News & Updates

Dear Residents,

I hope you find my most recent update to you below both interesting and informative. It's very important to me that I represent your priorities and keep you informed about our community and decisions being made at city hall. I continue to advocate for thoughtful, evidence-based & fiscally responsible policy that serves Toronto's residents. Please see my reports on transit, along with other important issues, included in this enewsletter.

As always, feel very welcome to contact me if I can be of assistance to you.

Best regards,

Josh

Scarborough Rapid Transit

At the upcoming October Council meeting my colleagues and I will be asked to overturn a decision that would have delivered the 7 stop Scarborough LRT in a completely traffic-separated right-of-way without traffic lights or cross streets at no cost to the City as per the current Metrolinx Master Agreement in favour of a 3 stop subway extension (as approved at the July Council meeting) for approximately $1 billion to be paid for through property taxes. Please see my letter to the mayor and councillors here. It is vital that my colleagues and I receive accurate and fulsome technical and financial information from the TTC beforehand. I have sent a letter to TTC CEO Andy Byford requesting further details about the subway plan including additional costs and ridership numbers. To read the full letter, please click here.

My star assistant Ev Delen has created this easy to read infographic comparing the proposed Scarborough subway and the approved, fully-funded Scarborough LRT.

The Case for a Relief Subway Line

The Relief Line is the subway line that will most improve Toronto’s economy and our quality of life. It would provide an alternative to the congested Yonge-University line, curb gridlock on our city's streets and increase access to the jobs and attractions in our downtown core. Please click here to read more.

Eglinton Crosstown Update

Amidst the headline-grabbing dysfunction of the Scarborough rapid transit debate, the Eglinton Crosstown is progressing. Boring machines are currently tunneling under Eglinton, stations are being designed and the City is working on plans to improve the street above ground after construction under the street is finished. I am committed to work closely with local residents and small businesses throughout the construction process.

City Planning's Eglinton Connects study is focusing on the above ground portion of the Crosstown project. Based on feedback received from the public earlier this year, City Planning is presenting their draft recommendations next week that include:

• Wider sidewalks, plus room for big trees, benches and patios
• New public spaces including parks and plazas
• Traffic reconfigurations throughout Midtown where the Crosstown runs underground
• A continuous, protected bike lane along Eglinton from Black Creek through to Brentcliffe

Our local meeting will take place on Tuesday October 8 at Forest Hill Collegiate (730 Eglinton Ave W) at 6:30 pm.

Development Charges Set to Increase

The City of Toronto's Executive Committee endorsed the Development Charges Study and the proposed Development Charges Bylaw this week. The recommendations will be further considered at Toronto City Council at its meeting on October 8. The new fees will help pay for the cost of infrastructure required to service new development, such as roads, transit, water and sewer infrastructure, community centres, and fire and police facilities.

The proposed rates represent, on average, a 75 per cent increase over the current residential rates and a 25 per cent increase over the non-residential rate. If the new rates are approved by City Council, the City will implement the rate increases over a two-year period beginning February 1, 2014, with 55 per cent of the increase coming into effect by August 1, 2014 and full implementation by February 1, 2016.

While I am pleased that the development industry will start supporting more of their share of the growth it has so greatly benefited from, the City unfortunately backed down from their initial, higher, development charge rates in fear of losing at the OMB. Please see this National Post article for further information.

Updates on the new 2014 Ward 22 parks projects

This year I’ve worked hard to improve the parks in Ward 22.

• Work is underway on the approved conceptual plan for the Mission Ground Parkette, located at 399 Merton Street.
• A consulting firm is currently being selected to take on the Hodgson AIR recreational park project, located behind Hodgson Senior Public School at Davisville Avenue and Mount Pleasant Avenue, and the design process is expected to begin shortly.
• The preliminary design for Forest Hill Road Park has been completed and approved by the community.
• A Landscape Architectural consultant is currently being selected to help us move forward with the next steps of the architectural process for this park.
• A Landscape Architectural consultant will also be selected in the near future to take on the next phase of Charlotte Maher Park.
• And finally, the project scope of Belsize and Glebe Manor Parks is being reviewed, and I will be working with a consulting firm shortly to get improvements underway.

With all of these improvements in the works, we can look forward to great changes happening in our parks in 2014!

REMINDER: Public Meeting for Midtown in Focus at Anne Johnston Health Station, tonight at 6:30-9:00 pm

Tonight, I invite you attend the first public meeting for Midtown in Focus, a study advancing a vision for parks, open space, and streetscape in Yonge-Eglinton. The City has hired a Study Team (including Public Work and Swerhun Facilitation) to generate ideas for this vision, and they want to hear your thoughts and ideas about what works, and what could be better in Midtown. The meeting will include, a presentation, a series of interactive activities, and a facilitated discussion.

The Anne Johnston Health Station is located at 2398 Yonge Street, and the meeting will be held in the Second Floor Meeting Room. Signs and staff will be directing you to the room once you enter the building off Yonge Street.

To review resources related the project, please visit the Midtown in Focus website.

Mount Pleasant Harvest Fair

My family and I hope to see you at the Harvest Fair hosted by the Mount Pleasant Village BIA this Saturday. Festivities and attractions including sidewalk sales, live music, a pumpkin carving contest, a butter tart throwdown, and a petting zoo will take place on Mount Pleasant Road between Eglinton and Davisville from 10 am to 5 pm. More details are available on the Mount Pleasant Village BIA website.

REMINDER: Upcoming Neighborhood Town Halls with your city councillor

Hosting and attending community meetings and other events in Ward 22 is very important to me to both engage and inform residents. I want to know that I'm reflecting your priorities. Throughout the fall, I'm hosting a community town hall in every Ward 22 neighbourhood. Please save the dates for the October meetings listed below. If you don't see your neighbourhood listed below, I'll be posting upcoming dates and locations of meetings in a following e-newsletter as they are confirmed. I hope to see you there!

The Eglinton/Roehampton/Broadway area: Tuesday, October 1 from 7 to 9 pm
North Toronto Collegiate Institute Cafeteria, 17 Broadway Avenue

Deer Park: Thursday, October 3 from 7 to 9 pm
First Unitarian Toronto, Workman Hall, 175 St. Clair Avenue West

Casa Loma’s Upcoming Events

Over the next few weeks Casa Loma will be hosting a number of seasonal and Halloween themed events, including Thanksgiving/Autumn Cupcake Decorating on October 12; Ghost Tracking on October 14, 27, 28, and 29; and Haunted Castle Decorating on October 26 and 27. Please note that some events required advanced registration. For more information and to learn about other upcoming events please call 647-725-1822 or visit www.casaloma.org.

Re-Visioning Yonge Cycling Workshop

Yonge Street is Toronto's main street but, for a number of reasons, many people don't feel comfortable walking or cycling for everyday activities along or near Yonge. In Toronto and around the world, good neighbourhood main streets are welcoming and accessible to people on foot and on bicycles. This is important for the vibrancy of our community and can help reduce congestion on our roads and the Yonge subway.

Cycle Toronto is facilitating a community conversation about the cycling conditions along the entire Yonge corridor, from Lake Ontario to Steeles Avenue, including side streets and parallel roads. I will be in attendance along with many of my City Council colleagues representing neighbourhoods along Yonge Street to discuss barriers and to brainstorm solutions with local residents. Please join us and share your insights.

The workshop will be held October 2, 6:30 - 9:00 pm, at Northern District Library (40 Orchard View Blvd) Room 200. For more information please visit the Cycle Toronto event page.

