City Hall and Community Update for April 6, 2018

Fighting Back Against Overdevelopment and Advocating For Social Services and Infrastructure- Have Your Say On the Times Group Proposal for 1951 Yonge Street

Last year, an application was submitted for two towers (34 and 25 storeys) at the northeast corner of Yonge and Davisville. In their report, City Planning Staff agree with me and the local community that the proposal from the Times Group is completely inappropriate, as it's a significant overdevelopment of the site. As it is currently proposed, the two towers would have unacceptable shadow impacts on the Davisville school field. Of further concern, is the potential traffic impacts to the local community, especially the area surrounding the school. I will fight the most recent proposal to add more traffic onto Millwood.

I am pleased to report that I was successful in moving significant motions to support our community against this development at this week's Toronto & East York Community Council meeting. In addition to ensuring that City Legal and Planning Staff will fight for us at the Ontario Municipal Board, I was able to have additional amendments added that, for the first time, requested that even if a development is approved, that the OMB order construction be halted until the necessary infrastructure and social services are provided:

City Council direct the City Solicitor to request the Ontario Municipal Board to withhold the issuance of any order(s) on the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment appeal for the subject lands pending confirmation of:
- necessary transportation infrastructure from the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the General Manager, Transportation Services; and
- public school capacity from the Director of Education, TDSB

City Council direct the City Solicitor to request the Ontario Municipal Board to withhold the issuance of any Order(s) on the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment appeal for the subject lands pending confirmation of water, sanitary and storm water capacity from the Chief Engineer and Executive Director, Engineering and Construction Services, and pending receipt of a satisfactory Functional Servicing Report;

These motions were possible, and supported at Community Council, because of the extensive research that has been conducted as part of the Midtown in Focus initiative that has clearly demonstrated what we in Midtown already know: infrastructure and social services have not kept pace with the rapid rate of growth in our community.

The importance of these motions was recognized by the Toronto Star, which published two articles on successive days about this issue. Please see this article on the water capacity motion and this article regarding schools and transportation.

Please Save the Date on Monday, April 23rd at 6:30-8:30PM for a community meeting to discuss how we're fighting this proposal and demanding significant improvements. I'll send an update on the location when it is confirmed.

Toronto Needs a Long-Term Financial Strategy

It is standard practice for full City Council to have an opportunity to debate matters of strategic policy concerning the entire city at various stages in the process. That's why I was very surprised that only the Executive Committee was provided an opportunity to debate, and provide input on, Toronto's Long-Term Financial Strategy. The Mayor's excuse was that it was not a fully developed plan. But it is precisely at this point where full Council should weigh-in and provide direction to staff going forward that is supported by elected officials before investing further time and money.

This seemed unusual, so I looked back through some past Executive Agendas for similar matters of city-wide interest. A cursory look found several equivalent update reports that have indeed come to full Council, including Ex 29.1 - Smart Track Project Update and Next Steps and EX 29.2 - Rail Deck Park - Results of Feasibility Analysis and Next Steps for Implementation. Both items were interim reports seeking Council direction to follow a particular strategic path. Both items were considered by full Council after being presented to Executive Committee. These are just two examples of many.

As your representative at City Hall, I have a duty to represent you on issues that affect the future of our city. In this instance, my opportunity to carry out that duty was denied. If provided that opportunity, I would have stated, on your behalf, that we cannot continue to keep kicking the can down the road in regards to major decisions affecting Toronto's fiscal sustainability. As Staff clearly stated in the report, Toronto will face a $1.42B operating gap in 5 years if we continue on our current course.

We find ourselves in this position because we are making decisions that no other major world city is making. Under this Mayor, Toronto is spending over a $1 billion dollars to rebuild an elevated expressway, and well over $3 billion one subway stop. Further, the Mayor has made these decisions while actively working to not have evidence-based analysis conducted to inform those decisions.

In his report, the City Manager agreed with my previous motions to have Council conduct value for money audits and rank capital projects based on recognized urban planning principles.

We cannot wait any longer to put our city on a solid fiscal path. If the Mayor won't provide that leadership, Council should have had the opportunity to do it for him.

For more information on this issue, please see the second half of this article.

REimagine Yonge

Yonge Street between Sheppard and the Finch St corridor is at the end of its lifecycle - the roadway was last reconstructed in 1975. Last week, Council debated what this section of Yonge will look like for generations to come. Yonge Street is the central transportation corridor and pedestrian promenade within North York Centre, one of four centres that have an important role in achieving the provincial growth objectives of the Official Plan where jobs, housing, and services will be concentrated. While the North York Centre is transforming into a transit-oriented and dynamic mixed-use area, the implementation of the street vision has not been fully achieved or kept pace with this evolution. Inconsistent urban design features, including sidewalks, crossings, and medians, and the lack of dedicated cycling facilities reduce the appeal of the street and present safety risks.
Staff recommended a number of opportunities that would both improve the streetscape and align the plans with Vision Zero road safety policies, including:

improving streetscape by including street trees, lighting, paving, and street furniture
expanding sidewalks and boulevard widths
integrating adjacent parks and public open spaces
enhancing the landscaped median
improving safety for all users
including cycling facilities on Yonge Street
improving pedestrian crossing facilities
re-configuring right-of-way and traffic lanes

Despite Staff recommendations and overwhelming support from urban experts and city leaders including former Mayor David Crombie and renowned urban planner Ken Greenberg, Mayor Tory supported a more costly option to put bike lanes on neighbouring Beecroft and keep Yonge as a 6-lane thoroughfare.

Thankfully, the vote on this item was deferred until the next term of Council where I hope a more thoughtful approach will be taken.

For more information, please see this Toronto Star article.

To see my speech supporting REImagine Yonge and Vision Zero Road Safety- please start at 1:06.

We Need Relief (Subway Line) Now!

As any resident who rides the subway knows, the Yonge Line is already at capacity. During rush hour at stations like Eglinton, it is common to wait for two or three trains before boarding and once on, you’re crammed in like a sardine.

The overcrowding is most critical at Bloor-Yonge station, which is already nearing capacity, with another 45% increase in users expected over the next twenty years. Even with signal improvements and the new, larger trains, we can’t keep ahead of this growth without expansion elsewhere to alleviate the pressure. That's why the Relief Line was named as Toronto's top transit expansion priority by former Metrolinx CEO Bruce McCuaig, TTC CEO Andy Byford, Toronto's Chief Planner Jennifer Keesmaat and City Manager Joe Pennachetti .

City Council has unfortunately featured transit debates long on rhetoric and short on facts. The Relief Subway Line would provide an alternative to our existing subway system that’s already overcrowded during rush hours, curb gridlock on our city’s streets and increase access to jobs and attractions. It is the evidence-based subway expansion project that would be an integral part of a comprehensive network approach that would most improve Toronto’s economy and residents’ quality of life.

For more information and how to take action, please visit this webpage.

Standing up for Tenants

Rental Market Reality

As many of you know, there is a rental housing crisis in Toronto. Vacancy rates have been hovering around 1% in the past year and very few of the limited apartments available are affordable. That’s why I asked City Planning Staff to bring a report on current rental housing market conditions in Toronto. Planning Staff presented Council with a snapshot of the current housing situation that was even worse than most people feared. In fact, as the chart below demonstrates, purpose-built apartment rents increased the most in 15 years and vacancy rates reached the lowest in 16 years.

Transparency called on for Above the Guideline Increases

As many of you know, I have been requesting that the Ontario government eliminate or drastically reform Above the Guideline rent Increases (AGI). While the province's The Rental Fairness Act, 2017, improved tenant protections under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) by eliminating the post-1991 exemption and expanding rent control to all private units, the legislation only removed extraordinary increases in utilities from costs that qualify for above the guideline rent increases.

The RTA still allows private market landlords to apply for a rent increase above the guideline (AGI) if:

The landlord did extraordinary or significant renovations, repairs, replacements or new additions to the buildings or to individual units; and
The landlord's costs for security services increased, or the landlord began providing security services for the first time

These items should be the basic cost of a landlord's business and should already be covered in the substantial rent tenants pay. To make matters worse, AGI applications made at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) have very limited publicly available data, hindering the City's ability to analyze the impact of AGIs on tenants. A clearer understanding of the scale and scope of AGIs in Toronto would allow the City to better develop programs and policies to meet the needs of residents. That's why I'm pleased to report that my colleagues unanimously passed my motionrequesting the province to publicly release AGI data.

It's Official – Names Approved for Our New Community Parks!

I'm excited to announce that City Council supported our community recommendation to support the naming of our two new parks that are ready to enjoy this spring! Our new park at the former Glebe Manor Bowling club site will be named “Manor Community Green”, and our new park at Manor and Forman will be called “Cudmore Creek Park & Mona Piper Playground”. You can read more about the outcome of the survey and community parks naming process here

Please stay tuned for my "Save the Date" announcement for upcoming park opening celebrations and festivities!

Congratulations Toronto for Being Age-Friendly!

