Doug Ford and Mayor Nuttall Address Homelessness in Barrie

Ontario Premier Doug Ford visited Barrie, Ontario, over the weekend, accompanying Mayor Alex Nuttall on a tour of the city’s homeless encampments. This visit comes in the wake of Nuttall declaring a state of emergency in the area due to growing concerns over public safety and the conditions faced by those living in encampments.

During the tour on September 20, 2025, the two officials specifically examined the situation at Milligan’s Pond. In a post shared on social media, Nuttall emphasized the urgent need for provincial support and collaboration among all levels of government to effectively tackle the issues of homelessness, mental health, addiction, and the lack of affordable housing in Barrie.

Nuttall had previously called for assistance from provincial authorities, highlighting the challenges faced by the city in managing the encampments. He pointed out that while some encampments have been cleared, the process of addressing those that remain could extend over several months. The mayor reiterated the importance of enforcing municipal bylaws to facilitate a more coordinated response to the crisis.

In light of the current situation, Nuttall expressed his hope that Ford’s visit would lead to meaningful discussions and actions that could improve the living conditions of individuals experiencing homelessness in Barrie. He stated that the collaboration between local and provincial governments is essential for creating sustainable solutions.

As discussions continue, the city remains focused on immediate strategies to provide support to those affected by homelessness while addressing the broader systemic issues that contribute to this ongoing challenge. Both Ford and Nuttall are expected to work closely together in the coming weeks to develop a comprehensive plan aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by vulnerable populations in the region.

This report by the Canadian Press was first published on September 21, 2025.