Municipal Election Candidate Survey Results October 2025
Survey Results
On Sept. 23, Silvera distributed a survey to nine candidates for mayor and 73 candidates for city councillor in Calgary’s Oct. 20, 2025 municipal election. We asked the candidates to share what they know about Silvera and their perspectives on seniors’ housing in our city.
We asked the candidates to respond by Oct. 3, 2025. As of Oct. 7, 2025, we had received responses from five mayoral candidates (Elder, Gondek, Heather, Gustafson and Thiessen) and 38 city council candidates.
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the responses into an online table below and a downloadable spreadsheet. None of the responses has been edited or altered.
We’re sharing these results for information only. Silvera does not endorse any candidates.
Here’s a link to an online version of the results in Google Sheets:
https://tinyurl.com/silverasurvey2025
Contact Information
If you have any questions regarding this survey, please contact Geoffrey Vanderburg, Silvera’s Manager, Brand & Communications, at [email protected] or 403.567.3619.
Feel free to share these survey results with anyone who might be interested.
Sortable Table of Survey Results:
To narrow your search, type the name of the candidate or the number of the ward in the search field on the right. The search results will change in real time. Candidates who did not submit answers to the survey will not show in the results.
| First name | Last name | Desired role on City Council | Ward | In one paragraph, what do you know about Silvera for Seniors? | On Aug. 1, 2025, there were 1,260 seniors on Silvera’s waiting list for affordable housing. What level of priority should the municipal government place on investing in affordable housing for seniors | What role should the City of Calgary play in supporting affordable housing? | What percentage of government funding for affordable housing should come from the federal government? ___% out of 100% | What percentage of government funding for affordable housing should come from the provincial government? ___% out of 100% | What percentage of government funding for affordable housing should come from the municipal government? ___% out of 100% | The City of Calgary provides funding for affordable seniors’ supportive living through the municipal lodge program operated by Silvera (housing plus meals, housekeeping and leisure programs). In 2024 | How knowledgeable are you about the difference between independent living, supportive living (the municipal lodge program) and long-term care and the municipal role in this spectrum? | Finally, what do you think is the most significant challenge facing Calgary’s seniors, and how might you address it? |
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| Shirley Parungao | Do | Councillor | Ward 9 | Silvera for Seniors is a Calgary-based non-profit that provides affordable housing and support services for older adults, managing over 2,300 units across 36 communities. Their mission is to help seniors live independently with dignity through person-centered care, community programs, and partnerships with local institutions. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary should play a central role in supporting affordable housing by creating policies, incentives, and funding mechanisms that increase the availability of safe and accessible homes for seniors and other vulnerable populations. This can include providing land or development incentives for non-profits like Silvera, investing in the construction and maintenance of affordable housing units, partnering with community organizations, and ensuring zoning and planning regulations facilitate diverse housing options. Additionally, the city can support programs that help seniors age in place, ensuring they remain connected to their communities while receiving necessary services. | 50 | 20 | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | One of the biggest challenges for Calgary’s seniors is access to affordable, safe, and supportive housing. As a caregiver for my parents, I understand these challenges firsthand. To help, I advocate for more investment in senior housing, partnerships with non-profits like Silvera, and programs that provide social, health, and recreational support. I also founded I Care 4 U Caregivers, dedicated to offering accessible, accommodating, and affordable care for seniors. | |
| Ali | Oonwala | Councillor | Ward 1 | Silvera for Seniors is a respected Calgary-based non-profit with more than 60 years of experience providing affordable housing and supportive living for older adults. They operate over 30 communities, offering safe, engaging environments with services such as meals, housekeeping, recreation, and 24/7 non-medical support. While not a direct health-care provider, Silvera collaborates with community partners to ensure residents receive the care and connections they need. Having served as Regional Director for Recall Pharmacy and overseeing long-term care operations across Western Canada, I recognize and value the critical role organizations like Silvera play in enhancing quality of life for seniors through housing, dignity, and social engagement. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary must play a leadership role in supporting affordable housing by ensuring land use policies, zoning, and permitting processes prioritize diverse and attainable housing options across all communities. Beyond simply building units, the City should actively partner with non-profits like Silvera for Seniors, faith groups, and private developers to create sustainable, mixed-income communities. Having overseen long-term care operations across Western Canada, I’ve seen firsthand how stable housing directly impacts health, dignity, and community belonging. As your councillor, I will advocate for targeted funding, smarter use of city-owned land, and collaboration with provincial and federal governments to expand affordable housing so every Calgarian – seniors, families, and youth alike – can live with security and opportunity. | 40 | 35 | 25 | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | The most significant challenge facing Calgary’s seniors is the lack of affordable and supportive housing that allows them to age with dignity in their own communities. Too many seniors are being forced to choose between paying rent, covering health needs, or staying socially connected. Having overseen long-term care across Western Canada as Regional Director for Recall Pharmacy, I’ve seen how housing insecurity leads directly to declining health and isolation. As councillor, I will work to expand affordable seniors’ housing by partnering with organizations like Silvera, pushing for greater provincial and federal investment, and ensuring the City uses its tools—land, zoning, and targeted incentives—to make supportive housing more available and accessible. |
| Larry R. | Heather | Mayor | I have had the opportunity to visit some acquaintances and sing gospel solos at times over the years | Level 3 priority (mid range) | There is a housing affordablity scam that gives many tax breaks to developers, while the surrounding homeowners bear the extra load, eventually in the name of affordability, more seniors will be taxed out of their homes. Not all is as it seems. | 25% One must realize the overspending of the federal government has made our currency practically worthless. | 50% | Again, there is a get rich quick scheme which attracts fly by night developers, which eventually turn into slums. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Not knowledgeable, but I would like to learn more. | Proper use of nutrition, Avoidance of MAID pressures, Improper forcing of vaccines which injure. | |
| Chima | Akuchie | Councillor | Ward 14 | Silvera for Seniors is a Calgary-based non-profit organization dedicated to providing safe, affordable housing and supportive services for our seniors. They manage a portfolio of senior residential communities and aim to enable aging in place through residential care, low-maintenance living, and community support programs. Their work fills a key gap in Calgary’s housing continuum by focusing on one of our most vulnerable populations seniors ensuring dignity, affordability, and social connection in their later years. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary has a clear role to play in supporting affordable housing, but it should focus on enabling rather than overreaching. The City should make land available at the right time, cut red tape, and ensure sites are serviced so housing projects can be built quickly instead of being delayed for years. It should partner with non-profits, seniors’ providers like Silvera, and private builders to expand supply, while keeping community character and infrastructure capacity in mind. The City also needs to coordinate better rent supports with the Province and Federal government, since housing affordability is a shared responsibility. At the local level, the City should focus on making development approvals faster, ensuring tax fairness so families aren’t overburdened, and investing in transit and amenities that make affordable communities livable. The goal should be balanced growth: building the right homes in the right places, while protecting established neighbourhoods and ensuring infrastructure like roads, schools, and water pipes is ready to handle new residents. | A fair and widely accepted benchmark is that the federal government should provide around 40%–50% of the funding for affordable housing projects. Here’s why: Housing affordability is a national issue, not just a municipal one, and the federal government controls the largest tax base and national housing programs (like the National Housing Strategy). The province typically contributes another 30%–40%, since housing and social services are under provincial jurisdiction. The city usually contributes the remaining 10%–20%, mainly through land contributions, servicing, zoning, and partnerships rather than direct cash. So, if you’re filling out a survey with a single number, I’d recommend putting: 50% That keeps it clear, conservative, and shows you expect Ottawa to carry its share of responsibility, while still leaving room for the province and city to step up | The province typically contributes another 30%–40%, since housing and social services are under provincial jurisdiction. | The city usually contributes the remaining 10%–20%, mainly through land contributions, servicing, zoning, and partnerships rather than direct cash. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | One of the most significant challenges facing Calgary’s seniors is affordability whether it’s housing, rising property taxes, or the cost of supportive services. Too many seniors on fixed incomes are being forced to choose between paying bills and meeting their basic needs. I will push to keep municipal taxes fair, ensure timely investment in supportive housing like Silvera lodges, and advocate for better coordination with the Province and Federal government on seniors’ care. Another overlooked issue is aging infrastructure, including asbestos cement water pipes that I have been push its awareness, which poses health risks for seniors and all residents. Protecting seniors’ dignity means safe, affordable homes, accessible programs, and communities where they feel secure and valued. |
| mahmoud | mourra | Councillor | Ward 10 | Silvera for Seniors is a non-profit housing organization in Calgary that has been serving older adults, providing affordable and supportive housing options for seniors with modest incomes. | Level 1 priority (high) | The municipal government is the first level of government to see and understand the conditions of seniors, and it must take the lead in securing and protecting them. The City of Calgary should spearhead efforts to advocate for the needs of seniors, ensuring they receive the support they deserve to age and live with dignity, honor, and respect. Most importantly, the City must provide the security that allows seniors to feel safe and not have to worry about tomorrow, while also seeking the support and partnership of both the provincial and federal governments to make affordable housing and senior care sustainable. | Affordable housing is a shared responsibility across all levels of government. The federal government should carry the largest share, since it has the greatest resources and national programs to address housing needs. A fair expectation would be around 40–50% from the federal government, with the remaining split between the province and municipalities, ensuring that Calgary has the support it needs without overburdening local taxpayers. | The provincial government should contribute about 30–40% of the total funding for affordable housing. Provinces play a critical role in health, social services, and housing, so they must carry a significant share. With the federal government providing the largest portion and municipalities leading on local implementation, the province’s contribution ensures that seniors, families, and vulnerable residents have the support they need across Alberta. | The municipal government should contribute about 20–30% of the total funding for affordable housing. Cities like Calgary are closest to the community and best understand local needs, but they also have the smallest revenue base compared to the federal and provincial governments. The City’s role should focus on land use, zoning, permitting, and providing some direct funding, while relying on strong partnerships with the province and Ottawa to cover the majority of costs. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | The most significant challenge facing Calgary’s seniors is loneliness—too many are left alone without family or community support, which often leads to other health and social challenges. We need more programs that actively engage seniors, especially those who are single or without close family nearby, to help them stay connected, active, and valued. Our seniors built the foundation of the community we live in today, and it is our responsibility to protect them, uplift their spirit, and ensure they can age with dignity, belonging, and respect. |
| Raj | Khuttan | Councillor | Ward 12 | Silvera for Seniors is Calgary’s largest provider of affordable seniors housing, operating as a non-profit for over 60 years with 36 buildings housing more than 2,330 residents across the city, offering independent and supportive living options for older adults. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City should help with affordable housing by making it easier and cheaper to build. This means changing rules that slow down construction, giving developers breaks on taxes for affordable projects, and working with groups like Silvera for Seniors. The city can also provide land at lower costs and partner with other governments to get more funding for housing projects. Most importantly, Calgary should learn from successful international cities that have solved housing affordability. Cities like Vienna, Singapore, and Munich created thriving business districts in different areas of the city, not just downtown. This brought jobs, investment, and tax revenue to local communities. When neighborhoods have strong commercial centres that attract businesses, they generate enough money to fund their own housing programs. Calgary should follow these proven examples by building up commercial areas throughout the city, creating economic hubs that make communities self-sufficient instead of always relying on federal funding. | 50 | 35 | 15 | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Not very knowledgeable. I have had little exposure to this sector. | The biggest challenge for Calgary’s seniors is affordability and access — rising property taxes, housing costs, and transportation barriers are making it harder to age with dignity. I would push for fairer property tax assessments and accountable administration to ensure taxes are collected properly without overcharging seniors, free transit for seniors, and stronger community hubs that bring healthcare, recreation, meal programs, and home maintenance services closer to home. These hubs also boost the local economy and create opportunities for younger generations to connect with seniors, fostering intergenerational relationships instead of age segregation. The goal is to let seniors stay active, independent, and connected in their own communities. |
| Erin | Averbukh | Councillor | Ward 14 | Silvera is a non-profit that provides safe, affordable housing for Calgary seniors. The City helps with land, zoning, and funding, while the Province and Ottawa provide most of the dollars. | Level 2 priority | “The City’s role in affordable housing is really to be the enabler and the advocate. We just don’t have the same tax base as the Province or Ottawa, so we can’t carry housing on our own. But we can make sure it actually gets built by offering land, cutting red tape on zoning, giving tax relief, and putting in smart investments that unlock the bigger dollars from other governments. And we have to keep advocating — pushing the Province and Ottawa to give Calgary its fair share, because the need here is real and it’s growing. | I think at least 50% of affordable housing funding should come from the federal government. They have the largest tax base and a national housing strategy. The Province should cover about 35% because they’re responsible for operating supports, and the City should focus its 15% on land, zoning, and smart investments that help unlock those bigger dollars. | see above | see above | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | The biggest challenge facing Calgary’s seniors right now is the rising cost of living, especially for those on fixed incomes. Housing, groceries, utilities, and even transit keep getting more expensive, while pensions and retirement savings stay the same. That squeeze is forcing too many seniors to make impossible choices between essentials. As councillor, I’d push for practical ways to ease that burden — supporting affordable housing options like Silvera, advocating for fair funding from the Province so seniors don’t shoulder 50% of supportive living costs, and making sure the City keeps taxes and fees reasonable. Seniors built this city, and they deserve stability and dignity, not financial stress. |
| Mike | Jamieson | Councillor | Ward 12 | Competitively priced Seniors living. | Level 1 priority (high) | 40 | 40 | 20 (but provide free land for Senior complexes) | Seniors’ lodges should not be a municipal responsibility. | Knowledgeable | Keeping them in their own homes and lobbying the provincial government to eliminate the education portion of property taxes for seniors. let keep Seniors in their homes | |