Style on the Way

From Thursday, October 24 to Saturday, October 26, the Eglinton Way BIA will be hosting Style on the Way. This three day celebration of Eglinton Avenue will include free rickshaw rides, shopping specials, eats and treats, buskers, jugglers and face painting! For more information, please visit the new Style Lives Here website.

Returning common sense to parking for moped and scooters

On Friday, the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee agreed to begin the process of returning common sense to scooter and moped parking in Toronto. Due to the motion that Councillor Berardinetti and I brought to City Council, staff have been directed to report back to the Committee with realistic options so that we can move on to finally legalize boulevard parking for scooters and mopeds. This is a necessary step on the path to achieving concrete change.

Our job now is to emphasize the urgency of this work to City staff. They need to come back quickly so that people will no longer have to fear receiving unreasonable $50 tickets for simply parking their scooter or moped.

Making a tech-friendly Toronto by providing free wi-fi in public spaces

I'm bringing an initiative to city hall to create more free wi-fi spaces across the city because I believe it will be a great benefit to our high-tech economy, our tourism industry, and our quality of life, as well as helping Toronto residents who cannot afford internet access in their homes. The Toronto Star wrote an editorial in support of my plan, which you can read here.

Funding transit and infrastructure priorities in Toronto

In June, City Council approved my motion to have the City Manager study innovative policies that could reduce the City of Toronto's debt burden and allow us to invest more heavily in our transit and infrastructure priorities. In his report to the Executive Committee, which was adopted this morning, the City Manager recommended a program based on the model of "Build America Bonds" in the United States which are directly supported by their federal government. With City Council approval expected in October, we'll be approaching Ottawa to request their assistance in establishing such a program in Canada.

Dear Residents,

I hope you had a great summer and my best wishes to every parent and student who is either going back to school or is perhaps going to school for the first time.

As we arrive in September, I'm organizing campaigns for the autumn that will focus on improving public transit by advocating for moving up the timeline to finally build a Downtown Relief Subway line to better connect the city for all residents and relieve congestion on our existing system, reform Above the Guideline rent increases that put an unfair burden on renters and continue to campaign to finally free Toronto from the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB).

I am also following up on the many initiatives I've already presented to Council including the creation of a City/School Boards Task Force, making sense of parking enforcement, legalizing scooter boulevard parking, prohibiting delivery trucks (and other vehicles) illegally parking and stopping during rush hours, Toronto's new Seniors Strategy, moving on the Roots of Youth Violence, and coordinating traffic signals and curbing gridlock, to name just a few.

Locally, I am working with residents to fight for the kind of development that respects our city's official plan and communities, improve parks and public spaces, closely monitor city works projects across ward 22 along with the Avenue Road repaving and Rathnelly watermain improvements, calm traffic and speeding in our neighbourhoods, protecting heritage buildings and respond to the many emails and phone calls I receive every day about a myriad of issues that are important to each person who contacts me.

Please see below my most recent report to you that includes, along with several other updates, a list of neighbourhood meetings I'll be hosting across Ward 22 to hear directly from you about your priorities.

To our community's Jewish community, I wish you a Shanah Tova.

Best regards,

Josh

ps- For those of you who've asked, I'll be moving a motion at the September 10th Community Council meeting to name the playground at June Rowlands (Davisvlle) Park, "Sharon, Lois & Bram" Playground. I'll have more details for you soon about when we'll have an official opening along with a community concert by the iconic group!

Upcoming Neighborhood Town Halls with your city councillor

Hosting and attending community meetings and other events in Ward 22 is very important to me to both engage and inform residents. I'm always pleased to meet with residents and hear what they have to say. Throughout the fall, I will be hosting a public meeting in every Ward 22 neighborhood. Please save the dates for the September meetings listed below. If you don't see your neighbourhood lisited below, I'll be posting upcoming dates and locations of meetings in a following e-newsletter as they are confirmed. I hope to see you there!

South Eglinton and Davisville Village: Wednesday, September 11th from 7 to 9 pm
Davisville Public School Gymnasium, 43 Millwood Road

Chaplin Estates and Oriole Park: Tuesday, September 17th from 7 to 9 pm
Oriole Park Junior Public School Gymnasium, 80 Braemar Avenue

Making a Tech-friendly Toronto by creating more free wi-fi public spaces

I'm bringing an initiative to city hall to create more free wi-fi spaces across the city. Read here for more information.

Misleading ads by some condo developers

Please click here to read more about actions I'm taking to ensure that condo developers disclose whether or not a proposed development is actually approved when advertising and selling units. Here is a copy of the motion I moved at Council.

Improving Winter Maintenance in Toronto

Following the large volume of snowfall experienced this February, I wrote a letter to Transportation Services that proposed several improvements to snow removal in Toronto.

Transportation Services staff have been developing ways to enhance communication with residents, 311 staff, other City of Toronto staff, and contractors in order to improve cooperation and awareness during severe weather.

The use of GPS technology is proposed to be expanded in order to aid with the management of contractors. The contractors who experienced issues during the last major storm were met with in order to discuss beneficial changes for future incidents. Issues experienced were primarily related to ploughing difficulties due to both the volume of snow and obstructions. Opportunities to provide cheaper off-street parking as snow hits are also to be reviewed, as this would help ease issues.

This spring, Transportation Services also planned a comprehensive external review of the City’s winter services. The review included topics such as snow operations planning, snow ploughing and de-icing techniques, equipment, communications and the use of parking prohibitions and emergency declarations, with recommendations based on national and international best practices.

I am advocating for these changes to have a positive impact on the flow of services provided when severe weather hits the city again.

Toronto East York Community Council

Please click here to read the agenda for the upcoming September 10th agenda. There are several items affecting Ward 22 that I'm working with residents on including local development issues and creating safe crossings along the Beltline Trail.

New proposed boundaries for the St. Paul's federal riding

New boundaries for our federal riding have been proposed. If they're put into effect, this means that the St. Paul's riding will change at a federal level.

The new federal St. Paul's riding boundaries would be between Dufferin Street and Avenue Road, spanning from Eglinton Avenue W. to Bloor Street W.

The new Mount Pleasant riding would be from east of Avenue Road to Bayview Avenue, and Broadway Avenue south to Wellesley Street.

To see a map and view a more detailed description, you can visit the web page here.

Wheelchair-accessible picnic tables

A constituent of Ward 22 has written to me concerning wheelchair-accessible picnic tables within the city, after coming across one in the McCaul Street Parkette. These picnic tables are part of a collaborative project put together by the University of Toronto and the City of Toronto.

I think the tables were a great gift to the surrounding community, and these sorts of tables should be available as an option throughout the city. Accessibility is crucial in ensuring that those with disabilities have access to the same services and opportunities that the city offers to as able-bodied individuals. Wheelchair accessibility within the parks in Toronto is no exception.

You can check out the existing table, with one side which folds up allowing for wheelchair access, at Orde Street and McCaul Street.

Volunteer Fair at the MNJCC, September 23rd 10 am – 2 pm

This month, the Miles Nadal Jewish Community Centre will be holding a volunteer fair for the 55+ community. With a general focus on the environment, the fair will be a great resource in helping seniors get in touch volunteer organizations that could use their experience and time.

The MNJCC is located at 750 Spadina, right across from the Spadina subway station. For more information on programs and events, you can visit the web page here.

Toronto Renovates Program

Toronto Renovates is a program developed by the City of Toronto to assists eligible affordable rental housing and rooming house landlords to make essential health and safety repairs and accessibility modifications to their buildings. Toronto Renovates operates on a first-come, first-served basis and offers grants up to $3,500 and forgivable loans up to $10,000.

