We've had another full Council meeting this month and I’ve been focused on advancing the City-wide priorities that matter most, while keeping the needs of Don Valley North front and centre.  From cracking down on overnight speed racing to pushing for a universal school food program, I’ve worked to make sure our local concerns are reflected in the decisions shaping Toronto’s future. I also took action to right-size the City’s new multiplex housing framework, setting clear parameters to ensure new housing forms are livable, balanced, and fit well into our neighbourhoods. In this update, I’m sharing just a few of the major items we tackled and what they’ll mean for our community in the months and years ahead. 🏘️ Housing in Our Neighbourhoods – Fourplexes, Sixplexes, and What’s Next PH22.3 – Multiplex Monitoring Program – Final Report PH22.4 – Expanding Permissions for Low-Rise Sixplexes – Final Report PH22.8 – Housing Action Plan: Avenues Policy Review – Phase Two Work Plan I wrote earlier this month about the improvements being made to the approvals process for new duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes. These forms of gentle density are an important part of our long-term housing strategy, and I’m pleased to share that the initial issues we faced in Don Valley North have now been mitigated. Not us. The most important change? A cap on the total number of bedrooms per property. This ensures that while multi-generational families can build flexible, livable units in a fourplex, we no longer risk seeing unregulated rooming houses disguised as multiplexes. On the topic of sixplexes, I know many of you have questions, and you aren’t alone. PH22.4 was the most controversial item on the Council floor this month, and I was very clear in my remarks: I fully support the need for more varied housing options in our neighbourhoods, but we have to build public trust alongside housing supply. That’s why I supported the compromise that was reached. To meet federal conditions for the Housing Accelerator Fund, Toronto must adopt permissions for low-rise sixplexes. But instead of applying this citywide all at once, these permissions will begin as pilot projects in a handful of districts — giving other parts of the city, including Don Valley North, time to evaluate how these policies function on the ground. Similarly, Don Valley North will be part of the final phase of the Avenues Policy Review, which will expand as-of-right zoning for mid-rise buildings along major corridors. This measured rollout recognizes that while we continue to face intense development pressures along Sheppard Avenue East, new zoning tools must be introduced thoughtfully. Taken together, these housing initiatives help us move beyond a model of just tall towers and sprawl, by gradually adding more diverse, human-scale housing forms that better reflect the needs of our growing city. 🧱 Responding to the Province’s Big Changes — Bill 17 EX24.2 - Assessment of City Impacts from Bill 17, Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025 and Provincial Budget Bill 17, the Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act , was rushed through the Legislature and passed before the public comment period had even ended—raising serious concerns for Toronto. While we all want to see more housing built quickly, the financial consequences of Bill 17 for the City are significant: over the next decade, we could see a $1.9 billion deferral in development charge cash flow, limiting our ability to build the infrastructure new communities need. At the same time, Bill 17 weakens Toronto’s ability to require design and safety studies that protect our built form, environment, and quality of life—especially in high-density neighbourhoods. 🍎 Building a Universal School Food Program EX24.3 - A Vision and Strategy for a Universal School Food Program in Toronto At our June meeting, City Council approved a bold and practical roadmap to achieve a universal school food program in Toronto. The plan will ensure every student has access to a healthy morning meal by the 2026/2027 school year, with a strategic path to delivering a universal lunch program by 2030. This is a major step toward addressing food insecurity, improving academic outcomes, and supporting working families with real, everyday savings. It’s also a powerful way to back our local food system—aligning with our Economic Action Plan and the City’s Cool Food Pledge to promote climate-friendly meals. Here in Don Valley North, only about half of our public schools currently have a school food program. That’s why I’m thrilled that our community stands to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of this expansion. Many of our schools are expected to be included in the upcoming Phase 3 and 4 rollouts. We’ll be pushing to get answers soon on which schools will be included and how we can help support local delivery.  🚑 Multi-Year Staffing Plan for Toronto Paramedic Services EX24.6 - Toronto Paramedic Services: Multi-Year Staffing Plan Emergency response times are too long, and our paramedics are burning out. That’s why Council adopted a multi-year staffing plan to recruit and retain more frontline workers in Toronto Paramedic Services while being fiscally responsible. This plan begins to reverse a decade of underinvestment, putting our response system on more stable footing — especially with a growing and aging population. It’s about ensuring that when you call 911, help arrives swiftly. 🚸 Safer Streets for Everyone – Vision Zero Updates IE22.4 - Updates on Vision Zero Road Safety Initiatives: Improving Crossings for Pedestrians, Updated Road Classification Criteria and Other Matters This report is an itemized update of Vision Zero traffic safety measures that will be installed this summer, including some speed reductions in Don Valley North. I know people are sometimes caught by surprise when these safety changes are installed, but their value is proven by the statistics. Vision Zero is about killing fewer pedestrians with our cars. It is as simple as that. I want to show a graph of road injuries and fatalities in Toronto. As you look at it, I want you to consider that in the year 2000, where the chart begins, the population of Toronto was approximately 2 million. In 2024, the final year on the chart below, our population reached 3 million, with the most rapid growth happening in the last five years.  🌱 Climate Progress Report – TransformTO IE22.9 - TransformTO Net Zero Strategy - 2024 Annual Report on Implementation Progress TransformTO is our city’s blueprint to reach net-zero emissions by 2040. The latest annual report shows that Toronto’s emissions have dropped 37%below 1990 levels — a promising sign. But we have more to do, particularly when it comes to retrofitting buildings and greening our transportation network. I continue to support practical, equitable solutions that make climate action work in every part of the city, from downtown to Don Valley North. 🚨 Cracking Down on Overnight Speed Racing MM31.28 - Action to Address Speed Racing on Expressways - by Councillor Jon Burnside, seconded by Councillor Shelley Carroll Alongside Councillor Burnside, I brought forward a motion to address the growing complaints about loud and dangerous, high-speed racing on the DVP and Highway 404. Working with our City Noise Team and the Toronto Police, we’re pushing for renewed enforcement and education to restore peace and safety to our east-end communities. 🌿 Fixing Seasonal Grass Cutting and Coordination MM31.7 - Review of Seasonal Grass Cutting and Inter-Divisional Coordination - by Councillor Shelley Carroll, seconded by Councillor Paula Fletcher Now here’s one that I brought forward myself — because I heard you loud and clear. This spring, I received a flood of concerns about long grass in parks, unkempt boulevards, and slow maintenance across the city. Residents were right to be frustrated. It was clear that our current seasonal maintenance system isn’t working the way it should. That’s why I brought a motion to Council directing City staff to conduct a full review of how we schedule, coordinate, and fund grass cutting and maintenance — especially across divisions like Parks andTransportation. We need one cohesive plan, not a patchwork response. This work will include a look at equipment, staffing, timing, and even how our weather patterns are changing. I’ll keep pushing until the green spaces you love are looked after properly and predictably. As always, I’ll continue to keep you updated as these initiatives move forward , and to speak up for Don Valley North as we shape the future of our city together . If there’s an issue you’d like to raise or a question I can help with, don’t hesitate to reach out. My team and I are always here to help.

