Over the course of the summer we have seen encampments pop up in parks across Toronto Centre. I wanted to provide an update in response to the concerns I have heard and the questions about what can be done to make our parks accessible to everyone.
I am delighted to announce the return of our annual Neighbourhood Town Halls!
Hosted in six different areas of the ward, these town halls will take place in venues that are fully accessible, allowing every resident to select the event location closest to their home. Participating in these town halls is a great opportunity for you to hear about the work I have been undertaking at city hall and throughout our communities.
More importantly, these town halls are not just about me speaking — they are about listening, too. Each event is structured to include ample open mic time, providing each of you with a platform to ask questions, voice concerns, and contribute to the conversation shaping our ward.
This year, we are stepping up our game in an effort to ensure as many of our residents can participate as possible with the introduction of a fully hybrid event model. We are striving to allow community members to not only tune in online but also to participate by asking questions and speaking virtually. My team is hard at work handling the logistics of this hybrid setup, aiming to provide a seamless and inclusive experience for everyone.
Coming together as a community is a powerful thing. That is why I encourage you all to attend, meet your neighbours, engage in insightful dialogues, and learn more about what is happening at city hall.
And of course, what's a community event without snacks? Light refreshments will be provided.
So mark your calendars and join us in building a stronger and more connected Ward 13. I look forward to meeting you all there!
Toronto City Council held another lively meeting on June 26 and 27. The agenda included governance and operations reviews of both Sankofa Square and Moss Park Arena, as well as several items that addressed housing affordability and homelessness.
The Sherbourne and Dundas area remains a top priority for my office to see properly revitalized, and one property that comes up frequently is 214-230 Sherbourne Street. There has been some recent movement on the site, and I wanted to provide a broad update about what is happening and what some potential next steps may be.
The May 22 and 23 City Council meeting was a somber affair, as we honoured the life of our late colleague, Councillor Jaye Robinson. Following touching tributes, there was discussion about the City’s Corporate Asset Management Plan and Micromobility Strategy.
With summer upon us, there has been a resurgence of encampments across the City. Allan Gardens is no exception. Despite falling to a low of three encampments earlier this spring, we continue to see the number of encampments fluctuate in response to the availability of shelter beds.
On May 18, I held my first Community Environment Day for 2024 at Allan Gardens. I was pleased to see so many turn out to drop off their recycling, dispose of electronic and household hazardous waste and pick up free compost. The weather was perfect and it was amazing to see the efforts of City staff.
Toronto City Council had another full and engaging agenda this past April 16 and 17. There was timely discussion about fixing the Vacant Home Tax, big strides in improving tenant assistance for those impacted by rental demolitions, and plans to expand both its Student Nutrition Program and the Alcohol in Parks program.
As spring arrives, it's impossible not to reflect back a year to the escalating situation at Allan Gardens. Remembering the challenges, but also the resilience of our community, allows us to move forward with hope and determination.