As Toronto's Seniors Advocate, I am delighted to inform you that at the inaugural Age-Friendly Community (AFC) Symposium on March 26^th, 2018, the City of Toronto was selected to receive the 2018 Ontario Age-Friendly Community Recognition Award. This Award has been established to celebrate the work of Ontario communities that are striving to become age-friendly and to showcase promising practices across the province. I welcome you to come and check-out the award at City Hall!

SAVE THE DATE: Councillor Josh Matlow's Community Environment Day

On Thursday, May 31st from 4:00-8:00pm, I will be hosting my annual Community Environment Day. The event will take place in the parking lot of North Toronto Memorial Arena (174 Orchard View Blvd). Please drop off any unwanted art supplies, books, toys, and used sports equipment. Facilities will be available to dispose of computers and other hazardous household waste, or even replace your damaged green bin.

Manor Road Co-Op Nursery Turns 80

Manor Road Co-op Nursery School is celebrating its 80th anniversary! Past, present and future families of the school are invited to attend this event. There will be a bouncy castle, crafts, refreshments, tours and a silent auction. Please drop-in between 3:00 and 6:00pm on Saturday April 28th. 111 Manor Rd E (inside the Church of the Transfiguration). For further details please click here. Hope to see you there!

Forest Hill Art Club: 2018 Art Show & Sale

The Forest Hill Art Club (FHAC) invites you to attend their annual art show and sale of member's work from April 27^th- 29^th at 666 Eglinton Avenue West. The FHAC is closing in on seventy years of providing a space to artists, both amateur and professional who work in a variety of media. For more details, I welcome you to check-out the following webpage.

Bayview Leaside BIA: Public Consultation Meeting & Earth Day Community Clean-up

I welcome you to join the Bayview Leaside BIA team on Tuesday April, 10^th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at The Smokin' Cigar (1540 Bayview Avenue), for a public consultation meeting on the Bayview and Millwood Parkette. View the plan, ask questions about the proposed changes and meet our Bayview Leaside BIA team!

Remember to mark your calendars on Saturday April 21^st from 9:00am to 12:00pm to attend the Bayview Leaside BIA's Earth Day community clean-up. Rain or shine, I hope to see you at the corner of Bayview and Millwood ready to sweep our streets! Don't forget to bring your own broom! More information on this event can be found here.

Community Clean-Up Days

Spring has finally arrived (at least on the calendar) and it's time to give Toronto a good spring cleaning together! April 20, 21 and 22 are this year's Community Clean-Up Days for schools, businesses, and neighbourhood organizations. You're invited to visit Live Green Toronto to register your local clean-up or to join an existing clean-up.

Please call my office at 416-392-7906 or email me at [email protected] and I can provide you with free bags for trash and recyclables. I would also be delighted to join you and help clean-up your corner of the community- just let me know the time and location! And of course, please feel welcome to contact me if you need any assistance with organizing your own clean-up event.

SAVE THE DATE: Toronto Council on Aging's Town Hall Meeting

The Toronto Council on Aging and I invite you to attend our town hall meeting taking place on Wednesday May 9th from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at Yorkminster Park Baptist Church (1985 Yonge Street) to celebrate the age-friendly approaches our local businesses are incorporating in their storefronts. Stay tuned for more details to come!

Have your Say: Consultation on the Toronto Local Appeal Body (TLAB)

TLAB is an independent, quasi-judicial tribunal that was created last year to replace the Ontario Municipal Board's (OMB) jurisdiction over the adjudication of typically smaller scale land-use planning disputes that are heard through the Committee of Adjustment. The City is seeking your feedback on this newly formed local appeals body by either providing written submissions or attending a public consultation meeting.

The meeting will take place between 2pm-5pm on Wednesday, April 18^th at the Scarborough Civic Centre (150 Borough Drive) in the Council Chambers. Alternately, written submission can be sent via email, fax or by mail. Written submissions without an accompanying oral presentation will receive the same serious consideration as those accompanied by an oral presentation. To make an oral and written submission, a registration form and written submission can be sent by email, fax or by mail to:

Email: [email protected]
Fax: 416-696-4307
Mail: Toronto Local Appeal Body
40 Orchard View Boulevard, Suite 211
Toronto Ontario M4B 1R9

All submissions must be received by the Toronto Local Appeal Body no later than Friday, April 6, 2018. For more information on TLAB and its processes, you can access the public guide here.

Yorkminster Park Meals on Wheels

Yorkminster Park Meals on Wheels is a not-for-profit charity that has served the North Toronto Community for 51 years. Located in the Yonge and St. Clair community at Yorkminster Baptist Church, this volunteer-run charity delivers hot and frozen meals to seniors or adults who are chronically ill, have a disability, convalescing from surgery or illness, or undergoing medical treatment. If you or someone you know would benefit from receiving Meals on Wheels, please call their office at 416-482-0549.

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE: 265 Balliol Avenue Public Meeting

A rezoning application has been submitted to City Planning to construct a 29-Storey residential tower containing 264 purpose-built rental units. This is an infill application on a site with an existing 26-storey residential building. You can view a copy of the preliminary report here

Please join me at 6:30pm on Tuesday, April 10 at Greenwood College (443 Mount Pleasant Road), for a meeting to discuss the proposed development. City Planning staff will be in attendance to answer any questions you may have.

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE: New Public Space for Cottingham Square

A community meeting will be held about improving the closed-off road allowance between Gange Avenue and Cottingham Street (on the south side of Cottingham Park).

This space will continue to be closed, to prevent traffic from going through the neighbourhood, but we do have an opportunity to make significant improvements to its aesthetics and purpose. I want to ensure that your feedback and ideas are heard before any plans move forward.

Please join me and Cottingham Square Community Association in a conversation with your neighbours at 7pm on Wednesday, April 11^th at Trust Daycare (29 Birch Avenue). Representatives from the City’s Public Realm department will be in attendance to answer any questions you may have.

City of Toronto Fair Pass Discount Program

Effective April 4th, the City of Toronto is offering the Fair Pass Discount Program to residents receiving Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and Ontario Works (OW) assistance who are not in receipt of any transportation supports equal to or greater than $100.

The Fair Pass Discount Program is only available on a PRESTO card (clients must meet eligibility requirements). Cardholders must load money or an adult TTC Monthly Pass on their card to take advantage of the Fair Pass Discount Program. For more information about the Fair Pass Discount Program please click here.

Public Consultation on the Noise Mitigation Initiatives Engagement Plan

Toronto Pearson is fast becoming one of the world’s leading airports. As we meet the demand for air travel, the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) and NAV CANADA have been studying Six Ideas that are aimed at reducing noise impacts for residents around the Greater Toronto Area. The technical analysis of the Six Ideas is now complete, and the GTAA and NAV CANADA will be meeting with the community to present recommendations. Public consultations will run from March 3^rd to April 20^th with 15 sessions being held in communities surrounding the airport. The locations and dates for the community consultations can be found on the Toronto Pearson website.

Toronto's 4^th Street Needs Assessment Seeks Volunteers

For the fourth time, hundreds of volunteers, members of community agencies and City staff will take to the streets and shelters to ask people experiencing homelessness about the services they need to get and keep permanent housing. Survey responses help the City shape improvements in current programs and plan for future service delivery. Residents whom are interested in volunteering during the evening of Thursday April 26^th are welcome to visit the following webpage to learn more.

Residents Invited to Provide Input on City's Poverty Reduction Strategy

Toronto is a vibrant, prosperous city. It is also a city of growing disparity and inequity trends that will challenge its long-term success. That's why in October 2015, City Council unanimously adopted a 20-year plan that includes 17 recommendations focused at improving access to residents who face barriers related to affordable housing, social services, transit, food and quality jobs. The strategy and recommendations can be accessed here.

In the lead up to the strategy's three year launch, the City will be hosting a series of panel discussions to generate public input on the next phase of the City's poverty reduction strategy for the 2018 to 2022 term of City Council. The #TacklePovertyTO panels will convene on five Monday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. at Toronto City Hall, 100 Queen St. W., starting March 12 and concluding April 23. The remaining panel discussions are as follows:

- April 16, City Hall rotunda – Transportation Equity: What are the next steps to achieve active and public transportation equity?
- April 23, City Hall rotunda: Housing Stability – What strategic actions can the City take to address the housing crisis?

You can also provide your input directly to the Poverty Reduction Strategy Office by emailing
[email protected]

Hi-RIS Financing Program

Do you own an apartment building with three or more storeys in Toronto? Are you planning to increase energy efficiency, lower utility costs, and enhance tenant comfort? If so, the City of Toronto’s Hi-RIS program is for you.

Funding is available for a range of improvements including:

- upgrades and replacement of mechanical systems

- lighting and water conservation retrofits

- building envelopment improvements and;

- renewable energy technology

Building owners can access low-cost, fixed rate financing with terms of up to 20 years. This funding is offered for a limited time so inquire soon!

Contact [email protected] or 416-392-9688 for more information.

