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SPEAKING OUT - Susan Walmer addresses approximately two dozen Aurora residents gathered outside Town Hall on Tuesday evening speaking out against Council moving forward with the redevelopment of Library Square (inset). They urged Council members to push “pause” and re-think the project in light of financial uncertainty stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Auroran photo by Brock Weir AURORA’S TOP SALES PRODUCER* Library Square redevelopment clears final Council hurdle on “historic” 4–3 vote below, to Chandos Construction in the Thompson, who made the motion for a By Brock Weir amount of $41 million, bringing the total task force. “Since the current Library was project budget to $51,939,500. built in 2001, the topic of Library Square 905-841-0000 [email protected] After decades of debate, Aurora’s The bulk of this price tag will be funded has been openly and repeatedly discussed Service with plan for the redevelopment of Library by municipal reserves – including Aurora’s by multiple Councils. For the 10 years I lindrealty.ca Professionalism Square moved forward Tuesday night on Hydro Funds – along with a long-term have been on Council, the revitalization Based on IMS Statistics, Aurora Offices a “historic” vote of 4 – 3. debenture of up to $12.9 million to be of the downtown core and the vision for Council awarded the tender for the repaid over a period of up to 20 years. Library Square has been a constant item construction of Library Square, including Council also signed off on the creation of for discussion and a key objective of our an expansive addition to the Church Street a Budget Control Task Force to oversee Strategic Plan. It has been a long road Providing you School, improvements to the Aurora the construction costs. to get here, there have been many starts with the Public Library, a bridge connecting the “Today is truly a historic moment and stops and starts again, but I am proud knowledge two buildings and a public gathering space for Aurora,” said Councillor Michael Continued on page 17 and resources

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As far as walks go, it was a relatively short walk, but it was a step in the right Home Sweet Home! direction for Aurora, according to And, the Safest Place to dignitaries and community members Be Now for Seniors! who gathered at Yonge and Wellington on Thursday for the unveiling of the Town’s new Rainbow Crosswalk. Featuring the colours of the Pride flag, the Rainbow Crosswalk, which Local dignitaries helped inaugurate Aurora’s Rainbow Crosswalk last Thursday morning, Pictured www.laservices.ca was approved by Council last month, here are Mayor Tom Mrakas, Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill MPP Michael Parsa, Newmarket- Aurora MP Tony Van Bynen, Dawn Gallagher Murphy (representing Newmarket-Aurora MPP Contact now Brian Porter, is intended to be a landmark to Christine Elliott), Councillor Michael Thompson, Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill MP Leona Director, Living Assistance Alleslev, and Councillors Wendy Gaertner and Harold Kim. Services, for advice and care show that Aurora is an “accepting at home at 416.483.0070 Continued on page 6 Auroran photo by Glenn Rodger

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SALES REPRESENTATIVE 905 717 0203 izzipopat.com [email protected] Page 2 THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020 THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020 Page 3 Contact tracing key for school re-opening, new institutional outbreak in Aurora: York and independent schools in York Region. conduct an in-depth investigation to identify battling 3 active cases of COVID-19. By Brock Weir These relationships are so important as we close contacts of a case. Contact tracing is an As of Tuesday, August 25, the Town has navigate this complex, evolving COVID-10 effective tool to slow and control the spread. seen a total of 143 confirmed cases of the As parents prepare to send their kids back environment. We remain committed to In the school setting, close contacts are more virus, 15 of which have proved fatal. A total to school next week, if that is the choice they working with schools and school boards and likely to be students and teachers in the same of 125 of these cases are now marked as made, York Region’s Public Health Unit is supporting children, parents and educational class or cohort, siblings of the case in different resolved. reiterating its support for plans to re-open workers in a safe return to York Region grades, or other school staff with close contact The Region is also reporting a new classrooms. classrooms.” to the case while the case was infectious. Close institutional outbreak in an Aurora seniors’ On Monday, Dr. Lana Fitzgerald-Husek, Public Health, added Dr. Fitzgerald- contacts outside of the school will also be residence – this time at Cobblestone Lodge York Region’s Associate Medical Officer of Husek, will continue to follow “the lead and followed up. Retirement at Yonge and Kennedy. In this Health, said the decision facing parents has guidance” of the Province and provide input.” “Public Health will directly get in touch case, there is one case of COVID-19 amongst been a “difficult one” and York Region Public Tackling communicable diseases in school with close contacts of a confirmed case to its caregiver complement of six and, at press Health “will continue to play an active role in settings over the years, including measles and advise on important public health measures time, no cases amongst its resident population helping to limit transmission in school settings whooping cough, have been “beneficial” such as testing, self isolation and symptom of 19. and…investigate all cases of COVID-19.” experiences in determining how to manage monitoring. There will also be communication Of the active cases in Aurora at large, 2 “We know it has been difficult making COVID-19 cases and contacts in schools, she with students, parents and the schools… Each are attributed to local transmission or close decisions about whether or not your child will said. situation may be unique and evaluated on a contact, while the remaining case is related to attend school in person or participate in online “We take case management and contact case by case basis and we will continue to follow an institutional outbreak outside of Aurora. learning,” she said. “We know the importance tracing very seriously. While we anticipate established communicable disease prevention Region wide, there have been a total of of school for children’s overall mental, social, that some cases of COVID-19 may occur and control practices and additional guidance 3,410 cases of COVID-19 since the start physical and emotional development. in school settings, we know we are well on COVID-19 in schools that is forthcoming of the pandemic. There are presently 119 “Public Health has longstanding prepared to promptly and effectively respond. from the Province.” active cases of the virus, with 3,038 cases now partnership with public, Catholic and If a student, for example, tests positive for As local schools prepare to welcome marked as recovered. There have been 253 French school boards and with private COVID-19, York Region Public Health will students once again, Aurora is currently deaths as a result of the pandemic.

TOWN OF AURORA TOWN OF AURORA PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC PLANNING MEETING NOTICE OF PUBLIC PLANNING MEETING

AURORA TOWN COUNCIL will hold a Statutory Public Meeting to receive input on AURORA TOWN COUNCIL will hold a Statutory Public Meeting to receive input on proposed Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment Applications: proposed Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment Applications: Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at 7:00 pm Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at 7:00 pm Aurora Town Hall, Council Chambers Aurora Town Hall, Council Chambers 100 John West Way, Aurora, Ontario 100 John West Way, Aurora, Ontario