Next week, City Council will consider a report  from the Infrastructure and Environment Committee introducing Toronto’s new Strategic Parking Framework, a major update to how we manage parking across the city. While this report includes some long-overdue improvements, I’ll be working hard to ensure that the voices of Don Valley North, and all of Toronto’s suburbs, are heard loud and clear. Because despite the consultations that took place, I don’t see the inner suburban perspective reflected in this strategy. Let's Start with a Win Before diving into the challenges, I want to acknowledge a genuine Toronto success story: the Toronto Parking Authority . Many cities have sold off their municipal parking corporations and, in doing so, lost the ability to control curb space altogether. Not us. Because we’ve kept full ownership of the TPA, we have one of the world’s most respected municipal parking systems: Green P Parking. At no cost to the property tax base, and with a modest annual return to the City, Toronto Parking Authority manages Green P on-street and off-street parking, Bike Share Toronto, EV charging infrastructure, and even a car-share program. That strong foundation is what makes a strategy like this possible in the first place. A Citywide Strategy Must Work for the Whole City Too often, downtown pressures dominate the conversation about curb space. But in suburban communities like ours, parking plays a very different role. It’s not just about convenience. It’s about access.    Whether you’re a parent trying to get your child to a hockey game, a senior attending a medical appointment, or a shift worker without reliable off-peak transit, the ability to park near your destination is essential. I’ve been clear that a parking strategy that only works downtown doesn’t work for Don Valley North. This report takes steps in the right direction. It introduces changes that will help manage congestion and improve options across the city. That matters to all of us, since we travel beyond our neighbourhoods every day. But that doesn’t mean we need to sacrifice suburban realities in the name of progress. What's in the Report? This report takes steps in the right direction. It introduces changes that will help manage congestion and improve options across the city. That matters to all of us, since we travel beyond our neighbourhoods every day. But that doesn’t mean we need to sacrifice suburban realities in the name of progress. The Strategic Parking Framework  lays out six “Big Moves” for the coming years: 1. Managing Parking by Neighbourhood Instead of planning parking one spot or block at a time, the strategy takes a broader view. It looks at neighbourhood needs and commercial districts as whole systems. This could be a win for suburban BIAs and growing commercial corridors. 2. Making Parking Data Publicly Accessible Finally, we’ll have real-time information on where parking is available, delivered through voice-activated and in-car technology. This is exactly the kind of smart, user-friendly innovation drivers need. 3. Adjusting Pricing to Support Sustainable Mobility The report asks why “pay and display: on-street parking costs less than Green P lots. By shifting the balance and making underground and off-street parking more attractive, we can improve traffic flow. But pricing changes must reflect local realities. I’ll be watching this one closely.  4. Expanding Carshare Options Staff propose allowing carshare vehicles to park in any legitimate spot across the city. While this might suit downtown, in suburban areas where parking enforcement is inconsistent and residential space is limited, we need to proceed with caution. 5. Upgrading Outdated Parking Technology Many of the City’s parking systems are still running on outdated platforms. This plan includes a comprehensive review of what each City division needs and lays the groundwork for a modern, centralized parking management system. That means real-time usage data, improved permitting tools, easier payment options (including non-smartphone alternatives), and better enforcement tools that are more cost-effective and less frustrating for users, making the system more responsive, more efficient, and more user-friendly. 6. Centralizing Leadership and Oversight The Parking Advisory Committee, which helped develop this strategy, would become a permanent oversight body. Its role would be to ensure that all future parking decisions reflect the city’s long-term goals and are aligned across departments. A Balanced Approach Some proposals in the report have real merit. For example, supporting local Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) through better signage and performance-based pricing that helps ensure parking turnover is welcome news. In Don Valley North, we’re encouraging new and existing businesses to consider forming BIAs along corridors like Sheppard. These improvements might be just the push they need to get started. But other ideas in the staff report need closer examination.   One concerning proposal would increase prices for on-street parking in suburban areas without robust transit or nearby off-street options. That could disproportionately affect families and seniors. Another concern is the proposal to introduce paid parking at civic facilities like arenas and community centres. We’ve already seen how challenging this can be at the new Ethennonnhawahstihnen Community Centre. Until transit and street-level changes are complete, I’ll be advocating for the lowest possible rates and carefully managed on-street alternatives. What I'm Fighting For I’ll be pushing for updates to this framework that reflect the full geography of our city. The report acknowledges that one-size-fits-all solutions don’t work, but it still leans heavily on downtown examples. A strategy that works on King Street doesn’t automatically make sense for Sheppard Avenue East or Steeles. My goal is to ensure this plan delivers real, practical improvements. That means: Opposing blanket pricing changes that punish suburban families. Ensuring that when new Green P lots open in suburban areas, they offer introductory pricing that reflects how big an adjustment this is for local residents. Demanding in-person consultations in every part of the city, not just online or downtown. Championing user-friendly tech upgrades that include options for seniors and people without smartphones. Ensuring carshare does not displace residential parking, especially in areas where enforcement is already limited. What You Can Do This is your city, and your curb space too. I encourage you to read the full framework at toronto.ca/parkingstrategy  and let me know what you think. If you’ve ever struggled to find a spot, paid a fine you didn’t understand, or had trouble with a parking app, I want to hear from you. Growing Together As your City Councillor, I will always fight for a Toronto that works for everyone, including communities like Don Valley North. That includes recognizing the role that cars still play in suburban life, even as we move toward more sustainable transportation options. It also means continuing to advocate for expanded transit infrastructure in our part of the city. I will keep pushing for the Sheppard Subway Extension, the Ontario Line, and improved service integration across the entire transit network. Growth in Toronto should not mean leaving the suburbs behind. It should mean building a city that grows together, guided by fairness, practicality, and common sense. As always, my office is here to help. If you have questions, feedback, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

A few summers ago, I wrote about my vacation in Vancouver and the incredible density being introduced in neighbourhoods there. Vancouver City Hall had recently approved laneway and garden suites in residential areas, along with high-rise developments along SkyTrain routes into the inner suburbs and East Vancouver. Knowing I’d be interested, my sister-in-law took me on a driving tour of the new housing forms appearing near their home. Fast forward to today. I was back in Vancouver last week for a business trip, and we retraced that drive after five more years of development. The visit offered a timely and valuable perspective, as Toronto’s Planning and Housing Committee is now preparing to consider two important reports focused on gentle density in our neighbourhoods. City Planning staff are proposing key amendments to how multiplexes are approved and built across the city. These reports include updates to existing permissions for smaller multiplexes, as well as a new proposal to permit sixplexes as-of-right city-wide, meaning they could be built without the need for a rezoning application, as long as they comply with local zoning standards like height, setbacks, and building size. In 2018, the City of Toronto began permitting laneway suites as-of-right, followed by garden suites in 2022, subject to certain conditions. Shortly thereafter, through the Expanding Housing Options in Neighbourhoods (EHON) program, the City also permitted duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes as-of-right. The goal was to provide more suitable multi-unit housing options for families than what standard condo units typically offer. Increasingly, families are also seeking to create multi-generational living arrangements on their properties, particularly in today’s housing and economic climate. As expected, most applications for these gentle-density housing forms have occurred downtown. In suburban areas like Don Valley North, laneways are rare, so garden suites are the primary option for backyard development. These are now beginning to appear on larger lots that meet the criteria. In Don Valley North, we have a few fourplexes either under construction or nearing that stage. There have been lessons along the way, and my team and I have had to stay alert. When buildings are approved as-of-right by city staff at the planning counter, we sometimes rely on your calls to track where and how these additions are appearing in our neighbourhoods. When issues arise, we work closely with City Planning staff to resolve them. This collaboration has already resulted in proposed updates in the new reports coming to city council. The most important proposed change is a limit on the total number of bedrooms per lot. In Henry Farm, a planning counter representative granted as-of-right approval for a fourplex and garden suite combination that would have created 30 bedrooms on a single property. I raised the issue during a Council meeting, and staff responded swiftly. That application is now under reconsideration, with permissions suspended until substantial changes are made. By capping the total number of bedrooms, we preserve flexibility while preventing unlicensed rooming houses from being disguised as fourplexes. Legitimate proposals typically include a mix of unit sizes—for example, two 3-bedroom units and two 2-bedroom units in a fourplex. We still want to allow for a family to have a four-bedroom main unit while creating smaller rental apartments for income. Another proposed change is designed to help both developers and neighbours. Currently, to avoid development charges, some developers apply to build a fourplex first and then come back later to apply for a garden suite. This piecemeal approach is frustrating. To properly evaluate landscaped area and ensure neighbourhood compatibility, we need to see the whole plan from the outset. Residents deserve that clarity, too. City staff are recommending that applicants be allowed to submit plans for both a multi-unit house and a garden suite at the same time, without triggering additional development charges. This change would support better site planning, increase transparency for neighbours, and help City staff assess the full scope of a project from the start. In Don Valley North, we recently saw a homeowner begin construction on a fourplex and then later start building a garden suite without proper permissions. Although staff stepped in to address the situation, the sequence strongly suggests an attempt to bypass the rules. The proposed amendment is intended to curb this kind of behaviour by creating a clearer, more accountable process. Now comes the hard part. As part of this broader review, City staff are recommending city-wide, as-of-right permissions for sixplexes in neighbourhoods. I understand why they want to take this step, but I also have concerns. Sixplexes have already appeared without formal permissions in parts of the old City of Toronto. For many renters, especially near universities, transit, and main streets, these units offer an affordable housing option. By permitting them through a formal process, we can ensure that they meet building code, fire safety, and construction standards. Five- and six-unit multiplexes would be required to fit within the same building envelope currently permitted for other multiplexes, with one exception: a proposed 0.5 metre height increase, to a total of 10.5 metres, would apply only if a basement unit is included, in order to improve livability and allow for better natural light through above-grade windows. My concern is that we are still learning from the fourplex experience, particularly in suburban areas. City Planning’s own review shows that as-of-right duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes are developing much more rapidly downtown. In the suburbs, they are just beginning to emerge, so we do not yet have a full understanding of their impact. Of the permits that were reviewed as part of this monitoring report, only 1.1% of the total permits were in Don Valley North. Every by-law leaves some room for interpretation, and my experience has been that counter staff conducting the initial reviews of these applications may not always be familiar with the unique context of Don Valley North, particularly when it comes to parking requirements and lot configurations. As a result, they may approve applications that don’t fully align with the intent of the zoning changes. Even with simpler applications like garden suites, we’ve seen inconsistent decisions around landscaped area requirements. With so few examples to draw from in our area, I believe we need more training and experience among front-line planning staff before moving forward with broader changes. While in Vancouver, I saw several recently constructed sixplexes. They are common in areas where nearly every street has a rear laneway. Builders often purchase two adjacent lots and construct sixplexes side by side. The results are often attractive, fitting in well with large, renovated single-family homes nearby. There is one key difference. In Vancouver, sixplexes are allowed to use the rear of the property for four parking spaces and garbage storage. Even though the area is well served by transit, the parking spaces still appeared to be necessary. If I had my way, Toronto would take a cautious approach and approve sixplexes only on lots with access to a rear laneway or permit street parking. No lots in Don Valley North meet those criteria yet, but our parking policies may evolve over time. For now, we continue to adjust to and closely monitor the recent changes already in place. My office is always appreciative when you call to let us know how things are going on the ground. As a City Council, we are trying to give more people more choices about where to live, and make those choices more affordable. We are licensing and regulating multi-tenant homes, while enabling new family-sized housing forms such as duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and backyard garden suites. These options fill important gaps in Toronto’s housing market but making them work requires input from the community. A number of these amendments were raised by residents of Don Valley North through the EHON Reference Group I hosted earlier this year. I am so grateful for your suggestions. If you are considering one of these housing options for your family, or if a proposal has appeared on your street and you have concerns, we’re here to help. City Council will vote on these reports starting June 25. The proposed improvements and sixplex recommendation are not yet final. I want to hear your thoughts.