17^th Annual Community Stewardship Program

The Community Stewardship Program gives residents the opportunity to learn about Toronto's ravines and how they're managed with hands-on activities to keep these places healthy. Volunteers, led by experienced City staff, meet weekly from May – September to plant native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers, remove invasive species (a leading cause of biodiversity loss), maintain sustainable trails, and monitor site conditions through citizen science. I welcome volunteers to attend the volunteer orientation on Wednesday April 25^th, from 7:00pm-8:30pm at the City of Toronto Archives. Email [email protected] to RSVP and to learn more!

Let LEAF Help You Create The Backyard You've Always Dreamed About

With support from the City of Toronto and Toronto Hydro, LEAF offers subsidized planting programs that help residents plant native trees and shrubs in their yards - all at a reasonable price!

LEAF will help you:

Assess the conditions in your yard
Understand what will grow best
Select trees, shrubs, and garden kits that you will love
Ensure everything gets planted properly
Do it all at a reasonable price

For more information and volunteer opportunities, I welcome you to visit this webpage.

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Councillor Matlow's City Hall & Community Update: May 2024

You are Invited to our Davisville Village Community Festival!

Join me and your neighbors at June Rowlands Park (220 Davisville Avenue) from 12:00pm-4:00pm on Saturday June 15^th. We will have free ice cream and samosas (while supplies last) and will be raffling off over $2,000 in prizes from local businesses! Community groups, city divisions and local organizations will be setting-up booths to inform and educate residents.

We look forward to seeing you on June 15th!

My Letter to Residents Regarding Necessary Action to Combat Antisemitism Throughout Our City

Dear residents,

The rise of antisemitism over the past few years has our city’s Jewish community feeling scared and vulnerable. Since October 7th, they’ve far too often been a target for anti-Jewish hate because of a war half a world away. Swastikas spray-painted on synagogues, some demonstration signs displaying hateful antisemitic tropes, and vandalism of Jewish businesses echo a history of religious persecution for many in Toronto’s Jewish community that are only a couple generations removed from the Holocaust.

The early morning shooting at Bais Chaya Mushka Girls Elementary School in North York over the weekend has further heightened the fear the community is feeling. Real and concrete action is needed to protect the Jewish community from hate and ensure that everyone feels safe in our city.

That’s why it’s critically important that my motion to develop a new action plan to protect targeted religious minorities and places of worship was supported at Council. The motion requests the City Manager, the City Solicitor, the Toronto Police Service and other relevant divisions to work together to ensure individuals and groups committing hate crimes are stopped.

There was another motion at Council that proposed creating “safety zones” around places of worship and other faith-based sites. As initially written, the motion was far too broad, as it would have restricted protest at museums and other institutions of a “cultural nature”. That could have impeded, for example, the rights of AGO workers to picket during their recent strike.

While I could not support the motion as written, I also recognized that it was not enough to simply vote against it without providing a path forward. I did strongly consider moving a pared-down version myself that would specifically create “safety zones” around places of worship. If there was a way that this initiative could protect faith-based institutions, it was worth exploring. Unfortunately, the details revealed that the promise didn’t stand up to scrutiny.

First, the motion regarding the suggested “safety zones” was just a request to the province. This motion did not demand any action on behalf of the City or our police. The Premier has shown no indication that he has any intention of moving forward with such a strategy despite the idea having been proposed months ago. It is important that the City and the police address these pressing issues quickly instead of shirking responsibility by simply writing letters to other levels of government.

Second, and most importantly, even if this measure was implemented by the province, it wouldn’t address the very real fears of the Jewish community and other targeted religious minorities. Some are absurdly suggesting that these “safety zones” would lead to something like a ring of cops around all places of worship and faith-based schools in our city. This is an obvious impossibility given the thousands of synagogues, mosques, churches, and temples in Toronto.

According to the Councillors proposing this idea, the “safety zones” would be modelled on an existing law protecting abortion clinics with “bubble zones”. A closer look at this legislation reveals that protests aren’t banned outside clinics - only speech that specifically discourages patients from entering the building and accessing healthcare. That is not a parallel to our concerns.

Extending this legislation to religious facilities would obviously have done nothing to stop the 5am shooting at Bais Chaya Mushka, and the hate speech and actions that we are all concerned about are already restricted and illegal.

Further, incidents of hate crimes have more often occurred away from specifically religious settings. Threatening and unsettling graffiti on buildings, targeted vandalism and slurs in our parks and streets are much more common. Jewish parents are also concerned about the increase in antisemitic slurs and bullying occurring in our public schools. While “safety zones” would not address these issues, I will be meeting with parents, Principals and school board officials to discuss how best to support and protect children.

Lastly, while the City Solicitor said that the motion itself did not pose any legal concerns as it was just a request to another level of government, she expressed serious doubt over whether implementing “safety zones” that restrict protest at religious institutions would stand up in court. For example, would restricting the rights of Indigenous Peoples to protest at a Catholic church over the abuses suffered at a residential school be allowable? What if a church similar to Westboro Baptist, that routinely preaches hate against LGBTQ+ communities, came to Canada? Would the courts allow an infringement on the right to protest in these cases?

In short, the advice I received from the City Solicitor, the Chief of Police and others, in addition to the evidence in front of me, led to the conclusion that the “safety zone” idea sounds good but would be ineffective, probably unconstitutional, and unlikely to ever be implemented.

Let’s not waste any more time pursuing metaphorical caution tape when there are real issues to be addressed. I have already moved forward on the Council direction stemming from my motion by arranging a roundtable meeting for next week to bring together senior City Officials, the Chief of Police and Jewish community leaders to ensure that our concerns are addressed. I will be sure to provide updates as this initiative progresses.

Supporting Traffic Safety in the Davisville Community

Earlier this month, a mother and child were hit by a car and seriously injured at the intersection of Davisville Avenue and Acacia Road. I am very hopeful that they will make a full recovery and, as a community, we will be there to support them.

While a long-term plan is already being developed for a new, safer design for Davisville Avenue, every substantive and immediate action possible is needed. I’m happy to say that with my colleagues’ support, my motion was approved to have a new crossing guard present at the Acacia Road crosswalk. I have also requested that the City install physical interventions at the crosswalks along Davisville, including lane restrictions approaching the crosswalks where necessary to support safe crossings. A full police investigation will help us better understand the root causes and inform us of other possible interventions.

As your city councillor, and as a Davisville parent myself, I want to express my heartfelt thank you to Trustee Shelley Laskin and Principal David Finkelstein for their support of the entire school community affected by this horrible incident. We will work together as a team to ensure the safety of our neighborhood. My office and I will continue to provide updates as they become available. In the meantime, please always feel welcome to contact my office at [email protected] or at 416-392-7906 if there is anything my team and I can do to support you and your family.

Holding the TTC to Account - Ongoing Delays and Safety Issues

On May 13th, a hydraulic fuel leak on Line 2 closed one of the city's busiest transportation lines for over twelve hours, stranding tens of thousands of Torontonians. In a presentation to the board later that week, senior TTC staff revealed that this was the seventh incident this year, and that the most recent leak resulted in serious safety issues including trains being unable to stop at station platforms.

The frequent delays and shutdowns on our subway are unacceptable. Torontonians should be able to rely on their transit system to get to their destination on time. And it certainly shouldn’t take the chaos we experienced this week to get the TTC to finally take action. At the TTC Board, I requested that the CEO provide regular updates regarding an investigation into the hydraulic fuel leaks, as well as efforts to ensure these incidents do not continue to occur. I also made clear to senior levels of management that there is an expectation of accountability and open communication with transit riders. I will continue working with my colleagues on the TTC board and City Council to ensure that the TTC is safe, affordable, and reliable for everybody in our city.

Providing Fare-Free Transit for Student Field Trips

Earlier this year, the TTC Board moved to explore providing free transit to public school students on school-sanctioned field trips. I'm happy to announce that a pilot project for this program was approved at the board this month. The pilot program will provide nearly 150,000 students access to school trips without having to pay an additional fare. Furthermore, the program will include educational opportunities to teach students about transit etiquette and encourage lifelong transit ridership. The pilot will apply to trips from Viamond, MonAvenir, TDSB and TCDSB schools.

Community Environment Day - June 4th

Join Councillor Mike Colle and me for another Community Environment Day!

Date: Tuesday, June 4th
Time: 4pm - 8pm
Location: North Toronto Arena, 174 Orchard View Blvd.

Residents are welcome to drop off items for reuse, recycling and safe disposal. Donate items in good condition for reuse and safely dispose of electronic and household hazardous waste.

For a list of items you can and cannot bring to Community Environment Days, please visit: toronto.ca/environment_days.

Local Farmers Markets

Come visit one of our community's local farmers markets! See below for a list of some upcoming farmers markets in our neighborhood:

Davisville Farmers Market
In June Rowlands Park every Tuesday until October 8th, from 3pm to 7pm.

The Eglinton Way Farmers Market
Every Sunday from June to October (from 8:00 AM until 1:00 PM) at 125 Burnaby Blvd.

