I am pleased to share that Dudley’s Hardware Paint & Decor – a beloved 2SLGBTQIA+ small business located in the heart of The Village, has decided to remain open for the foreseeable future.
Back in July, my team and I convened an urgent meeting between owner-operator Steve Dawson, Toronto Police Services - 51 Division, and The 519 to address the repeated acts of vandalism occurring at / outside Dudley’s place of business. These tragic instances even drove Steve to consider closing Dudley’s doors for good – something I was committed to doing everything within my power to prevent.
After our meeting, I swiftly brought forward a motion that required The 519 to provide 24/7 security to supervise the area, while also requesting 51 Division to increase police patrols in Barbara Hall Park. These efforts, combined with my continued focus as Toronto Board of Health Chair on addressing the addiction and mental health crisis facing our city, are part of our ongoing efforts to improve neighbourhood / ward safety.
This positive development is a testament not only to Dudley’s employees' tenacity and courage during this difficult time, but also to the power of constructive dialogue between elected officials, community organizations, and dedicated residents all working harmoniously in service of a common goal.
I would like to thank Toronto Police Services - 51 Division, the 519, as well as owner-operator Steve Dawson and his staff for their support and willingness to work with my office to ensure this beloved and historic landmark of the Church-Wellesley neighbourhood continues to serve residents, as it has for the past 89 years.
Your in service,
Chris Moise
City Councillor
Ward 13 - Toronto Centre
Help Shape the Future of Accessible Transit in Toronto! The TTC is looking for new members to join its Advisory Committee on Accessible Transit (ACAT). This group plays a central role in advising the TTC Board and staff, ensuring our transit services are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all. Apply now before the August 12 deadline!
At our meeting on May 21 and 22, City Council dedicated a significant amount of time to address the Ombudsman Report on the City’s response to a vital service outage in a multi-tenant home, as well as the Council-directed proposed bylaw to protect social infrastructure. Amidst thoughtful discussion and lively debate, I also released section 37 funds to advance projects from the 2024 Participatory Budgeting cycle.
Happy Pride Month! June is both a month of celebration and reflection on the progress the 2SLGBTQ+ community has made. With choppy international waters causing fear and uncertainty both south of the border and at home, I know many in our community are feeling a lot of anxiety. So if you need it, please make space for yourself this month.
There is a lot to do in the City this summer, and I encourage you to experience everything you can. For Pride events in June, please visit my online calendar to see what is happening here in Toronto Centre. If you are looking to enjoy an outdoor meal or drink, I have a list of CafeTO, sidewalk cafe and private patios for you to browse. Registration for summer recreation is also opening next week, including for swimming classes, art workshops and sports programs.
