In downtown Dawson City, Yukon, Steve White observes trucks passing by while sitting on a stoop. These trucks transport food to stock the local grocery stores that White depends on. White expresses frustration over the increasing difficulty of making ends meet, particularly due to the escalating prices of groceries. He highlights the high costs of essential items like meat, milk, and bread, which accumulate to a significant amount for a single shopping trip.
Beyond food expenses, White voices concerns about the continuous rise in his rent and utility bills, which are becoming increasingly unmanageable. He emphasizes the need for higher social assistance to help individuals cope with the mounting financial burdens. As the territorial election campaign gains momentum, the issue of the rising cost of living emerges as a prominent theme for both candidates and voters like White.
Kate Mechan, the executive director of the Safe at Home Society, emphasizes the multifaceted nature of the affordability crisis and stresses the importance of addressing it comprehensively. Mechan underscores the detrimental effects of high living costs on crime rates and public health, urging politicians to adopt a holistic approach in tackling the problem.
Keitha Clark, from the Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition, echoes the call for action on housing affordability, emphasizing the need to expand housing units with income-based rent options. The organization advocates for a closer examination of the concept of affordability, especially concerning individuals with low incomes.
Various political parties have pledged to address the challenges posed by the soaring cost of living. The Yukon Party, led by Currie Dixon, aims to reduce electricity costs through government subsidies and expedite the construction of homes by bringing more land to the market. The NDP, led by Kate White, focuses on enhancing healthcare and lowering costs, with promises to implement nutrition programs in schools and freeze electricity rate increases. Meanwhile, the Liberals, led by Mike Pemberton, advocate for a winter electricity rebate and pledge to provide housing for all Yukon residents.
As the election campaign unfolds, candidates are expected to present their proposed solutions to alleviate the financial burdens faced by Yukon residents, with a keen focus on housing affordability and utility cost management.