Wychwood Barns Farmers Market
Open every Saturday from 8am to 1pm at the Wychwood Barns.

Commemorating Yom HaShoah

It was an honor to stand with our city’s Jewish community to commemorate Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) at Beth Emeth Bais Yehuda Synagogue in North York. This photo is of 102 year-old Survivor, Eddie Fisch lighting a candle with his family. We must never forget.

Free Admission with Your Toronto Public Library Card

This is so cool. We can now access some of our city’s greatest attractions FREE with a library card, including the Aga Khan Museum, ROM, AGO, Black Creek Village, CN Tower, Science Centre, Ripley’s Aquarium, Toronto Symphony, Zoo, Hot Docs and more!

Go to this link to learn more: https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/map/

Accepting Primary Doctor and Nurse Practitioner Patients

Are you looking for a Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner? Toronto Family Health Team Garrison Creek is accepting patients.

Become a patient of our Family Health Team. See full instructions on our website on how to join: www.twfht.ca.

Why enroll with the Family Health Team?

We accept OHIP and Interim Federal Health coverage
We have a team of health care professionals working together with you for your health care needs
Our team includes:
- Doctors/Nurse Practitioner
- Nurses
- Chiropodist
- Dietitian
- Occupational Therapist
- Pharmacist
- Physiotherapist
- Respiratory Therapist
- Social Worker
We offer a broad range of programs and services
Interpretation is available
We offer extended hours and urgent same day appointment

Exploring our City - Toronto Jane's Walks

I enjoyed a Jane’s Walk with the Scarborough Junction Community along the proposed West Scarborough Rail Trail. The trail would follow the hydro corridor & abandoned rail lines- connecting neighborhoods, TTC and green spaces between the Meadoway and Taylor Massey Creek.

I visited with Walied Kogali and local residents in Regent Park. We had a wide-ranging and thoughtful conversation about community health and the critical need for more affordable housing. We then joined Walied for his informative and inspiring Jane’s Walk.

It was a pleasure to join Save the Ontario Science Centre and so many dedicated people from across Toronto and beyond for a Jane’s Walk. Together, we’re sending Doug Ford a message- Keep the Science Centre where it belongs, here in Flemingdon Park.

Congratulations to Rosie Mosco for her Ontario Arts Council Grant!

Happy Orthodox Easter!

I hope everyone in our city's Ukrainian community, along with the many other orthodox communities, had a very happy Easter weekend in May. It was my pleasure to attend the blessing of the baskets at Saint Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church near Trinity Bellwoods Park.

City of Toronto Community Canopy Free Tree Program

The City of Toronto has partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to provide residents with free trees and an innovative online mapping tool to help choose the best location to plant trees on their property.

Community Canopy runs twice a year in the spring and fall to provide residents with a rotating selection of native trees and shrubs. The trees and shrubs come in 1-2 gallon pots and range from 1-4 feet in height. The pickup locations for Community Canopy change every season to ensure equitable access to the event.

If you are having trouble with the registration please contact the Arbor Day Foundation by emailing [email protected] or calling their toll free help line at 844-887-8719.

For other inquiries about Community Canopy or private land planting please contact City of Toronto Urban Forestry Staff by emailing [email protected].

For more information visit the Toronto Urban Forestry Grants and Incentive website.

Congratulations to the Oakwood Pizzeria for 50 Years!

Congratulations to Oakwood Pizzeria for bringing the taste of Calabria to Oakwood Village for the past 50 years! We love you!

Yard Sale for the Manor Road Nursery School!

Community Clean Ups

I enjoyed a beautiful morning cleaning up Cawthra Playground and Tarragon Village with MPP Jill Andrew and some amazing local residents who care deeply about our community.

2024 Walrus Gala

This month's Walrus Gala was amazing! I got dressed up to support a magazine that educates, provokes, engages and represents the best of Canadian independent journalism. I also had fun spending time with my friends Jenn & Olivia. We’ll be kayaking Lake Ontario together soon!

Join the 2024 Gutsy Walk!

Step forward with the Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis community at the Toronto Gutsy Walk on June 2nd, 2024, in an effort to help support research to find a cure and raise awareness for Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Join the movement and help shape a brighter future for everyone affected by these life-long diseases. Register at the Gutsy Walk 2024 Event Page: crohnsandcolitiscanada.akaraisin.com/ui/GutsyWalk2024/g/40555

A Message from Seniors for Climate Action Now! (SCAN!)

Seniors for Climate Action Now! (SCAN!) is a volunteer organization of seniors who are alarmed about the climate crisis. SCAN! Toronto is one of its regional groups. Several members live in the ward.

With the increase in the planet’s temperature and the resulting wildfires, floods, droughts and heat waves, SCAN! is calling for emergency climate action at all levels of government, including Toronto City Council. We write submissions to governments, demonstrate against misguided climate policies and primarily organize seniors to join us in this struggle to save our planet. Does this sound melodramatic? It is simply dramatic. In Toronto, seniors die when they suffer through a heat wave; people who are unhoused do as well. Breathing problems increase due to drifting smoke from distant wildfires and homes are flooded increasingly often.

If you are a senior who cares about these issues, please go to our website and consider joining us. You can become a member and/or receive our monthly newsletter. https://seniorsforclimateactionnow.org/

Hillcrest Village BIA Contest

Working with the Museum of Toronto

Toronto is a city of stories- about people & where we live. Stories of diversity, celebration, hardship & innovation. Indigenous stories. Stories of our past, and who we are today. I’m proud to be working with the Museum of Toronto to share our stories with the world, and each other.

Jewish Music Week - May 26th to June 2nd

Jewish Music Week is an exciting week of concerts, recitals and musical events throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Founded in 2011, the festival celebrates all styles of Jewish music, as well as the Jewish contribution to mainstream genres of music. Our programs include Sephardic and Klezmer, Holocaust music and Israeli pop, Broadway and Hollywood, Chassidic Nigunim and Yiddish Theatre, Jazz and Big Band, Cantorial, folk, gospel, bluegrass and more!

Jewish Music Week partners with many Toronto organizations for the benefit of the entire community. All daytime events are free, and many of the Gala Evening Concerts benefit Toronto synagogues or local charities. With performances all over town, you won't have to travel far to enjoy a spectacular musical event. Join us – as a volunteer, a performer, a donor or a member of our audience. Jewish Music Week has something for everyone! To learn more about programing, go to: Jewish Music Week in Toronto!

Visiting Davisville Public School's Grade 5 Class

I always enjoy visiting schools to teach 5th grade students about government and discuss their priorities. But it’s especially fun when it’s your daughter’s class and you’re an embarrassing dad :)

Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) Townhall

Thank you to the residents of 50 Prince Arthur for inviting me for a Town Hall conversation on Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (and real ways our city can make it possible to age in place). We also covered a wide array of issues important to this downtown community.

For Youth Initiative (FYI) - Spray it With Your Chest

Celebrating Asian Heritage Month

Happy Asian Heritage Month! Toronto’s Asian communities are vibrant, diverse, and absolutely integral to our city’s story. I’m very excited to celebrate with you. The ⁦Toronto Public Library ⁩ has some wonderful events and programs you’ll want to check out. https://torontopubliclibrary.ca/programs-and-classes/featured/asian-heritage.jsp

CampTO at the Fairbank Community Centre

A Message from St. Michael's and All Angels Daycare

St. Michael and All Angels Day Care, a registered non-profit has been providing high-quality child care in Ward 21 since 1976, serving 69 children from diverse backgrounds.

Unfortunately, our 2024 application for the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) Program was not granted due to high demand. We depend on this funding to hire students for our Summer Program, which includes organized activities and excursions.

We need to raise $15,888 to hire four summer students for 8 weeks, working 6 hours a day at $16.55 per hour. Their support is essential for the safety and enrichment of our program and provides valuable experience for the students.
Can you help us with this request or recommend potential donors? As a non-profit, we provide charitable receipts.

Your prompt support would be greatly appreciated.
www.stmichaelsdaycare.com

Sincerely,
Novea Lawson
Supervisor

Children's Breakfast Club Charities Smile Cookie Campaign

Thank you so much to the amazing staff at Tim Hortons for inviting me to serve Smile Cookies with you in support of Children's Breakfast Club Charities!

Volunteer for Meals on Wheels with SPRINT!

SPRINT Senior Care’s Meals on Wheels (MOW) program is a volunteer-based service that delivers meals directly to seniors’ homes seven days a week, 365 days a year.

We are currently experiencing a volunteer shortage and are urgently seeking volunteers who have a car and a G license to help with meal delivery. The meal pick-up location is at Sunnybrook Hospital, and volunteers deliver meals to clients within our catchment area (Bloor to the 401, Bathurst to Bayview/Don River) from 10:30am to 1:00pm. We welcome your volunteer support any day of the week you have availability.