The City is currently working with the federal and provincial governments to secure new funding for the program. For more information about the program and for eligibility, you can visit the web page here.

Upcoming Workshops and Consultations for Proposed use of jets at Billy Bishop Airport

Over the past several months, I have heard from many Toronto residents expressing their views about Porter Airlines' proposed use of jets at Billy Bishop Airport (BBTCA). The City of Toronto is currently undertaking a review of the request to amend the 1983 Tripartite Agreement between the City, the Government of Canada and the Toronto Port Authority (TPA), which would permit the landing of commercial jets at BBTCA.

A number of workshops are being held this month to discuss the potential impacts related to this proposal and to provide the public opportunities to participate in the discussion. Workshops are being held on September 4th and 9th and a Town Hall meeting is being held on September 12th.

For more information on these events or to fill out an online survey, you can visit the web page here.

Upcoming Meeting to Discuss Revised Changes to the Draft Official Plan Policies on Economic Health and Employment Lands

Between January and March, City of Toronto staff received input from a citywide consultation program on employment lands. City staff are holding presentations and open houses on September 19th to discuss these proposed policies with the public.

To review the proposed policies or to find other information on the employment lands review, you can visit the web page here.

Dear Residents,

I hope this finds you well and that you're enjoying the summer. Along with spending some time with Melissa and Molly this month, my staff and I are working on several community priorities and preparing a number of important policy initiatives for the city council's autumn session.

As always, if I can be of assistance to you, please feel very welcome to email me and my staff at [email protected] or call 416-392-7906.

I do hope you find my latest update to you both interesting and informative.

Best regards,

Josh

Metrolinx puts Scarborough transit improvements work on hold

The provincial transit agency, Metrolinx, announced yesterday that they will be stopping all work on the Scarborough LRT project due to the Mayor and Council's irresponsible decision to pursue an unnecessary, unfunded 3 stop subway extension in Scarborough. The provincial government has clearly stated that they are not providing any new funding in addition to the $1.4 billion already allocated for the LRT and the federal government has not indicated that any new funds will be made available. Toronto's mayor and council have also voted to raise the city's debt by over half a billion dollars, and property taxes to service that debt, during this year's budget process to (in my opinion) fund the wrong subway project. In fact, Toronto's evidence-based next subway expansion project should be the DRL, as our current system is already facing capacity challenges. And for the time being, it sadly appears that Scarborough residents will be stuck on a bus instead of receiving a fully funded, 7 stop, traffic-separated Light Rapid Transit Line that would serve more residents. I still have hope that things will get back on track.

Public Works in Toronto

While it is certainly is frustrating and can be an aggravation, most residents recognize that repairs to our city's infrastructure are necessary. In fact, our community would be upset if these needed projects weren't completed. However, we expect that it be done well and that does not excuse the poor communication and coordination City Transportation has exhibited for many years on several projects throughout the city, including on Avenue Road.

Please see my website for the latest updates on the Avenue Road permanent road repair project. I am also closely monitoring works in Rathnelly, Chaplin estates and throughout Ward 22.

Honest Advertising for Proposed Condo Developments

While Toronto's planning process provides forums for resident participation, many community members are under the impression that a development has already been approved due to misleading advertising. At the beginning of the application review process, local residents are generally confronted with on-site, billboard, print and other advertising depicting a building that will be "coming soon" with no mention of a municipal approval process, opportunity for citizen input or that the rendering can be altered.  My motion, passed by Council this spring, asks the province to require that developers ensure that a quarter of their advertising clearly state the factual status of their proposal. The City is waiting for the province's decision.

Ontario Government Launches "Stepping Up"

This summer, the Province of Ontario launched Stepping Up: A Strategic Framework to Help Ontario's Youth Succeed. It was developed in response to a recommendation in the comprehensive Review of the Roots of Youth Violence by Dr. Alvin Curling and the Honourable Roy McMurtry. Youth violence is a serious priority for Toronto residents. I strongly support implementing the recommendations in the Review of the Roots of Youth Violence and welcome this contribution from the provincial government.

As I have written to you in my recent updates, I am leading my colleagues at City Hall to take action to address youth violence in Toronto. In July, my initiative to create a Youth Equity Framework was approved by City Council. Using the Framework, City staff are developing a strategy for September so that all City departments and community stakeholders are on the same page, working together to support the most marginalized youth in Toronto who are most likely to be involved in or victimized by violence.

Help Keep Intersections Safe!

If you see a stop sign or traffic signal obstructed by trees or summer vegetation, I urge you to report your sightings by calling 311 or by visiting 311's website. Be sure to include a specific location by providing details such as the nearest cross-street(s) and any other information which may be relevant in order to clear the obstruction efficiently. Thank you for helping to keep our community safe by reporting dangerous vegetation growth!

A New Mural for the Beltline

This past year, Friends of the Beltline have devoted considerable efforts to getting a mural painted on the Eglinton Avenue underpass. This accomplishment is sure to make a bright and welcoming improvement to the underpass and will fit well with our community's green space! Be sure to check out the mural the next time you're on the Beltline Trail.

Thank you and congratulations to everyone involved who worked hard to make this happen, notably Ward 22 resident Donna Koegl and Parks, Forestry and Recreation staff.

Eglinton 2020 Annual General Meeting

This year, the Eglinton 2020 Annual General Meeting is being held at the Northern District Library (40 Orchard View Blvd.) on Wednesday, August 14th, from 6:30 to 8 pm.

Eglinton 2020 brings together diverse groups, businesses and individuals who wish to discuss the impact of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT on the community and commercial life along the Eglinton corridor. This year's guest speaker, Edward J. Levy, will speak about the history and implementation of rapid transit in the Toronto region.

You are invited to join in and ensure that Eglinton Avenue remains a safe, sustainable, environmentally responsible and business-friendly area of the city. Food and beverages will be provided. Space is limited, so please be sure to RSVP at [email protected] if you plan to attend.

Live Green Membership Survey

The Environment & Energy Division of the City of Toronto is conducting a survey about the Live Green Toronto Membership Card program. The survey will take about 10 minutes to complete. Your feedback will help to identify ways to enhance the program, which offers great deals at over 450 businesses.

As a thank you for participating by August 20th, you will be entered to win great prizes such as gift certificates for local businesses. Your responses will be kept strictly confidential.

For more details and to participate, please visit the survey link. The Live Green Toronto team thanks you for your support and all that you do to create a cleaner, greener Toronto!

TTC Notice of Construction

From mid-August 2013 to May 2014, there will be construction on the west side of Yonge Street just north of Merton Street. Construction will occur weekdays between 7 am to 4 pm. The construction includes a new building that will support equipment for the subway signal system and upgrades. This will help make the subway system more reliable and efficient for its daily riders.

The TTC originally wanted to close down a lane of Yonge Street southbound traffic for construction purposes, however I did not support this. As a result of positive discussions I had with the TTC, this lane will now remain open. However, the on-street parking spots and the sidewalk on the west side of Yonge Street will be temporarily closed. I appreciate the TTC for finding alternative solutions to accommodate Yonge Street commuters.

For ongoing council and community news, my contact information, along with a calendar of events, please visit www.joshmatlow.ca.

Council Rejects Fully-Funded Scarborough LRT Plan, Supports Tax hike and Higher Debt

Live Green Toronto Festival

The 8th annual Live Green Toronto Festival, a celebration of all things green, will take place on Saturday, July 27th from 11 am to 9 pm at Yonge-Dundas Square. The festival is free and open to everyone, and will feature over 100 vendors of green products and services, outdoor yoga, activities for children, a swap zone, and more. The musical line-up will include Shawn Desman, Kardinal Offishal, Victoria Duffield, and Anjulie, among others. Please visit the Live Green Festival website for more information.