| Rob | Ward | Councillor | Ward 11 | Silvera for Seniors has been a trusted part of Calgary for many years, giving older adults not just a place to live, but a real sense of community. I’ve seen how important affordable and supportive housing is for seniors, especially those who want to maintain independence while still having access to care and connection. Organizations like Silvera help prevent isolation and make sure seniors can age with dignity, and I value the role they play in strengthening both families and neighbourhoods across our city. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary should play a supportive and enabling role in affordable housing by partnering with organizations like Silvera, ensuring land use and planning policies don’t create unnecessary barriers, and prioritizing infrastructure and services around seniors housing. While the City can’t solve the housing challenge alone, it can create the conditions for success—through smart zoning, efficient permitting, and collaborating with provincial and federal governments to secure funding. Most importantly, the City should listen to seniors and housing providers to make sure solutions are practical and meet real community needs. | 50 | 30 | 20 | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | One of the most significant challenges facing Calgary’s seniors is the lack of affordable, supportive housing options that allow them to age in place with dignity. Too many seniors are waiting far too long for appropriate housing, and many struggle with the rising cost of living on fixed incomes. To address this, the City needs to strengthen partnerships with organizations like Silvera, advocate for increased provincial and federal investment, and ensure municipal policies make it easier and faster to build seniors’ housing. Just as important, we must reduce barriers to accessibility and invest in safe, reliable transit and community services so seniors can stay connected and active in their neighbourhoods. |
| Cathy | Jacobs | Councillor | Ward 1 | I understand that Silvera has many locations in the NE of affordable Housing for seniors although see one in Montgomery NW, which is close to home for me . As a senior myself I understand the need for the future housing situation and I am fortunately have a large supportive family. I see you you have many levels of assistance/cost for all needs of senior clients. | Level 2 priority | The city’s housing Incentive programs and related affordable Housing/planning tools are usually municipally funded (through city budgets) with support from other levels of governments | 40 | 40 | 20 | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | The biggest challenge is the burden of property tax hikes are making (which is well above inflation) makes it more and more difficult for seniors, owing their own home, being able to afford to live in their homes during retirement years. The province has managed to give us a tax decrease … we need a municipal government that will hold the line for a few years. |
| Kent | Hehr | Councillor | Ward 8 | I know that Silvera is a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing, programs and services for older adults over 60 years. There’s a wide variety of communities operated across the city, from independent to supportive living and with a focus on helping seniors age with dignity and quality of life. The City works alongside the province and community organizations to meet the housing and care needs of seniors, and Silvera has been a long-standing partner in this. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary should play a proactive and facilitative role in supporting affordable housing. This includes planning and zoning policies that encourage diverse housing types, providing incentives or partnerships for non-profits and developers to build affordable units, and ensuring infrastructure and services support these communities. The City can also help by identifying suitable land, streamlining approvals, and collaborating with provincial and federal programs to increase housing supply. Ultimately, the City’s role is to create an environment where affordable housing is viable, accessible, and integrated into vibrant, safe neighbourhoods. | 40 | 35 | 25 | Not very knowledgeable. I have had little exposure to this sector. | One of the most significant challenges facing Calgary’s seniors is access to safe, affordable, and appropriate housing as they age, particularly for those on fixed or limited incomes. Many seniors face rising rents, limited availability of supportive housing, and social isolation if they must move away from their communities. Addressing this requires a multi-pronged approach: expanding affordable and supportive housing options through partnerships with organizations like Silvera and fostering programs that keep seniors socially connected and engaged in their communities. Prioritizing these efforts helps ensure seniors can age with dignity, independence, and a strong sense of belonging. | |
| Sunjiv | Raval | Councillor | Ward 14 | Helping seniors care on their budget | Level 1 priority (high) | Major Responsibility of City, Provincial and Federal to take action for seniors, who have work hard, veterans who have given their service need respect dignity to live independent | I know 203 Million approx 50% | About 30% or 50% what city provides | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Not very knowledgeable. I have had little exposure to this sector. | Senior abuse and affordability | |
| Jaeger | Gustafson | Mayor | Silvera for Seniors is an important civic partner of The City of Calgary. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City needs to help support civic partners to ensure seniors have a place to live. | 100% | 25% for medical | 0% | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | Our system has taken advantage of seniors. This is elder abuse, and it must stop now. I have seen seniors homeless on our streets. I have seen them enter hospitals and never return. Too soon, the stress of Calgary’s housing crisis takes their lives. Too soon, their love disappears from this world. Too soon, our hearts grieve—and yet, we still hope for a better future. That hope moves us to action. Our elders are our family. I remember a Calgary that honoured its seniors. Let’s choose to remember them again. Please remember GUSTAFSON. I’m Jaeger Gustafson, and together we can learn to vote for a future where we won’t be forgotten at MayorGus.ca. |
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| Miguel | Cortines | Councillor | Ward 8 | I went to your website and I see you provide affordable housing for seniors in different locations around the city. | Level 1 priority (high) | I believe affordable housing should be a shared responsibility among all levels of government and residents. The federal government should contribute 50%, the provincial government 35%, and municipalities 15%—a division that reflects fiscal capacity and jurisdictional responsibilities. At the same time, residents will contribute a fair portion through rents geared to income, ensuring affordability while preserving dignity. This model combines government investment with resident participation, creating sustainable, inclusive housing solutions that strengthen our communities. | 50% | 35% | 15% | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | I think the most significant challenge facing Calgary’s seniors is maintaining affordable, accessible housing and support as their needs change. Too many seniors are caught between being unable to stay in their homes and not qualifying for long-term care. I will work to expand supportive living options in partnership with the province, ensure our communities are age-friendly with accessible transit and public spaces, and advocate for more affordable housing so seniors can live with dignity and independence. Working also with non for profit groups that are finding private investment to develop affordable housing options. |
| Siraaj | Shah | Councillor | Ward 3 | Silvera for Seniors is a non-profit housing provider that has served Calgary’s older adults for over 60 years. It plays a vital role in offering affordable, safe, and supportive housing across the city, especially for seniors who might otherwise face housing insecurity, social isolation, or barriers to aging with dignity. Silvera’s work sits at the intersection of housing, health, and community connection, making it a cornerstone partner in addressing both affordability and quality of life for Calgary’s growing senior population. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City’s role is to be the connector and catalyst. That means unlocking land, streamlining approvals, using municipal tools like zoning and incentives, and leveraging partnerships with nonprofits and the private sector. The City doesn’t have the tax capacity to fund housing at scale, but it can create the conditions and accountability framework that ensure federal and provincial dollars actually translate into units on the ground in Calgary. | 30-50% | 20-35% | 15-25% | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | The most significant challenge is affordability combined with isolation. Too many seniors are stuck on waitlists, paying too much of their fixed income on housing, or living without access to supports that keep them healthy and connected. My approach is to prioritize more affordable, supportive housing units through partnerships with Silvera and nonprofits, tie City support to quicker approvals and land use, and push other governments to meet their funding responsibilities. At the same time, I’ll work to expand community hubs and transit options so seniors can stay connected, not cut off, as they age. |