By becoming a Meals on Wheels volunteer, you'll play a vital role in supporting our community's seniors, ensuring they receive essential meals while fostering social connection and combating isolation. We encourage passionate individuals to join our team and make a difference! Interested in applying – please fill out the volunteer application form or contact us at 416-481-0669 ext. 8723 or [email protected].

Student Survey on Housing and Well-being of Older Adults Aging in Place

Councillor Matlow's City Hall & Community Update: April 2024

Chag Pesach Sameach! Delivering Passover Meals

Chag Semeach! Wishing all those who are celebrating in our community a joyous and meaningful Passover. May this special time celebrating be filled with family, warmth and love.

The National Council of Jewish Women of Canada are delivering Passover meals out of Beth Emeth to over 2355 families in the GTA, including newcomers, Holocaust survivors & people with disabilities. I was grateful to volunteer with them & support our Jewish community.

Antisemitism Cannot Go Unchallenged

Over the past few weeks there have been a number of troubling instances of Antisemitic hate across our city. In Cedarvale Park, we were informed of a poster on which a swastika was drawn on the face of a baby who was taken hostage. These actions are hateful and should be revolting to any decent person. Our office immediately contacted both the Toronto Police and City of Toronto Staff to address this incident. To report any further incidents, please contact 311 or the police at 416-808-5050. For an emergency, contact 911.

I’ve appreciated meeting Mayor Chow, the Toronto Police Service and several of my colleagues to work together on meaningful ways to combat anti-Jewish hate and to promote community safety. I’ve also been in touch with Rabbis from local synagogues in our community and will continue working with them closely.

Action Needed to Address Toronto’s Surge in Auto Theft Incidents & Home Invasions

The surge in auto theft incidents and home invasions over the past several months are significantly impacting our neighbourhoods. I know many of you are going to bed not knowing what you’ll find when you wake up and often fear that your families will be victimized by home invasions. Many believe auto thieves have the upper hand and that this issue isn’t being taken seriously enough. This has even led to, in some cases, residents hiring private security at their expense- personally spending tens of thousands of dollars in enhancing security measures for their own properties and those of their neighbours.

I’ve personally spoken with the Toronto Police Service and appreciate the efforts being made by the Provincial Carjacking Joint Task Force and the attention this issue has been given at the National Summit on Combatting Auto Theft and last week’s police chiefs summit held in Mississauga.

While there have been increased measures at our national borders and ports, and additional funding has been allocated and spent to help curb auto theft, there is much more that needs to be done.

Please see my letter to the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic Leblanc and Minister of the Solicitor General Michael Kerzner.

To review my letter, please click here.

Scarborough RT Derailment - Seeking Accountability and Ensuring Our Subway System is Safe

Last year, the derailment of the Scarborough RT resulted in five hospitalizations and the permanent closure of line three. TTC staff have since confirmed to the board that it was only a matter of luck that prevented far more serious injury, or worse.

As I wrote in a previous newsletter, an independent review of the derailment was completed in November. The report found that in the period before the accident there was a marked decline in reported defects on the RT's reaction rail. That component of the line was later identified as the cause of the crash. The report also suggests that there was a lack of preventative or proactive maintenance on the line, which contributed to the derailment.

A full report from the TTC in response to the independent review came before the board last week. The report has several apparent inconsistencies with the earlier published review, and disputes the claim that there was a decrease in maintenance. These discrepancies leave more unanswered questions, and I’m concerned we still do not have a clear answer as to how we can ensure that the rest of our transit system is safe, reliable, and functional. That’s why I moved a motion to request the City’s Auditor General provide an independent review and investigation of the entire incident, including systemic issues that may have contributed to the derailment and recommendations on ensuring that something like this never happens again. I’m happy to say that my motion was adopted unanimously by the TTC Board. I will continue to work with my colleagues on the TTC Board to make sure that Toronto’s transit system is safe, affordable and reliable for everyone.

2024 Vacant Home Tax Roll Out - A Hot Mess

Residents from across Toronto have expressed serious and justifiable concerns with the 2024 Vacant Home Tax Roll Out, including people receiving bills for thousands of dollars for homes they live in year-round. I believe the Vacant Home Tax can be a useful tool to incentivize bringing investment properties back into the housing market. However, the method the City uses to identify vacant homes clearly needs improvement and has been unfair, and the response to those who simply miss making a declaration has been far too punitive and needs to get fixed.

If you received a vacant home tax bill in error, do not pay it. Instead, use this link: https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/property-taxes-utilities/vacant-home-tax/vacant-home-tax-notice-of-complaint/ to file a notice of complaint and dispute the charge.

At City Council this week, I will be actively working with my Council colleagues to waive any and all potential late fees or other fees associated with filing a complaint and disputing charges. We will be also requesting that City Staff report back on creating a better system and process – one that is fairer to Toronto residents.

If you require any assistance filing your notice of complaint, please contact revenue services at [email protected]. As always, please feel more than welcome to reach out to my office if we can provide any assistance in your notice of complaint process, or if you have any other questions you have that we can answer.

Important RentSafe Vote to Protect Tenants Coming to Council this Week

Every tenant deserves a clean, safe, healthy home. Renters pay rent, but unfortunately some landlords see their buildings as just a source of income, rather than as people's homes. That's why we need a strong City program that protects tenants' basic living standards and their right to live in an apartment free of mould and pests, with working appliances and basic safety standards.

It's been seven years since I worked with tenant advocacy groups including ACORN, ACTO, and FMTA to first get RentSafe approved as Chair of the City’s Tenant Issues Committee. Unfortunately, very few of the commitments made were ever implemented under the previous Mayor. That’s not acceptable.

I’m happy to report that I moved a suite of motions (recommendations 5-16) on behalf of the tenant community that were unanimously supported by my colleagues on Planning & Housing Committee. The supported motions provide strict timelines for staff to implement real enforcement mechanisms and place serious penalties on the bad landlords who don't follow the rules. But the fight isn’t over – I’m working with tenant advocacy organizations from across Toronto to ensure that City Council follows Planning and Housing’s recommendations.

Please click here out to tell your Councillor that your vote in the next election depends on them choosing to protect tenants. When you are done, please share the campaign with your friends, families and neighbours.

Supporting Renters Facing Demoviction

As land values continue to rise, an increasing number of our Midtown neighbours are at risk of being evicted due to their apartment building being demolished to build new condos. The good news is that sec 111 of the City of Toronto Act ensures that tenants will be provided a similar-sized unit in the new build at the same rent.

However, these tenants have to find a new unit during the construction period without sufficient support to afford rents in our community. The City’s policy states that tenants are provided a rent gap payment from the developer that ensures the difference between their current rent and the market rent is covered during the construction period. At present, the method the City uses to calculate the gap is based on old data that is not reflective of the current market.

Working with the advocacy group NoDemovictions and City Planning Staff, I moved motions at Planning & Housing Committee that significantly increases the rent gap payments and provides additional monitoring to ensure tenants move into an affordable replacement apartment as required by provincial law.

For more information, please see this City report.

Enjoying a Drink Outdoors: Providing Safe, Responsible and Equitable Options for All

In 2022, I first moved a motion to request the City of Toronto allow responsible adults to enjoy a drink outside together in public parks. It was not approved. However, last summer, the City conducted a sheepish pilot program with bizarre public signs, allowing the responsible consumption of beer and wine in select Toronto Parks. In a report coming to Council this week, Staff unsprisingly found that there were very few complaints and zero instances that required police responses.

Cities around the world and in Canada, including Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary, have for years allowed responsible adults to enjoy a drink in a park without incident. The sky didn't fall and no zombie apocalypses were reported. It is important to note that irresponsible behaviour, including littering, public intoxication, and excessive noise, will remain illegal. That doesn't change.

This week, Staff are recommending to City Council that drinking only be allowed in one park per ward. I am concerned that this policy could have the unintended consequence of creating “destination” parks, rather than allowing Torontonians across the city without a back yard or balcony to enjoy a responsible drink in their local neighbourhoods. That’s is also an issue of equity. Some of us in Toronto have backyards. But many of us don't.

That's why I will be moving a motion to legalize all parks that meet th eoriginal staff criteria - large parks with washroom and water facilities that are away from playgrounds.

It's time to get this right and, frankly, move on. Cheers!

Hillcrest Village BIA Meet and Greet

Small businesses are vital to successful and vibrant mainstreets. I enjoyed some time with the Hillcrest Village BIA- the people who own and operate the amazing local shops, cafes and restaurants in the heart of our St. Clair West community.

Celebrating Ramadan and Delivering Ramadan Meals

My wife Melissa and I were deeply touched to join Toronto’s Muslim communities for an Iftar dinner at city hall, along with many others throughout the month in Scarborough and Etobicoke and Eid celebrations in Thorncliffe Park. At every table, and from every part of our city, I was amongst so many friends.

It was a meaningful experience to join Walied Kogali and Healing as One this to deliver Ramadan meals in Regent Park, Scarborough and North York, so that everyone fasting was able to have an Iftar to look forward to.

