City Building & Advocacy

Advocating for Hamilton

Mayor Andrea Horwath is leading a strong response against the recent U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, warning of significant economic risks for the city. While the tariffs initially announced by President Trump imposed a 25% duty on steel and aluminum, they have since been increased to 50%  and now encompass more than 400 additional product categories, intensifying the impact on Hamilton’s manufacturing‑heavy economy.

In response, Mayor Horwath has taken several actions:

• Advocacy in Washington, D.C.: Participated in the Great Lakes Day event to engage with U.S. policymakers and advocate for Hamilton's economic interests. 
• Local Economic Initiatives: Introduced a "Buy Local, Buy Canadian" procurement policy and convened a roundtable with major manufacturers and economic stakeholders to assess impacts and develop strategies. 
• Mayor’s Roundtable on Trade and Tariffs: Bringing together major manufacturers, the Hamilton‑Oshawa Port Authority, the Hamilton International Airport, local chambers of commerce and economic‑development officials to assess tariff impacts and formulate local strategies.
• Collaboration with Municipal Organizations: Working with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the Ontario Big City Mayors Caucus to ensure Hamilton's concerns are represented in broader advocacy efforts. 

Mayor Horwath emphasizes the urgency of resolving the tariff issue to prevent long-term damage to Hamilton's economy and maintain the city's role as a manufacturing hub.

In the news

Strategic partnerships that drive innovation and expand economic opportunity

Economic development is a central priority for Hamilton’s future with a focus on growth that is sustainable and inclusive. Mayor Andrea Horwath champions key city-building initiatives that attract investment, support job creation and strengthen Hamilton’s long-term competitiveness.

Advancing major economic assets like the Airport Lease and TD Coliseum

The City of Hamilton secured a historic 49-year lease agreement with TradePort International (Vantage Group) for the airport. The recently renovated downtown arena is more than an entertainment upgrade; it is a catalyst for downtown revitalization that sparks job creation, economic activity and increased visitation.

Modernizing transportation through the Hamilton LRT

Improving transit infrastructure helps drive economic growth and attract investment along the corridor. The LRT will create new opportunities for business and development around stations and strengthen mobility across the city.

A vibrant, people-focused downtown

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Addressing Hamilton's housing crisis

Mayor Andrea Horwath has prioritized affordable housing in Hamilton, implementing a range of initiatives to address the city's housing challenges.

Strategic Housing Initiatives

• Municipal Housing Pledge: Hamilton has committed to constructing 47,000 new housing units by 2031, focusing on affordable and mixed-income developments. This includes intensifying growth within existing urban boundaries and leveraging tools like inclusionary zoning near transit corridors.
• Housing Sustainability and Investment Roadmap: This roadmap outlines plans to add 150 permanent dwellings for low-income residents and emphasizes the use of municipal lands for affordable housing projects.

Advocacy and Funding

• Call for Increased Investment: Mayor Horwath has advocated for substantial financial support from provincial and federal governments, emphasizing that current funding levels are insufficient to meet the city's affordable housing needs.
• Federal and Provincial Support: Hamilton has received over $17.5 million from the provincial government for exceeding 2023 housing targets and is part of federal agreements aimed at tackling homelessness.

Streamlining Development Processes

• Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative: To expedite housing development, Mayor Horwath collaborated with this initiative to pilot a streamlined site plan approval process, aiming to reduce bureaucratic delays and encourage innovation within city departments.

Addressing Homelessness

• In 2025, the City of Hamilton expanded its emergency shelter capacity by 80% which included the opening of a temporary outdoor shelter on Barton Street. The shelter provides 40 units for up to 80 people, offering safe accommodation, essential support services, and pathways to permanent housing, demonstrating the city’s commitment to helping people experiencing homelessness rebuild their lives.

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Bringing Hamiltonians together to strengthen safety and inclusion

Mayor Andrea Horwath hosted Hamilton's Community Safety Summit, bringing together residents, community organizations, local leaders, and the Hamilton Police Service to explore practical ways to enhance safety, inclusion, and trust in Hamilton.

The Summit provided space for open dialogue, learning, and collaboration on issues such as hate, gender-based violence, and youth and gun violence. Participants heard from expert panelists, took part in facilitated discussions, and helped identify next steps toward a stronger and more inclusive Hamilton.

“The Community Safety Summit is about coming together as a community to listen, learn, and work toward real solutions. By understanding each other’s experiences and challenges, we are building a city where everyone feels safe and supported.” - Mayor Horwath

The City of Hamilton, in collaboration with the Hamilton Police Service and community agencies, remains committed to ongoing engagement and shared efforts to create a stronger and more inclusive community for all.

A Plan for Community Collaboration

Hamilton’s Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Plan brings partners and residents together to strengthen safety and quality of life across the city. It recognizes that true safety is rooted in well-being, including stable housing, mental health supports, income security, and a sense of belonging and it promotes proactive, collaborative approaches to complex social challenges.

Grounded in community feedback and data, Hamilton’s CSWB Plan uses an evidence-informed, equity-focused framework to guide action. It reflects a modern approach to municipal leadership, embedding inclusion and shared responsibility into how the city advances safety and well-being for everyone.

Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Plan 2025-2029

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Mayor's Task Force on Transparency, Access, and Accountability

The Mayor’s Task Force on Transparency, Access and Accountability (Task Force) was established in early 2024 by the Mayor to evaluate and improve the City of Hamilton’s processes regarding public engagement, transparency, and decision-making.  Its purpose was to consult with a wide range of community partners, including residents, city staff, elected officials, and community groups, to gather feedback on how the city can improve its communication, accessibility, and accountability.

The Task Force was made up of community members, subject matter experts and civic leaders selected for their diverse perspectives and commitment to public service. Their work was supported by Enterprise Canada and the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton and built on previous engagement efforts including the 2022 Reimagining Public Participation initiative.

Mayor’s Task Force on Transparency, Access and Accountability