APPLICATION: Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments to facilitate the development of a seven (7) storey APPLICATION: The applicant has submitted Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment applications to residential apartment building with a total of 137 units, underground parking, private driveway and open space lands. The re-designate and rezone the southeast portion of the property to permit the development of a six (6) storey residential Official Plan Amendment proposes increases to height and density. The Zoning By-law Amendment proposes to change building containing 79 units, comprising a total gross floor area of 8,012.4 square metres. A total of 119 parking spaces the existing “Rural (RU)” zone to “Second Density Apartment Residential Exception Zone (RA2-XX)” and “Environmental are proposed to support the development, including 10 at-grade visitor spaces Protection Zone (EP)”. A related Site Plan Application has also been submitted that is not the subject of the public and 109 underground spaces. planning meeting. PROPERTY: 16005-16055 Bayview Avenue (T&T Supermarket Plaza) PROPERTY: 15516 Leslie Street LEGAL DESCRIPTION:Whitchurch Con 2 Pt Lot 26, RP65R32530 Part 1 LEGAL DESCRIPTION:Part Lot 22, Concession 2 Whitchurch APPLICANT: RCG Aurora North GP Inc. OWNER: 15516 Leslie Street GP Inc. FILE NUMBERS: OPA-2020-04 and ZBA-2020-04 FILE NUMBERS: OPA-2020-03 and ZBA-2020-03 RELATED APPLICATION: N/A RELATED APPLICATION: SP-2020-02 PROCEDURAL INFORMATION: Anyone interested in attending this meeting in person will be required to fill out and PROCEDURAL INFORMATION: Anyone interested in attending this meeting in person will be required to fill out and submit a Screening Registration Form by 4:30 p.m. on the Tuesday of the meeting. In-person attendance is limited to the submit a Screening Registration Form by 4:30 p.m. on the Tuesday of the meeting. In-person attendance is limited to the first 20 people. Masks must be worn at all times inside Town Hall. For more information, visit: aurora.ca/meetings. The first 20 people. Masks must be worn at all times inside Town Hall. For more information, visit: aurora.ca/meetings. The meeting will also be live streamed at youtube.com/user/Townofaurora2012/videos. meeting will also be live streamed at youtube.com/user/Townofaurora2012/videos. Parties interested in speaking during the public portion of the meeting may attend in person or electronically. Pre- Parties interested in speaking during the public portion of the meeting may attend in person or electronically. Pre- registration is required. For more information, visit: aurora.ca/participation. registration is required. For more information, visit: aurora.ca/participation. The Planning Report PDS20-053 will be made available the Tuesday before the Public Planning Meeting date on the The Planning Report PDS20-051 will be made available the Tuesday before the Public Planning Meeting date on the Town’s website, by visiting the Agendas and Minutes section, located at: aurora.ca/agendas. Town’s website, by visiting the Agendas and Minutes section, located at: aurora.ca/agendas.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Additional information and material regarding the proposed Official Plan and Zoning By- CONTACT INFORMATION: Additional information and material regarding the proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law law Amendment Applications is available for public inspection by appointment, at the Town of Aurora office located at Amendment Applications is available for public inspection, by appointment, at Town Hall. Please contact Sean Lapenna 100 John West Way, Aurora, ON, L4G 6J1. Please contact Matthew Peverini of the Planning and Development Services of the Planning and Development Services Department at 905-727-3123 extension 4346 or at [email protected]. Department at 905-727-3123 extension 4350. Comments may also be mailed to the Planning and Development Services Comments may also be mailed to the Planning and Development Services Department at the address below, faxed to Department at the same address above, faxed to 905-726-4736 or emailed to [email protected] prior to the 905-726-4736 or emailed to [email protected] prior to the meeting. Please quote the File Name and Numbers. meeting. Please quote the File Name and Numbers. INFORMATION ABOUT PRESERVING YOUR APPEAL RIGHTS: INFORMATION ABOUT PRESERVING YOUR APPEAL RIGHTS: If a person or public body would otherwise have an ability to appeal the decision of the Council of the Town of Aurora If a person or public body would otherwise have an ability to appeal the decision of the Council of the Town of Aurora or the Regional Municipality of York, as the case may be, to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT) but the person or the Regional Municipality of York, as the case may be, to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT) but the person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Town of Aurora or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Town of Aurora or Regional Municipality of York, as the case may be, before the proposed Official Plan Amendment is adopted and the or Regional Municipality of York, as the case may be, before the proposed Official Plan Amendment is adopted and the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision. proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision. If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Town If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Town of Aurora before the proposed Official Plan amendment is adopted and the proposed by-law passed, the person or public of Aurora before the proposed Official Plan amendment is adopted and the proposed by-law passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the LPAT unless in the opinion of the LPAT, there are body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the LPAT unless in the opinion of the LPAT, there are reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party. reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party. If you wish to be notified of the decision of the Council of the Town of Aurora, or the Regional Municipality of York, as the If you wish to be notified of the decision of the Council of the Town of Aurora, or the Regional Municipality of York, as the case may be, on the proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments, you must make a written request to the Town case may be, on the proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments, you must make a written request to the Town of Aurora to the attention of the Director of Planning and Development Services. of Aurora to the attention of the Director of Planning and Development Services. PERSONAL INFORMATION COLLECTION NOTICE: PERSONAL INFORMATION COLLECTION NOTICE: The Town of Aurora collects personal information in communications or presentations made to Town Council and/or its The Town of Aurora collects personal information in communications or presentations made to Town Council and/or its Committees under the legal authority of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter c.P.13, as amended. Pursuant to Section Committees under the legal authority of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter c.P.13, as amended. Pursuant to Section 27 of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.56, as amended, (the “Act”) 27 of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.56, as amended, (the “Act”) public feedback to planning proposals is considered to be public record and may be disclosed to any individual upon public feedback to planning proposals is considered to be public record and may be disclosed to any individual upon request in accordance with the Act. If you are submitting letters, faxes, emails, presentations or other communications to request in accordance with the Act. If you are submitting letters, faxes, emails, presentations or other communications to the Town, you should be aware that your name and the fact that you communicated with the Town will become part of the Town, you should be aware that your name and the fact that you communicated with the Town will become part of the public record and will appear on the Town’s website. The Town will also make your communication and any personal the public record and will appear on the Town’s website. The Town will also make your communication and any personal information in it, such as your address and postal code or email address available to the public unless you expressly information in it, such as your address and postal code or email address available to the public unless you expressly request the Town to remove it. Questions about this collection should be directed to the Town Clerk, Town of Aurora, 100 request the Town to remove it. Questions about this collection should be directed to the Town Clerk, Town of Aurora, 100 John West Way, Box 1000, Aurora, ON L4G 6J1 905-727-3123. John West Way, Box 1000, Aurora, ON L4G 6J1 905-727-3123. AUDIO AND VIDEO RECORDING OF COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS: AUDIO AND VIDEO RECORDING OF COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS: The Town audio and/or video records Public Planning Meetings. If you make a presentation to Town Council or its The Town audio and/or video records Public Planning Meetings. If you make a presentation to Town Council or its Committees, you may be audio or video recorded. Pursuant to Section 27 of the Municipal Freedom of Information Committees, you may be audio or video recorded. Pursuant to Section 27 of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.56, as amended, (the “Act”) public feedback to planning proposals is and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.56, as amended, (the “Act”) public feedback to planning proposals is considered to be a public record and may be disclosed to any individual upon request in accordance with the Act. considered to be a public record and may be disclosed to any individual upon request in accordance with the Act. DATED at the Town of Aurora, this 27th day of August, 2020. DATED at the Town of Aurora, this 27th day of August, 2020.

Town of Aurora 100 John West Way, Aurora, ON L4G 6J1 Town of Aurora 100 John West Way, Aurora, ON L4G 6J1 aurora.ca/publicnotices • 905-727-1375 aurora.ca/publicnotices • 905-727-1375