Oriole Park Community Garden Update

For the past year and a half, I have been working with the Oriole Park Community Garden Committee, along with the Friends of Oriole Park and City staff, to create Ward 22's first community garden in Oriole Park.

Last week, we had a successful meeting where City staff presented and displayed what the proposed garden may look like and where it will be located within the park. We received positive feedback from residents, and there was dialogue with all parties to make sure the Community Garden is a success.

The next step will be an application and proposal by the Oriole Park Community Garden Committee to the City of Toronto. We continue to welcome your participation and feedback in shaping the Community Garden!

Youth Equity Update: The Roots of Youth Violence

My initiative to create a Youth Equity Framework was approved this week by City Council. This week also marks one year since the Danzig Street shooting, a solemn reminder that we must work quickly and effectively because we cannot wait for another tragedy to spur more calls for blue ribbon panels and simplistic reactions. This Framework is the first step of a three-stage process to support the most marginalized youth in Toronto who are most likely to be involved in or victimized by violence. It sets out the principles of how the City of Toronto will target the roots of youth violence and how it will organize, over the course of the summer, so that all City departments and community stakeholders are on the same page, working together.

City of Toronto and School Boards Task Force

Council approved my motion to create a task force made up of city councillors and school trustees from all four boards in the Toronto area. We serve the same communities, and share many priorities, yet are different levels of government. Now there will finally be a formal table for us to work together on common priorities such as community hubs, school pools, childcare, recreation and learning opportunities for all ages.

Toronto Youth Cabinet Film Festival

The Toronto Youth Cabinet is looking for submissions for the first Youth Film Festival, which will take place on Tuesday, August 27th at the Canadian National Exhibition. The theme of the film festival is "Reflecting the Reality", looking at the lifestyles and challenges that young people face on a daily basis.

If you are between the ages of 16 to 28 and interested in creating and submitting a short film/animation/documentary/music video that reflects the theme of the festival, please visit the Toronto Youth Cabinet website for more information and submission details.

Join the Housing Services Conversation

The City of Toronto is inviting you to share your views on the delivery of services that prevent homelessness and help some of Toronto's most vulnerable residents to find and keep permanent housing. The Province of Ontario is changing how it funds the City to provide housing services and this is an opportunity to transform how we provide these services into an integrated system. Your feedback is invaluable for developing this system effectively. Please visit the Toronto Housing Services Consultations website to participate.

Avenue Road Construction Update

For this week's Avenue Road construction update, please visit my website. I am also closely monitoring progress on the Rathnelly watermain project, am actively urging the City to complete it as soon as possible and will post an update soon.

Dear Residents,

It's been another very busy and productive week. Last weekend, I was proud to march in Toronto's Pride parade and enjoy brunch with PFLAG, an organization of parents and family members of our city's vibrant LGBTQ community.

I was also delighted to celebrate Canada Day with our MP Carolyn Bennett at her annual BBQ. It was great to see so many friends participating in our country's 146th birthday together. I also extend my best wishes to community's US citizens who celebrated Independence day this week.

Meanwhile, at city council, I continue to advocate for thoughtful, non-ideological, fiscally responsible and socially progressive governance. Our next Council meeting begins on July 16th at Toronto City Hall. In my next update, I'll send you motions I intend to move on issues ranging from better parking enforcement practices to improving transit and curbing gridlock.

I do hope you find my latest update to you below interesting and informative.

For my previous e-newsletters, please click here.

Best regards,

Josh

Oriole Park Community Garden Public Meeting

For the past year and a half, I have been working with the Oriole Park Community Garden Committee, along with the Friends of Oriole Park, and City staff to create Ward 22's first community garden in Oriole Park. Join me for a public meeting on the progress of the Oriole Park Community Garden this coming Wednesday, July 10 from 7 to 9 pm. The meeting location is the Arthur Smith Room at Christ Church Deer Park (1570 Yonge Street). There will be a visual display of what the proposed gardens will look like and where they will be situated. Your feedback is important to us!

Midtown Planning Group Meeting

As a result of a letter I submitted with Councillor Stintz, and worked on with Councillor Robinson, to the Planning and Growth Committee last spring, Council endorsed my initiative to create a Midtown Planning group. As those in the community know all too well, the Yonge-Eglinton area is facing intense development pressure, the Ontario Municipal Board still has the last say over development proposals and the Yonge eglinton neighbourhood is divided into two planning areas. This initiative is a first step to ensure that the public space in the area is expanded and enhanced in a comprehensive way and with local residents at the table.

City Planning has started a Parks, Open Space and Streetscape Master Plan for the Yonge-Eglinton Study Area. When complete, the Master Plan will describe a comprehensive vision for the public and publicly accessible spaces in the community supported with a guide for future improvement initiatives for parks, open spaces and streetscapes.

The Master Plan is intended to support and facilitate the Midtown Planning Group’s objective to create a proactive, holistic, and comprehensive strategy for planning in the Yonge and Eglinton area of Midtown, which will help bring consistency to planning across Community Council boundaries.

Meeting Details:

Date: Thursday, July 11
Time: 12 pm to 2 pm
Location: Northern District Library - Room 224 (2nd floor), 40 Orchard View Boulevard

Beltline Town Hall

This year, I have been working with our community and City staff to enhance the Beltline Trail by restoring natural areas and improving access. Join me for a public town hall meeting to discuss the progress of the Beltline Trail this coming Thursday, July 11 from 7 to 9 pm. The meeting will be located at Christ Church Deer Park's Elliott Hall (1570 Yonge Street).

For further information on the Beltline project, please visit this site.

Scarborough Rapid Transit: The Real Cost of Changing Tracks Now

I support subways where they make sense and LRTs where they make sense. Last week Metrolinx asked the City of Toronto to reaffirm its commitment to the Master Agreement signed on November 29, 2012 between Metrolinx, the City of Toronto and the TTC with regard to the Scarborough RT line, the Eglinton Crosstown, the Sheppard East line and the Finch West line. We are unfortunately revisiting this issue yet again because Council signalled that it would support converting the Scarborough SRT to a subway even though the current plan is to serve that area with rapid transit in a completely grade-separated right-of-way similar to the Allen Rd. open cut which serves a portion of the Yonge-University-Spadina line (no lane of traffic will be removed).

It is projected that it will cost at least $1 billion for this needless conversion and will likely need a property tax hike along with a raid of the city's reserves.  Where is the money going to come from? Are we willing to deny transit to Finch West? Delay the Downtown Relief Subway Line and much-needed state of good repair priorities? Cut more from parks, childcare, the Gardiner or affordable housing?

Please see my preliminary fact sheet regarding the potential conversion of the Scarborough SRT to a subway.

Forest Hill Village Green P Lot

There has been some discussion about the Toronto Parking Authority and the Forest Hill Village BIA's proposals to develop the Green P parking lot at the corner of Thelma Avenue and Spadina Road in the Forest Hill Village. Please see my letter to residents regarding both my position on growth in the Village and my ethical responsibility to recuse myself from this specific matter.

Sharon, Lois & Bram Playground

Thank you to all those who responded so enthusiastically to my suggestion that the playground in June Rowlands Park should be named in honour of the beloved children's entertainment trio (and midtown Toronto residents) Sharon, Lois & Bram. I am currently preparing a formal request to City staff and looking forward to announcing an event including Sharon, Lois & Bram to celebrate the unveiling of the new name in the coming months.

