As your local Councillor, it's important to me that that our parks, playgrounds, and public spaces remain safe and accessible for everyone, especially our children. At the same time, we must approach the issue of encampments with compassion and a focus on long-term solutions. Recent discussions at City Council have highlighted the challenges we face in balancing these priorities. In this update, I’ll share the latest developments, the steps we’re taking to address encampments near sensitive areas, and how we can work together to create a safer, more inclusive city.
Wishing everyone peace and joy this holiday season. As winter settles in, may we find time to recharge, stay connected, and continue showing up for one another, our schools, and our communities. While the province continues to pass legislation like Bill 33 that harms our children, we need everyone rested and ready to fight back.
Toronto’s Downtown East is a vibrant yet deeply complex community, where the intersection of health, homelessness, and justice presents unique challenges. As we approach the end of the year, the Downtown East Leadership Table convened to discuss critical issues, share updates, and strategize solutions for 2026. From the closure of safe consumption sites to the growing strain on harm reduction services, the conversation highlighted the urgent need for enhanced coordination, community education, and systemic change. This update summarizes key insights from the meeting and explores actionable steps to address the pressing needs of our neighbourhoods.
As 2026 approaches, I want to wish you and your family a Happy Holidays. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or anything else this December, I hope it brings joy. There is still time to get your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, and I strongly encourage you and your loved ones to do so.
I want to use my platform this month to encourage us all to give this holiday season. You can find many ways to donate food, clothing and toys on the City’s website.
Doug Ford’s Bill 60 is an all-out assault on our City’s ability to stand up for renters’ rights, prevent homelessness, and keep things affordable. It comes at a time when prices have skyrocketed, more people than ever are struggling to make ends meet, and the bitter cold of winter has arrived.
Bill 60 shreds tenant protections, making it easier for landlords to suddenly evict tenants, and making it harder for renters to challenge unfair or illegal evictions.
Supporting small businesses is critical to support our local Neighbourhoods. I joined City Council in supporting a new measure to expand retail opportunities to major roads with Neighbourhoods. This initiative is about more than just cutting red tape—it’s about fostering vibrant, walkable communities where residents can enjoy the convenience of corner stores, coffee shops, and other small businesses close to where they live.
As winter approaches, Toronto is gearing up to tackle the challenges of snow and ice with a renewed focus on efficiency, communication, and collaboration. I’m committed to ensuring that our city is better prepared to handle extreme weather events, improve snow removal services, and keep residents informed in real time. In this update, I’ll share the key takeaways from recent council discussions, including plans for enhanced communication, stricter snow-clearing policies, and a more coordinated approach to winter maintenance.
As of December 1, Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) has a new Electric Micromobility Device Policy. There has been a rise in fires linked to lithium-ion batteries, and this policy provides direction on how TCHC buildings and tenants can safely electric-powered e-bikes (e-bikes) and pedal-assist electric motor scooters (e-scooters).
I’m looking forward to seeing you for our 2025 Toronto Centre Holiday Banquet! We are fully booked for the event, are still accepting people onto the waitlist. So please read on to learn more.
On December 2, I officially named an laneway adjacent to 10 Bright Street after the late Canadian artist, Joyce Wieland. Together with members of her family, friends, neighbours, old students and the Art Gallery of Ontario, I was honored to commemorate her contributions and legacy.
Celebrate the season at St. Lawrence Market’s Winter Market! Stroll along Market Street lined with twinkling lights, cozy huts and live entertainment. Enjoy festive bites, sweet treats and local gifts that capture the holiday spirit. Open Thursdays to Sundays until December 22. Free admission, visit stlawrencemarket.com for details!
The average Canadian household wastes over $1,300 worth of edible food each year. Knowing the difference between best before dates and expiration dates can save you money, reduce food waste and protect the environment. The best before date is a guide, not a goodbye. Learn more on how to reduce food waste on the City’s Food Waste webpage.