Page 4 THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020 LETTER TO THE EDITOR Machell’s Corners Former mayor states case on Library Square Having served 28 years on Aurora Council, 16 as a councillor and 12 as mayor, I can empathize and respect both sides of the debate on whether to proceed with the Library Square development at this time. Many residents are experiencing personal challenges with their own finances, employment, and/or their health and to compare their personal perspectives with the Town’s decision on whether to proceed with this project at this time is a natural thing to do. That said, one has to understand the financing position of the Town to even start to understand why moving forward with Library Square at this time is a prudent thing to do. Unless things have changed since my time on Council (1978-2006), the core funding for this project is supported by Reserve funding and not current tax dollars. Reserve funding cannot be used for anything other than what it was or will be collected for. In addition to that, there are the Hydro funds which, when we sold Aurora Hydro to PowerStream, were put in a reserve to be used specifically for a “legacy” project. It is my understanding that between the Round and Round – and once more for good measure Hydro Reserve and specific facility reserves collected from development charges, there It is a strange, yet exhilarating feeling to advertise the facilities and rate the applications as is/will be sufficient funding for this project living through a moment of history. defined in the criteria. – and I repeat, funding that by law cannot Of course, the present historical This was done by staff and Leisure be used for other operational purposes. moment we’re living through right now is Services Advisory Committee and a report and Initiatives including what to do with both alarming and challenging, but there recommendations were presented at the recent the old library and firehall/seniors’ centre is no doubt that this is (hopefully) a once- Council meeting which degenerated into a shouting and downtown revitalization have been on in-a-lifetime occurrence and one that will match with interruptions, points of order and Council agendas for 20-30 years. Almost help define us in the decades to come. personal attacks. every time Council got to a point of possible Truth be told, that has been my The end result was rejection of the committee action to demolish the existing buildings, to approach to covering this multifaceted BROCK’S report and recommended space allocations on the take action to improve parking or supports pandemic. basis there was a shortage of parking and a need to the downtown, for various reasons or In the early days, it almost seemed like BANTER for a new vision for the property. issues of the day, Council deferred taking a tragic human numbers game, alas. But, Brock Weir action for more study. as people once again found their bearings In the intervening decade-and-a-half, Today, I see a Council that has, to their and devised new and creative ways to get called to discuss the future of the town-owned many new visions were subsequently and the previous Councils’ credit, taken themselves and help others through the properties in the square until more information was presented to Council. steps to move forward with the downtown pandemic, and pivot towards newer and available, especially for the Church Street School. Some were rather uninspired, like and develop this extraordinary plan for more creative ideas as well, the less about In June 1985, Council authorized Town Staff mowing down the former library, seniors’ the core, with the studies and the input numbers it became – although numbers to prepare items for reference and a cost estimate of centre and fire hall buildings simply to assembled AND the base funding in place. are still vitally important – and, at its obtaining professional services to maximize efficient alleviate area parking pressures – despite Moving forward with this project sets core, it became and remains very much a uses for all of the Town-owned properties. some people making valiant attempts to in motion the legacy aspect of the Hydro community story. In September, 1992, Council established the argue these parking pressures simply didn’t funds designated for this purpose – to me, it When the next pandemic rolls around, Church Street School Ad Hoc Committee to consider exist. is a perfect use of these funds. The project stories of the community rising to the uses for the building in conjunction with other town- Others were more intriguing, from itself could provide local employment occasion are likely those that will be owned properties. a multi-storey studio space for artists and service provision opportunities which revisited in the years to come examining During budget discussions in 2001, it was and other creatives, to a landmark actually may help some people through the how the community endured and defined suggested a consultant be engaged to review destination building built in the shape of COVID era. itself. redevelopment on the town-owned buildings in the a grand piano, to a nice modern building To defer at this time will only drive the As we at The Auroran approach our square. incorporating historic Victorian Hall into cost up and quite possibly nickel and dime twentieth anniversary this October, I After meeting all summer and not agreeing the construction, similar to Toronto’s a quality plan that would lower the positive have been delving deep into our archives on any recommendations, Council disbanded the Commerce Court. (Okay, that last idea effects for the Downtown core. to revisit some of the people and events committee in December, 2001. was one I put forward as a resident, which I’ve seen it happen before and would that have contributed to how we, as a The debate started all over again about hiring somehow didn’t make one of the many urge Council to show leadership and community, have come to define Aurora a consultant and when Council members couldn’t reports to Council, but I am graciously continue to move forward on the project; over the past two decades. agree, the whole issue was referred to staff. and belatedly conceding defeat on that don’t wait and watch the costs rise and the Flipping through the pages, it is striking In May, 2003, Council adopted a staff report one.) Council term end without a decision. that as much as things change, many things endorsing a request from the Historical Society to So, here we are at last: a new vision for In my experience, I participated in also stay the same. become the sole tenant of the Church Street School the property signed and sealed, and now it discussions and decisions which have Ahead of this week’s Council meeting on as a Museum and Cultural Centre. is just a matter of time before it is delivered resulted in facilities including the Aurora Library Square, a conversation promoted Staff was directed to investigate the option of – for better or worse. Family Leisure Complex, the additional a dive into waters shallower than 2000 – replacing the former library and fire hall, then used In the weeks, months, and years ahead, ice surface at the Community Centre, the 2001, and I landed on an installment of as a seniors’ centre with a new facility providing especially with a municipal election little Stronach Complex, a second Fire Hall, Poor Richard, a popular column penned both a seniors’ centre with a new facility providing more than two years away, it will be up the Town Hall and more. Most of those for many years by former Aurora mayor both a seniors’ centre and a new five-storey seniors’ to the individual Council members to discussions included similar requests to Dick Illingworth from the earliest days of residential building through a public/private justify their vote one way or another – and defer or scale down due to the conditions of The Auroran until just before his death in partnership. history will play a significant part in how the day, but when I see how these facilities 2009. During all this period although lack of that justification pans out. have developed and are used, I don’t regret Dated October 11, 2005 and entitled parking was mentioned there was no serious Regardless of whether the project is moving forward on any of them. “Round and Round on Library Square,” discussion about the shortage of parking. completed by the election of October Leadership is not always easy, but this it touched upon many themes that ring With the approval of the new seniors’ centre west 2022, there will be little time for the Council has been one that has made very familiar nearly 15 years on: of the Town Hall, attention was again directed to community to realize dividends from this decisions on numerous issues and by future uses of the old library and the soon-to-be- significant community investment, so this doing so is accomplishing their mandate to The most recent Council meeting when the vacated seniors’ building. is a saga that will endure. For those involved provide residents with a great and inclusive controversial Library Square was discussed was a A staff report indicated it would cost $377,420 in our community, it will remain a hot quality of living that I commend them for. perfect example of Council going around in a circle to bring the two buildings up to building code topic of conversation long after shovels hit As Joe Biden said in his nomination and getting nowhere. standards and council agreed that the rental rate for the ground, and given the first half-decade acceptance speech last week, “History tells The Library Square was originally defined as the groups would cover the cost of renovations. of the Aurora Cultural Centre’s existence, us that in our darkest moments we’ve made the area within the boundaries of Yonge, Mosley, A rental rate of $9 per square foot plus $2 per it will still remain a contentious issue even our greatest progress” Victoria and Church Streets, which includes the square foot for utilities was approved by Council. if – and after – its value has been proven. The time is right to move forward with Church Street School, the former Library, the former Council then approved criteria for evaluating Who will ultimately have the last this project! fire hall, and Victoria Hall. applications. laugh? Keep watching The Auroran. We Tim Jones Aurora The controversy started in 1979 when Council In March, 2005, Council approved an might have a final score by our Golden Letters continue on page 19 voted 4 – 3 to postpone a special meeting of Council Expression of Interest and directed staff publicly Anniversary.

EDITOR GENERAL MANAGER PRODUCTION MANAGER CLASSIFIEDS EDITORIAL POLICY Brock Weir Zach Shoub Cynthia Proctor 905-727-3300 ex.102 Opinions expressed by columnists, contributors Aurora’s Community Newspaper [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] and letter writers are not necessarily those of The Auroran. Letters must include name and ADVERTISING TODAYS NEW HOMES PHOTOGRAPHY The Auroran Newspaper Company Ltd. ADVERTISING phone number, although number will not be Zach Shoub Zach Shoub Glenn Rodger 15213 Yonge Street, Suite 8, Aurora, L4G 1L8 Diane Buchanan published. Letters may be edited or refused. All [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] contents protected by copyright. Main number 905-727-3300 • Fax number 905-727-2620 ADVERTISING ADVERTISING MOTORING Doug Sherritt ADVERTISING POLICY Founder Publisher Emeritus Rachael Magee Heather Erwin Publisher is not liable for slight changes or Ron Wallace Rosemary Schumaker [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an Subscriptions available within Canada and U.S. advertisement. Disputes must be brought to the To submit a letter to the editor, please send your email to [email protected]. email: [email protected] attention of the publisher prior to the following edition. Deadline for submissions is Sunday at 1 p.m. THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020 Page 5

The Aurora Museum & Archives is celebrating… Time Travellers Diary Bow Tie Day! By Michelle Johnson Collections & Exhibitions Coordinator, (August 28) Aurora Museum & Archives How to close out While the identity of this man remains unknown, summer break? we believe that he would be entirely supportive As summer winds down, and August