Back when I first joined Council, we didn’t talk as much about the housing shortage, traffic, or endless construction as we do now. Toronto wasn’t growing nearly as quickly as it is now. You might ask, “What on earth did people talk about all day?” We talked about garbage. Endlessly. When the Provincial government of the mid-nineties forced the amalgamation of the six municipalities that made up Metro Toronto, the debate over what to do with our waste had already been raging for almost a decade. Metro had landfills in York Region and Scarborough/Durham, but they were reaching capacity. The very first amalgamated Council of the new megacity of Toronto was immediately divided over a controversial proposal. An abandoned open-pit mine called Adams Mine, located in Northern Ontario near Kirkland Lake, was offered as a solution to Toronto’s disposal needs. The idea raised serious environmental concerns. In 2000, Toronto City Council debated the issue for three straight days. The way councillors voted on Adams Mine became the defining ballot issue in that fall’s municipal election. In the end, Council listened to the voices of residents in Kirkland Lake and nearby First Nations communities, who feared contamination of their land and water. Council voted not to proceed with Adams Mine. Instead, we began shipping Toronto’s residual waste to an established landfill in upstate Michigan. Today, we own our own landfill, Green Lane, located southwest of London, Ontario. Green Lane is expected to reach capacity by 2030. So here we are again. It is time to talk about Toronto’s waste future. The City is now in the process of updating our Long-Term Waste Strategy, which will guide how we manage garbage for decades to come. The most urgent decision on the table is how to handle the portion of waste that cannot be recycled or composted. This is where the debate comes in. The two main disposal options under consideration are building a new landfill or developing an incinerator facility. The City has launched an online survey as part of the early consultation. It is worth participating, although I will say it’s a little one-sided and light on information. So, let’s get up to speed. Some Good News While waste disposal remains an ongoing challenge for every city, environmental regulations and technology have helped improve our options. Landfills must now be built on specific land types, typically those with clay-based soil that helps prevent contaminants from leaching into the groundwater. Each new section of a landfill must be lined to protect the water supply. Over time, landfills decompose waste and generate methane. Today, methane capture systems can convert that gas into energy. Green Lane now has such a system in place. There have also been innovations in incineration. While there is still no incinerator that produces zero emissions, newer systems can capture by-products and use them to create energy. Proponents of incineration like to call these “Energy-from-Waste Facilities” but the reality is that in almost every case, both landfills and incinerators are converting gases into energy at some volume because there is a market for it. Cost, Complexity, and What Comes Next As the debate over landfill versus incineration ramps up, both sides will claim to be more cost-effective. The truth is, neither option is cheap. Land suitable for landfill use is hard to find and very expensive, especially once sellers know a city like Toronto is interested. Environmental approvals and operational costs also add to the price tag. Incinerators are equally costly to build and operate, and they are often difficult to get approved anywhere. Solid Waste Management Services has been preparing for this for years. The reserve fund that will pay for the next solution was built through the waste bin rate structure. The more you’ve done to reduce your waste—by sorting, reusing, and choosing a smaller black bin—the more fairly you’ll contribute to that future cost. I encourage you to take the Solid Waste survey using the knowledge and perspective you have today. Your input is an important part of getting this conversation started. Complete the survey by June 29 and consider attending the upcoming public event, Bin There, Done That: What’s Next?, on June 10. It’s a chance to speak directly with City staff, ask questions, and share your ideas. This is just the beginning of a longer process, and there will be more opportunities to engage and learn. I’ll continue to share what I learn along the way so we can make an informed, responsible choice about how Toronto manages its waste in the years ahead. The next step will be a report to the Infrastructure Committee. This report will include survey results, and the research gathered so far by City staff. It will also lay out staff’s preferred option between landfill and energy-from-waste. Even if Council agrees on a direction, this decision will still go through many more stages, including the environmental approval process and extensive public consultation—especially if new infrastructure is proposed. What You Can Do Right Now Because every option is expensive, I am asking you once again to be as intentional and conscientious as possible when it comes to waste. When was the last time you used the Waste Wizard online tool? Have you downloaded the TOwaste app to make sure you “Know Before You Throw”? Whatever solution we land on, we need to do everything we can to reduce the volume of waste we produce. The City’s Solid Waste Division offers excellent guidance on how to work toward zero waste. There are also international resources you can turn to. Here is one group’s list of the bare minimum we should all be doing by now: You can go even further by embracing the circular economy. Choose products with return or reuse systems and minimal packaging. Donate items rather than discarding them. During gift-giving seasons, consider offering consumables or shared experiences instead of physical items. For example, give the gift of food or a promise to attend a concert or film together. This holiday season, make memories instead of garbage. Looking Ahead We have come a long way since the early days of waste debates at City Hall, but the core challenge remains: how to responsibly manage what we leave behind. This decision will shape how we treat our environment, how we spend public dollars, and how we meet our climate goals for generations to come. I hope you will stay engaged, ask questions, and keep doing your part to reduce waste at home. I’ll continue to keep you informed every step of the way, because everyone in Toronto deserves a voice in how we build a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Summer is just around the corner, and I hope you and your loved ones are looking forward to enjoying everything our vibrant community has to offer. We’ve got some exciting events lined up—and important updates to help keep you safe and cool during the warmer months. First, I’m thrilled to announce the return of our Annual Summer Celebration! On Saturday, July 5 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, we’ll be gathering outdoors at Oriole Community Centre for an afternoon filled with fun, food, and community spirit. This is truly one of my favourite events of the year. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the neighbourhood, it’s a wonderful opportunity to come together, enjoy a delicious BBQ, take in some live music, play games, and take part in family-friendly activities for all ages. I hope you’ll join us to help kick off the summer season in style! We’re also looking for high school students to volunteer at the event. If you know a student who needs to complete their 40 community service hours, this is a fantastic chance to get involved. Students can sign up here. And don’t forget to save the date for our Outdoor Movie Night! Join us on Thursday, July 31 from 7:00 to 11:00 PM at Parkway Forest Park. Bring a blanket, grab some popcorn, and settle in for a relaxing evening under the stars. We’ll be announcing the movie selection soon—stay tuned! If you can’t wait until July, our friends at the Dallington Pollinators Community Garden are hosting their eighth annual movie night in Dallington Park on Saturday, June 7. Starting at 6:30 PM, they’ll have family-friendly activities including prizes, a scavenger hunt, a colouring contest, and more. The movie—The Wild Robot—will begin at dusk, around 8:45 PM. Keeping Our Streets Neat This Summer Every summer, my office hears from residents about the importance of keeping our neighbourhood green spaces looking their best. I’m pleased to share that the City’s 2025 grass cutting program is now underway, with up to seven scheduled cuts running through to November, weather permitting. These crews handle the basics: picking up litter, mowing the grass to a tidy height, and trimming around poles and signs in the right-of-way. In Don Valley North, that includes our major boulevards, centre medians, and sections of the hydro corridor trails. It’s a big job, and I know how important it is to keep these areas clean and welcoming. If you notice a City-maintained space that’s been missed or needs attention, don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. We’ll follow up directly with Transportation Services to make sure it’s addressed. Of course, we also count on residents to do their part. Homeowners are still responsible for maintaining the boulevard in front of their property—keeping grass under 20 cm, clearing weeds and litter, and trimming hedges to a safe height. Staying Cool and Safe in a Changing Climate Each summer, it becomes more and more clear that Toronto is feeling the effects of climate change. Longer, more intense heat waves are becoming the norm, and the risks—particularly for seniors and those with existing health conditions—are growing. That’s why keeping residents safe and comfortable during extreme heat has become a top priority. You might recall that in 2023, I brought a motion to Council asking for a review of our temperature bylaws , because the rules in place simply weren’t keeping up with today’s reality. I still vividly remember visiting three apartment buildings in the ward during an early spring heat wave. Despite outdoor temperatures soaring into the high 80s and 90s Fahrenheit, the heat inside was still blasting. Residents were being virtually cooked in their own homes. The room where I met with tenants was so unbearably hot that I struggled to think clearly—and I wasn’t even the one living there every day. As a result, the bylaw has been updated to allow landlords to be more responsive and to turn off the heat earlier in the season. But, as we just saw with the recent cold snap, fixed calendar dates are not a reliable way to manage indoor temperatures. That’s why the City is still exploring the feasibility of moving to a fully temperature-based system. Staff are gathering real-time data and consulting with public health experts, housing inspectors, and other city divisions to look at the