardiner East rebuild, favoring the boulevard option to save costs and open up land.
Alcohol in Parks Pilot
Supported the pilot early on, aligning with urban progressive views on public space usage.
Reimagining Weston Lions Arena through a Nominal Lease with MLSE LaunchPad
Voted against the lease agreement, reflecting concerns about community benefits or procedural transparency.
Comments on the Request for a Minister's Zoning Order to Restrict Building Heights - 1875 Steeles Avenue West
Opposed the Minister's Zoning Order request, aligning with skepticism towards provincial overreach and support for local planning.
Community Within Reach: Expanding Housing Options in Neighbourhoods (EHON) Neighbourhood Retail and Services Study - Phase Three Final Report
Supported the housing study, but it was defeated, indicating a minority position on this aspect of housing policy.
Protecting Playgrounds and Parks: Ensuring Safety for Children and Families
Voted in favor of the motion to enhance park safety, but it failed by a close margin.
Making life more affordable for families by asking luxury-home buyers to chip in more
Supported the measure to increase affordability through luxury home taxes, but it was rejected by council.
Application for Approval to Expropriate a Portion of 20 Humberview Crescent and 50 St. Phillips Road - Stage 1
Opposed the expropriation, aligning with a cautious approach to property acquisition, but was outvoted.
Driving Efficiencies at Toronto Parking Authority to Reduce 2026 Budget Pressures
Voted against the mayor's motion, reflecting either a disagreement on the specific efficiency measures or a broader stance on budget pressures.
Permanent Closure of a Portion of the Public Laneway at 66-66Y Third Street
Voted against the permanent laneway closure, likely prioritizing public access rights and urban connectivity.
Towards Implementing a Maximum Indoor Temperature Requirement for Rental Units and Cooling Rooms
Voted against the majority on a key amendment for heat regulation, which appears to deviate from his typical tenant protection stance; may reflect concerns over feasibility or implementation costs.
Strengthening the City's Heat Relief Strategy
Dissented on a motion to strengthen heat relief, another atypical vote given his progressive profile. May indicate specific policy disagreements on the strategy's approach.
199 College Street Community Benefits Charge, College Streetscape
Was one of only two votes against the community benefits charge, a significant deviation given his support for community benefits in development.
Showing Respect for Transit Customers: Implementing a Toronto Transit Commission Money-Back Guarantee
Voted against the TTC money-back guarantee on one of the substantive votes, despite generally being a transit advocate. May reflect skepticism about the policy's effectiveness or operational impact.