Hoarding has become a problem in virtually every Toronto neighborhood, and it often adversely affects the health and safety of the hoarder, animals and neighbours, along with the community’s property values and quality of life.

Recently, I requested Toronto Fire, Toronto Police Service, Animal Services, Municipal Licensing and Standards (MLS) and Public Health to assist with a long-standing hoarder in our ward. Through an unprecedented process my office initiated, Toronto Fire Services and Toronto Legal Services received a court order allowing the removal of personal property from the house. I ensured that a public health nurse, who has been working with the owner for several months, was on hand to provide counselling.

Animal and content hoarding have been long-standing problems in our communities. Although the problems are all too obvious, the solutions have been less clear. I brought a motion to Toronto City Council in 2011 that created an interdivisional task force to address the problem. This month, the task force will bring a report to city council to create a new office to assess and deal with problem hoarders. As well, I brought forward a motion asking Queen’s Park to provide additional mental health supports for individuals such as the one in this present situation.

This has been a very sad and difficult situation for everyone involved. However, I deeply appreciate the compassion so many local residents have demonstrated for the owner’s well-being. I feel honoured to represent such a caring community.