Ontarios associate housing minister opposed crazy 11-storey tower idea during election [Video]

Ontario’s newest associate housing minister is facing questions about his commitment to building new homes after appearing to promise during the recent election to block the idea of allowing towering developments in his riding.

As part of Doug Ford’s cabinet reshuffle last week, Parry Sound—Muskoka MPP Graydon Smith was made Associate Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

His job includes responsibility for modular and attainable homes as Ontario tries to reach its vanishing goal of building 1.5 million new homes by 2031.

During the recent election, however, Smith appeared to oppose the idea riding he represents needs more dense housing options — even while Ontario’s housing starts flounder.

“What would you think if an 11-storey tower was brought in right here in the middle of town?” Smith said in a campaign video he posted to his social media. “Oh, and if you don’t like it, too bad, no appeals accepted. Completely crazy, right?”

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles …