It was with mixed emotions that I received Dr. Eileen de Villa’s letter of resignation as Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health at the end of this year.
As Chair of the Board of Health, I have had the privilege of working closely with Dr. de Villa, and I am deeply grateful for her unwavering support, guidance, and willingness to collaborate. While her departure saddens me, I am excited for the opportunities that await her, and I am confident she will leave Toronto Public Health well-positioned for continued success.
Dr. de Villa’s contributions to the City of Toronto are immeasurable. Over her eight years as Medical Officer of Health, she has navigated us through unprecedented challenges, most notably the COVID-19 pandemic. It was an incredibly difficult experience for everyone, especially Toronto Public Health staff, but Dr. De Villa consistently delivered critical updates with a reassuring voice that said “it is going to be okay”, even when the path ahead seemed uncertain.
Although Dr. de Villa announced her retirement today, she will continue shepherding us through this transitional period until the year's end, ensuring a smooth transition. Toronto Public Health’s new Strategic Plan will be complete, The Works’ relocation will be nearly complete and a comprehensive transition plan will be implemented for her successor. To begin that process, I will bring forward a motion at the upcoming Board of Health meeting on May 27 to form a search committee for our next Medical Officer of Health.
Dr. de Villa, thank you for your service to the City of Toronto. Your leadership in building a healthier, more equitable city has made a lasting impact, and your dedication to public health will be remembered and celebrated. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavours.
Chris Moise
Chair, Toronto Board of Health
City Councillor, Ward 13 – Toronto Centre
November 18 was a day I had anticipated with a heavy heart since Dr. Eileen de Villa first announced her retirement earlier this year. That day, we sat at the table together for the final Board of Health meeting with her as our Medical Officer of Health.
On November 16, I gathered at the Toronto Public Library’s Parliament Street Branch to celebrate the Moss Park Community Cookbook launch. The event brought together residents, community leaders and food lovers to honour the incredible stories and recipes that make Moss Park such a vibrant place. Below, please find my recipe for banana bread with ginger and blueberries!
City Council made progress in addressing the housing crisis at its meeting on November 13 and 14 by implementing a Rental Renovation Licence By-law and expanding incentives for purpose-built rental housing. They also had important conversations about the City’s economy and cultural plan.