Save the Ontario Science Centre Rally

I was proud to join Save the Ontario Science Centre, and dedicated residents from every part of our city, at Christie Pits this morning to tell Queen’s Park to leave the Science Centre where it belongs-in Flemingdon Park. Together, let’s continue to stand up for what’s right until Doug Ford backs down.

Celebrating Purim

I enjoyed all the happiness and festivities of Purim with the Beth Tzedec and Holy Blossom Temple congregations. The carnivals were so much fun for kids, and for all of us who are kids at heart. I hope everyone who celebrated had a very fun and festive Purim.

A Message from the Manor Road Co-Operative Nursery School

"Manor Road Co-operative Nursery School (MRNS), an integral part of our community for the past 85 years, is facing an imminent relocation due to The Church of The Transfiguration's decision to end our lease.

Manor Road Nursery School is a registered charity and the oldest cooperative nursery school in Canada. It is not just a place of education; it's a cornerstone of our community, shaping the lives of generations. The prospect of relocation not only affects the school but reverberates through the hearts of families and the entire neighborhood.

MRNS was established by the Junior League in 1935 as an outdoor play group for children. In 1937, the operation of the school was taken over by the parents, and it became the first co-operative nursery school in Canada.

Current MRNS families are working tirelessly to find a new location and have held several fundraisers to try to raise funds for our relocation.
We are reaching out to our community for support during this challenging time. Your financial contributions, suggestions for new spaces, and connections to help us find a new home are crucial. Together, we can prevent Manor Road Nursery School from closing.

Your support means the world to us, and we believe that with the strength of our community, MRNS will overcome this challenge and continue to thrive.
To donate you can e-transfer to [email protected], or email [email protected] for other payment methods! We’re able to offer a tax receipt for donations over $20!

Go fund me: https://gofund.me/92db34ad

Thank you for being an essential part of our journey."

OVNAP April Tax Clinic

Recognizing Greek Heritage Month and Greek Independence Day

My daughter Molly and I enjoyed the Toronto District School Board (TCDSB)'s Greek Heritage Month closing celebration hosted with the Greek Community of Toronto. There are many remarkable Greek-Canadians who work in our schools and support our kids’ education. It was our pleasure to be there to thank them.

Ευχαριστώ to the Hellenic Home for the Aged for inviting me to join your Greek Independence Day celebrations! I always appreciate their warmth and hospitality each and every time I visit. The performances were beautiful. And the baklava. Oh my gosh, the baklava!

Yorktown Family Services Announcement

Here To Help
In-Person - April 30 to June 25
Yorktown Family Services delivers Here To Help a group program that provides a supportive environment for women, children, and youth exposed to family violence. The group provides a safe and supportive environment for mothers and children to talk about the violence they have experienced, and helps families process their emotions together.

Learn More

Welcoming Nicorama Cafe to our Community!

I was delighted to celebrate the grand opening of the Nicorama cafe this month. We now have some of the best and tastiest Nicaraguan baked treats and coffee right here in the heart Oakwood Village!

A Message from Gasbusters: We need to ban noisy, polluting gas powered leaf blowers NOW

"Gasbusters have a now, informative web site outlining strong reasons for banning this noisy, polluting gardening equipment. Electric lawn equipment has greatly improved and causes less pollution and noise.

On July 19, 2023, Toronto City Council expressed its support for a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, lawn mowers and related garden equipment. City staff will report to Council later this year with details on how the ban would be implemented. The devil is in the details, and a ban could be delayed for years or even derailed unless concerned citizens keep up the pressure.

You can help make a gas-powered leaf blower ban a reality in Toronto.

Tell your councillor you support a ban. (If you're a Toronto-St.Paul's resident, you already have my support)
Join Gasbusters, a volunteer group dedicated to stopping the harmful noise and toxic and carcinogenic emissions of two-stroke engine small equipment such as gas-powered lawn mowers and leaf blowers. Membership is free and sign up is easy at their website."

AppleTree Market: Good Vibes Spring Fling

Celebrating Greek Independence Day with the Hellenic Home for the Aged

Humewood Community Scholarship Fund Thank You Message

"With the phenomenal support of the Humewood community, we thank you for making the 2023 Humewood Community Scholarship Fund a huge success!

This year’s fundraiser officially ended on January 15, 2024. A grand total of $6,245 was raised! This total includes donations made through our webpage ($4,845) and additional donations received ($1,400). The money will be distributed for the fall 2024 academic year. Link to our webpage: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/abionacentre/p2p/HCS2023/

We would also like to express our gratitude to St. Matthew’s and to the broader community, served by both MPP Jill Andrew, and City Councillor Josh Matlow. Finally, we’d like to say a special thank-you to Ashley Carambelas, the former Resource Development Coordinator at the Abiona Centre, who has been such an important part of our fundraising team. We wish her all the best in her new endeavours.

We look forward to connecting with you again in the fall as we continue our annual fundraising efforts for the Humewood Community Scholarship Fund.

Sincerely,
Cathy, Caroline and Shelagh"

Councillor Matlow's City Hall & Community Update: February 2024

Budget 2024 Reinvests in Vital City Services

On February 14^th Council considered Mayor Chow’s budget. The last 10 years has seen deteriorating City services as a result of lower than inflation property tax increases. We’ve all experienced overflowing garbage cans, longer wait times for transit, locked park bathrooms and roads in disrepair. That's not good enough for Toronto.

Council had a choice this year: allow Toronto’s decline or get our city back on track. The budget was initially proposed by city staff to have a tax rate increase between 10.5% - 16.5%. I was pleased to see that the rate that was ultimately decided on was only 2.5% higher than the previous years budget. This amounts to an increase of $285 annually for the average Toronto home or the equivalent to a monthly increase of $23.75. This rate both recognized what we need to do for our city but also acknowledged the impact the economy is having on so many residents.

New investments in the 2024 Budget include:

Affordable Housing and Shelters
•   Expanding the Multi-Unit Residential Acquisition program (MURA) by $100 million over three years to support the purchase of rental properties to protect low income tenants
•   Implement Winter Warming Response Plan to provide emergency shelter and support for homeless Torontonians during inclement weather
•   Create 450 new shelter beds to Refugee claimant response
•   Additional frontline staff to protect tenants through the Eviction Prevention Program and RentSafeTO
•   Increased funding for the Rent Bank, Tenant Support Program, Eviction Prevention in Community Program, Multi-Tenant Housing Program, Homelessness Prevention Program and Community Housing
•   Critical funding for 22 City-supported drop-in centres that provide food, training, clothing and other basic supports for homeless Torontonians

Improved Transit Services
•   Freezes TTC fares
•   Full funding for the Scarborough Busway
•   160 new highly visible TTC workers to improve passenger safety and security
•   Implements emissions performance standards for City vehicles

Community Supports
•   Expands the Toronto Community Crisis Service city-wide to provide support for mental health emergencies
•   Over 100 additional new first responders including firefighters, paramedics, police officers and civilian staff
•   Sunday hours at additional Toronto Public Library locations
•   New Youth Hubs at Library locations in priority neighbourhoods to serve vulnerable young people
•   Increased community grants focused on youth violence prevention
•   Enhanced service at Long-Term Care Homes to support seniors
•   Additional spaces for EarlyON childcare program
•   Almost $1million to support arts and artists

Public Works
•   The $50 million Back on Track Fund will leverage capital funding from the Ontario-Toronto New Deal to support urgent state-of-good-repair work such as potholes, address infrastructure deficiencies, and enhance public spaces across the city.
•   Increased funding to plant additional trees and better maintain existing ones.

To view the budget in its entirety, please view the Council agenda.

Scarborough RT Derailment Raises Concerns About the State of Subway Repair

Last year, Torontonians were understandably horrified at footage of the Scarborough RT derailing. The incident sent 5 people to hospital and TTC staff have confirmed that it was lucky it wasn’t more catastrophic.

As reported in the Toronto Star, an independent review of the derailment was completed in November but has yet to be brought to the TTC board. The report found that in the period before the accident there was a marked decline in reported defects on the RT's reaction rail. That component of the line was later identified as the cause of the crash.

The reduction in reported defects prior to the derailment does not add up. The RT was supposed to reach the end of its service life in 2015, as such it should have been expected that the number of defects would increase and more preventative maintenance required to keep transit riders safe.

A formal report by the TTC is expected to come to the TTC Board in May. I will continue pushing for more accountability and transparency on the derailment to ensure that this type of incident never happens again. I have significant concerns about the slow downs that the subway is experiencing on Line 1, and that without sufficient funding for state of good repair we could see increased slow downs on Line 2 over the next 5 years. We simply cannot allow our subway system to either become structurally unsafe or slow down to a point in which we no longer have a functional transit system. I will continue focusing my advocacy on this critical priority.

For more information, please see this article.

Costs to Host FIFA World Cup of Soccer Continue to Rise

The cost for Toronto to host 6 games as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup of Soccer has increased by $80 million dollars according to a new City Staff report. The total cost to host these games is now expected to cost almost $380 million, with only the province committed to covering $97 million of the total. While it is expected that the federal government will chip in some funding shortly, the City is still expected to be on the hook for a far greater financial commitment than Council was originally told.