| Jeff | Watson | Councillor | Ward 6 | I know Silvera is an affordable housing options for seniors with low to modest incomes, and with a range of care needs including dementia. | Level 2 priority | Blanket rezoning was a missed opportunity to deal with below market housing options. Our focus should be on dealing with options for low to modest income Calgarians who struggle with housing market prices. | Since the feds are determined to be in housing, a provincial responsibility, they can cost share with the province at 50% | Housing is a provincial responsibility. Below market housing options should be funded minimum 50% from the province. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | Ward 6 residents, at every age group, have been clear that, above all priorities, they seek property tax relief to handle affordability challenges in their lives – and that they expect the next Council to reduce overall spending to fortify core services and deliver the tax relief. The second most mentioned priority is repealing blanket rezoning. | |
| Terry | Wong | Councillor | Ward 7 | As an active board member, I am aware of the strategic plan, mandate business plan, and budget. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary should support affordable housing by streamlining approvals, leveraging City-owned land, and fostering partnerships that deliver diverse, sustainable, and well-connected communities. | 50% since housing is a national priority, the federal government should cover at least half of the funding, with provinces and municipalities sharing the balance through land, incentives, and program delivery. | 40%, the Province should take on a substantial share of affordable housing funding since it oversees social services and housing supports, while municipalities contribute primarily through land, zoning, and partnerships. | 10% the City’s role should be catalytic, contributing through land, zoning, incentives, and partnerships, while leaving the bulk of direct funding to provincial and federal governments. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | The most significant challenge facing Calgary’s seniors is access to affordable, appropriate housing with the right level of care, and I would address it by advocating for stronger provincial and federal funding, ensuring the City leverages its land and zoning tools, and partnering with community providers to deliver safe, accessible, and connected options for seniors across the housing spectrum. |
| Kourtney | Penner | Councillor | Ward 11 | Level 2 priority | The City needs to continue to unlock land for affordable housing and expedite permitting for construction. In all the ways they can secure grants from other orders of government to increase affordable housing they should be doing that as well. | This needs to be project contextual. But if I had to pick, 40 | This needs to be project contextual. But if I had to pick, 40 | This needs to be project contextual. But if I had to pick, 20 | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | The ability to age in place, perhaps not in their own homes, but in communities in and around services they’re familiar with and/or near family. This combined with access to reliable and safe transportation to continue to actively participate in community. | |
| Sarah | Ferguson | Councillor | Ward 12 | Silvera is a City partner in affordable housing specifically geared towards seniors. | Level 2 priority | As the level of government most in touch with the needs of what is happening in our communities, we need to be the biggest advocate for affordable housing. We must look for opportunities to partner with other levels of government to tap into whatever funds we can get while still making sure our city continues to cover the needs of our communities. | 33 | 33 | 33 | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | From what I am hearing, affordability is one of the biggest challenges facing Calgary’s seniors. As a councillor, we have to continue to look for ways to address whatever affordability issues we can at this level and continue to listen and advocate for those like our seniors that are most vulnerable to rising costs. |
| Raj | Khuttan | Councillor | Ward 12 | Silvera is a trusted non-profit with over 60 years serving Calgary seniors. They provide diverse, affordable housing options with integrated health supports and services that help older adults live independently and age successfully in the community. | Level 1 priority (high) | Strategic planning and partnerships with proven non-profits like Silvera. Housing near community essentials—clinics, rec centers, groceries, parks—where seniors and families become neighborhood anchors. Streamlined approvals, supporting infrastructure, rigorous accountability. Complete communities, not isolated sprawl. | 50 | 35 | 15 | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Not very knowledgeable. I have had little exposure to this sector. | Rising costs and inadequate access to health and social facilities. Seniors need affordable housing integrated into complete communities—near clinics, rec centres, groceries, and programs supporting wellbeing. Through strategic planning, partnerships with proven providers like Silvera, and disciplined infrastructure investment, we keep seniors healthy, independent, and connected—reducing isolation and long-term healthcare costs |
| Sarah | Elder | Mayor | Silvera for Seniors provides supportive living options for seniors. | Level 2 priority | The provincial government is responsible for housing and if elected, I would work to advocate for the Government of Alberta to live up to its responsibility to provide and create housing for all Albertans. | 0 | 100 | 0 | Seniors’ lodges should not be a municipal responsibility. | Knowledgeable | The supply of housing and health care for seniors are critical issues especially because of the rapidly aging baby boomer population. How governments prepare for and address these issues is something that should be hopefully underway but unfortunately all too often government is reactive rather than proactive. If elected on October 20th, you have my commitment to meet and engage to better understand your work and how we can work together. | |
| Trevor | Cavanaugh | Councillor | Ward 2 | Silvera for Seniors is a trusted non-profit organization in Calgary that has supported older adults for more than 60 years by providing affordable housing and supportive living options. Their work helps seniors, particularly those with low to moderate incomes, remain safe, healthy, and engaged in their communities. | Level 2 priority | The City should provide strategic support for affordable housing by partnering with organizations like Silvera, contributing funding where it has the most impact, and using policies and planning tools to enable safe, affordable housing for seniors. The City’s focus should be on maximizing value for taxpayers while leveraging support from other levels of government. | 10 | 20 | 25 | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | The most significant challenge facing Calgary’s seniors is access to safe, affordable, and appropriate housing that meets their changing needs. While 1,260 seniors on the waiting list may seem like a small percentage to some for a city of over 1.6 million, addressing this need is an example of preventative Smart Spending, investing wisely now to prevent greater costs later. Safe, affordable housing supports seniors’ dignity, reduces pressure on hospitals and social services, and strengthens families and communities. The City can help by working with organizations like Silvera, advocating for increased provincial and federal funding, and using policy tools to make housing development more achievable, ensuring seniors can live comfortably, independently, and with dignity, while keeping the financial burden manageable for residents and the municipality. |
| Greg | Amoruso | Councillor | Ward 7 | I apologize. I don’t know as much as I should. | Level 1 priority (high) | This is to be 1st priority, acquire the funding. build and run there own. | 50 | 50 | 0 | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Knowledgeable | Financing. More funding from the government. |
| Danny | Ng | Councillor | Ward 3 | Silvera for Seniors is a Calgary non-profit that’s spent 60+ years providing safe, affordable housing and supports for independent older adults. They offer a continuum from rent-geared-to-income independent living to supportive living across communities citywide, helping seniors age in place with dignity. | Level 1 priority (high) | Lead on land, zoning, and approvals; use city-owned land, expedite permits, unlock gentle density near transit, protect tenants, and partner with non-profits/industry to leverage provincial and federal dollars. | 50% | 35% | 15% | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Not very knowledgeable. I have had little exposure to this sector. | The biggest challenge is affording to age in place—rents, food, utilities, and care costs are rising faster than fixed incomes, which also fuels isolation when seniors cut back on transit, social activities, and support. When housing and daily costs strain a budget, health declines and emergency visits rise. Here’s how I’d tackle it: expand affordable and supportive seniors housing by fast-tracking non-profit builds on city land; protect renters with stronger tenant supports and clear, senior-friendly 311 pathways; boost Fair Entry, utility relief, and a simple citywide property-tax deferral for low-income older adults; fund more On-Demand/Accessible Transit trips to medical and grocery hubs; back home-safety retrofits (grab bars, ramps, lighting) through small grants; and partner with groups like Silvera and UNISON to deliver meal, wellness, and social-connection programs in multiple languages. Success looks like shorter waitlists, fewer social-isolation flags, and more seniors safely staying in their homes. |
