Opening Letter

Dear Friends and Neighbours,
 
As November comes to a close, I am sending my best wishes to families across Ward 15 for a wonderful holiday season. To celebrate, the City's annual Cavalcade of Lights event will run from now until January 7 on Nathan Phillips Square, transforming City Hall into a winter wonderland. The full schedule of events is available, here.
 
On Monday, the Mayor and Premier announced a New Deal for Toronto, with the Province committing more than $1.2 billion in operating funding over 3 years and $3 billion in capital funding over 10 years. The agreement includes investments in new subway trains, transit operations, and shelter services. Notably, the Province has also agreed to take over responsibility for the Gardiner Expressway and Don Valley Parkway, including all capital and operating expenses. As the former Chair of Public Works & Infrastructure, I spent years working with City staff on the Gardiner's state of good repair needs and know firsthand that this decision should take significant pressure off the City's finances.
 
While this intergovernmental support is welcome news, we must also do our part to streamline service delivery and find efficiencies at City Hall. As the City prepares to launch the 2024 Budget, there are opportunities for local residents to share feedback about their ideas and priorities. You can learn more about how to get involved, here.
 
As we reflect back on 2023, I am proud of the work we've accomplished together in Ward 15 – Don Valley West and throughout Toronto. This year, City Council has continued to advance Toronto's climate action strategy, strengthen the City's Vision Zero Road Safety Plan, and enhance our Congestion Management Plan. I am continuing to represent the interests of Ward 15 residents as we debate and implement new initiatives and programs at City Hall.
 
In Don Valley West, we've made significant progress on neighbourhood-based road safety initiatives on our main streets, local roads, and in our school communities. I am continuing to work closely with Parks, Forestry & Recreation to expand and protect our local tree canopy. There are also a number of projects either underway or completed to improve our local parks and I am continuing to advocate for a new community space in Thorncliffe Park.
 
In advance of holiday gatherings, Toronto Public Health is encouraging all Toronto residents to book an appointment to receive their annual flu shots and a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. More information about how to schedule an appointment is available on the City's website.
 
As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions.
 
Sincerely,