of celebrating Bow Tie Day! comes to a close, I often find a sense of nostalgia creeping in. Something about the arrival of a new school year and a sudden crisp breeze invites some reminiscing – at least for this time traveller. I decided to journey back to the late Back to School and Supporting Local Communities summer festivities throughout Aurora’s past, beginning 140 years ago in August of With more businesses and amenities boards to monitor and report on the health 1880. safely reopening, I hope everyone is status of school communities as part of the It was a crisp evening on Monday, enjoying the summer dining at your government’s outbreak management plan. August 16 as I walked to the Hillary favourite restaurants, shopping at local property on Yonge Street to attend the 12th stores and visiting the beautiful parks in Total of $1.39 billion in Battalion Band’s garden party that was our community. emergency funding being hosted by Dr. Hillary. It’s important to continue following to Ontario Municipalities. The grounds were beautifully decorated public health advice, including practising with lanterns everywhere and at least 250 In partnership with the federal physical distancing, wearing a face covering CHRISTINE'S were people in attendance. I lingered for a government, Ontario is providing urgently if physical distancing is a challenge, while and thought to myself how a garden CHRONICLES needed emergency funding to Ontario’s washing hands frequently and thoroughly, Christine Elliott, MPP party would be the perfect way to wrap 444 municipalities, which includes and avoiding touching your eyes, nose and Newmarket-Aurora up summer break back in 2020 given the $1,298,500 for the Town of Aurora and mouth. social realities of COVID-19. Although, the existing $1.4 billion funding for $23,461,600 for the Regional Municipality Back to School maintenance and renewal. the guest list would need to be a fraction of The upcoming school year has been on of York, with an additional $17,107,059 to In support of giving parents more support transit operations throughout the what Dr. Hillary hosted. the minds of many families. It’s important options, our government is also ensuring a After listening to a performance from that kids and their parents know that school Region. stronger and more robust remote learning Miss Hillary, I decided to skip ahead and is a safe place. Ontario’s plan, which has Through the Safe Restart Agreement, experience for students which will include venture to 1905. been widely recognized as the strongest the first round of emergency funding will a complete and weekly class schedule to August 25, 1905, was a beautiful sunny in Canada, was developed in consultation help keep the people of Aurora and all mirror the in-class experience. day and I found myself in a crowd of with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, of York Region, healthy and safe while The new Policy/Program people on Yonge Street waiting to board the COVID-19 Command Table and maintaining access to critical public health Memorandum (PPM) will provide parents the Radial Railway. paediatric experts. services like transit and shelters as we and students with what to expect when continue our fight against COVID-19. I was told that the destination was Bond Our government is building on this plan they participate in remote learning, by providing boards flexibility to make There will be an additional $695 million Lake and the occasion was to welcome ensure a consistent approach across the that will be available through Phase Two home Mr. H.W. Fleury who had returned additional investments to help schools province, and guarantee students are fully reopen safely in September for students for municipalities that have COVID- from England. engaged. The PPM will include ministry- related financial impacts. This second When we arrived at Bond Lake and staff. School boards can access up set requirements on minimum time for to 2 per cent of their operating budget phase of funding will flow this fall, and will there were over 1,000 citizens present to synchronous learning by grade, protocols help create longer term, innovative and welcome the head of the Fleury Foundry from their reserves, providing up to $496 for communicating with parents and million province-wide. This funding will sustainable housing solutions. back home. I was amazed to hear that students and access to technology. Our government is working in during his trip he was received by the King allow them to make necessary adjustments We are also investing $18 million to based on local needs, which could include partnership with municipalities across and Queen at Windsor Castle. help school boards hire principal and the province to ensure they can emerge Mr. Fleury spoke about the drive smaller class sizes, leasing additional space, administrative support to better deliver hiring more teachers or fully deploying all stronger than ever and help lead Ontario’s through Windsor Park and a visit to and oversee synchronous, live learning. economic recovery. Frogmore. The tales of royal encounters non-timetabled teachers. Students will have several opportunities were followed up with a game of tug-of- Ontario is providing up to $50 million throughout the school year to re-enter Please continue to reach out to my constituency war between the men from the Foundry to support improved ventilation, air quality classroom learning. office with any provincial matter. My office is and men from the Town – the Foundry and HVAC systems in schools. This is Our government will continue working here to support you. Call at 905-853-9889 men were the victors. I wondered what another key public health recommendation closely with public health and school that we are implementing, on top of or email [email protected] other late summer festivities I could come upon and set my sights on 1955. The main end of summer activity in The editor and the columnist 1955 was entirely designed for students! To mark the end of the summer holidays, I have been writing this column, pamphlet and I have also been waiting forty-one Aurora businesses, in partnership over 452 at last count, since 2006 and patiently for the first municipal candidate to with the Royal Theatre, provided 760 I just read in last week’s edition of come to my door. (Yes, I know, I should get a free tickets for students to attend a back The Auroran that this newspaper will life. I also have had enough driveway paving to school theatre party. Along with a free celebrate its twentieth anniversary in company representatives visit my front door screening, each child was given a free bag October. these past few weeks thank you!) of peanuts. The back to school theatre Time sure does fly! “We do have a winner. party was so successful that a second Surviving twenty years is extremely “Meet candidate X.” impressive, in any business. matinee was added to make sure that all I have lots of fond memories as I FRONT PORCH The column then goes on to 760 students could watch the cartoons and think about the people involved with PERSPECTIVE describe the pamphlet that I found Roy Rogers film on the big screen. this newspaper from Ron Wallace, in my mailbox and the results of a When I returned to 2020, I couldn’t Stephen Somerville Diane Buchanan to Scott Johnston and subsequent phone interview that I had help but wonder what activities people Brock Weir. with candidate X. would (or wouldn’t) be getting up during Over the next few columns, I will Here is what you did not see in my This is the e-mail from the editor these final days of summer break. share some thoughts/reminiscences of original column in 2006. The first part rejecting my column: It was obvious that 1,000 people special moments that have occurred of the column starts off innocently wouldn’t be attending a picnic, 760 kids during my time writing for this paper. enough. “Hope you had a good holiday. wouldn’t be waiting to see a movie together One story goes back to 2006 when I “Unless you plan to write a similar column and 250 people wouldn’t be enjoying a had been writing this column for only “The candidates are coming! The about everyone who is running in the municipal garden party; but I did find some small a few months. The municipal election candidates are coming! election, I won’t allow this one. comfort in knowing that small groups was coming up and I was planning “It is approaching that time again, as And, regardless, I wouldn’t allow it to could still picnic in the park, and movie to write a bunch of stories about the the children get ready to return to school, the appear until nominations are closed, and by theatres, be they drive in or sit in, were candidates and the campaign. daylight gets shorter and the nights get cooler, then there won’t be enough weeks to cover open once again. I proceeded to pound out my that the municipal candidates start to come out them all...because I agree with you, there column, at a leisurely typing rate of from their summer hibernation. will probably be about twenty candidates THIS WEEK’S NEW POLL approximately eight words per minute. “At last count there were three official for council alone...not to mention the mayor’s I then submitted it. candidates for mayor – including the race.” Are you happy with Council’s The editor rejected the column. incumbent. And nine council candidates have decision regarding The reason cited was unfair publicity confirmed that they are running; all of them I responded with my own e-mail – Library Square? for one of the municipal candidates. political newcomers. Potential candidates have outlining the reasons why the column As many of you may recall, Ron until September 29 to declare their intentions should be run. Included among my Yes No Unsure Wallace was the owner/editor of The and it is expected that at least a few of the reasons was that “this column would www.theauroran.com PREVIOUS POLL Auroran for a long number of years, incumbent councillors will seek office again. be published over two months prior Has the COVID-19 pandemic changed your opinion on and back in 2006 he happened to be “As we move past the Labour Day long to the actual election taking place, so I the future Library Square redevelopment? a current member of Aurora Town weekend, we should expect these folks to be out would think any publicity value would Council. He was not seeking re- in full force, with upwards of possibly twenty be lost by then.” YES NO UNSURE election that fall. And, because of his candidates seeking the eight council seats. In addition to my response I also 69% 26% 5% August 25, 2020 August 25, dual roles, he was particular sensitive “I have been checking my mailbox every sent the editor a revised version of the RESULTS TO DATE to any charges of media favoritism. day anxiously awaiting the first campaign Continued on page 18 Page 6 THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020

905-853-9889 1-800-211-1881 Christine Elliott [email protected] MPP - Newmarket-Aurora www.christineelliottmpp.ca

Symbol of Rainbow Crosswalk sends important message to community: leaders

From page 1 Richmond Hill MPP Michael Parsa, community and welcoming of all,” Mayor Mrakas, and Councillors Wendy according to Mayor Tom Mrakas. Gaertner, Rachel Gilliland, Sandra With a price tag of $12,600, the lion’s Humfryes, Harold Kim, and Michael share of which was funded through an Thompson. anonymous donation made to the Town “To have this gorgeous crosswalk in of Aurora, the Rainbow Crosswalk has the middle of Aurora where everyone not been without controversy since first can see it every day at one of the highest proposed in a motion to Council by traffic and pedestrian places gives us that Mayor Mrakas, but representatives from inspiration and reminds us of just how all levels of government and stakeholder important everyone in our community organizations accentuated the positive is.” This was a sentiment shared by Pictured at the Rainbow Crosswalk are, left to right, Councillors Rachel Gilliland, Sandra Humfryes, at last week’s unveiling. Wendy Gaertner, Mayor Tom Mrakas, and Councillors Harold Kim and Michael Thompson. Tristan Coolman, President of Pflag “Symbols are very important Auroran photo by Glenn Rodger and people have the opportunity to York Region, who has been an active rally around symbols,” said Aurora- proponent of Aurora’s Rainbow hiding from their family, unsure of how why he brought the motion forward Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill MP Crosswalk. they are going to react when they need in the first place, noting the intent Leona Alleslev, who was joined at the “Growing up, you never thought to protect themselves. Any time someone of the Rainbow Crosswalk is to dedication by Newmarket-Aurora MP something like this was possible,” walks across this, they can know they are “provide a permanent symbol” of the Tony Van Bynen, Aurora-Oak Ridges- said Mr. Coolman. “It is one thing to welcomed in our community.” Town’s “commitment to diversity and see it in Toronto and to walk through Building a “compassionate inclusiveness.” Toronto and feel affirmed there, but to community” is one of the top goals “The Town of Aurora is a community see it in your own backyard is absolutely of CAYR Community Connections, that embodies diversity and inclusiveness phenomenal. I think it means the formerly the AIDS Committee of York and is committed to the Inclusion Charter world to the community. It is obviously Region, an organization which has also initiatives of creating a sense of belonging affirming to the LGBTQ community hailed the Rainbow Crosswalk. in the community and reducing hate and also, as Councillor Kim spoke to This, according to Executive Director crimes,” he said. “The Town is focused in Council a couple of weeks ago, this Marie Morton, is a potent symbol and on creating an environment where has meaning for a number of different one which, despite some naysayers, has everyone is equal, and the approved communities and a number of different been greeted as a “fantastic” initiative. Rainbow [Crosswalk] shows Council’s We sell life experiences. Whether you see it as “It is the community coming together support for the LGBTQ+ community. something that is overtly about Pride and people can assign their own positive Aurora supports living in a harmonious, all types of and celebrating Pride, or whether you meaning to it,” said Ms. Morton. “It is cohesive environment where we all have see it otherwise, the overall message is beautiful, it is embracing a community the utmost respect and honour for each love and acceptance and to see yourself that has been really marginalized and other.” Filters reflected in this community.” that is a great thing and where we want And this is a great example for the “I think it shows there is a to be as a society. I always think it is wider community as well, noted MP Van Humidifiers commitment to affirming LGBTQ lived worth saying that even though this is one Bynen. experiences,” he added, not only of the small thing and some people might say it “It is great to have reminders like this Rainbow Crosswalk itself, but the levels is a token or symbolic, I think it is worth to talk about how we, as human beings, Air Cleaners of government represented at the event. taking those small steps, making the effort should be inclusive, should be embracing, “Symbolism is incredibly important and, [saying] ‘Okay, here’s one thing and and rejoice in our differences,” he said. because, like many lived experiences that now we’re going to do something else.’ “I think the entire community should & Water Pumps make up the community, some people We just keep building that momentum think about how we respect that people can go home and still have those life- and even small, symbolic things are are different, should think about how affirming lifestyles at home and some worth the effort.” everyone contributes to our society. It is Tel: 905-727-6401 8 Industrial Pkwy. S. people within the queer community Following the ceremony, Mayor a great reminder that we live in a world www.nyhp.on.ca Aurora, Ontario can’t do that because they are still Mrakas issued a statement reiterating of beautiful differences.” CUSTOM CM CabinetMagic NEW KITCHENS www.cabinetmagic.ca CABINET REFACING PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICES PERSPECTIVE DRAWINGS