condition of buildings, how work orders are handled, and how city-run cooling centres can better serve not only those experiencing homelessness, but also seniors and other vulnerable residents. The goal is simple: to ensure our policies reflect the actual weather, not the calendar. Residents deserve safe, livable homes that protect their health and dignity in real time. I’ll be following this work closely and will keep you updated as it progresses. While that work is ongoing, I’m proud to support a new initiative aimed at protecting some of our most vulnerable neighbours: the Air Conditioner Pilot Program for Low-Income Seniors . This thoughtful, equity-focused program will provide free portable air conditioning units to eligible low-income seniors who have health conditions that can be worsened by extreme heat—conditions like asthma, chronic heart or lung disease, and even cancer. Applicants will be selected through a randomized draw and the eligibility criteria is pretty specific, so If you are interested, please take a look at the details carefully. Applications are now open and will be accepted until Friday, June 6. Seniors—or their caregivers—can apply in the way that works best for them: • Online at toronto.ca/ACProgram • By phone at 416-397-2220 • In person at one of the following community hubs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM: • Scarborough Civic Centre (150 Borough Dr.): May 27 & June 3 • Regent Park Community Centre (402 Shuter St.): May 28 & June 4 • Keele Community Hub (1652 Keele St.): May 30 & June 6 If you know someone who might benefit from this program, please help us spread the word. Every unit distributed through this pilot could make the difference between comfort and crisis during a heat wave. Of course, we also know that sometimes you’re just out and about in the city and need a quick place to cool off—especially during a heat wave. While many local businesses have air conditioning, not every space is accessible or clearly marked when you’re in a hurry and the heat is rising. That’s why the City has created a helpful interactive Cool Spaces Map. Just enter an address or nearby intersection, and you’ll be able to locate the closest place to take a break from the heat—whether that’s a swimming pool, library, community centre, or other public building with air conditioning. You can also browse the map directly and filter by location type, available amenities, and days of operation, so you can find exactly what you need. As we head into the summer season, I hope you’ll take every opportunity to get outside and enjoy all that Don Valley North has to offer, from our parks and trails to our upcoming community events. At the same time, please take steps to stay safe in the heat, check in on neighbours, stay hydrated, and make use of the City’s cooling resources if needed. Whether it’s a movie night in the park or a cool afternoon at a local community centre, let’s make this a summer to remember, full of connection, care, and community spirit.

This month’s City Council meeting was another step forward in our ongoing work to build a better, more responsive Toronto. We made important progress on a number of fronts this month, from reducing noise and pollution by limiting the use of gas-powered lawn equipment, to navigating the complex challenge of how we protect access to vital social infrastructure like places of worship, schools, and cultural institutions, while also upholding the essential right to gather and protest. In that spirit of thoughtful, practical policymaking, I brought forward two motions aimed at tapping into the real-world expertise of two key groups: our frontline City staff and our small business community. These are the people who experience the City’s operations up close, and they often have the clearest view of what’s working, and what needs to change. MM30.23 – Establishing an Annual Mayor’s Savings Challenge As you’ve heard me say before, our multi-year budget strategy isn’t just about balancing the books—it’s about delivering real value for the big investments Torontonians have already made. Through the 2023 and 2024 Budgets, we asked residents to share their expertise and help us chart a course that protects services while planning responsibly for the future. Now, we’re taking the next step: tapping into the deep knowledge of the people who keep this city running day in and day out. While senior management has already begun the work of reviewing programs for efficiency, we know the people with the clearest line of sight to efficiency are our frontline staff. That’s why I brought forward the Mayor’s Savings Challenge, an initiative that invites frontline staff to bring forward practical, cost-saving ideas that can be implemented in time for the next budget. These are the folks who know the ins and outs of our systems, and they often have the smartest, simplest ideas for delivering better services at lower costs. Those of you who’ve lived here long enough might remember when then–North York Mayor Mel Lastman introduced this kind of challenge right here in our legacy city. It generated real savings and fostered pride in workmanship. It also helped strengthen the relationship between City Hall and its own front-line workers. We’re now working to revive that same spirit of collaboration. This effort isn’t about cutting jobs; it’s about improving how we work and making every dollar count. MM30.24 – Piloting a Red Tape Hotline for Businesses As we continue to carry out Sidewalks to Skylines , the 10-Year Action Plan for Toronto’s Economy adopted late last year, we’re focused on making life easier for our city’s business owners. In a time when local entrepreneurs are already grappling with rising costs, labour shortages, and new threats from U.S. tariffs under the Trump administration, it’s more important than ever to cut through the delays, duplication, and red tape that too often stand in the way of success. My second motion launches a pilot “Red Tape Hotline” for business owners. Operated by our Economic Development team, this direct line will give local entrepreneurs a way to report inefficient permitting processes, outdated by-laws, or overly burdensome regulations. It’s a chance to collect real-world feedback, fix the small problems that slow down business, and provide immediate help where possible. The four-month pilot will conclude with a report later this year. Ahead of the 2026 Budget Process, staff will bring forward a full summary of the issues raised through the hotline, along with recommendations for administrative and by-law changes to reduce red tape. They’ll also evaluate the pilot’s overall effectiveness, including whether it should be continued or expanded. These two motions are grounded in a simple idea: whether you’re a staff member working on the front lines or a business owner navigating our systems, your experience matters. By listening more closely, we can build a more affordable, efficient, and forward-thinking City. IE21.4 - Transitioning Towards Zero-Emission Outdoor Power Equipment On this item, I really must thank all of my E-Blast readers. I asked for your input, and you responded from every corner of the ward. The overwhelming message was clear: you wanted me to vote in favour of banning two-stroke engine lawn equipment. That strong response likely reflects the thoughtful work City staff have done to bring forward a reasonable proposal. Since 2022, staff have been phasing out two-stroke equipment within City operations as part of our TransformTO climate action strategy. They used the lessons learned from that process to recommend a gradual phase-out for homeowners as well. Despite this, Council chose to move quickly on the item by approving a more limited approach. The approved plan only phases out two-stroke engine equipment used by City services. I called for a recorded vote to highlight the issue, but only five councillors supported extending the ban to residential use. The City will now begin a public education campaign to help residents understand why reducing the use of two-stroke engines is important for our air quality. The goal is to encourage residents to plan ahead and switch to cleaner equipment. Meanwhile, the City’s own phase-out will continue, which still represents thousands of pieces of equipment being upgraded to cleaner alternatives. CC30.5 - Proposed By-law Amendment to Provide Access to Social Infrastructure This was not an easy decision for Council. A great deal of research and legal analysis informed the resulting bylaw to ensure it could be enforced without violating any Canadian’s Charter rights. For the past two years, Toronto Police have worked hard to maintain public order through Project Resolute, but clarity and safety had to come first. Since October 7, 2023, protests have taken place across the city, often targeting vital social infrastructure. I think we can all agree that every Canadian should be able to access these institutions freely—without discouragement, intimidation, or fear. Whether it’s a childcare centre, a school, or a place of worship, people should feel safe and free from judgment accessing those spaces. City staff took this issue seriously and undertook thorough in-person consultations, knowing that online surveys or virtual meetings wouldn’t be enough. Their proposed bylaw aimed to strike a careful balance between community feedback and legal requirements. While Council did make some amendments, I believe staff’s thoughtful approach laid a strong foundation. I’ve listened carefully to the feedback I’ve received from our community and have taken extra steps to gather more information and supplement my understanding. In the end, I support the use of bubble zones around these facilities when operators have applied for them, because we must protect both the right to express oneself and the right to access essential services safely. I continue to hope the Prime Minister follows through on his campaign promise to establish a national approach, but Toronto needs a solution now for sites that face ongoing disruption. I recognize that many people involved in these protests are peaceful. However, we’ve seen time and again that some individuals show up specifically to block access or to provoke until police must step in to restore order or investigate potential hate crimes or mischief under the Criminal Code. Many residents of Don Valley North have never encountered one of these protests directly. What concerns you more are the random, everyday acts of hate and bias that occur throughout the city. I want you to know that the Toronto Police Service and City staff continue to work together across all communities to implement the goals of SafeTO,  our city’s community safety and well-being plan. SafeTO , like we discussed last week, is a broad and evolving plan that delivers the supports, education, and resources our communities need to stay safe. That must always include a firm commitment to addressing and eliminating bias, racism, and hate in all its forms.