Taking Action on the Roots of Youth Violence

The proposed Toronto Youth Equity Framework was approved unanimously by Toronto's Community Development and Recreation Committee last week. It will now go to City Council's July 16 meeting for final approval. We must work quickly and effectively because we cannot wait for another tragedy to spur more calls for blue ribbon panels and simplistic reactions. This Framework is the first step of a three-stage process to support the most marginalized youth in Toronto who are most likely to be involved in or victimized by violence. It sets out the principles of how the City of Toronto will target the roots of youth violence and how it will organize, over the course of the summer, so that all City departments and community stakeholders are on the same page, working together.

Culture Days

Culture Days will be taking place September 27, 28 and 29. These events promotes culture and arts within different communities across Canada. A resident of Ward 22 and artist-educator, Emma Ates, is showcasing her project "Five Wishes to All Beings". Her mission is to bring contemplative arts and creativity into our community and beyond.

To see more of Emma's art, visit her website. More information on Culture Days can be found by visiting this site.

Possible Closure of the Postal Station at 27 St. Clair Avenue East

Canada Post is considering a possible closure of the postal station at 27 St. Clair Avenue East due to reviews of low traffic. As part of making this decision, Canada Post is undertaking a one month public consultation process. A notice and handouts are available at the post office for your feedback. If the closure does occur, the area will be served by a surrounding retail network of eight postal offices within a 2 km radius of the original postal office. All full-time and part-time employees will have job security and will be re-assigned to other duties. If you would like any additional information regarding the possible closure of this postal office please e-mail [email protected] or call 519-457-5282.

Avenue Road Construction Update

Work is currently underway to permanently restore and repave the sidewalks and roads on Avenue Road.  City staff have advised that this necessary work is the final part of the City's overall construction work on Avenue Road that included the watermain replacement. The delay between projects allowed the ground to settle and to ensure that if there were underground repairs needed in the interim, the newly paved road wouldn't have to be dug up again. I am very aware of the fact that this work is frustrating for local residents and commuters and therefore I will continue to aggressively advocate that the project is undertaken as efficiently and quickly as possible.   I've found the level of communication from City staff to residents has been very poor and I have been direct with staff that this is unacceptable. They need to be more informative and more responsive to your inquiries and concerns. For more information please click here. (See new info on Chaplin Cr. work commencing next week).

Condo Living Survey

The City of Toronto is seeking feedback through its Condo Living Survey (Round 2) about condo life issues across our city. Through the survey, the City of Toronto hopes to generate ideas to address condo living challenges. Your feedback is very valuable and can help to improve condo life across Toronto. Please visit this link to complete the survey.

Introducing thedirt.co

The Dirt (thedirt.co) is a "social real estate platform" designed by real estate developer Brandon G. Donnelly and software engineer Mike Lerner to provide services which engage condo owners and consumers with informative details regarding Toronto condos. Specifically, thedirt.co provides condo reviews from both owners and consumers in conjunction with the most up-to-date news about approvals, sales, construction, occupancy and completion. The system is a basic map schematic which indicates condo buildings that have received reviews by owners and consumers and, in addition, permits users to engage in revision for buildings that have not been reviewed. In addition to the website, thedirt.co can also be linked to Twitter and Facebook accounts for the most updated information. Overall, the service provides free access to condo building reviews and useful guidelines regarding the status of condo buildings in Toronto.

Working in our community

While I more often talk about the broader city and ward wide issues, a lot of the day to day issues that my staff and I work on are often the more immediate local issues that residents encounter on a day to day basis.  This includes but is not limited to, both on-street and off-street parking challenges, local traffic issues, local property standards and problem property concerns, questions about getting a building permit, concerns about neighbourhood construction and development sites, road reconstruction, water main repairs, curb cuts and driveway access points, basement flooding, concerns about private and public trees, conditions of public parks and operating hours for city wading pools, helping small businesses, heritage designation proposals, missed garbage pick ups and proposals to beautify public realm spaces including neglected public planters (especially in areas without a BIA) and improving playgrounds, parks and school grounds.  This is not an exhaustive list, but it is an example of some of the issues I work on with residents on a day to day basis to support our community.

Please always feel welcome to contact me at 416-392-7906 or by email at [email protected] if I be of assistance to you.

Update on Committee of Adjustment Issues

In the past few weeks I have been working to support residents concerned with minor variance applications on their street and in their neighbourhood.  Recently working with the community we successfully convinced the Committee of Adjustment to refuse an application to sever a property on Oriole Gardens, that clearly did not fit with the existing character of the street.  I was very proud to work with some very dedicated member so of the community to help get this decision from the Committee of Adjustment.  I understand that the applicant is going to appeal this decision to the Ontario Municipal Board, and I am preparing a motion for the next city council meeting to direct City Planning and Legal staff attend to help defend the Committee of Adjustment's decision.

Earlier this year I had also moved a motion to direct city staff to attend the OMB to defend a Committee of Adjustment decision to refuse an application at Balmoral and Poplar Plains Road.  I am happy to report that this decision was recently upheld by the OMB.  I would like to also congratulate the local residents, who were not only incredibly well organized, but also were a pleasure to work with.

On other Committee of Adjustment matters, residents have expressed concern about applications at Forest Hill Road and Hillholm Road and another application for a severance at Balmoral Avenue and Warren Road.  These were originally scheduled to be heard at the Committee of Adjustment within the past month, but have since been deferred to allow for an opportunity for me to schedule a meeting with local residents and the applicants to try and come to a resolution.  I am happy to support the residents in attempting to influence the applicants to revise their applications so they better fit with their respective communities.

I hope to meet with all parties in the coming weeks, with some hopefully revised plans back to the Committee of Adjustment in the fall.

Dear Residents,

Last week's City Council meeting agenda featured hundreds of items on a wide range of issues including protecting seniors in community housing, funding transit and other infrastructure, electoral reform and alleviating traffic congestion.  This week, I've been at several meetings each day and evening on city policy initiatives and local priorities, community consultation meetings and events, along with visiting with residents in every Ward 22 neighbourhood.

I do hope to see you tomorrow at my Community Environment Day (see below for a reminder of the details). As always, please feel very welcome to contact me if I can be of assistance to you.

Best regards,

Josh

Reminder: Community Environment Day

On Saturday, June 22nd from 10 am to 2 pm I will be hosting my annual Community Environment Day. The location is the North Toronto Memorial Arena at 174 Orchard View Blvd. Please bring any unwanted art supplies, books, toys, and used sports equipment. Cycle Toronto Midtown will be there to donate your used bikes to the non-profit organization Charlie's Freewheels. Facilities will be available to dispose of computers and other hazardous household waste. You can also replace your damaged green bin.

Naming a Ward 22 Playground to honour the Iconic, Canadian Performance Group, Sharon, Lois and Bram

I am delighted to announce that, with your support, I would like to name the playground inside June Rowlands (Davisville) Park the Sharon, Lois, and Bram Playground after the iconic Canadian children's music trio. As Bram Morrison is a local Ward 22 resident, I can see no better way to honour these Canadian music and television legends than by naming a children's playground after them here in Toronto.

As generations of children have grown up with their music, I ask you for your support in my efforts to name the Sharon, Lois, and Bram Playground in June Rowlands (Davisville) Park.

City Council Highlights

For your review, I have compiled a list of the items debated at Council last week that may be of interest to you. For the full Council Agenda, please click here.