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Police released footage from nearby installed rainbow crosswalk was a good Thank you to staff for swiftly removing cameras to help identify the driver. idea,” said Mayor Tom Mrakas on Friday the marks.” A second case of vandalism, this time in the early hours of Saturday morning, has resulted in an arrest. Movies in the Park returns for second 57-year-old Aurora resident Roy Zinn is drive-in just in time for the long weekend facing a charge of mischief after an officer By Brock Weir patrolling the area of Yonge and Wellington p.m., movie-goers are asked to arrive “spotted a man using black spray paint to between 7 and 7.45 p.m. The drive- Some younger members of the Photo courtesy of York Regional Police damage a Pride rainbow crosswalk.” in experience will begin immediately audience didn’t know just what to make “The man was placed under arrest and upon arrival with activity sheets specially of Aurora’s first drive-in movie experience Arrest made after spray has been charged,” said Sergeant Andy created to keep kids’ minds active as they last month but their eyes widened in paint incident, Police Pattenden. wait for the screen to flicker. delight as the giant screen came to life and The charges have not been proven. At traditional Movies in the Park seek info on driver the movie came through their respective “In the last 48 hours since its installation, events, a roster of free and interactive car radios. themed activities are the order of the day. By Brock Weir the crosswalk was already hit with two acts This was something that made the first of vandalism,” said Tristan Coolman, But this is anything but a traditional year; go-round in July all worthwhile for Shelley re-thinking tradition is essential. It took less than 24 hours for Aurora’s President of Pflag York Region, in a Ware, Special Events Coordinator for the “The custom-made activity sheets are newly inaugurated Rainbow Crosswalk statement. “There will always be hate Town of Aurora, and will make things themed to the movie and we’ve tied a bit to be vandalized and now York Regional in every community big and small, but twice as nice for Aurora’s second Drive-In of Aurora into it,” says Ms. Ware. “As the Police are seeking the public’s help in these acts of hate are just an example of Movie next Friday, September 24 at the kids get busy, not only will their wait times identifying the culprit. the hate that is woven through LGBTQ2 Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex, fly by, it creates another dimension to this “On Friday, August 21, York Regional history and our daily lived experiences. featuring… well, you’ll have to go to movie experience. We have tried to stay Police received a report from staff with These acts only continue to showcase to aurora.ca/moviesinthepark to find out consistent within our programming by the Town of Aurora regarding a suspected Aurora and surrounding communities which modern-day classic will grace the providing meaningful activity sheets that hate crime incident in the Town of Aurora that there are those who wish to obscure screen. will pique their curiosity, and the goal is following the unveiling of a new rainbow lived-experiences different from their own. Registration for this movie experience that everyone will learn something new to crosswalk located at Yonge Street and It is a type of hate all marginalized groups will open this Friday, August 28, at 6 a.m. them and stay busy. The entertainment Wellington,” said Constable Laura Nicolle like Black, Indigenous, Women, Muslim, at aurora.ca/eplay with one registration really begins as soon as they check in with on Friday. “Officers learned that just before Jewish and other communities continue to per vehicle as per health and safety us upon arrival.” midnight on Thursday, August 20, a pick- face that is both cultural in our behaviours guidelines handed down by the Province. Many families didn’t know exactly up truck drove over the crosswalk and left and systemic in our institutions. “Given the importance of history in what to expect when Aurora held their black tire skid marks over the rainbow “Those who continue act on their hate Aurora, this movie depicts that importance inaugural Drive-In on July 24, featuring area, then returned a short time later and fail to realize our resolve is much stronger. and how it piques your curiosity,” teases Cheaper by the Dozen 2, the film sequel left some more. Investigators believe that Marginalized groups like LGBTQ2 folks Ms. Ware of the motion picture. “If we go to the Steve Martin-Bonnie Hunt comedy the marks were done intentionally and this and their loved ones are more resilient beyond the linear experience of watching which was partially filmed in Aurora, but is being investigated as a hate-motivated than they think. We have faced a long the movie, I think it will help us to reflect everything went very smoothly. incident.” history of hate and discrimination carried on our history and also our present. The “We were very fortunate on July 24 Police describe the pick-up truck as light- on the shoulders of current and future two are always connected and one can’t to have really great weather, which we’re coloured. generations. Every day we live with that be without the other. The nature of crossing our fingers and toes that we “Investigators are asking any witnesses, weight and every June we carry on top of it this movie kind of creates a pathway to will be fortunate once again,” she says. anyone with information, or anyone with our message of Pride. Anyone who thought getting the younger generation excited “With Friday being the kick-off to the dashcam or video surveillance footage in a little vandalism can shake our resolve about looking into where our country Labour Day weekend, we wanted to have that area to please come forward. York clearly don’t know us very well.” and history comes from and how we can an exciting, free activity for residents. Regional Police does not tolerate hate Anyone with information can contact the curate the kind of future we want.” Hopefully this will be something crime in any form. 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DEEDS SPEAK – Recently retired York Regional Police Chief Eric Jolliffe was honoured by photographer Karen Merk, left, as part of her Portraits of Giving series, highlighting local individuals who have given back to the community. The Portraits of Giving series will be at the YRP’s Aurora Headquarters through August to give employees a chance to see outstanding community members. At a presentation on Thursday to mark the Portraits of Giving exhibition, the photographer, accompanied by Jolliffe, presented a cheque to Lorris Herenda, Executive Director of Yellow Brick House, which will go a long way for the locally-based women’s shelter. Auroran photo by Glenn Rodger Company inspires community and celebrates frontline heroes – one shirt at a time essential messages. We committed to support of front line workers.” to having their story shared on By Kinjal Dagli Shah donating a minimum of $2,500 to the The mother-of-two realized Breakfast Television, Baiden’s Southlake Foundation COVID-19 that her company specialized in fundraiser has received incredible Ann Baiden had never imagined Fund but our goal is to sell out of something that could be put to good support. “We have sent shirts from that her 20th year of being in our inventoried shirts and exceed the use to spread the message of hope coast to coast across Canada and business would be in the midst of amount,” said Baiden, whose team and support. received photos and notes from front a pandemic. As CEO and founder came together to plan the fundraiser. “As promotional product line workers saying how much they of Innovatex Solutions, a company “Susie Goobie, Client Experience distributors, we are aware of the love their shirts. Another favourite is specializing in promotional products, Creator and Sales Relationship recognition our products can garner a note from a parent who said their Baiden brainstormed ways to give Manager for Innovatex, spearheads with the correct messaging. We felt teenager wouldn’t stop wearing it, it back to the community even as many our Trees of Hope butterfly keychain these shirts would be like walking was his new favourite shirt.” of her clients closed shop in the early fundraiser in conjunction with the billboards that could bring our Stephen Ralls, a local customer days of the pandemic. Healing Gardens at Southlake and community together. Inspired by who ordered the t-shirts, was “We worked to design and produce she is the one who suggested the the front line workers at Southlake impressed with their efficiency. He shirts with both inspirational and Foundation’s COVID-19 Fund in Regional Health Centre, Innovatex wrote to them in an email, “Having began selling t-shirts and hoodies, worked in technologies and sales, designed with phrases like, I have never seen a faster delivery ‘Together We Got This’, ‘Apart But from an online order in my life. I Together’, ‘If you can read this you ordered, had dinner, went into town are closer than 2 metres’, and a for some supplies and the shirts were tribute shirt to nurses and doctors here when I got home. Thank you for reading: ‘Commitment, Sacrifice & getting behind Southlake with this Courage.’” fundraiser, I have family that work Baiden and her husband were there, it means so much to me. I can’t both born at Southlake Regional say enough about your support.” Health Centre, then known as The pandemic may be far from York County Hospital. Like many over but as Baiden pointed out, “we other parents, Baiden began used this time to better ourselves.” working from home while juggling To support the fundraiser and www.thefreewebsiteguys.com/free-site homeschooling when the closures order t-shirts, visit www.innovatex. were announced in March. “With ca/fundraiser many of our factories closed, it was challenging to do business in the early days of COVID-19, but we managed to service our clients and maintain our business standards of prompt and detailed service and delivery,” said the mother of two. “We are very fortunate at Innovatex to have an incredible team that works together and supports each other. We hosted regular zoom meetings and added fitness challenges to keep us motivated and engaged.” The support for her company’s fundraiser kept her going, too. “The community has been incredibly supportive and we love receiving their notes and photos,” said Baiden, who learned to drive the bobcat to ship some skids. “You do what you urora Chaber of Coerce have to do to ensure it all gets done, right?” irtual nnual eneral eeting From seeing photos of entire Thursday, Septeber 10th families wearing their t-shirts Contributed photo 4:30 6:00 p..