I want to take a moment to update you on the work we’re doing—both locally in Don Valley North and citywide—to strengthen safety in our communities. This week, I joined Mayor Olivia Chow and Chief Myron Demkiw to launch Police Week in Toronto. It’s a moment to reflect not only on the important role that police play, but on how we’re building safety together through community programs, crisis response, and stronger partnerships. Here in Don Valley North, one of the biggest steps forward has been the new 33 Division Community Safety Hub at Fairview Mall. This Hub was created after years of feedback from local residents and business owners who wanted to see a greater police presence in the neighbourhood—but also wanted something more than just traditional patrols. This Hub is different. It isn’t a substation for arrests or enforcement—it’s a space for education, outreach, and community connection. At the Hub, officers have a visible, accessible presence where they can build relationships with local youth, talk to residents, and host community engagement sessions. It also gives our local police the chance to learn from the community—to understand what people are seeing and feeling on the ground. This is the kind of community policing we’re working to grow in Toronto: policing that is rooted in trust, transparency, and partnership. And right now, we are showing how this model can work.   That same approach is embedded in the City’s broader SafeTO strategy , which is helping us rethink how we approach community safety. We know that police alone can’t solve every safety challenge. That’s why SafeTO brings together multiple City services—including mental health teams, housing supports, and youth outreach programs—to deliver a more comprehensive response to violence and crisis. For example, we now have mobile crisis teams and specialized call diversion programs that connect residents in distress with trained mental health professionals, not just police officers. That kind of early, compassionate intervention helps reduce harm and build trust—especially in communities where residents may not feel safe calling 9-1-1. These services complement the work being done by the 33 Division, local neighbourhood groups, and school safety programs. We’re also seeing encouraging progress when it comes to crime trends and police response. Through my work on the Toronto Police Services Board, I worked closely with City and Police leadership to develop the 5-Year Hiring and Modernization Pla n adopted in 2024—a plan I outlined in detail in this earlier eblast . Since then, we’ve seen real results: response times are improving, and key crime indicators are moving in the right direction. So far in 2025, violent crimes like robberies and assaults are down, and auto thefts—which hit record highs last year—have dropped significantly. These improvements matter. When residents call for help, they deserve a timely, professional response. At the same time, we’re holding the Service accountable for how it uses resources and how it engages with the public. As Chair of the Toronto Police Service Board, I’ve made it a priority to ensure that this hiring comes with clear expectations around community presence, better data reporting, and stronger oversight. Another area we’re watching closely is hate crimes . In 2024, we saw a troubling rise in reported hate incidents in Toronto—many targeting members of our Jewish, Muslim, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities. In 2025, reported hate crimes are trending downward, but we can’t afford to be complacent. We know that underreporting remains a serious issue. Many victims of hate-motivated harassment or violence still don’t feel comfortable coming forward—because they worry they won’t be taken seriously, or because they’re unsure whether what they experienced “counts.” That’s why part of our work at the Board is to improve how we handle these reports. We’re expanding training for officers, improving public education, and making it easier for residents to report incidents in multiple languages and formats. Feeling safe means more than just seeing the crime stats go down—it means feeling welcomed, seen, and supported in your neighbourhood. That’s what community safety really looks like. It’s not just about enforcement—it’s about making sure every resident, regardless of background, feels they have someone to turn to and a community that cares. There’s still work to do. We need to keep investing in youth programming and community spaces. We need to make sure people with mental health needs get help before crisis strikes. We need to continue listening to those who say, “I don’t feel safe,” and work together to change that reality. As your Councillor and as Chair of the Police Board, I remain committed to working with you every step of the way. If you have ideas, concerns, or questions about safety in your neighbourhood, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. We’re here, we’re listening, and we’re ready to act.

Yesterday, the Infrastructure and Environment Committee met at City Hall and considered a long-awaited report on the feasibility of banning leaf blowers and other lawn equipment powered by two-stroke gas engines. For many years, I’ve supported a ban on small equipment powered by two-stroke engines whenever the opportunity arises. These engines burn oil and gas in a way that releases high levels of pollutants, which harm air quality and put people’s health at risk. Leaf blowers used to rely heavily on these engines, but thankfully, that’s starting to shift. Sales of corded electric and battery-powered lawn equipment for homeowners are on the rise, thanks to significant improvements in quality and affordability. In fact, on most consumer retail websites, you now have to scroll quite far to find gas-powered blowers or mowers. The City has the power to propose a ban, but you, the consumer, seem to be leading the way by already choosing cleaner options. Where we can make the most impact now is in the professional use of lawn equipment. The City of Toronto still has 3,500 pieces of gas-powered lawn equipment in our inventory. While some landscaping companies are starting to transition to electric or battery-powered tools, many continue to use older gas models for as long as they remain functional. Most complaints to my office about leaf blower noise and fumes come during the summer months. That’s when lawn care companies, well beyond the leaf-clearing season, use blowers to clean up grass clippings and tidy properties. When these aren’t electric, we are subjected to unnecessary noise and pollution from two-stroke engines. All of this brings us to the report discussed yesterday. City staff have presented two options for Council to consider. Option A: Lead by Example City staff would continue their current practice of not purchasing gas-powered small engine equipment. The existing inventory would be phased out as quickly as budgets allow, just as 24 out of 25 other cities studied have done. This option would also include annual funding for an education campaign encouraging homeowners and businesses to voluntarily move away from two-stroke engines. Option B: Full Ban (Phased-In) Council could still choose to adopt a full ban. This would begin with an education campaign and include a plan to phase out small-engine lawn equipment in stages, starting with certain items in 2030 and reaching a complete ban by 2033. The committee recommended Option A, which stops short of a full ban and calls for a 2027 progress report on the City's equipment transition and education efforts. This gives me a valuable opportunity to hear from you before I cast my vote at Council later this month. It is important to note that this would not apply to larger industrial equipment used by some landscapers. These machines use different types of engines, which ironically have a lower environmental impact than their smaller counterparts, but they can still be noisy. Dealing with the issue of gas-powered leaf blowers—and similar landscaping equipment—has been a long-standing frustration for me. There is an enormous amount of work underway in the space of climate action, and limited resources to get it all done. City Staff have consistently told us this isn't where they feel their efforts can have the most impact, especially when weighed against other, larger emission sources. And truthfully, they are making progress where it counts. Just earlier today, I joined the Fire Chief, Mayor Chow, and our TransformTO climate staff at Station 141 on Esther Shiner Boulevard to celebrate a major milestone—the launch of Toronto’s first two electric pumper trucks. That kind of fleet investment has measurable impact on our emissions targets and is the result of years of careful, strategic planning. I’m proud of what we’re achieving there. But at the same time, I haven’t let go of something I discovered while working from home during the pandemic, when residents were writing to me in growing numbers about the noise and emissions from leaf blowers. I came across a statistic that stopped me in my tracks, and I’ve had it saved on my iPad ever since: So, caught in a dilemma, I turn to you for advice. You may be a regular reader but not someone who usually writes in. This week, I would especially appreciate hearing from you. Please take a moment to reply to this email and let me know how you feel about leaf blowers and Options A and B. You can read the whole report here . It includes detailed research and comparisons with other cities, particularly in the attached materials. If you have other thoughts or concerns as well, feel free to share them. These eblasts are a great time to jot down anything you’ve noticed in the neighbourhood. I always value your feedback.