Electoral reform in Toronto

Council adopted several motions on electoral reform in Toronto. The City will ask the Ontario government to amend legislation and allow permanent residents to vote in municipal elections whether or not they are Canadian citizens. This will not apply to provincial or federal elections. The City will also request amendments to the Municipal Elections Act to permit Toronto to use ranked ballots and instant runoff voting in its municipal elections. To learn more about this electoral reform, click here.

Review of ward boundaries

Council authorized a review of Toronto's ward boundaries. At present, there are significant discrepancies in population among wards. Communities like Midtown are experiencing significant population growth due to new condos, leaving an inequitable situation.

The City of Toronto Act gives Council authority to make changes to the ward boundaries. The review, to be conducted by an external consultant, will include consultation with elected officials, stakeholders and the general public.

Managing of traffic congestion

Council passed a motion to improve traffic signal synchronization at City Council. I am pleased that the Mayor and the Chair of Public Works made this a priority in response to my letter of September 2011.

Traffic congestion is a significant problem for Toronto's motorists, public transit users and cyclists. This congestion costs the region's economy an estimated $3.3 billion per year while negatively impacting on the quality of life of our residents. The long-term solution to this problem is building a more accessible, extensive and efficient public transportation system.

In the meantime, we can take significant steps such as this to improve traffic flow in the short-term.

Supporting Local YWCA Women's Shelter

YWCA 1st Stop Woodlawn houses a 56 bed Emergency Shelter for single homeless women as well as 72 units of permanent housing for single women, creating a mixed community of women in various stages of their lives. YWCA 1st Stop Shelter's main purpose is to provide emergency shelter services and supports to homeless women and youth.

I was privileged to provide $45,000 through a motion that directed developer's fees toward the renewal of the shelter's outdoor green space which will provide:

·         access to a safe, open meeting space for residents of the shelter and tenant community at 80 Woodlawn Avenue East where they can gather and relax outdoors

·          offer an improved environment for social and recreation programming (BBQs, celebrations)

·         improve the safety features of the property so that intruders cannot enter the shelter through the back door

This initiative will improve the shelter's mission to provide an environment where homeless women feel safe and secure, finding the strength and support they need to achieve their personal goals.

Seniors and Toronto Community Housing

Council adopted the recommendations of a report documenting the City Ombudsman's troubling investigation into Toronto Community Housing's eviction of seniors on the basis of their rent being in arrears. In addition, my colleagues supported my motions that will help ensure greater protection for vulnerable seniors facing eviction that live in local Toronto Community Housing buildings including Montgomery Place, George Baker Manor, Janet Magee and 900 Mt. Pleasant.

Community arts action plan

Council endorsed the 2013-2017 Community Arts Action Plan for Toronto, which contains recommendations from an external advisory committee to continue efforts to achieve the overall goal of barrier-free arts and cultural opportunities for all in Toronto. The new plan draws upon the previous five-year community arts action plan and related work on behalf of community arts.

Funding Toronto's transit and infrastructure

Council supported my motion to research the use of various kinds of municipal bonds that could be used to reduce the cost of servicing municipal debt and increase a city's ability to build and maintain its infrastructure. Governments in other jurisdictions, including the United States, have reduced interest rates and the cost of carrying municipal debt by implementing various tax breaks or rebates.

Taking Action on the Roots of Youth Violence

Please see my most recent update on this important initiative here and how you can be of support.

Eglinton Connects Planning Study

Eglinton Connects is a comprehensive planning study, led by the City Planning division, that is developing a vision for the future of Eglinton Avenue through public consultation, analysis of existing conditions/context and future growth, and interdivisional collaboration. The group presented their interim report to Planning and Growth Committee yesterday

Eglinton Connects incorporates:

·         An Avenue study, including a vision for Eglinton Avenue that will guide decisions about private development and public investment. The Study identifies

o   options for reallocating space between different modes of transportation

o    potential for intensified development in the form of mid-rise buildings

o   locations that could support higher density development

o   heritage resources and strategies for protection of these resources

o   public realm and streetscape plan

·          A Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) that will make recommendations regarding the reconfiguration of the right-of-way along the portion of Eglinton Avenue where the Eglinton Crosstown LRT is underground (Black Creek Drive to Brentcliffe Road); and

·         Site Plan review of the LRT stations and at-grade section as submitted by Metrolinx

Bits & Bites on Bayview

The Toronto Leaside Rotary Club and the merchants of South Bayview will be hosting the first Bits & Bites on Bayview Street Festival today from 4:30 to 7:30 pm, and tomorrow, Saturday, June 22nd, from 12:30 to 7:30 pm. Experience the food and boutiques of South Bayview (from Soudan Ave./Parkhurst Blvd. to Davisville Ave.) while enjoying live music and entertainment. Proceeds are going to a new fund to assist those in need in our community through the Rotary Cares-A-Community Fund. For more information, please visit http://www.bayviewbitsandbites.com/.

Say NO to Excessive Aviation Noise

The Toronto Aviation Noise Group (T.A.N.G.) has asked me to share the following with you:

T.A.N.G is working in Ward 22 to stop the excessive aviation noise stemming from the new concentrated flight path that takes planes right over our communities and neighbourhoods. A  T.A.N.G. representative may knock on your door requesting all adults in the home to please sign the petition.

To bring peace and quiet back to areas affected by this noise, you can sign an online petition. You can also contact the GTAA by calling 416-247-7682 or register a complaint. Lastly, you can write to our local MP Dr. Carolyn Bennett and show your objection. Together, we can work to make our voice heard over the roar of jet planes!

Northern Secondary School's Northern Lakes Landscape Project

I am proud to support this wonderful project. Northern Secondary School is currently fundraising for its Northern Lakes Landscape Project, which will connect our school community to the once vibrant Walmsley Brook and its natural ecosystems. This project envisions recreating a dry river bed with trees, rock seating areas, planting and flagstone paths. If you are interested in donating to the project, please visit  http://www.canadahelps.org/GivingPages/GivingPage.aspx?gpID=27115.

Support Taking Action on the Roots of Youth Violence at City Hall: Please Save the Date!

When: Wednesday, June 26, 2013, 9:30 am

Where: Toronto City Hall, 2nd Floor, Committee Room 1

Dear friends,

It is time for the City of Toronto to take thoughtful and proactive measures to deal with youth violence no matter what neighbourhood it is found in. We cannot wait for another tragedy to spur more calls for blue ribbon panels and simplistic reactions. There have been many good reports that have already provided us with recommendations on how to move forward including The Review of the Roots of Youth Violence by Dr. Alvin Curling and The Honourable Roy McMurtry. Genuine, evidence-based action is needed now and without delay.

Earlier this year, with City Council's unanimous support, I asked City staff to develop a plan to take immediate action. I am writing to confirm that the Youth Outcomes Framework Report will be considered by the Community Development and Recreation Committee on Wednesday, June 26, beginning at 9:30 am. This is the first step of an action plan to reduce youth violence in our city.

Please save this date, as this is the only official opportunity for public feedback before a vote at City Council in July. It is vitally important that Mayor Ford, the rest of City Council, and the wider community hear your voice and understand how important it is for us to finally take real action to stop youth violence. We can't do this without you.

It is also important to share this message. We can't let this opportunity quietly pass us by. In addition to contacting your local councillor and Mayor Ford, please reach out to your neighbours, co-workers, and colleagues who are working to address the many roots of youth violence or are troubled by its impacts in our community.

I'll be sure to follow up with you once the committee agenda is posted online with a copy of the Framework Report. I would appreciate your insights and feedback once it is published. I will also post any additional information on my website.

