Torontonians are calling Stan Cho’s taxpayer-funded hotel expenses “ridiculous” and a “waste of money” after the Willowdale MPP resigned from Premier Doug Ford’s cabinet Friday.
Cho stepped down as Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming after repaying $16,203 in hotel expenses claimed for stays in downtown Toronto, despite living roughly six kilometres from Queen’s Park.
While Cho’s office said the claims complied with existing legislative rules, the controversy has sparked widespread criticism and prompted the Ford government to move to eliminate the reimbursement provision altogether.
‘It’s a waste of taxpayer money’
Several residents who spoke with Now Toronto questioned why public funds were used for hotel stays instead of Cho, who lived nearby, commuting to Queen’s Park.
“I think it’s a little bit ridiculous, especially considering how much [we pay in] taxes,” said Sarah M. “People are finding trouble with housing, people are finding trouble with groceries going up… It’s very selfish, and it just kind of makes you question, what am I even paying taxes for?”
Matthew C. called the expense a waste of money, adding that the province should be using taxpayers’ dollars to boost funding in areas that the public needs.
“Like safer transit, more healthcare, anything that’s not like a [$16,000] hotel room,” he said.
Residents say controversy doesn’t change their trust in politicians
For some, the controversy did little to change their perception of politicians.
“It’s blatant corruption,” Kieran C. told Now Toronto, adding that he wasn’t surprised by the spending. “This is a drop in an ocean of wasted, corrupt spending.”
Asked whether the controversy affected his trust in elected officials, Kieran replied no.
“I had none anyway,” he said.
Adam E. took a more measured view, saying there could be legitimate reasons for hotel stays in some cases, but questioned whether they were justified in this situation.
“You’re working for the people, so there’s some accountability that needs to happen,” he said.
Cho will remain the Progressive Conservative MPP for Willowdale despite resigning from cabinet.
Premier Doug Ford has since called the spending “totally unacceptable” and said his government will eliminate the rule that allowed Toronto-area MPPs to claim hotel accommodations under certain circumstances.