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With the culmination of years of planning What are we spending and the ability to generate any future tax rates. So, suggestions that pausing and preparation, Council is taking the final step 51 million on? higher tax revenues. Library Square would reduce taxes is either to approve the construction tender and ground- The project breaks down How will the extra uninformed or purposely misleading. breaking on the historic Library Square project. roughly as follows: space be used? What Why are we borrowing money when This is a significant investment in our • $27M for the Church type of programming recovery from this pandemic is community and residents have some tough, Street School addition, can we expect in the uncertain? important questions about the project. a 32,000 Sq. ft. multi new facility? The Town has enough money in our reserves So, let’s answer the questions and correct any purpose built facility Library Square will (i.e. savings account) to pay for the project in full. misinformation. • $8M for an Outdoor have a complex of larger However, we currently earn 3.0 – 3.5% interest How long have we been Square and Parking Getting multi-use spaces and on our Reserve Funds. So, it’s common sense planning Library Square? • $7.5M for break-out rooms to provide to take a low interest line of credit at 0.65% Municipal Councils have been discussing the enhancements and businesses and community or a debenture at 1.85% from the Province to revitalization of our downtown core for 40 years. expansion to the Things Done organizations a variety keep our reserves locked in earning a higher of options to hold their In 1979, Council held a special meeting to discuss existing Library Mayor rate of interest. Utilizing this fiscal strategy, the the future of Town-owned properties, especially Building programs and annual Town could realize over $1 million in additional Church Street School. • $4.5M for an enclosed Tom Mrakas events. Amenities include: investment income. With the completion of the In 2001, the first significant step to create Library pedestrian bridge • Outdoor Public Square: planned Library Square development, the Town Square was taken when the Town purchased seven linking the two facilities movies, concerts, ice skating, splash pad, space for will still have approximately $50 million in properties to build the Library and started the • $5M Contingency fund, a standard process public gathering, etc. reserves. A positive financial position that is the renovation of Church Street School. to have 10% set aside for unforeseen issues • Café and catering kitchen envy of many Municipalities. Phase 2 of Library Square began in 2005 that come up during construction. • Multi-use performance venue with versatile Wouldn’t it be more prudent to delay? when the Town sold Aurora Hydro and the If we do them all separately it will be less seating:Theatre, Conferences, Workshops, Year after year, people have said; “let’s go funds generated by the sale were designated for efficient, take more time overall and be more costly. Banquets,Fairs/Markets slow, let’s get more information, the time is not investment back into the Town. By combining them we have created synergies • Visual arts studio divisible to suit different uses right to spend tax dollars.” However, since then, In 2006, the new Seniors’ Centre was opened, and efficiencies that will save the Town time and • Dance studio construction costs have risen each year and we so we could repurpose the land from both the old money. • Environmentally controlled museum storage have not enjoyed the benefit of the facility for use Library and Seniors’ Centre. How are we paying for this project? • Multi-use programming space at Library or the positive impact on our downtown core to Since then we have had 15 years of discussion, Funds for this $51.9 million project will come What about parking? support business. debate, public consultation and expensive from a combination of sources. $24.3M from the is there appropriate Accessibility Parking? The studies are done, and we have a responsible consultant’s reports. 15 years with no improvement Hydro Reserve Fund. $20.1M from Development The downtown core parking study identified funding plan that does not impact future tax rates. to our downtown to support struggling local Charges/Reserve Funds and the balance of $7.5M over 400 parking spots within the same equivalent Equally important, we had a very competitive businesses. 15 years of spending time and money from a 20-year debenture. space as the Walmart plaza. This ensures visitors tendering process because many companies are with nothing to show for the tax dollars spent – but What will the impact be on our taxes? can enjoy the magic of Library Square while seeking projects to keep their people employed, so bills and empty storefronts. As part of our long-term financial planning, the creating a walkable, pedestrian friendly, downtown we received very cost-effective pricing and we are Further delay will only lead to further decay. Town works on the budgeting principle of inflation core. Additionally, there will be an improvement generating jobs. As we recover from a global pandemic, is plus 1.0%. This anticipates the need for increased in accessible parking that exceeds the legislated What are the downsides of delaying? this the right time to invest $51 million on new access to services to support new residents moving requirements. There are 4 key downsides of delaying this infrastructure? into Town as well as maintain and repair existing What are Reserve Funds? Can this money project. Yes, our local economy needs investment more infrastructure. The construction of Library Square be used for something else? 1. Downtown needs our support now. The than ever. With local businesses experiencing will not impact this planning principle. This long- No, Reserve Funds are special savings longer we delay, the longer before financial hardship, doing nothing does nothing to term planning is also how we have been able to accounts which should not be used other than this critical element of our downtown help our local businesses. keep tax increases near 3.0% and avoid a significant for the specific purpose they were created for – revitalization plan can have a positive From Brampton to Burlington, from increase in any single year as new services launch. such as Parkland, Facility Repair & Replacement, impact on our local economy Markham to Newmarket, improvements in How will this help revitalize our downtown Library, etc. They should not be used to reduce 2. Our community partners need other municipalities have proven that when core? operating costs and the resultant tax rate. programming space now communities invest in their downtown core, the Building on the investments of the Library, As part of the Town’s long-term planning, each 3. Construction costs invariably rise each area sees improvement and renewal. Investing in The Armoury and Town Park, Library Square year a percentage of our tax revenue is transferred year. Delays today mean the project will the revitalization of our downtown, is central to creates a destination for people to gather based on to Reserve Funds to pay for future infrastructure cost more later the economic development of the community as programming by the Town and our partners. This needs. This is comparable to putting money into 4. Interest rates are currently low. As the a whole. will bring people downtown more frequently and a home repair account each year so you have economy improves, interest rates will As reported in the Aurora Museum and will help generate an environment for stores and enough to replace your roof or purchase a new increase Cultural Centre Business Plan presented at the restaurants to thrive. fridge when it needs replacement. It’s prudent 5. There has never been a better time to March 21, 2019 Council meeting, “…the creation We need to provide spaces in our Town that will financial management. However, unlike your invest in our community! of a cultural hub in Aurora’s downtown will act provide a reason for our residents to continue to home repair account, Reserve Funds should only I am proud of the work the previous Council as a catalyst for redevelopment which will provide shop locally as opposed to going to neighbouring be used for the purpose they were created. started and this Council will finish by taking spin off benefits to local business along Yonge communities for their leisure and shopping. Similarly, Development Charges can only be the final historic next step to make the long- Street.” Additionally, experiences in other communities used for infrastructure projects like roads, parkland term vision for our downtown core a reality; It is also why the Federal and Provincial make a strong financial case for investing in our acquisition, and development of community a practical, productive step forward to build a Governments are investing $1 billion in downtown. Successful downtown revitalizations amenities like pools, arenas and libraries. stronger community with a vibrant downtown infrastructure projects, from recreation centres have triggered $10 to $15 of private investment for Simply put, none of these designated funds core and a thriving local economy. to cultural centres, roads, bridges and housing every $1 of public investment. So, in our case, our would ever be used towards our yearly operating As the former Mayor Dick Illingworth — because that is how you stimulate economic $51 million investment could ultimately generate budget. Contributions to our Reserve Funds have said in 2005, “Round and Round on Library recovery. over $500 million of private investment in Aurora been part of our long-term planning for many Square.” After 15 years, it’s time we get off the Investment inspires investment. Pausing doesn’t in the years to come. These investments create years, so building Library Square today versus merry go round and get things done — and stimulate the economy – it risks stagnating it. ongoing benefits for a thriving local economy in the future using these funds has no impact on done right. Page 10 THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020 “We’re guardians, not warriors” – Deputy Chief Crawford prepares to hang up his badge warrior mentality,” says Crawford. “We’re By Brock Weir guardians, we’re not warriors. We’re specifically looking after our community, Police are sometimes painted with especially here in York Region. It is not the broad brush of having a “warrior about the bad guy, it is about 99 per cent mentality,” but that doesn’t reflect the of the people who are working hard and experience of York Region Deputy Chief doing their best. They are the ones we are Andre Crawford. here to serve, protect and look after. DAMIR VRANCIC Crawford, a long-time Aurora resident, “There is the misconception that is set to hang up his badge on September we run around in our pretty cars, lights LAW OFFICE 29, 34 years to the day after first entering flashing, arresting people, when it is really BUSINESS LAW, policing after a career in banking. about making sure people are safe and REAL ESTATE, Over that time, he has seen myriad doing what we can to engage with people.” WILLS & ESTATES changes at the York Regional Police, Community engagement has been an but one thing has remained steadfast: important part of his long career in the 905-841-6411 his philosophy that police are here to be force, especially fostering connections with Providing valued and trusted “guardians of the people.” young people. For him, engagement means legal advice since 1983 “We’re often viewed as warriors building relationships and that is just what and policing has a long tradition of the he set out to do when he looked at a career change more than three decades ago. Crawford wasn’t one of those young boys who grew up with dreams of being MOVE IN Next Spring a police officer. After graduating from university, he worked at the Royal Bank York Regional Police Deputy Chief Andre Crawford retires next month after more than 30 for six years before he began looking for years on the Force. something different. Contributed photo A cousin working with the Toronto Police Service suggested a move to the Woodland uniform and Crawford decided to apply – guy. It gives me shivers just talking about it just in time for Toronto to impose a hiring [remembering] the relief on her face and freeze in the middle of his application the tears welling up in her eyes. It is just the process. sense that something had been done and Towers Within months, however, opportunities I will never forget that until the day I die. cropped up in York Region, a place at the She was just so relieved. time was viewed as “all country” for the “For me, that is what it is all about. That York Region’s best then 28-year-old Willowdale native. is the case I will remember forever not “I liked the way my cousin sold policing because we got the bad guy, but because retirement living value to me: you were helping the community, we looked after the victim.” you got to patrol around and it sounded like Outside of policing, Andre Crawford • below market, life-lease purchase another team,” he says. “I was fortunate to is an active member of the community. join with York. I look back now and think, Although he describes himself as “not • includes dinner package options what if I got onto Toronto with 5,000 overly religious,” church life has been a • caring and vibrant community members? Where would I have ended up? “big part” of his life as an Aurora resident. “Life is a strange thing. It points you An active member of Our Lady of • multiple dining, lounge, social, in different directions and you take the Grace Catholic Church, he serves as both fitness and wellness amenities opportunities that come to you. I ended up a eucharistic minister as well as a member • on-site pond and green spaces in York never imagining I would go up the of the Parish Council. He is also a long- ranks to Deputy Chief, but things happen time volunteer with the Aurora Film One (+ den) and two-bedroom suites still available and that is what it is all about.” Circuit, reflecting his passion for film. Before he rose up the ranks, Crawford “I don’t live and breathe policing,” he Call 905 503-5560 today was on the frontlines, assigned to the YRP’s says. “I like to do other things as well, so sexual assault unit. the Film Circuit is a nice outlet and a nice It is here where he experienced what he way to get involved.” describes as his most rewarding experience With little over a month left in his on the force. policing career, Crawford says he is looking Assigned to a sexual assault case where forward to what the next chapter will bring. the victim was a young woman, Crawford He is spending the next few weeks tying and his partner received a tip and, with up loose ends and working with incoming that, they were able to break the case. deputies to make sure everyone is up to It is not the fact the perpetrator was speed for a seamless transition. DINNERSDINNERS INCLUDEDINCLUDED arrested and served jail time that he looks When asked what advice he plans on withwith PurchasePurchase back on, but the impact cracking the case giving to his successor, he says the most had on the young woman. important thing is to “have an open mind 400 William Graham Drive, Aurora “I am a big believer in victim advocacy and listen to what people say.” because we’re doing it for the victims and, “People have a voice and we especially Presentation Centre Hours in the big criminal justice system of ours, a in law enforcement and the police world, Monday-Friday 10:00am-4:00pm lot of times the victim gets forgotten and it we can’t close our minds and think that we Saturday 10:00am-3:00pm is the bad guy [who] is in focus,” he says. know it all and we know exactly how best Appointments preferred. Drop-ins welcome. A Christian Seniors Lifestyle Community “I always try to remember that the victim to do things,” he says. “We need to listen is the most important person in anything to people. People have a voice, people that happens. I will always remember have opinions. Their opinions can make the of .com when we got him… and I was able to tell us better. We should always strive to be meadows aurora her personally to her face that we got the better.”