| Shane | Byciuk | Councillor | Ward 12 | I know the organization fairly well. | Level 3 priority (mid range) | The city has a role to play in affordable housing. Personally, I grew up in a Calgary Housing Complex in the 1980s. They should work with the other levels of government to ensure proper strategy, funding and programs are implemented. | 30 | 50 | 20 | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | Affordability. |
| Shaukat | Chaudhry | Councillor | Ward 2 | Silvera for Seniors (formerly MCF Housing for Seniors) is a non-profit organization in Calgary, Alberta, focused on providing affordable housing and support services to lower-income seniors. | Level 1 priority (high) | City of should actively support this programme with top priority. | 50% | 25% | 25% | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | Yes it is very challenging but city can overcome it an active start. |
| Heather | McRae | Councillor | Ward 7 | My mother lived in Aspen Commons, so I am very familiar with the services provided by Silvera for Seniors. I understand that your residents are getting older, as we are all living longer, which is changing the service and resource demands on your teams. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City must do all it can to ensure land is available for affordable housing initiatives, and that development permits are fast tracked through administration. We must leverage federal and provincial funding to support at every opportunity. | 33% | 33% | 33% | Knowledgeable | Seniors are living longer, especially women, and we need more housing options to enable them to age in-place in their communities. We need to ensure that public spaces are maintained in a state of good repair, provide more on-street seating and ensure that public spaces are well-lit. Making pathways more accessible for seniors will help them remain active and engaged in their community. Active living and a connection to community are critical. | |
| Brent | Curtis | Councillor | Ward 12 | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary should help seniors by giving land, money, and tax breaks so groups like Silvera can build more affordable housing. The City should also make it quicker and easier to get building approvals and make sure housing is safe and accessible for seniors. On top of that, the City should work with the province and federal government to keep rents low and connect housing with services seniors need. | 50 | 35 | 15 | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Knowledgeable | Calgary seniors struggle most with finding safe, affordable places to live on fixed incomes. Rising rents and too few housing options make it hard for them to stay in their own communities. I’d fix this by helping groups like Silvera build more housing, making city approvals faster, and working with other governments to keep rents low. | |
| Gary | Bobrovitz | Councillor | Ward 8 | One of Canada’s largest seniors housing & card organizations. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City has a vital role to play in providing some funding and removing regulatory barriers. They should actively implement affordable housing policies from Provincial & Federal Governments. | 50 | 35 | 15 | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | The economic impact of inflation. The emotional impact of isolation. |
| Nathaniel | Schmidt | Councillor | Ward 8 | I know Silvera for Seniors provides affordable housing and community programs that help older adults live with dignity and connection. In Ward 8 and across our city, your work makes it possible for seniors to stay rooted in the communities they built, with the safety, support, and belonging they deserve. | The City of Calgary has an essential role in supporting affordable housing. I have advocated strongly that we need more affordable housing here. Housing should be treated as core infrastructure, just like roads and transit, and planned alongside the services and amenities that make communities livable. The City needs to ensure that as Calgary grows, we’re not only adding more homes but also making them affordable, safe, and well-connected. That means working with community partners and other levels of government to expand affordable options while maintaining the housing we already have. You can read more about my Housing Policy at https://www.nathanielschmidt.ca/platform. | One of the most significant challenges facing Calgary’s seniors is affordability — whether it’s the rising cost of housing, food, or simply staying connected in their communities. Too often, seniors feel the strain of fixed incomes while the city around them grows more expensive. As councillor, I would work to make sure growth benefits everyone by pairing housing with the services, transit, and public spaces that help people age in place with dignity. Building a city that is affordable, safe, and accessible is how we honour the contributions seniors have made to Calgary. | ||||||
| Anthony | Ascue | Councillor | Ward 7 | I’m aware you have been in service for over 60 years. You social media looks very active, and I like the outreach your company does within the communities. | Level 3 priority (mid range) | With responsible planning and spending, we should be able to leverage available and saved funds to accommodate affordable housing. | 50% | 50% | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Knowledgeable | The burden of property tax hikes. They’re well above inflation, and it makes it more difficult for seniors owning their own home, being able to afford to live in their home during retirement years. The province has managed to give us a tax decrease… we need a municipal government that will at least hold the line for a few years. This is why my party and I are proposing an immediate four-year tax freeze. | |
| Rajesh | Angral | Councillor | Ward 3 | Silvera for Seniors is a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing and supportive living services for older adults in Calgary. It operates multiple residences offering independent and supportive living options, including the municipal lodge program, which combines housing with meals, housekeeping, and recreational activities. Silvera plays a vital role in helping seniors age with dignity, especially those with limited income, and works in partnership with the City of Calgary and the Alberta government to deliver these services. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary should play a proactive role in supporting affordable housing by funding programs like Silvera’s lodge initiative, streamlining zoning and development approvals for seniors’ housing, and advocating for increased provincial and federal contributions. It should also lead to community engagement to ensure housing solutions reflect seniors’ diverse needs. | Federal Government Funding Share 50% 50% The federal government has the broadest tax base and the greatest capacity to fund long-term housing infrastructure. It should lead national efforts to address housing affordability, especially for seniors, newcomers, and Indigenous communities. Federal investment is essential for large-scale builds, land acquisition, and sustainable housing strategies that span provinces and municipalities. | 30% The province plays a critical role in housing policy, especially for seniors, people with disabilities, and those on income supports like AISH. It should fund operational costs, supportive housing programs, and coordinate with health and social services to ensure housing is integrated with care. | 20% The City should focus its funding on land use, zoning, partnerships, and targeted investments—especially where local needs are urgent. While its budget is more limited, municipal leadership is essential for enabling and accelerating affordable housing development. I believe that seniors deserve safe, dignified housing with supportive services, and that municipal leadership must prioritize programs like Silvera’s lodge system. While collaboration with other levels of government is essential, the City must lead with compassion and accountability—especially when it comes to caring for our elders.. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | I understand the basics of independent living, supportive living (including the municipal lodge program), and long-term care—and I’m committed to learning more. I recognize the City’s role in funding supportive living and coordinating with other levels of government, and I’m eager to deepen my understanding to better serve seniors. The most significant challenge facing Calgary’s seniors is access to affordable, accessible housing that meets both physical and emotional needs. Many face long waitlists, rising costs, and isolation. I will advocate for expanded lodge funding, better coordination with provincial health services, and more age-friendly housing near transit, services, and community spaces—so seniors can live with dignity, safety, and connection. |