It’s the start of the fifth month, and for the first time this year, there is no major democratic decision looming over us. That’s a bit wild when you think about it. We came out of the holiday break with pundits churning out endless “Will he or won’t he?” takes about Justin Trudeau. Since then, we have been through a national leadership race, a provincial election, and a federal one. So… what now? With the dust settling from Monday’s election, I am genuinely optimistic. We finally have a window where all three orders of government are in place and out of election mode. That means it's time to bring Toronto’s priorities to the table and push for the strong intergovernmental collaboration our city needs—and is ready for. Our City Manager recently released a document that outlines the Mayor and Council’s shared priorities, those areas where cooperation across all governments is essential. The document is titled Building a Better City for All , and it’s a concise, accessible guide to where our focus lies.These four top priorities are now guiding the work of our senior city staff and Council’s executive team. They also form the foundation for our intergovernmental outreach: Supporting people and businesses through economic uncertainty Building affordable homes faster Keeping Toronto and the GTA moving by accelerating transit repairs and expansion Ensuring a caring and safe city by enhancing public safety and supports for the homeless, the vulnerable, and our children Now, it might sound like Toronto is asking other governments to solve all our problems. Nothing could be further from the truth. What we are asking is for recognition that these priorities can’t be addressed with property tax revenue alone. Back in 2023, Mayor Chow and Premier Ford struck a historic agreement, The New Deal, Part One , that lasts through 2026. It allowed Toronto to begin recovering from the pandemic’s financial impacts, backed by both provincial support and your ongoing contributions through property taxes. What was missing at the time was the participation of the federal government. If we’re going to develop a sustainable financial model for Canada’s largest city, home to more than a million more people than any other, we need revenue tools that grow with the economy. The HST, collected federally, is one such tool. It’s in the long-term interest of both the federal and provincial governments to see Toronto supported by a mature, modern funding framework. I’m eager to discuss this with newly elected federal colleagues from Toronto, including former Councillor Jennifer McKelvie and our new MP in Don Valley North, Maggie Chi. Mayor Chow will, of course, take this to Prime Minister Carney and any new cabinet ministers following a shuffle. One of the other critical areas for renewed collaboration is public safety. Toronto’s size, diversity, and global profile mean our police service faces pressures unlike any other. With a new five-year collective agreement in place and a focused hiring plan underway, we’ve taken real steps to support and stabilize frontline policing. Now, we need federal involvement to match that effort, particularly on complex issues like gun smuggling, organized crime, cybercrime, and other transnational threats that local forces simply can’t tackle alone. Of course, economic development remains front and centre. One of the biggest ballot box issues in the recent elections was the economic fallout from aggressive U.S. trade policies. Even with some tariffs paused or rolled back, the Trade War continues to impact Canadian businesses. In my work with Economic Development staff and the Mayor’s Tariff Response Action Team, I can assure you we are ready to work with both reconstituted governments. Toronto already had an economic plan focused on global competitiveness and diversified trade. We’re now moving faster, building partnerships across oceans and continents. We’ve also been checking in with Toronto-based businesses, large and small, to assess how they’re being affected and help them survive until other levels of government can step in. I recently visited Plastic Plus, a local eyeglass lens manufacturer. Owner Paul Faibish gave us a tour of the factory floor, where we met employees who have been there for 10, 20, even 40 years. One long-time staffer even put their children through university on their wages, including one who became a City Planner. Businesses like these may only employ 100 people, but they are pillars of their communities and can be devastated by unfair tariffs on the goods they import or export. While our powers are limited, we’ve deferred property tax payments for some of these businesses to buy them time. Now, it’s time for Premier Ford and Prime Minister Carney to step up with further supports and ideally, a better trade deal. Our Economic Development team is also laying the groundwork for new foreign investment and helping Toronto businesses expand and prepare to export. During the annual SIAL Conference this week at Exhibition Place, I toured an incredible showcase of food innovators and manufacturers. The City featured 14 startup businesses and 20 larger Toronto brands and many founders told me exactly what they need to grow and reach global markets. The equation is simple: the more these companies can produce and sell internationally, especially in ways that sidestep the Trade War, the more Torontonians they can employ. We’re doing our part at the City. Now we’re looking to the newly elected federal and provincial governments to do theirs. Because when all three levels of government work together, everyone wins—including you.

It was another full week at City Hall, and I want to take a moment to share a few highlights from this month’s Council meeting with you. From tackling traffic congestion and improving how we deliver capital projects, to updating our dog off-leash strategy and preparing for the future of AI in municipal services—there’s a lot happening that directly affects our daily lives here in Don Valley North and across the city. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback on any of these items. EX22.3 - Towards a Beautiful City - A Path Forward   At this month’s Council meeting, we will take another important step forward on something I know many of care deeply about: the beauty, functionality, and vibrancy of our shared public spaces.   In response to a motion called Towards a Beautiful City, senior City staff across Planning, Parks, and Transportation have laid out a thoughtful path forward to strengthen design excellence, improve maintenance, and elevate the experience of the public realm citywide. Why does this matter? Because a beautiful city is about more than aesthetics. Well-designed, welcoming public spaces help foster civic pride and order. They encourage us to spend more time outdoors, interact with our neighbours, and truly feel like we belong. From wide, tree-lined sidewalks to thoughtfully designed parks and public buildings, every detail of our city’s physical environment shapes our daily lives.   In Don Valley North, I’ve long championed high-quality public space through our development work—ensuring new communities come with meaningful public realm investments that reflect the needs and diversity of our neighbourhoods. Whether it’s adding new parkland, upgrading street furniture, or protecting natural heritage, I’ve worked alongside residents and City staff to make sure our growing city doesn’t lose sight of the importance of beauty and function in public design. This new initiative outlines two key themes:   Stronger Leadership in Design Excellence – including improved oversight, better procurement processes, and making high-quality design a priority in public projects.   A Better Maintained Public Realm – including clearer construction guidelines, upgraded service levels, and a citywide “Clean and Beautiful” campaign to build civic culture and shared responsibility.   As we prepare for major international events like the 2026 World Cup, and continue to welcome new residents, investing in the look and feel of our city isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential to our identity, economy, and quality of life.   GG20.10 - Review of Bid Award Panel   Let’s talk about one of those behind-the-scenes City processes that has a big impact on how we get things done—the Bid Award Panel (or BAP for short).   The Bid Award Panel was originally created after amalgamation to play a hands-on role in reviewing bids and ensuring fairness in the City’s procurement process. At the time, it made sense—Toronto was transitioning into one unified city, and we needed strong oversight as we figured out how to handle complex purchases across departments.   For those unfamiliar, a bid is a formal offer from a company or contractor to provide goods or services to the City—whether that’s fixing roads, constructing facilities, or delivering specialized equipment. These bids come in response to posted Requests for Proposals (RFPs) or tenders, and the City awards contracts based on price, quality, timelines, and other factors. But like many things in government, the BAP’s role has shifted over time. As our procurement systems grew more robust, the Panel evolved from playing an active, decision-making role into something more procedural. Today, there are already extensive checks and safeguards built into the procurement process—financial reviews, legal assessments, transparency measures—so much so that BAP has become a duplicated step, adding delays and administrative workload without contributing meaningful oversight.   The recent staff review of BAP made it clear: the current system isn’t working as intended. The Panel’s review functions are no longer adding value, and in fact, they may be slowing down our ability to award contracts efficiently. In light of that, staff have recommended we phase out the Bid Award Panel altogether and modernize our procurement approval framework.   I support this change. Not only will it streamline our processes, but it also allows for earlier engagement in the procurement timeline. As a Councillor, I’ll now have access to the same TO Bids software that staff use to post Requests for Proposals. This means I can better understand what we’re asking contractors to deliver—early in the process—before contracts are awarded.   Of course, we’re not letting go of accountability. We’ll continue to follow a rigorous financial control bylaw, overseen by our finance division and the Auditor General. What will change is our ability to move faster, reduce red tape, and ensure competitive bids stay relevant and cost-effective by the time decisions are made. The industry has told us this will help them bid with more confidence—and that translates into better value for Toronto.   This is a great example of how the City can evolve, improve, and adapt as our systems mature—and I’ll keep a close eye on how this new approach delivers results.    GG20.14 - Establishing The City of Toronto Mayor's Awards for Artificial Intelligence Innovation within City Divisions, Agencies, and Boards   This item comes from a motion moved by my colleague, Councillor Ainslie. While I don’t typically support internal award programs like this one—especially when there are already so many third-party organizations eager to recognize municipal achievements—I do think this item opens the door for an important conversation about the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in local government.   As the Mayor’s Economic Development & Culture Champion, I’ve had the opportunity to meet with a range of companies—both local and international—that are doing truly innovative work in the AI space. Their advancements offer exciting opportunities for a city like ours, particularly when it comes to efficiency, cost savings, and improving service delivery for residents. Municipal government is a natural fit for certain types of AI—not necessarily the large language models that you see in search engines or ChatGPT, but smaller, more scoped applications. These tools can help streamline administrative tasks, support decision-making, and improve everything from traffic flow analysis to building inspection processes. Used thoughtfully and responsibly, AI can be a powerful tool to help our staff do their jobs more effectively and make better use of public dollars.   