A 2022 report to Council estimated the total financial exposure to the City of Toronto at around $100 million, with the expectation that the event would generate considerably more for the City. Unfortunately, City Staff executed an agreement that did not include secured funding commitments from both the provincial and federal governments as directed by City Council and they have now locked us into a poorly negotiated agreement that has not protected us from cost overruns. Moreover, because the City does not get sales tax revenue, the games are only expected to generate $5 million in direct revenue. The federal and provincial governments will reap significant financial benefits from Toronto hosting this tournament. This highlights the need for Toronto to have revenue tools that grow with the economy, and contribute significantly more money for this event until those tools are granted to the City.

While many in our community are excited that our city is hosting the largest sporting event in the world, these games cannot come at the expense of our City’s many priorities. The City is unable to back out of the agreement at this point so it is imperative that we do everything we can to ensure recover as mush of our investment as possible. That’s why I will be requesting that the City develop a revenue strategy that looks at creative ways we can leverage the World Cup.

For more information, please see this article.

Taking Action to Curb Auto Thefts and Break-ins

Auto thefts, and associated break-ins are a significant concern across the country that has hit home for too many St. Paul’s residents following several troubling incidents in our community. Toronto reported more than 12,000 stolen vehicles in 2023. With a 24.4% increase from the previous year, the situation is getting worse.

More concerning than the auto thefts themselves are the increasingly brazen lengths car thieves are willing to go to obtain their targets. In recent cases in our community and across the country, thieves are breaking into houses with people home to obtain keys. Thankfully, one of the main perpetrators of the recent rash of incidents in Forest Hill was apprehended but more work needs to be done to dismantle the international crime organizations that are behind the thefts.

Cars are being stolen in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, and other major cities and ending up in China and the Middle East. It is clear that there must be co-operation between the Toronto Police, OPP, RCMP, auto insurance companies, and the Canadian Border Services Agency to address this matter.
That’s why I was pleased to see that the federal government announced $121 million to attack car theft earlier this month, which is in addition to the recent announcement by the province of $51 million to address this problem.

Josh is doing everything he can at the local level by advocating to senior levels of government and working closely with 13 and 53 division to review efforts in combating auto thefts and break ins. Please the following memo from the Staff Sergeant for our local police divisions:

“Toronto Police has been working closely with the Provincial Carjacking Task Force to provide supports in addressing the issue.

Directed Patrols have been created for all members of both 53 and 13 Divisions working with our Crime Analysts to determine trends and identifiers.

These continued directed patrols are being conducted in the high risk areas and based on data analysis we can adjust our resources appropriately.

We have dedicated officers that will continue to canvass for video evidence and anything to assist in our investigations.

Both Divisions have held town hall and meetings with experts in Auto Theft. Our CPLC meetings have been a source of communication and information sharing with the purpose of educating the public on crime prevention measures which includes opening the lines of communication and community involvement. I personally have connected with community members who have created community chat groups to assist in the dissemination of information related to the thefts.

Our Crime Prevention Officers have conducted Crime Prevention assessments known as CPTED (Crime Prevention through Environmental Design) to many residents and continue to do so.

53 Division and 13 Division Major Crime Units have worked through the nights to prevent these crimes and have had success with arrests and identification of suspects. As this is truly widespread I would say nationally, even beyond our provincial boundaries, other police services are making the auto theft issue a top priority as well.”

For more information, please contact 13/53 Division at (416) 808 1300 and inquire about the next Community Police Liaison Committee meeting (CPLC) at [email protected] . Please note the CPLC is a chance for you to personally meet your local authorities, to ask questions and receive answers.

Crackdown Needed After Report Finds City Defrauded for Millions

A new report by the City’s Auditor General has found that the City of Toronto has lost $27 million over the past 5 years due to fraud. The City employees that engaged in this fraud were fired by the City and members of the public that were caught have been referred to the police.

The scams that have taken much needed money away from programs and services we all rely on include:

Resident using multiple identities applied for, and was granted, numerous subsidies totaling over $60,000
City employee took sick days to work for a neighbouring municipality
City Employee made false insurance claims for services that were never performed
Resident lied about work status for 15 years to receive almost $140,000 in benefits they were not entitled to

The Auditor General’s Report and the subsequent action by the City should serve as a strong warning for individuals looking to scam the City. For more information, please see this article.

The Somali Centre for Culture and Recreation

Toronto is home to one of the largest Somali communities outside of Africa. For over 40 years, Toronto’s Somali community has advocated for a place to gather, learn, celebrate and be well. Now, a new generation is taking the lead to build the Somali Centre for Arts & Recreation. This center would be a hub for Somali services and a place to access diverse programming for community members of all ages. This dynamic space will advance community belonging, serving the Somali community and all other residents nearby. I’m proud to be an active supporter and ally in their efforts to turn this dream into reality.

CareTO: Transforming the Level of Care in City of Toronto Long-Term Care Homes

One of the most meaningful initiatives I brought to Council was CareTO- to transform long-term care in Toronto toward an emotion-focused approach. I returned to Lakeshore Lodge in Etobicoke where this amazing team is creating a model that focuses on the emotional well-being of residents with dementia, and all seniors, in our care. I look forward to continuing to work with Senior Services and Long Term Care division on expanding this model of care across our City's other nine homes. To learn more about CareTO, please visit this website here.

New Hours at Deer Park Library

Our libraries are about more than books. They’re places for families, seniors & youth to study, socialize and for all of us to be well. I was proud to join Mayor Chow and Councillor Ainslie at Deer Park to announce expanded library hours, including Sundays, in branches across the city. This is good news for the Deer Park library in our ward. Starting in September, Deer Park will now be open on Sundays from 1:30pm to 5pm year round, except on holiday weekends. Expanding access to our libraries means more access to welcoming spaces, friendly staff, increased digitized opportunities and more children and youth supports.

Rally to Save the Ontario Science Centre

The Ontario Science Centre should remain where it belongs - in Flemingdon Park. I joined so many remarkable people who love our city, and are willing to fight for our future, at a rally at Riverdale Park. I deeply appreciated the kind & thoughtful conversations we had.

Toronto Community Health Forum

With a shortage of primary care providers and a growing population, we want to make sure all North Toronto residents have access to team-based primary care. To do this, we are establishing an “Integrated Health Hub” in Mount Pleasant West. Integrated Health Hubs bring together health and community services into the same physical space. This will provide patients, their families, and caregivers with easy access to a range of support from different service providers. It also helps health and service providers communicate with each other and coordinate care.

The North Toronto Ontario Health Team (OHT) to hear your thoughts on what you think about establishing a Integrated Health Hub in the Mount Pleasant West Community.

Please take a moment to complete this survey. Your answers will remain anonymous, and the details will be held confidentially. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Vyshnave Jeyabalan at [email protected] or call (647) 460-4117.

Resume link: https://forms.gle/Vy6zRzr4c1EwyqCMA

Connections 400: Actively Aging at 400 Walmer Road

I was pleased to work with Tai Huynh from the University Health Network’s OpenLab, the Landlord and Property Manager at 400 Walmer Road and a number of active residents to design and renovate a space within this NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Community) to initiate a program designed to address important determinants of healthy aging such as socialization, nutrition, physical fitness, and sense of purpose. It was such a pleasure to visit 400 Walmer Road and the remarkable women who run this program called “Connections 400”. More programs like this need to be expanded across our City and I plan to work with City Staff, healthcare partners and local community organizations to make this possible through my motion that will develop a comprehensive strategy to support aging in place.

Celebrating Lunar New Year

恭喜發財! It was a delight to join the Chinatown BIA for their beautiful 2024 Lunar New Year Celebrations! I wish you and your family good health, fortune, luck and prosperity during this year of the dragon.

A Good Piece of News from Oakwood-Vaughan

Last November, Oakwood Vaughan Community Organization (OVCO) held an open hose to welcome people to the newly named Oakwood Vaughan Community Hub.

From the morning, there was a steady stream of well wishers. They were welcomed by the three partners sharing space in the former Vaughan Road Academy at 529 Vaughan Road: Reena, the Learning Enrichment Foundation (LEF) and the OVCO healthy aging program.

During the opening ceremony, there was standing room only, as people listened to the history of the development of the hub from OVCO chair, Bill Worrell, and heard from Trustee Laskin, TDSB chair, Rachel Chernos Lin, virtually from LEF ED, Peter Frampton and, Reena’s ED and MPP Jill Andrew. Also in attendance were representatives from Oasis, funding the healthy aging program.

The official name, Oakwood Vaughan Community Hub, chosen by residents, was unveiled to great applause.