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CMCA Vol. 20 No. 45 905-727-3300 TheAuroran.com FREE Week of August 27, 2020 AUDITED Nine Stripes come back to earn first point in the Island Games Gabriel Vasconcelos who couldn’t tuck competitive match, and, at times, there bringing in some of the young players. By Robert Belardi it in. were some moments where the club did He says his young players proved a Towards the end of the first half, the right things. It was a scrappy first point. The Canadian Premier League it was Atletico Ottawa that began to half and it took time for the guys to get “We told them, go out there, go never thought their second season as a control the tempo of the game. into rhythm, and Brennan felt that the express yourself, go play your football professional entity would be held in a Fullback Vashon Neufville sprinted team did create chances at some points and enjoy it. They did today and then hub city. past Ryan Telfer on the left-hand in that game. they proved a point and more or less, Held at the University of Prince side of the box and his low-cross into The gaffer began a lot of his showed us they can play. They can Edward Island’s (UPEI) artificial turf the 18-yeard area found Mohamed experienced players on the squad, before compete in this league.” field in Charlottetown, its 35-match Kourouma who tucked the ball into tournament began on August 13 the back of the net for the first goal for between Forge FC and Cavalry FC. Ottawa’s new franchise. Already dubbed a unique tournament The club’s second goal didn’t take by York9 FC head coach Jimmy long. One minute in the second half, No Power, No Problem Brennan, the League’s presser prior No Power, No Problem Miguel Mista’s men got on the board Engineered toto circulatecirculateNo airair throughthroughPower, natural natural Engineered toto circulatecirculate airair throughthrough natural natural to the first official kick-off informed again. Francisco Acuna was sent in convection,convection, thethe ValorValor SmartSmart FireFire convection,convection, thethe ValorValor SmartSmart FireFire fans, players and media of a creative isis aa highlyhighly efficienteffiNo cient fi fireplacerpaceProblem without without behind the defence from an over-the-top isis aa highlyhighly efficienteffi cient fi fireplacerpace without without a fanEngineered – providingproviding to reliable reliable circulate heat, heat, air through natural beginning to the games. pass and fed the ball across to Malcolm a fan – providingproviding reliable reliable heat, heat, evenevenconvection, duringduring aa power powerthe Valor failure.failure. Smart Fire is a highly “The Mi’Kmaq Community blessed Shaw for the second goal. eveneven duringduring aa powerpower failure.failure. BurnBurneffi CleancientClean EngineeredFireplaceEngineered without Green.Green. a fan – providing land for the commencement of the The celebrations didn’t last long, BurnBurn CleanClean EngineeredEngineered Green.Green. 1324reliable Wellington1324 heat, St.Wellington evenW., King during St.City W., a Kingpower City failure. Canadian Premier League Island however, as Neufville was given a Burn Clean Engineered Green Games in Charlottetown, Prince second yellow card after a collision with 905-727-2392905-727-2392 Edward Island. Blessing and Ceremony Di Chiara and Ottawa went down to WOOD • WOODGAS • FIREPLACES • GAS • FIREPLACES • STOVES • STOVES were performed by the first Mi’Kmaq 10-men. Poet Laureate of PEI, Julie Pellissier When Brennan said there will come a 1324 Wellington St. W., King City 905-727-2392 Lush and The Mi’Kmaq Heritage time to adjust and to decide as a gaffer, Actors, a group established in 2011 and this was the moment. made up of Indigenous youth,” said the His triple substitution following League. the red card saw 16-year-old forward They also mentioned that every team Lowell Wright, 19-year-old Max Ferrari will honour Black Lives Matter before and Japanese international Wataru every match, making a statement at the Murofushi come on and make an instant centre of the pitch, where Black Lives impact. Matter is written. Just over seven minutes of being on Forge and Cavalry tied their match the pitch, Ferrari made a surging run 2-2 on the Friday and it was time for down the right flank and set up Wright the Nine Stripes head coach Jimmy for the easy tap in to bring the game Brennan to address the media before back into arm’s reach. his club’s heavy-weight tilt last Saturday The Brampton native became the against newcomers to the league; youngest CPL goal scorer at 16 years, 11 Atletico Ottawa. months and 26 days and said it meant [email protected] Brennan said everyone is in the same a lot to be the first one to score for the 905.841.0916 boat. Fitness levels are as good as they club this year. can be, but it will all be about making “It means a lot. First, I got to give the right adjustments at the right time thanks to God for blessing me to be able and bringing in the right guys off of the to do that and I got to give thanks to the bench. gaf Jim and Stalteri for trusting me,” He also said the bond with the group Wright said after the game. is becoming stronger. Seeing each other Over two minutes, Y9 was awarded every day and having access to ping a penalty and Joseph Di Chiara tied the pong tables and television in the hotel game up from 12 yards out. has given all the players enjoyment in a The match ended 2-2 with York9 very restrictive bubble. coming close to completing a comeback, The Nine Stripes began without having taken 11 shots in the second half Christopher Manella, captain Manuel and holding 60.1 per cent possession. Aparicio and Michael Petrasso due to “I was disappointed going into half injuries. One of the favourites of the time conceding in the 47th minute,” tournament, already down three men, said Brennan in the post-game press

