Evan Sambasivam is a candidate in the race for Toronto City Council in the upcoming November 5 by-election for Ward 15, Don Valley West. A longtime advocate and consultant, Sambasivam has pledged to focus his campaign on housing affordability, transit improvements, and preserving key community spaces.
Sambasivam’s decision to run comes two years after his first bid for council, a campaign he launched following the death of a close friend, which he attributed to homelessness and mental health struggles. In a press release, Sambasivam said, “The challenges we faced in 2022 are even greater in 2024,” pointing to rising rent prices, grocery inflation, and strains on public services as critical issues in the city.
His platform, which includes building more affordable housing and introducing a $99 monthly transit fare cap for seniors and students, was developed in consultation with experts across housing, transit, and climate sectors. “We need bold action to get Toronto back on track,” he said, outlining plans to improve shelters, streamline housing construction processes, and invest in green infrastructure.
Sambasivam also emphasized the need to protect local institutions like the Ontario Science Centre and to create new public spaces, ensuring that community needs are met with responsible spending.
As the by-election date approaches, candidates in Ward 15 are expected to debate these pressing issues, with housing, transit, and affordability shaping the discourse.
