A heated debate on the city’s property tax increase turned physical on Tuesday after protesters stormed the floor of the city council chambers and aired a litany of grievances before some were dragged out by city hall security.
The protesters spoke about housing, homelessness, Indigenous relations, policing, addictions and more. One held a Palestinian flag.
A tense standoff ensued as some protesters were physically removed, others left of ther own accord, and others stayed to read prepared remarks.
About 15 minutes after the first protesters stormed onto the council floor, security cleared the entire chamber while council went into recess.
Tuesday’s events were reminiscent of former mayor John Tory’s final budget in February 2023, which was disrupted several times by protesters who called for more action on housing and cutting the police budget.
The city's 2025 budget eventually passed around 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday. TorontoToday has full details here.