To that end, while the implementation of the proposed awards program itself has been deferred until 2026, Council has endorsed a more immediate initiative: the creation of an AI Use Case Incubator through our Tariff Response Action Team. This incubator will allow the City to partner with the tech sector to explore safe, practical ways to integrate AI into our operations. It’s a smart step toward identifying real solutions—and making sure we’re not just chasing trends but implementing tools that work for Toronto. As this work moves forward, I’ll be paying close attention to ensure it delivers value for residents and that any new technology is deployed transparently, ethically, and with a strong focus on public benefit.   IE20.1 - Enhancing Capital Construction Delivery  & IE20.3 - Congestion Management Plan - 2025 Update     This month, the Infrastructure Committee tackled two big topics that go hand in hand: how we manage congestion on our roads and how we deliver capital construction projects across the city. If you’ve ever been stuck in traffic downtown and wondered why half the street is fenced off for construction—this one’s for you.   Let’s start with the basics: congestion in Toronto isn’t just about too many cars. It’s the result of a perfect storm—private development, much-needed infrastructure renewal, and the rollout of major transit projects, all happening at once and often overlapping. The City's traffic data consistently shows that construction-related activity is the single biggest factor contributing to congestion. So, if we’re serious about keeping people and goods moving, we need to get much better at how we coordinate and deliver this work.   Back in late 2023, Council approved a three-year Congestion Management Plan  with a focus on data-driven solutions. We’re already seeing early signs of improvement in journey times, and to keep the momentum going, Council supported the Mayor’s motion to appoint a permanent staff lead—a Congestion Czar, if you will—to focus exclusively on this work. But here’s the thing: you can’t manage congestion unless you’re also managing construction. That’s why we’re overhauling our approach to capital delivery. Last summer, nearly 20% of city roadways were affected by public infrastructure work or construction tied to housing development. That level of activity isn’t going away—in fact, we expect even more capital projects in the summer of 2025, all while preparing for the global spotlight during World Cup 2026.   The difference now is how we plan to deliver. With the support of KPMG, we’ve introduced a new framework for capital procurement, better coordination across departments and utilities, and tougher rules for contractors. Private developments downtown will face significantly higher fees for occupying lanes, and we’ll be incentivizing them to complete their work faster and more efficiently using less of our limited road space in the process. Meanwhile, city-led capital projects will move through the tendering process faster, with stronger on-site management and a new code of conduct for contractors. These changes are about more than project speed—they’re about making sure that every minute a lane is closed, or a street is torn up, it’s truly necessary and well-managed.   It’s all part of a broader strategy: improve the way we build and maintain our city, reduce the burden on our roads, and make it easier for people to get where they’re going. We’ve come a long way from the backlog left by years of underfunding and pandemic delays, but we’re not there yet. These reforms get us one step closer to a city that moves better, works smarter, and serves residents more effectively.    IE20.9 - Toronto's Dog Off-Leash Strategy: A Citywide Approach to Dogs Off-Leash Areas   As this is going out, we are debating the long-awaited update to Toronto’s Dog Off-Leash Strategy, our citywide framework for planning, building, and maintaining spaces where our furry friends can run, play, and socialize safely.   Toronto is home to over 600,000 dogs, and with more people and pups living in denser communities, we need to be smart about how we share our park space. That’s exactly what this Strategy aims to do.   Since the first off-leash area was created under the City's 2010 policy, we've learned a lot about what makes these spaces work well—for dogs, owners, and everyone who uses our parks. This new Strategy reflects those lessons and builds on them with clearer planning guidelines, improved design standards, and a commitment to keeping off-leash areas clean, safe, and welcoming. It also supports responsible dog ownership through education and enforcement and includes new guidance to better accommodate commercial dog walkers.   Here in Don Valley North, we’re already putting this work into action. Our new off-leash area, set to open soon in Parkway Forest Park, was designed using the principles laid out in this updated Strategy. It’s an exciting milestone, and I can’t wait to see it become a beloved gathering space for local residents and their pups.   We’ve gotten better and better at delivering these projects, and this Strategy ensures we’ll keep moving in the right direction—creating thoughtful, inclusive park spaces that work for everyone.

Even on the grey days, spring always feels like a fresh start. The days are getting longer, the air is warming up, and Don Valley North is slowly waking up after a long winter. Spring is one of my favourite times of year because it means our neighbourhoods are coming alive again. People are out walking their dogs, tidying up their yards, visiting our beautiful parks, and rediscovering the ravines and trails that make this part of the city so special. But it also means we're starting to notice some of the issues that were hidden under the snow. Every spring, my office sees a spike in calls about everything from snow plow damage to property maintenance standards to missed waste collection. I’d like to take a moment to walk you through a few of the most common concerns we’re hearing right now and share some reminders to help keep our community looking its best. Let’s start with those torn-up boulevards and lawns. We’ve already had conversations about the issues with this year’s snow clearing , and now we’re beginning to see the impact. Right across the ward, we’re seeing damage left behind by plows and sidewalk machines. If your boulevard or lawn was damaged you can report plow damage  to 311, either by phone or online. Once your report is submitted, your address goes into a queue for repair. Crews will come by and restore the area, usually with fresh sod. These repairs are covered by the contractor, not the City’s budget. All this rain means our catch basins are working overtime. Catch basins, the metal grates at the edge of the road, help prevent flooding. But they don’t work if they’re clogged with leaves, garbage, or lingering ice. When that happens, water can start pooling, which creates hazards for pedestrians, drivers, and can cause flooding. If there’s a catch basin near your home and it looks blocked, I encourage you to clear it if it’s safe to do so. If it’s damaged or fully clogged, 311 can send someone out to take care of it . We’re also starting to hear from folks about property standards, especially when it comes to lawns and gardens. As soon as the grass starts growing, the questions come in: how long is too long? If you’ve got a traditional turf lawn, it shouldn’t exceed 20 centimetres. But you’re not limited to turf! The City’s updated bylaw  now supports pollinator-friendly gardens, great news for anyone looking to plant native species to support bees and butterflies. Just remember to keep things tidy and avoid growing invasive or noxious plants like ragweed or poison ivy. If you’re thinking about turning your yard into a pollinator habitat, PollinateTO  is hosting a giveaway for 45 plant kits, containing 10 native wildflower plants, an optional native tree or shrub, and a PollinateTO garden sign. Residents are invited to  enter the contest   by April 30 for a chance to win. If you spot a property in the neighbourhood that needs a little spring TLC from overgrown grass, litter, debris or general disrepair, you can report it to my office or 311.   For more information on property standards and what is allowed, please visit the City’s Website .   One great way to kickstart your garden is with fresh compost. My office is hosting four Compost Days this spring, and you’re invited to stop by and pick some up for free. All events start at 10:00 a.m., and if you’ve been before, you know the compost goes fast. Bring a shovel and a few containers, and we’ll help you load up. The compost you’ll be picking up is created through the City’s yard waste program, which diverts approximately 90,000 tonnes of yard waste from landfill each year. That material is turned into nutrient-rich compost—some of which is offered back to the public for free at Community Environment Days like these. Here’s where we’ll be: Friday, April 26  – Cliffwood Park, 10:00 AM Saturday, April 27  – Bestview Park, 10:00 AM Saturday, May 3  – Clydesdale Park, 10:00 AM Sunday, May 4  – Bayview Village Park, 10:00 AM Spring also means it’s time for some serious spring cleaning, which includes putting out waste properly. Whether it’s yard trimmings, furniture, or just an avalanche of cardboard boxes from winter deliveries, proper set-out keeps our streets clean and helps collection crews stay on schedule. Make sure your bins are out by 7:00 a.m. on your collection day. If your collection is missed, call 311 within 24 hours so a crew can return. If you’re seeing repeated problems, reach out to my office and we’ll follow up directly with Solid Waste staff. Visit the city’s website  for detailed information on how to dispose of yard waste and oversized items; how to sort your garbage, recycling and organics and more. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for our annual Community Environment Day 📅  Date: Sunday, June 8 🕙  Time:  10:00 AM – 2:00 PM 📍  Location:  Old Cummer GO Station This is your one-stop drop-off for household hazardous waste, electronics, donations, and more free compost. Bring your expired paint, broken gadgets, or gently-used items — and let’s keep reusable materials out of landfill while building a greener city together. And finally, a quick note on parking. As more people get out walking and biking, we see a seasonal uptick in parking complaints. On most residential streets, a three-hour parking limit applies even if there are no signs. Remember not to park in front of driveways, fire hydrants, or bus stops, and never park facing the wrong way. These violations fall under Toronto Police Parking Enforcement and you can report parking issues online , or by calling their non-emergency number at 416-808-2222. vehicle is parked off-street, on a lawn or the paved part of a boulevard, for example, that becomes a bylaw matter. Those reports go to 311 . A reminder that enforcement takes time, starting with warnings but if the problem persists, let us know and we’ll help ensure it gets addressed. I really do rely on all of you as my eyes and ears out in the community. Whether it’s a pothole, an abandoned vehicle, or a property that needs some care, your calls and emails help us act more quickly and effectively. You’re always welcome to reach out — my team and I are here to help, and we’re happy to follow up when things get stuck. Let’s shake off those winter blues and welcome the new season together. I hope to see you out and about — in our parks, on our trails, and at our upcoming community events. We’ve got a beautiful season ahead in Don Valley North, and I’m excited to enjoy it with all of you. Hope to see you there!