The Improvement of the Community Consultation Process
Within Development Review

A Proposals report regarding the improvement of the community consultation process within development review was approved at January’s Planning & Housing Committee meeting. The report gave staff direction to conduct consultation with the public and stakeholders and this will be in the form of in-person open houses, virtual meetings as well as smaller stakeholder workshops and gathering feedback through surveys that will be advertised via social media and the project’s website. The website should go live this week and when it does, we will forward you the link, however it was important to provide you with the attached advertisement as soon as possible.

Agenda Item History - 2024.PH9.4 (toronto.ca)

The meeting for Toronto/East York District is scheduled for Tuesday March 12, 2024 from 6:00pm - 8:00pm. The location for this meeting is Metro Hall (255 Front St. W) in rooms 308 and 309.

Oakwood Vaughan Oasis for Healthy Aging

The Oakwood Vaughan community has its very own NORC! The Oakwood Vaughan Community Hub is located at 529 Vaughan Road (Door #9 off Winona Ave.) The Hub is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:30am till 3:30pm. Please feel free to contact the Hub at [email protected] with any questions!

Manor Road Nursery School Losing our Home:
A Call to Our Community for Support

Manor Road Co-operative Nursery School (MRNS), an integral part of our community for the past 85 years, is facing an imminent relocation due to The Church of The Transfiguration's decision to end our lease despite our efforts to renegotiate.

This decision marks the end of a nearly century long partnership with The Church of The Transfiguration and we are grateful for their past support and shared history. While challenging, we aim to navigate this transition with respect and understanding. As we continue the search for a new space, our commitment to delivering exceptional education remains unwavering.

Manor Road Nursery School is a registered charity and the oldest cooperative nursery school in Canada. It is not just a place of education; it's a cornerstone of our community, shaping the lives of generations. The prospect of relocation not only affects the school but reverberates through the hearts of families and the entire neighborhood.

We are reaching out to our community for support during this challenging time. Your financial contributions, suggestions for new spaces, and connections to help us find a new home are crucial. Together, we can prevent Manor Road Nursery School from closing.

For inquiries, donations, or assistance, please contact Katharine Wyatt at [email protected]

Manor Road Easter Fair Fundraiser

🌸 Join us for our Easter Fair Fundraiser on March 2nd, 3-6pm, at The Church of the Transfiguration! 🐣

Help support our beloved school, the oldest cooperative school in Canada, facing relocation. 💜💚

⭐️ We will also have crafts, cookie decorating, colouring and an egg hunt for kids!⭐️

With your support, we'll overcome this challenge and continue to thrive! 🌟

We’re located at 111 manor road east, close to Yonge and Eglinton!

Hillcrest Village Community Players - Footloose

Hillcrest Village Players is a local community theatre group, in the heart of Toronto! It is a place to produce high quality performance art, powered by volunteers, and surrounded by a supportive community. That’s correct, powered by volunteers. We are committed to, and very proud, that Hillcrest Village Community Players is an extracurricular for everyone involved. This year we are putting on Footloose, running from February 22nd - March 2nd. Tickets can be purchased through our website!

About Our Season 3 Musical: Footloose!

Footloose is a musical based on the classic 80s film. It tells a story about the importance of community and bonding together through tough times. Set to the backdrop of great 80s pop hits and amazing dance numbers – it is a heartfelt show, but you are sure to end it dancing and singing along with the cast! Get your tickets here: https://www.hillcrestvillageplayers.ca/

Forest Hill Village Remembers Nicola Vitantonio

On behalf of our community, I wish my heartfelt condolences to the family of Nicola Vitantonio. Along with Nick, Mario & Terry, Nicola was loved by all of us whose hair he cut. I’ll always remember him for his kindness-and sense of humor that knew no bounds. May he Rest in Peace.

Fairbank Memorial Community Centre 2024 Winter Programs

Please note that all registrants must have a family number, client number and a course bar code in order to register through the methods below. Please find more information with the link below.

https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/482/index.html

Online registration (started December 5th)
Efun.toronto.ca
7am-Midnight

Phone registration with staff
416-396-7378
7am-5pm

Touch Tone Registration (TTR)
416-338-0000
7am-Midnight
Note* TTR cannot be used after the course start day

Community recreation programmer
Rashida Brown – 416-394-2771
[email protected]

Fairbank Memorial Community Centre 2024 March Break Camp

Fairbank Memorial Community Centre’s March break camp for youth ages 6-12 years old will be held from March 11th – March 15th. Please register at efun.toronto.ca with barcode 4307023. For more information please contact [email protected] (416-394-2771).

Free Training Program for Toronto Youth!

If you know any young people who are passionate about nature and community engagement, they might be a perfect fit for LEAF's Young Urban Forest Leaders (YUFL) Program.

This program provides valuable skills in urban forestry and community engagement to young Toronto residents (ages 18 to 29) over four months (between late April and August). Throughout the program, participants will build connections in their communities, grow their confidence as leaders, and network with industry professionals.

Applications for the 2024 program are OPEN NOW until March 29th. To learn more, individuals can register to join our Virtual Information Session on March 12th at 6:30 PM.
The program is open to all youth but seeks to support Toronto youth from equity-deserving groups within arboriculture and urban forestry, including (but not limited to) women, non-binary people, Indigenous peoples, newcomers, 2SLGBTQ+ persons and racialized individuals.

Delta Red Carpet: Hairs the Things

Join us for an exciting event in Women's History Month 2024. Come together to watch, learn and engage in a fun, family event. A Textured Hair Professional change-maker, Spoken Word Artist, 2 Dynamic Film-makers, and Visual Artist, all women creatives, come together to bring you a memorable presentation in a vibrant way around the ongoing conversation of Black Hair & beauty perception from the inside and out. Dr. Jill Andrew, Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) Toronto-St. Paul's will also speak. This location is in her riding. All genders welcome.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, March 2nd,2024
Time: 11:15am Check In, Prompt 12 noon Start time to 2:30pm
Location: St.Michael and All Angels Church, 611 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON, Canada

Cost:

Adults Aged 18 & above - $15 per ticket
Youth Aged 17 & below (I.D. Ready Please) - Free of Charge Registration
Mandatory Permission Slips Link for YOUTH aged 17 & below.
Parents/Guardians must physically attend in the venue with Minors Aged 13 and Under.

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with community, hair professionals, enjoy dynamic films and breathtaking art all by women creatives. Reserve your spot now!

Computer Skills for Seniors

The Learning Enrichment Foundation in partnership with the Oakwood Vaughan Oasis for Healthy Aging is hosting a Computer Basics course for seniors!

About the course:
Each participant works on one of our laptops. The class pace is slow, with 1:1 support in the classroom. The course is every Tuesday from February 27th to April 16th between 10am - 1pm at the new OV Community Hub (529 Vaughan Road). You can enter by door #9 off Winona Drive, the class is in room 122. To register, email [email protected].

Who is this course for?

You are a senior living in Oakwood Vaughan
You haven't kept up with changes in technology
You want to learn basic computer skills
You need access to a computer to learn
You are available to attend all classes

Attention Child-Care Providers!

We want to share an exciting opportunity for child-care space in a dynamic and vibrant community. Located in the St. Clair West/Humewood/Wychwood neighbourhoods, Wychwood Barns is currently seeking requests for proposals for a 2,000 square foot vacant space with child-care infrastructure designed for pre-school aged children. For further information, please contact [email protected].

Celebrating Tamil Heritage Month

I’m very grateful the warm friendship I’ve fostered with our city’s vibrant Tamil community. I learn a lot from them - and it means a lot to me. I was delighted to be in Scarborough North to participate in the Tamil Heritage Month Closing Ceremony!

Canadian Youth Climate Action Award

After a very successful launch last year, Pivot Green, in partnership with the Small Change Fund, will again be presenting the Canadian Youth Climate Action Award that recognizes the great contribution our younger generation is making in the fight against climate change. Across Canada, youth are organizing, influencing policymakers, and creating impactful programs in their communities. To recognize this contribution and show our support, we have increased the first prize money to $5,000. A secondary prize of $2,500 and two additional prizes of $1,000 will also be awarded. Pivot Green will amplify and share the stories of successful initiatives with the hope that they can be replicated across the country.

Applications are now being accepted until April 2, 2024. The winners will be announced on Earth Day, April 22nd. The guidelines and details of the award program can be found on our site.

For more information contact:
Tom Scanlan
Founding Member, Pivot Green
[email protected]
416 278 2408

Canada South Indian Chamber of Commerce

I enjoyed a wonderful and productive conversation with the Canada South India Chamber of Commerce (CSICC) including several South Indian business owners and entrepreneurs who contribute so much to our city’s economy and quality of life.

Holocaust Remembrance Day

On Holocaust Remembrance Day, we remember the 6 million Jews, along with other targeted groups, who were murdered by the Nazis. I was grateful to join so many of my colleagues, and meet Holocaust survivor Rose Lipszyc and Special Envoy Combatting Antisemitism, Deborah Lyons, as we attended Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies’ commemoration of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

For ongoing council and community news, my contact information, along with a calendar of events, please visit www.joshmatlow.ca. Click here to read my previous city hall and community updates.