| Alex | Williams | Councillor | Ward 11 | I know Silvera is a housing provider for older Calgarians. My grandmother once lived at the Shawnessy location. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary should be ensuring that all neighbourhoods across the city have housing available for people at all stages and ages, and that said housing is affordable. This should be done through a variety of partnerships with other levels of government, as well as non-profits and other housing providers. | Any answer to this would be arbitrary. People need housing and all 3 levels should be working together to ensure needed housing exists. | Any answer to this would be arbitrary. People need housing and all 3 levels should be working together to ensure needed housing exists. | Any answer to this would be arbitrary. People need housing and all 3 levels should be working together to ensure needed housing exists. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Not knowledgeable, but I would like to learn more. | Housing and loneliness. Great communities and amenities (like those found at Silvera locations) go a long way. Beyond this, however, making sure snow clearing is done well and efficiently, transit is fully accessible and convenient, and that we are building complete neighbourhoods with parks and plazas where we gather would go a long way. Of course, as the housing crisis is affecting us all, we need to continue building much needed housing. |
| Jyoti | Gondek | Mayor | Silvera is a long-time dedicated housing provider for seniors in Calgary. As a civic partner, Silvera supports a spectrum of housing types, providing both supported and independent living options for seniors across our city, with many rentals priced well below market rate. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City must use every lever it possibly can to address the housing crisis. The Home is Here housing strategy addresses both market and non-market housing, in order to lower average prices but also partner with organizations like Silvera to utilize city-owned land for non-market providers. The City can address things like zoning bylaws, permitting processes, and using our own land, but we need the provincial and federal governments to grant funding to the social sector, support housing starts, and address our most vulnerable through the healthcare and non-profit sectors. | 45 | 45 | 10 | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | The biggest challenge for seniors is the ability to age in place and still have access to healthcare services, reliable transportation, and loved ones. If we build a wider variety of housing in our neighbourhoods and prioritize transit-oriented development, there will be more housing options for seniors, based on their needs and wants. Enabling housing choice through zoning, partnering with other orders of government and the non-profit sector, and pursuing the city’s transit and recreation goals will ensure each community is fit for every stage of life. |
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| Inam | Teja | Councillor | Ward 6 | Silvera for Seniors has been a cornerstone of affordable and supportive housing for older Calgarians for more than 60 years. Through my work at the Calgary Drop-In Centre, I’ve seen firsthand the growing challenges seniors face in finding safe, affordable homes, and I deeply respect the vital role Silvera plays in addressing those needs. Their communities offer not just housing, but dignity, connection, and care — helping seniors maintain independence while reducing strain on healthcare and long-term care systems. Silvera’s work exemplifies how thoughtful, community-based housing can make our city more compassionate and sustainable for everyone. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary needs to lead boldly on affordable housing so every resident, including seniors, can find a safe, stable place to call home. That leadership includes making smart use of city-owned land, partnering closely with non-profit and co-op housing providers, and streamlining planning and permitting so affordable projects can move forward without delay. The City should also push for consistent provincial and federal investment, while ensuring local policies like zoning and utility fees don’t drive up costs. Ultimately, affordability and sustainability must go hand in hand; no Calgarian should have to sacrifice their well-being just to keep a roof over their head. | It’s easy to throw around percentages, but I think it’s irresponsible to pretend there’s a one-size-fits-all formula. What matters is building a holistic plan that actually improves the lives of seniors. That means looking beyond just housing and considering transit access, healthcare supports, and community services together. The City has to put skin in the game with land and permitting, the Province has a responsibility for healthcare and housing supports, and the Federal government has the biggest fiscal capacity to fund new builds and additional seniors funding. Instead of arguing over percentages, we should be demanding collaboration that delivers results — because seniors don’t live in silos, and neither should our governments. | It’s easy to throw around percentages, but I think it’s irresponsible to pretend there’s a one-size-fits-all formula. What matters is building a holistic plan that actually improves the lives of seniors. That means looking beyond just housing and considering transit access, healthcare supports, and community services together. The City has to put skin in the game with land and permitting, the Province has a responsibility for healthcare and housing supports, and the Federal government has the biggest fiscal capacity to fund new builds and additional seniors funding. Instead of arguing over percentages, we should be demanding collaboration that delivers results — because seniors don’t live in silos, and neither should our governments. | It’s easy to throw around percentages, but I think it’s irresponsible to pretend there’s a one-size-fits-all formula. What matters is building a holistic plan that actually improves the lives of seniors. That means looking beyond just housing and considering transit access, healthcare supports, and community services together. The City has to put skin in the game with land and permitting, the Province has a responsibility for healthcare and housing supports, and the Federal government has the biggest fiscal capacity to fund new builds and additional seniors funding. Instead of arguing over percentages, we should be demanding collaboration that delivers results — because seniors don’t live in silos, and neither should our governments. | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | From my visits to seniors’ residences across Ward 6, including Silvera communities, I’ve heard a consistent message: affordability and social isolation are the biggest challenges facing Calgary’s seniors. Rising costs for housing, utilities, and transportation are making it harder for many to age in place with dignity, while limited mobility options and shrinking social networks deepen isolation. To address this, we need more affordable, purpose-built housing for seniors, improved transit and accessible transportation, and vibrant community hubs that bring people together and connect them to supports. Calgary must see its seniors not as an afterthought, but as a vital part of our city’s social fabric and future. |
| Marina | Ortman | Councillor | Ward 9 | Silvera is a non-profit in Calgary that operates several apartment buildings that provide affordable housing and services for seniors, with options for independent living and supportive care. | Level 1 priority (high) | The city has a role in providing funding for senior affordable housing. As the city is a creation of the province, the next Council needs to work with other levels of government to provide sufficient funding for seniors. | 37.5 | 37.5 | 25 | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | The availability of infrastructure and support to seniors is a significant challenge. The city can work with management and the province to build more units and develop programming for seniors and fund programs. My office will always be open to hear concerns from residents and I will work to address these challenges. It’s about Partnership you can Trust. |
