Homelessness and housing affordability are emerging as major concerns for residents across Oxford and Norfolk counties ahead of this month’s municipal elections.
A new Nanos Research poll commissioned by the Woodstock Ingersoll Tillsonburg Area Association of REALTORS® found homelessness was the most commonly identified issue when residents were asked what would make their community a better place to live.
Fourteen per cent pointed to addressing homelessness, followed by creating more inclusive communities, lowering taxes and government costs, improving roads and infrastructure, and better access to healthcare.
Housing costs were also a major concern. The survey found 86 per cent are worried about the affordability of homeownership, while 82 per cent expressed concern about rental costs.
WITAAR President Derrek de Jonge said the results show residents value their communities but want meaningful action on housing and homelessness.
The poll found 76 per cent support reducing municipal red tape for new homes and renovations, while 75 per cent support lowering development charges for homebuyers.
Despite concerns about housing, residents remain positive about where they live. About eight in ten gave their communities high marks for safety, quality of life and being a good place to raise a family.
The full Nanos Research polling report and findings can be viewed here. (Hotlink this sentence to this website https://nanos.co/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2026-3057-Woodstock-Realtors-Populated-Report.pdf )
WITAAR says the findings give municipal candidates a clearer picture of the priorities voters want addressed over the next term.
Written by Jeremy Hall
