TBDSSAB Response to Evictions Allegations
April 4, 2020 – The District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB)
would like to respond to the statement made by someone identifying themself as James Murray
of Netnewsledger during the Premier of Ontario’s daily COVID-19 press conference regarding
alleged evictions in community housing.
TBDSSAB has not evicted any tenant since the Premier announced that there were to be no
evictions for not paying rent. The information presented to the Premier is inaccurate.
TBDSSAB is following legislated guidelines and takes evictions seriously. TBDSSAB would
rarely look at an eviction for non-payment of rent. We have a Board-approved eviction
prevention policy that guides the process of working with tenants to maintain their housing. We
also have established several funds to assist tenants with meeting housing expenses and
provide support to tenants through our Tenant Support Workers as keeping people housed is
our priority.
TBDSSAB is following all legislation and regulations put in place by the Province. The Landlord
and Tenant Board (LTB) has suspended the issuance of eviction orders and eviction
applications unless the matter relates to an urgent issue such as an illegal act or serious
impairment of safety. As urgent matters may be met with a written or phone hearing; the LTB is
still accepting and processing applications for orders.
During this challenging time, TBDSSAB continues to connect with our tenants, by telephone, to
determine if there are any needs they may have. We are assisting with food deliveries to seniors
and families and providing information on other community supports. We are committed to
keeping the people we serve safe and supported.
The allegations presented this afternoon to the Premier about continued evictions in community
housing in the District of Thunder Bay are patently false.
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Contact: Kristyn Lovato-Day, Supervisor, Communication & Engagement
807-766-4219 or 807-633-5193