Mayoral candidates share plans to improve student housing, transit, and youth employment at a forum hosted by the UTMSU
Alvin Tedjo, Dipika Damerla, and Bonnie Crombie shared their plans to address students’ concerns ahead of the October 26 municipal elections.
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On October 14, the UTM Students’ Union hosted a mayoral candidates forum at the Blind Duck. Three candidates for mayor of Mississauga outlined plans on student housing, transit, and work opportunities for youth.
The forum was part of UTMSU’s advocacy week. It was moderated by UTMSU president Adam El-Falou. A set of questions was posed to Ward 2 councillor Alvin Tedjo, Ward 7 councillor Dipika Damerla and former mayor Bonnie Crombie. Each candidate had the opportunity to address the questions.
Mississaugans ultimately headed to the polls on Monday, October 26, electing Alvin Tedjo as mayor along with ward councillors and school board trustees for the 2026-2030 term.
Student housing
El-Falou asked how the city would protect students in overcrowded and potentially unsafe rentals near campus, beyond existing bylaws.
Tedjo argued existing bylaws have flaws. He proposed stricter occupancy and safety standards for multi-tenant homes to address overcrowding and unsafe living conditions. Under the Safe Occupancy Certificate program proposal, the number of permitted occupants would be determined by a property’s safety capacity.
Crombie acknowledged limitations in existing rental bylaws, particularly restrictions preventing municipal inspectors from entering private residences without legal authorization. During the forum, she called for stronger enforcement and a reporting system for tenants to raise concerns about unsafe rental conditions.
Beyond enforcement, Crombie’s plan proposes partnerships with non-profit, co-operative housing providers in Mississauga to expand affordable rental housing.
Damerla also cited legal limitations with inspections. She proposed mandatory rental inspections and a hotline that lets students report concerns without confronting their landlords. She said a shortage of student housing near UTM contributes to problems students face, and if elected, she would work with the university to expand residence capacity.
All three candidates said they would work with UTMSU’s housing committee. Tedjo also proposed a committee involving the city and postsecondary institutions. Similar to one in Toronto, it would identify student housing opportunities and make better use of land near campuses.
When asked about the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), Tedjo criticized the provincial government’s decision to reduce OSAP grants, arguing that the cuts could undermine Ontario’s reputation for producing a highly educated workforce.
Public transit
El-Falou noted that students rely on MiWay to reach UTM and asked whether the transit services could be free for post-secondary students. UTM students currently have access to the U-Pass through a mandatory enrolment fee, which provides unlimited travel on MiWay buses.
Tedjo outlined a transit plan to expand Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) alongside the existing Hurontario Light Rail Transit project. Tedjo argued that expanding bus services through dedicated transit corridors would offer a more realistic way to improve transportation in the foreseeable future, rather than relying solely on major rail projects that could take decades to complete. His plan revolves around ensuring all major roads in Mississauga would be serviced by these BRT projects.
Crombie emphasized the importance of reliable and punctual MiWay services, particularly for students commuting to campus. She said buses must run on time and that free fares for youth and seniors are possible. Crombie is also a proponent of expanding the TTC Line 2 subway line all the way to the Mississauga Square One region.
Damerla proposed a youth standing committee to give younger residents a greater role in municipal decision-making, including transportation planning.
Photo provided by the UTMSU
Tackling youth unemployment
El-Falou asked how the city could help students find their first jobs. Tedjo proposed financial incentives for local businesses that hire local students and partnerships with universities and colleges to expand co-op placements.
Crombie supports expanding internship and co-op programs from the municipal government.
Damerla raised concerns about graduates leaving Mississauga in search of employment elsewhere. She proposed a health sciences innovation district to attract businesses and create local jobs, alongside expanding internships and co-op placements in city departments.
First 100 days
El-Falou finished the forum by asking each candidate what their top priorities would be in their first 100 days in office if elected.
Tedjo named municipal finances, including a budget review and his proposed property tax freeze. Crombie also focused on municipal finances, with greater oversight of city spending and taxation. She also said she would support paid internships and co-ops.
Damerla named the youth standing committee, innovation district, and municipal internship opportunities. She said the committee would review issues and bring recommendations to the City Council.
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