Williams’ motion called for the city to provide loans to help people create secondary suites in their homes that would be rented at 80 per cent of market value.

Williams said his motion, which aimed to help create 250 of the 1,000 affordable rental units the city has committed to developing was a “drop in the bucket” but it was some action at a time when it “is desperately needed.”

“It’s low cost, it has great social benefits and it’s something unique,” he said. “Traditional methods are not keeping up.”

Williams: “I brought an idea. I hope all of you continue to do the same,” he told council.

Only Coun. Chris Malette supported Williams’ motion.