Sincerely,

Josh Matlow

Toronto City Councillor

Ward 22 – St. Paul's

Tel: 416-392-7906

www.joshmatlow.ca

Dear residents,

This week there are a lot of important and substantive decisions being debated at City Hall. We are looking at voting reforms, ward boundaries, my initiative to look at Traffic Signal Synchronization (see below) and many others.

I have also been busy in our neighbourhoods, visiting Rathnelly Day on Saturday and discussing a Communtiy Use Agreement for the new field at Maurice Cody on Monday evening. This Saturday I look forward to seeing you at the Davisville PS Fun Fair.

I do hope you find my latest update to you interesting and informative.

Josh

Traffic Signal Synchronization Motion Passes Council

Earlier today, my colleagues passed a motion to improve traffic signal synchronization at City Council. I am pleased that the Mayor and the Chair of Public Works made this a priority in response to my letter of September 2011.

Traffic congestion is a significant problem for Toronto's motorists, public transit users and cyclists. This congestion costs the region's economy an estimated $3.3 billion per year while negatively impacting on the quality of life of our residents. The long-term solution to this problem is building a more accessible, extensive and efficient public transportation system.

In the meantime, we can take significant steps such as this to improve traffic flow in the short-term.

Public Meeting: Townhouse Proposal for 17, 23 & 25 Lascelles Blvd (Brentwood Towers)

I would like to invite you and your neighbours to an important community information meeting regarding a complex and challenging development application for 17, 23 & 25 Lascelles Blvd. – the western portion of the Brentwood Towers. Keeping residents engaged and informed is a priority for me. The meeting will be held Tuesday, June 18, 7 pm to 9 pm at Yorkminster Park Baptist Church (1585 Yonge Street) in Cameron Hall. For more information, please visit my website.

Meeting: Development Proposal for the Corner of Redpath Ave. and Roehampton Ave.

Toronto City Planning is hosting a community consultation meeting regarding the proposed development of a 36 storey residential tower at 183-195 Roehampton Avenue & 139-145 Redpath Avenue. The meeting will be held on Thursday, June 20, 7 pm to 9 pm at St. Monica Catholic School in the multi-purpose room (14 Broadway Avenue). Please note that you may have received a notice in the mail with the wrong meeting location. Please click here for more information.

Help Decide the Future of the Gardiner Expressway East

The City of Toronto and Waterfront Toronto have resumed the public consultation process to help determine the future of the eastern portion of the Gardiner Expressway and Lakeshore Avenue East, from approximately Jarvis Street to Leslie Street. An Environmental Assessment will study four possible outcomes: maintaining, improving, replacing, or removing the elevated expressway.

You are invited to the first public forum on Thursday, June 13th from 6 to 8:30 pm at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (222 Bremner Blvd., Room 701, south building). You will be able to learn more about the project, understand the alternatives being considered, and what other jurisdictions have done with elevated expressways. You will also be able to ask questions and speak with members of the project team. Please register at http://gardinerconsultation.eventbrite.com. To find more information on this project, or to watch the meeting online, please visit www.gardinereast.ca.

Feedback on Future Streetscape of Eglinton Avenue

Toronto City Planning is seeking your feedback on the future streetscape of Eglinton Avenue as part of the Eglinton Connets planning study. Please take 15 minutes to fill out their survey at https://www.research.net/s/Eglinton3. The survey asks questions about the future streetscape and built form of Eglinton and includes images and diagrams of the options City Planning is developing. The survey is open until this Friday, June 14.

Reminder: Community Environment Day

On Saturday, June 22nd from 10 am to 2 pm I will be hosting my annual Community Environment Day. The location is the North Toronto Memorial Arena at 174 Orchard View Blvd. Please bring any unwanted art supplies, books, toys, and used sports equipment. Cycle Toronto Midtown will be there to donate your used bikes to the non-profit organization Charlie's Freewheels. Facilities will be available to dispose of computers and other hazardous household waste. You can also replace your damaged green bin.

National Aboriginal Day Outdoor Pow Wow

On Saturday, June 22nd, in honour of our First Nations' involvement in the Battle of Fort York, a traditional outdoor Pow Wow will be taking place at Well's Hill Park (south side of St. Clair Ave. W. between Bathurst St. and Spadina Ave.). The grand entry starts at 12:00 noon and the event will feature traditional dancing, a feast, a silent auction, an area for kids, crafts, and information booths.

Ping Pong Table for June Rowlands Park

I would deeply appreciate hearing your thoughts on the possibility of having an outdoor ping pong table in June Rowlands (Davisville) Park. A similar ping pong table was recently installed at St. Michael's College on the University of Toronto campus and the City of Toronto is initiating a pilot project to install a few tables in public spaces across the city. As our parks belong to the community, any changes or additions must have your support.

Dear residents,

Keeping you informed and engaged is a priority for me. For your review please see the following agendas for the upcoming City Council and Toronto/East York Community Council meetings. If you have any feedback or questions about items of interest to you, please feel very welcome to contact me by emailing [email protected] or calling 416 392 7906.

Sincerely,

Josh

P.S. It's been a great pleasure seeing so many of you at recent community meetings and events.  Melissa, Molly and I hope to see you this afternoon at the Deer Park PS Spring Fair and on Saturday at the Maurice Cody PS Spring Fair and the Rathnelly Day celebration!

City Council Meeting: Tuesday June 11 & Wednesday June 12

The agenda for the next City Council meeting has been published. You can view all the items up for consideration here. City Council meetings are open to the public and held in the council chambers at City Hall starting at 9:30 am each day. Meetings are also broadcast live online.

Toronto & East York Community Council Meeting: Tuesday June 18

The agenda for our next Community Council meeting has also been published. There are four community councils in Toronto and each is responsible for local or neighbourhood matters. You can view all the items up for consideration here. Community Council meetings are open to the public and are held in Committee Room 1 on the second floor of City Hall starting at 9:30 am.

For a reminder of upcoming public meetings, events and other information I've sent you recently, please click here to read my May 31st e-newsletter.

Dear residents,

Despite unprecedented challenges at city hall, I have been very busy working with our community, and my colleagues on council, to address the many important priorities I hear about from residents like you.

It has been such a pleasure seeing so many of you at recent events such as my transit town hall, the Mount Pleasant Village BIA Kids Day and the Brown and Oriole Park School Fairs.

Tomorrow, I'll be at Eglinton and Cottingham school fairs along with a Beltline Clean Up (to remove invasive species such as Garlic Mustard) on Saturday morning. We'll be meeting at 10am at the trail entrance near Duncannon.

I do hope you find my latest update to you interesting and informative.

Sincerely,

Josh

Funding for Transit and Infrastructure Priorities

This weekend, many of my City Council colleagues are in Vancouver at the annual conference of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, where they are calling for a greater role from the Government of Canada in building and maintaining our cities' infrastructure. Big cities like Toronto are Canada's economic engines and there is a clear national benefit to sustained investment in our growth.

My latest contribution to this effort is a motion I'm bringing to June's City Council meeting to consider options the federal government could use to support Toronto's transit and infrastructure priorities. In the United States, there are many models of support, such as tax-free municipal bonds, that help cities get the best results from their investments. Under a system model to the U.S. "Build America Bonds," Toronto could invest in one-third more infrastructure each year without increasing debt servicing costs. I've asked City staff to determine which model works best for Toronto so we can request that support from Ottawa.

Parking for Mopeds and Scooters

I've heard from many residents who are being affected by the City's recent crack-down on sidewalk scooter parking and I agree with your concerns. We should encourage the use of mopeds and scooters to reduce congestion in Toronto, and we can use a little common sense to accommodate these vehicles on City boulevards where they are out of the way of both pedestrians and cars. To learn more, please read my letter to the Licensing and Standards Committee requesting action on this issue.

Raccoons and Other Urban Wildlife

A family of raccoons is trying to make a home in my barbeque and they're making quite a mess! I know many of you have had much worse experiences with raccoons, skunks and other urban wildlife on your property. I'm asking City staff to make recommendations for actions to reduce the negative effects of urban wildlife and increase everyone's enjoyment of both private and public outdoor spaces.

Public Meeting: 2221 Yonge Street

Please click here to learn about the upcoming public meeting for this condo development proposal. I have serious concerns with this application. Even though the proposed location is closer to the corner of Yonge and Eglinton than the Minto development (where higher heights are projected under the Official Plan) the site is too small for a 56 storey building. As proposed, the building would also limit the ability of a builder to provide a vitally important public square on the adjacent southeast corner if that site were to be redeveloped.

The meeting will be held at 7 pm on Wednesday, June 5, in the auditorium at North Toronto Collegiate (17 Broadway Avenue).

Public Meeting: A New Maurice Cody PS Community Field!

Earlier this spring, I moved a motion on behalf of our community, at Toronto City Council that was successfully approved today dedicating $300,000 towards Maurice Cody PS' Dirt-to-Turf project.

These funds, which I identified from developer fees (Section 37) will now bring our field revitalization project very close to fruition. In the past couple of months I have been working with the Parent Council's Dirt-to-Turf Committee, School Council, Trustee Laskin, City Legal staff, Principal Howard and TDSB staff on a community-use agreement to ensure access to the new field for our neighbourhood's families.

We are working toward a draft agreement that balances the places the neighbourhood's interest to use the new facility first, while also recognizing the TDSB's need to bring in revenue to ensure that the new field is maintained.  I look forward to your input on the future use of the new field at a community meeting I am co-hosting with Trustee Laskin on Monday, May 10 in the Maurice Cody PS gym.

Support Taking Action on Youth Violence at City Hall

It is time for the City of Toronto to take thoughtful and proactive measures to deal with youth violence no matter what neighbourhood it is found in. We cannot wait for another tragedy to spur more calls for blue ribbon panels and simplistic reactions. There have been many good reports that have already provided us with recommendations on how to move forward including The Review of the Roots of Youth Violence by Dr. Alvin Curling and The Honourable Roy McMurtry. Genuine, evidence-based action is needed now and without delay.

Please join us on at Toronto City Hall on Wednesday, June 26, at 9:30 am in support of the first steps of an action plan, in response to my motion that was approved unanimously by Council in February 2013 to reduce youth violence in our city, which will be considered by the Community Development and Recreation Committee.

Please save this date, as this is the only official opportunity for public feedback before a vote at City Council later in the summer. It is vitally important that Mayor Ford, the rest of City Council, and the wider community hear your voice and understand how important it is for us to finally take real action to stop youth violence. We can't do this without you.

Preserving 1909 Yonge Street (Currently the Davisville Starbucks)

The Starbucks at 1909 Yonge Street is the original Davisville General Store and Post Office building, and was constructed in 1894.

I believe that this is an important part of our cultural heritage, and has been a landmark for generations.

On May 14th, 2013, I moved a motion at Toronto and East York Community Council directing Heritage staff to evaluate this property for possible designation under the Ontario Heritage Act. Heritage staff will report back to Community Council with their findings. I am hopeful that this important landmark will soon be protected for many more generations to come.

Opening of Toronto's Beaches and Water Facilities

The majority of Toronto's beaches will be officially opening this weekend! Eight out of eleven beaches will have lifeguards placed this weekend, with the other three opening on June 15th.

Toronto's beaches are as follows:

Bluffer’s Beach - lifeguards in place this weekend 
Centre Island Beach - lifeguards in place this weekend
Cherry Beach- lifeguards in place this weekend
Gibraltar Point Beach- lifeguards will be in place by June 15
Hanlan’s Point Beach- lifeguard this weekend
Kew-Balmy Beach- lifeguards in place this weekend
Marie Curtis Park Beach - lifeguards will be in place by June 15
Rouge Beach - lifeguards will be in place by June 15
Sunnyside Beach -  lifeguards in place this weekend
Ward’s Island Beach - lifeguards in place this weekend
Woodbine Beaches - lifeguards in place this weekend

Daily water quality information can be obtained on the Beaches Hotline at 416-392-7161 or at www.toronto.ca/beach.

Meanwhile, we are happy to say that the outdoor pool at the North Toronto Memorial Community Centre will be opening on June 22nd! More information about the opening of Toronto's outdoor pools can be found at http://www.toronto.ca/parks/prd/facilities/outdoor-pools/index.htm.

Finally, splash pads are open May 18th to September 22nd and wading pools are open June 28th to September 1st. Splash pads are unsupervised water play areas and are conveniently located in many parks and playgrounds. Wading pools are shallow water areas for children located within parks.

A Walk Exploring the History of Deer Park

On Saturday, June 8th, local photographer and historian Walter Psotka will be leading a walking tour throughout the Deer Park area. Learn about interesting and previously unknown facts about this historically significant neighbourhood! If you wish to participate, please visit the Deer Park Library or call the branch at 416-393-7549.

The walk will be starting at the library at 1:20 pm.

Reminder: Seniors Forum: Living Longer, Living Well

The Toronto Council on Aging is hosting a Seniors Forum at Metro Hall on June 10 from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. Dr. Samir K. Sinha will be presenting highlights and key recommendations from the Province of Ontario's Seniors Strategy and I will be sharing highlights from our new Toronto Seniors Strategy. Admission is free but seating is limited. To register please call the Toronto Council on Aging at 416 630 7000. I will be making the opening remarks and I hope to see you there!

You can read more about my work on the City of Toronto's Seniors Strategy here.

Reminder: Community Environment Day

On Saturday, June 22nd from 10 am to 2 pm I will be hosting my annual Community Environment Day. The location is the North Toronto Memorial Arena at 174 Orchard View Blvd. Please bring any unwanted art supplies, books, toys, and used sports equipment. Cycle Toronto Midtown will be there to donate your used bikes to the non-profit organization Charlie's Freewheels. Facilities will be available to dispose of computers and other hazardous household waste. You can also replace your damaged green bin.

First National Summit of LGBTQ-A* Service Providers

The First National Summit of LGBTQ-A* Service Providers will be taking place on June 26th and 27th at Ryerson University. The summit will be the first time that all service providers will meet to discuss a national vision for the LGBTQ-A* community in Canada. The summit will focus on connecting Service Providers, professional development, and the creation of a national vision for collaboration and partnership. The cost of participating in the event in free!

More information on the summit can be found by visiting http://www.jersvision.org/en/programs/dare-stand-out-canadas-national-lgbtq-service-providers-summit.

Bayview Buckets Adopt-a-Tree Project is Back!

Local businesses on the west side of Bayview Avenue are encouraged to adopt a tree in front of their business for the 2013 growing season.  Street trees face harsh urban conditions such as limited access to water but provide us with so many benefits, including shade, cleaning our air, and making our neighbourhoods beautiful. Bayview Buckets aims to help these trees thrive by watering them regularly.

Community leader Helen Godfrey will be approaching businesses over the month of June to explain the program, and provide information and tools. Read Helen's update on the project on the LEAF (Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests) blog.

Look for the Bayview Buckets sign in the storefront windows and remember to thank your local business for keeping our community healthy!  A list of participating businesses will be updated on my website.

If you would like to get involved or receive more information, please contact [email protected].