Last week at Council, we tackled some big issues that matter to Torontonians. We took a hard look at winter maintenance to make sure our city is better prepared for snow and ice, and we made progress toward a universal student nutrition program—because no child should go hungry at school. We also dug into the economic and community benefits of hosting FIFA 2026, making sure this global event leaves a lasting impact for everyone. Plus, we held contractors accountable and, yes, we reviewed councillor salaries. I know a lot of people have questions about that one, and I’m glad to have the chance to explain why Council made the decision we did. Keep reading for the details! EX21.1 - Review of Toronto’s Winter Maintenance Program When Mayor Chow brought forward a motion at Executive Committee calling for a forensic review of the City’s snow clearing and removal operations following February’s multi-day storm, it was clear that the service provided did not meet anyone's expectations. Over 53 cm of snow fell in back-to-back storms, and as I detailed in my February E-Blast , the challenges of clearing such an extreme accumulation pushed our winter maintenance system to its limits. The impact of poor snow removal was felt across the city, from impassable sidewalks to missed collections and blocked streets. This review is a crucial step in addressing concerns and improving Toronto’s winter maintenance operations moving forward. City Council has directed the City Manager to conduct a full assessment of winter maintenance operations, including the following actions: Improve oversight by optimizing City resources, strengthening contract management, and ensuring private contractors meet their obligations. Enhance winter operations by exploring contract renegotiations, upgrading equipment, improving fleet maintenance, and developing contingency plans for major storms. Conduct a forensic audit of the February 2025 storm response, assess the effectiveness of past recommendations, and review best practices from other cities to improve Toronto’s approach. This review is about more than fixing what went wrong this winter—it’s about ensuring that Toronto is better prepared for the next major storm. We know residents expect better, and this is the first step toward making real improvements.   EX21.8 - Building a Universal Student Food Program in Toronto The City of Toronto has long supported the goal of establishing a morning meal program in every school, but achieving this has required substantial investment from both the provincial and federal governments—funding that is now finally becoming available. Last fall, the federal government announced plans to launch a national school food program, committing $1 billion over five years to support meal delivery in schools. Ontario has agreed to participate, marking a significant step toward improving student nutrition. Currently, student nutrition programs in Toronto provide healthy breakfasts, snacks, and lunches to more than 243,000 students each school day. These programs help students focus, improve test scores, and boost graduation rates. They also play a crucial role in supporting students' mental and physical health by ensuring access to nutritious food in a way that avoids stigma. In December 2024, the City funded the first expansion of student nutrition programs in seven years, adding 23 new school communities and reaching 8,000 more students. The goal is to further expand in the 2025-2026 school year by adding another 25 communities and extending existing programs to reach an additional 13,500 students. With this report, City Council is formally requesting funding from the newly established federal program, along with increased support from the provincial government. Securing these investments is essential to continue expanding the Student Nutrition Program and ensuring every student receives the nutritious meals they need to succeed. To learn more about the program and it’s impacts,  I’m attaching an introductory presentation that Toronto Public Health will be using in intergovernmental meetings .   EX21.15 - FIFA World Cup 2026 Toronto: Economic Benefits of Hosting, Soccer for All Legacy Fund and Community Benefits Plan Updates The decision to bring the FIFA World Cup 2026 to Toronto was made in the last term of Council. Now, our focus is on making the most of this opportunity—delivering real benefits for the city while keeping costs in check. Major events like this bring big economic opportunities. An economic impact assessment by Deloitte Canada estimates that hosting the tournament could generate $940 million in economic activity across the GTA and create or sustain more than 6,600 jobs through 2026. As this report makes clear, we’re also using this moment to create lasting social and economic impact. Through the City’s procurement process, we’re prioritizing local suppliers, supporting underrepresented groups, and advancing sustainable practices to ensure benefits extend well beyond the tournament itself. To help manage costs, Council has approved the strategic use of hospitality packages as part of our sponsorship plan. This standard approach allows commercial partners to contribute funding in exchange for premium access—offsetting costs without adding to the burden on taxpayers. Bringing the World Cup here was a decision made before this term, but we’re working to make sure Toronto gets it right. This is a global event, and we’re making sure it delivers for our city.   GG19.17 - Suspension of Duron Ontario Ltd. This report is a great example of what it takes for a city government to hold contractors accountable. The investigation began when City staff were alerted to inconsistencies found in various invoices submitted by Duron Ontario Ltd., a construction company that has worked on many City projects. A subsequent internal audit uncovered multiple instances of overbilling, and while the investigation into the full scope of the issue is still ongoing, we believe there is enough evidence at this stage to warrant action. When confronted, the company blamed a single employee and let them go. However, our procurement team continued to monitor the situation and found further discrepancies. At a minimum, there is no dispute that the City was overbilled by more than $161,000 and that Duron lacked proper internal contract management controls. Now the company is barred from bidding on City contracts or acting as a subcontractor for the next five years. City staff will continue to investigate the full scope of this issue to ensure the City is fully compensated. This action sends a strong message that the city is committed to holding contractors accountable and protecting taxpayer dollars.  CC28.6 - Review of Councillor Remuneration The decision to adjust City Councillor salaries is not one I take lightly. Since Doug Ford’s 2018 decision to cut City Council in half, councillors have taken on significantly larger workloads. Each of us now represents more than twice as many residents, covering larger areas and managing more complex challenges. Despite this, our compensation has remained unadjusted for these larger responsibilities for years—first due to the restructuring and then because of the financial constraints brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing these challenges in 2018, Mayor Tory & City Council commissioned an independent, third-party review to assess whether councillors’ salaries remained appropriate given our expanded responsibilities. That report made clear that an adjustment was warranted. I firmly believe that councillors should not be in the business of setting our own salaries, which is why I supported the independent recommendations rather than allowing this to become a political debate. By law, the approval of any City of Toronto expenditure, including salary adjustments, requires a majority vote in the council chamber, so we are the only body authorized to approve this adjustment. The third party review that was undertaken was evidence-based, comparing Toronto councillors’ salaries to those in similar municipalities and recommended that Council salaries be pegged at the 75th percentile (based on a Council policy from 20 years ago to never be highest paid). Even after this adjustment, we will not be the highest-paid councillors in Canada—many counterparts in the GTA, including Mississauga and Markham, will continue to earn more.    Most importantly, this adjustment does not create any new costs for taxpayers. It will be covered through a reallocation within the existing budget, ensuring responsible financial stewardship.  It’s never easy to discuss compensation for politicians. For many, the right salary is always, “not one dollar more than I make”, whatever that amount may be. Ultimately, this decision is about how we can attract quality candidates to these important roles. The work of a councillor today is far more demanding than it was before, and the compensation should reflect that reality if we want to ensure that qualified and experienced people from all backgrounds will consider putting their name on the ballot. Farewell Meghana!   I know many of you have had the pleasure of working with Meghana over the years. After years of dedicated service to the residents of Dan Valley North, Meghana is moving on to her next adventure, and we are all going to miss her deeply! We have all come to appreciate her incredible attention to detail, her unwavering commitment to public service, and the warmth she brings to every interaction. Whether she was tackling complex policy issues or ensuring a resident felt heard, Meghana did it all with heart and precision. But while we’ll miss her in our office, she’s not going far—Meghana has accepted a role in the Parks, Forestry, and Recreation division! We can’t wait to see her hard work make our parks even better. We wish her nothing but success in her next steps!