| Joey | Nowak | Councillor | Ward 1 | Silvera for Seniors is a nonprofit housing provider that has been serving Calgary’s older adults for decades. They provide affordable and supportive housing options for seniors across the city, including independent living and supportive living communities. Silvera plays an important role in addressing seniors’ unique needs, not only by offering housing, but also by creating environments that foster dignity, connection, and quality of life. Their model provides the right housing supports for seniors, helping them stay healthier and independent, while easing demand on the broader healthcare system. With Calgary’s senior population growing, organizations like Silvera are essential partners in ensuring older adults can age in place, stay connected to community, and have the supports they need to thrive. | Level 2 priority | The City has a critical role to play in ensuring housing is within reach for Calgarians. While the Province and Federal government must continue to be major funders, the City can lead by removing barriers and enabling more supply: from zoning that supports a mix of housing types from a diversity of partners – including non-profit and co-op housing providers, to speeding up approvals, and making land available for affordable housing projects. The City should also be a strong partner with nonprofit providers, builders, and community associations to ensure housing is not just built, but built well through integration into neighbourhoods with accessible transit, parks, and services that make everyday life work, and are key social determinants of health. The City should also advocate to other levels of government for more consistent funding. Lastly, City Council must hold itself accountable: setting clear targets, tracking progress publicly and explaining if/why there are delays. | No one solution fits all. What’s needed is a comprehensive strategy that makes a real difference in seniors’ day-to-day lives. I do believe the federal government should remain the largest funder of affordable housing, given its revenue tools and national housing strategy. Municipalities can’t carry this alone, but we can make sure federal dollars translate into real homes Calgarians can afford. | The Province should be a major partner in affordable housing, given its role in health care and income supports that connect to housing needs. | Municipalities don’t have the same revenue tools as the Province or Federal governments, so the City’s role should be focused on what we can do best: strategically making land available, using zoning to enable more supply, and speeding up approvals so projects can actually get built without increasing costs through delays. Our direct dollars should be a smaller share, but we can punch above our weight by leveraging partnerships. When the City brings land, planning tools, and local knowledge and partners to the table, every provincial and federal dollar goes further, and Calgarians can see more homes built faster in neighbourhoods where they’re needed. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | I believe one of the biggest challenges facing Calgary’s seniors is affordability. Many are living on fixed incomes while costs for housing, food, and utilities continue to rise. Seniors who have contributed so much to our city should not be left choosing between rent and groceries. As a councillor, I’ll push for more affordable and supportive housing options, work with partners like Silvera to expand supply, and make sure new developments are integrated into neighbourhoods with transit, parks, and services close by. I’ll also advocate for City programs that ease cost pressures, from the low income seniors transit pass to accessible recreation, so seniors can stay connected, active, and secure in their communities. |
| David | Barrett | Councillor | Ward 7 | I know that Silvera for Seniors is a Calgary-based non-profit that operates a substantial number of seniors living units across the city. I am aware that they focus on providing affordable housing options across the gamut of support levels. My understanding is that Silvera does not operate as a long-term care/high-medical need facility, but instead is focused on providing affordable housing and independence. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary should use every lever at its disposal to support affordable housing. These include financing, aiding affordable housing providers in acquiring land, making it easier to build, offering incentives for a diversity of housing, and leveraging our wholly-owned subsidiaries, such as the Calgary Housing Company and Attainable Homes, and our civic partners, such as Silvera for Seniors. The city has the ability to make it easier to build much-needed affordable housing by creating a supportive policy and regulatory environment, by approving and implementing policy like the housing strategy, and making it easier to build under the land use bylaw I believe the city should increase funding for the Housing Capital Incentive (HCI) to expand support for nonmarket housing development. We need an expanded supply of mixed model, nonprofit housing, which often benefits seniors by providing affordable units in mixed-age communities. I also advocate for new funding streams for cooperative housing development and investments into housing co-op expertise within city administration. The other major levers for the city are our permitting processes and land use bylaw. We can expedite the permitting process, particularly for affordable housing developments. We need to complement that with a more flexible land use bylaw that reduces the regulatory barrier for nonmarket housing providers. A more flexible land use bylaw would also allow for the nontraditional developments, such as courtyard-style builds, that support seniors’ social wellbeing. | 40 | 40 | 20 | This is an important program and funding needs to be made a priority over discretionary municipal spending. | Knowledgeable | The most significant challenge facing Calgary’s seniors is the rising cost of living and the threat of being priced out of safe, supportive housing. This is more than just inflation; it’s a crisis of affordability for essential services that allow seniors to age with dignity. Ultimately, my approach is to treat senior care as the essential public good it is, ensuring that after a lifetime of contributing to our city, no senior in Calgary has to choose between a safe place to live and their financial security. I fundamentally believe that how we design and maintain our city speaks volumes about our priorities. Currently it suggests that in many parts of the city, we are not treating our senior neighbours with the dignity and care that they deserve. I believe that many aspects of my policy platform touch on the priorities of seniors, including making it easier and safer to get around our neighbourhoods through investing in sidewalk improvements, evaluating a city-led snow removal pilot, and advocating for a less restrictive zoning by-law to make it easier to build unique housing types that can be well-suited to supportive housing efforts. In summary, I believe affordability and mobility are critical and are closely related to one another. |
| Myke | Atkinson | Councillor | Ward 7 | Silvera for Seniors is a long-standing nonprofit that provides affordable housing and supportive living options for Calgary’s older adults. I know Silvera plays a critical role in ensuring that seniors, particularly those on fixed or limited incomes, can age in place with dignity, safety, and access to community supports. As Calgary’s population ages, organizations like Silvera are essential to preventing isolation and housing insecurity while also reducing pressure on acute care and emergency services. | Level 2 priority | The City should treat affordable housing as essential infrastructure and continue to be a proactive partner by using policy tools, land use, funding, and advocacy to increase the supply of affordable homes across the housing spectrum. | 40 | 40 | 20 | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Knowledgeable | Many seniors are being left behind by the housing crisis, unable to afford private options and stuck on long waitlists for non-market housing. At the same time, isolation is a growing problem as community supports, mobility options, and accessible gathering spaces become harder to find. I will work to expand affordable housing, strengthen public transit and Fair Entry programs, and reinvest in community infrastructure like recreation centres and libraries that serve as social lifelines for older adults. |
| Nickie | Brockhoff | Councillor | Ward 10 | Silvera has been offering affordable and safe housing for seniors for many years. I lived in Bridgeland for years and visited your facility on several occasions. It was welcoming and felt like a home. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City needs to ensure that all Calgarians, espeically seniors, have access to safe and affordable housing. The city must lead on this issue where they can, streamlining development permitting and fees, using city-owned land where applicable and encouraging partnerships where applicable. The city also need to advocate the provincial and federal government for sustained funding. | Not sure I can give percentages on this. Federal government has more financial capacity but all levels of government must work together and find solutions that provide affordable housing for all who need it. | Provincial government has more capacity that municipal but can offer healthcare and housing supports to alleviate costs for seniors. | Municipal governments incur the consequences when there is a lack of affordable housing so it is our best interest to find collaborative solutions with all levels of government. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Not very knowledgeable. I have had little exposure to this sector. | Affordability. Offering affordable housing options helps ensure that seniors have the financial stability to address the many other challenges they encounter. |
