Ep 27: Underfunded and Overwhelmed - The Crisis in Ontario's Public Services

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The chronic underfunding of Ontario's public services has reached a critical tipping point, and the latest provincial budget has only deepened concerns among experts and citizens alike. This eye-opening conversation with Kelly Baker, founder of Informed Advocacy, pulls back the curtain on what's really happening with healthcare and education funding in Ontario.

Baker doesn't mince words when analyzing the provincial budget's impact on healthcare: "They're showing a 2% growth in healthcare year over year. I think that's just not realistic." With an aging population, millions without access to family doctors, and emergency rooms at capacity, this minimal increase fails to address even basic inflationary costs. The consequences? A system where preventable issues escalate into expensive emergency care scenarios. As Baker points out, keeping people in emergency rooms or hospitals becomes "the most expensive way to deliver care" – creating a vicious cycle of higher costs and poorer outcomes.

The education sector faces similar challenges. The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) projects a staggering $58 million deficit for 2025-2026, with infrastructure literally crumbling in some schools. Drawing from her experience as a former TDSB media relations coordinator, Baker observes that many problems are cyclical – the same issues she saw years ago continue today, suggesting a pattern of short-term fixes rather than sustainable solutions. When schools flood during rainstorms and essential programs face cuts, the consequences extend far beyond budget spreadsheets to impact student learning and community well-being.

For organizations hoping to influence government priorities, Baker recommends focusing on the long-term economic impact of current underfunding. By demonstrating how proper investment now prevents ballooning costs later, advocates can frame their message in terms that resonate with budget-conscious officials. As summer approaches, this is the perfect time to reassess engagement strategies and align advocacy efforts with the government's stated economic priorities.

Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 27, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant.

What's your experience with Ontario's public services? Have you noticed the effects of these funding decisions in your community?

Chapters

1. Latest Headlines in Ontario Politics (00:00:00)

2. Ontario Budget: Healthcare and Education Shortfalls (00:05:30)

3. Long-term Impacts of Underfunding Public Services (00:10:00)

4. Advice for Healthcare Advocacy Organizations (00:13:10)

5. TDSB Deficit Crisis and Communication Strategy (00:16:26)

6. Informed Advocacy and Closing Thoughts (00:21:12)