Too many transit riders, cyclists, and drivers are delayed by vehicles stopping illegally at the curb just to grab a coffee or make a quick stop. After years of pushing for change, I’m proud to share that the fine for blocking traffic is now $300—a real deterrent to selfish, congestion-causing behaviour. This is a win for commuters and road safety. Councillor Mike Layton and I first introduced this motion in 2011, and we’re glad to finally see real consequences in place.
I successfully pushed the City to move forward with a plan to expand food and beverage options in Toronto parks, helping make our public spaces more vibrant and community-oriented. The strategy includes creating more opportunities for local and diverse vendors, reviewing existing contracts, and ensuring supports like waste management and public washrooms are considered. I also introduced a motion to pilot park kiosks in Toronto–St. Paul’s, inspired by successful models in cities like New York, to create welcoming gathering spaces where residents can enjoy food, coffee, and community in our parks.
Doug Ford’s plan to bring jets to Billy Bishop Airport could significantly reshape Toronto’s waterfront, including potential expropriation of Little Norway Park and parts of the Toronto Islands for expansion. New details point to major impacts, including 10 million annual passengers, up to 400% traffic increases at Bathurst and Lakeshore, reduced housing capacity in the Port Lands, and a projected cost of up to $5 billion, alongside serious questions about economic benefits and public health impacts from increased emissions. In response, I successfully moved a motion requiring Toronto Public Health to update its study on the health impacts of jets, and I will continue pushing for transparency, evidence-based decision-making, and meaningful public consultation.
Since first introducing a motion in 2012 to establish a maximum indoor temperature standard for rental housing, I have continued pushing the City to act as summers become hotter and more dangerous for tenants, especially seniors. After yet another delay from staff, I introduced an amendment requiring a by-law framework to be brought forward next month, including options to prevent costs from being passed on to tenants through above-guideline rent increases. I will continue fighting to ensure the City finally takes action to protect renters from unsafe indoor heat.