| Brian | Thiessen | Mayor | Silvera for Seniors has been a cornerstone of affordable and supportive housing for older Calgarians for over 60 years. They provide more than just housing — they create safe, community-oriented spaces where seniors can live with dignity, access services, and remain connected. Their model helps keep seniors out of costly healthcare or long-term care settings by providing stable, appropriate housing, which in turn reduces pressure on the wider system. | Level 4 priority | The City must take a leadership role in ensuring Calgarians, including seniors, have access to safe, affordable housing. That means using city-owned land strategically, supporting non-profit and co-op housing providers, and modernizing planning and permitting to bring affordable projects online faster. The City should also advocate with the province and federal government for consistent funding and ensure that municipal policies, from zoning to utility financing, do not add unnecessary costs to new housing. Our approach must balance affordability with sustainability so Calgarians aren’t forced to choose between a roof over their head and basic necessities. | It’s easy to throw around percentages, but I think it’s irresponsible to pretend there’s a one-size-fits-all formula. What matters is building a holistic plan that actually improves the lives of seniors. That means looking beyond just housing and considering transit access, healthcare supports, and community services together. The City has to put skin in the game with land and permitting, the Province has a responsibility for healthcare and housing supports, and the Federal government has the biggest fiscal capacity to fund new builds and additional seniors funding. Instead of arguing over percentages, we should be demanding collaboration that delivers results — because seniors don’t live in silos, and neither should our governments. | It’s easy to throw around percentages, but I think it’s irresponsible to pretend there’s a one-size-fits-all formula. What matters is building a holistic plan that actually improves the lives of seniors. That means looking beyond just housing and considering transit access, healthcare supports, and community services together. The City has to put skin in the game with land and permitting, the Province has a responsibility for healthcare and housing supports, and the Federal government has the biggest fiscal capacity to fund new builds and additional seniors funding. Instead of arguing over percentages, we should be demanding collaboration that delivers results — because seniors don’t live in silos, and neither should our governments. | It’s easy to throw around percentages, but I think it’s irresponsible to pretend there’s a one-size-fits-all formula. What matters is building a holistic plan that actually improves the lives of seniors. That means looking beyond just housing and considering transit access, healthcare supports, and community services together. The City has to put skin in the game with land and permitting, the Province has a responsibility for healthcare and housing supports, and the Federal government has the biggest fiscal capacity to fund new builds and additional seniors funding. Instead of arguing over percentages, we should be demanding collaboration that delivers results — because seniors don’t live in silos, and neither should our governments. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | The biggest challenge facing seniors is affordability — the rising costs of housing, utilities, healthcare supports, and even transportation are making it harder for seniors to age in place with dignity. Too many are forced to choose between staying in their community or downsizing into an option that doesn’t meet their needs. To address this, we would prioritize affordable housing tailored to seniors, expand transit and accessible mobility options, and support community hubs that connect seniors to services and reduce isolation. Calgary needs to treat seniors not as an afterthought, but as a vital part of our city’s future. | |
| Candy | Lam | Councillor | Ward 2 | Silvera for Seniors has been a cornerstone of affordable and supportive housing for older Calgarians for over 60 years. They provide more than just housing — they create safe, community-oriented spaces where seniors can live with dignity, access services, and remain connected. Their model helps keep seniors out of costly healthcare or long-term care settings by providing stable, appropriate housing, which in turn reduces pressure on the wider system. | Level 2 priority | The City must take a leadership role in ensuring Calgarians, including seniors, have access to safe, affordable housing. That means using city-owned land strategically, supporting non-profit and co-op housing providers, and modernizing planning and permitting to bring affordable projects online faster. The City should also advocate with the province and federal government for consistent funding and ensure that municipal policies, from zoning to utility financing, do not add unnecessary costs to new housing. Our approach must balance affordability with sustainability so Calgarians aren’t forced to choose between a roof over their head and basic necessities. | It’s easy to throw around percentages, but I think it’s irresponsible to pretend there’s a one-size-fits-all formula. What matters is building a holistic plan that actually improves the lives of seniors. That means looking beyond just housing and considering transit access, healthcare supports, and community services together. The City has to put skin in the game with land and permitting, the Province has a responsibility for healthcare and housing supports, and the Federal government has the biggest fiscal capacity to fund new builds and additional seniors funding. Instead of arguing over percentages, we should be demanding collaboration that delivers results — because seniors don’t live in silos, and neither should our governments. | It’s easy to throw around percentages, but I think it’s irresponsible to pretend there’s a one-size-fits-all formula. What matters is building a holistic plan that actually improves the lives of seniors. That means looking beyond just housing and considering transit access, healthcare supports, and community services together. The City has to put skin in the game with land and permitting, the Province has a responsibility for healthcare and housing supports, and the Federal government has the biggest fiscal capacity to fund new builds and additional seniors funding. Instead of arguing over percentages, we should be demanding collaboration that delivers results — because seniors don’t live in silos, and neither should our governments. | It’s easy to throw around percentages, but I think it’s irresponsible to pretend there’s a one-size-fits-all formula. What matters is building a holistic plan that actually improves the lives of seniors. That means looking beyond just housing and considering transit access, healthcare supports, and community services together. The City has to put skin in the game with land and permitting, the Province has a responsibility for healthcare and housing supports, and the Federal government has the biggest fiscal capacity to fund new builds and additional seniors funding. Instead of arguing over percentages, we should be demanding collaboration that delivers results — because seniors don’t live in silos, and neither should our governments. | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | The biggest challenge facing seniors is affordability — the rising costs of housing, utilities, healthcare supports, and even transportation are making it harder for seniors to age in place with dignity. Too many are forced to choose between staying in their community or downsizing into an option that doesn’t meet their needs. To address this, we would prioritize affordable housing tailored to seniors, expand transit and accessible mobility options, and support community hubs that connect seniors to services and reduce isolation. Calgary needs to treat seniors not as an afterthought, but as a vital part of our city’s future. |
| Jaspriya | Johal | Councillor | Ward 3 | Silvera for Seniors is a place that helps older people live safely and comfortably in their homes. They offer housing and support for seniors in Calgary. I worked there as a food server during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was an important job because I helped make sure the seniors got their meals safely while staying healthy. I enjoyed helping the residents and being part of a caring team during a difficult time. | Level 1 priority (high) | The City of Calgary should help make sure everyone has a safe and affordable place to live. They can do this by building more affordable homes, fixing old buildings, and helping people who need support to find housing. The city can also work with other governments and organizations to make housing better for everyone. It’s important that the city listens to people and makes sure no one is left out. | 50 | 30 | 20 | This is an important program, but municipal funding is limited. Other levels of government need to put in more money. | Very knowledgeable. I fully understand the municipality’s role with respect to funding the lodge program and its role within the spectrum of housing for seniors. | One of the biggest challenges facing Calgary’s seniors is not having enough affordable and safe places to live. Many seniors live on a small income and can’t afford high rent. To help fix this, the city and other governments can build more affordable housing for seniors and give support for things like meals and healthcare. It’s also important to make sure seniors feel included and not lonely by offering fun programs and ways to stay active in their community. |