Central defender Luca Gasparotto conference. We are excited to accept new boarders and students at our newly upgraded facility. It boasts an 150 x 220 outdoor arena. And a 80 x 200 indoor arena with a large wore the captain’s armband. “It was a terrible goal for us to heated viewing room/ lounge to provide a comfortable area for parents and siblings to sit and watch lessons. We have trails and numerous paddocks for our horses With Nigel Reed and former concede. We had a good conversation at to enjoy some grass and relax. Canadian International Craig Forrest half time. Said what we needed to work on the commentary for CBC in this on and we came out in the second half Quarter Valley Stables PLEASE DROP BY FOR A VISIT. 15134 Dufferin Street, game, this tilt was off to a slow and flat footed. Made those changes right King City, Ontario scrappy start. away brought on the young boys to give L7B 1K5 New signing from Spain, Alvaro us some life and changed our formation Rivero, rifled a strike directly at as well.” goalkeeper Nacho Zabal. Joseph Di Y9 began the match in a 4-4-2 Chiara threatened the opposition in the diamond formation and transitioned Contact info: Look for us on Facebook and rd 416-527-4683 Instagram 23 minute with a low shot that trickled into a 4-3-3. [email protected] past the post and passed a trailing Auroran Sports Page Base Bar 2018.qxp_Layout 1 2020-03-02Brennan 4:20 PM acknowledged Page 1 this is the first

Caring for Our Community

newroads.ca Page 12 THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020 Aurorapalooza strikes just the right note for Canadian Mental Health Association and I knew the space at Town Park By Brock Weir was perfect because they already had a stage, so I put my entrepreneurial Planning a music festival in the cap on and just did it myself instead midst of a global pandemic is a tall of waiting for it to happen,” he says, order for even the most seasoned event noting an added bonus was the Town producers, but 23-year-old Aurora had recently moved forward with its resident Joel Gouveia pulled off a sold- plan for a socially-distant Concerts out show in less than three weeks, one in the Park series, so social “bubbles” which went a long way to giving back were already marked on the lawn in to the local community. front of the Town Park bandshell. Mr. Gouveia, a budding music “That made my life a lot easier,” he industry professional, recently says with a laugh. welcomed 100 music lovers to Town The next step was booking the Park – and tens of thousands of music and, drawing on his contacts, streaming music fans from all over the he assembled Yellow Magnolia (Evin world – for Aurorapalooza, the first of Jennings, Jake Allen, Keith Jarvis, what is hoped to be an annual event and Owen Jennings), The Beresfords showcasing local musicians, benefiting (Brendan Beresford, Shannon the Canadian Mental Health Beresford, Graham Unsted, and Association. Carlos Aguilera), and Ed Jackson & His A self-described “concert junkie” AURORAPALOOZA – Volunteers Anton Lewis, Micheal Campea, Gill Redpath, Aaron Knights, Band (Jackson, Manny De Grandis and Anya De La Haye, Mac Thomas, and Austin Kiddey kept the party going – and posed with a banner who attends up to 20 live music events Robin Joly). created by artist Lxyxt. INSET: Event director Joel Gouveia is congratulated by Mayor Tom Mrakas. each year, Mr. Gouveia says he was “I knew they were all super-talented, “devastated” when countless concerts so I figured it would be the perfect Auroran photos by Glenn Rodger were scuttled due to COVID-19. But, combination to bring everyone from present emergency restrictions, sold fun things. It is something I really as soon as York Region entered Stage Aurora in,” says Gouveia. “They were out in just a couple of hours, and each care about and I thought this was the 3 of the Province’s plan to re-open the perfect combo. I have known all ticketholder not only had a chance to perfect time to tackle it and give back Ontario, he saw an opportunity and three acts personally for a long time, enjoy live music, but support a worthy as much as I can because it has been approached the Town to examine the so it made my life really easy. I wasn’t organization at the same time. a really crappy time over the last few possibilities. dealing with any strangers or booking “We wanted to raise as much money months. Even if you don’t actually “We were allowed 100 people in one agents, so it was all personal.” as possible for the Canadian Mental have a mental illness, I think it has been spot and live concerts were technically And the line-up was potent. The 100 Health Association,” he explained, tough on mental health overall.” legal, so I thought I could just do it tickets, the maximum allowed under adding that each ticket purchaser had With the first sell-out Aurorapalooza myself; I knew a bunch of local bands the option to donate to the cause at in the books, Mr. Gouveia is looking the point of purchase or make further forward to building on this year’s donations to a Go Fund Me campaign. success for year two – and next time “We’re trying to break the stigma. with a bit more time to plan. BPS Now, more than ever, it is really “I want to plan it months ahead important and it is something that of time,” he says. “The person I was Plumbing Service effects every one of us. Whether you working with at the Town said, ‘Just so EST. 1972 have a mental illness or not, I am sure you know, things don’t usually happen everyone knows someone who does. It this fast. Let us know five or six months is something I really care about. ahead of time,’ so I was doing this on “With quarantine and everything top of my day job, scrambling around • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL that happened in March, it is a really for three weeks, working 16-hour days, 905-727-3210 hard on the mental health of people just to put this together. Being able to if we’re not allowed to see our friends put this together in three weeks was ga and our families as much and go do amazing.” Concerts in the Park welcomes homegrown talent

Aurora’s popular Concerts in the Park summer series continued last Wednesday, April 19, with the homegrown country-rock band Johnson’s Creek. (Top) Members Glenn Code, Michael Lanteigne and Mike Crombez entertain the socially distant crowd. (Middle Left) Marcella and baby Charlotte were residents able to secure two of the the 100 spaces at Town Park. (Middle Right) Alessia Bozzo, Aurora’s 2020 Teen Idol, begins the musical program. (Bottom) The band, including drummer Jake Adams, are pictured with Mayor Tom Mrakas at the bandshell. The Concerts in the Park series concludes next Wednesday, September 2, with Classic Lightfoot Live (See Page 18). For more on the series, including how to reserve your spot, visit aurora.ca/ summerconcerts. Auroran photos by Glenn Rodger THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020 Page 13 th Celebrating our 20 Year! The Auroran at 20: Reopening Trinity Anglican schools safely Church is important part matters to of Aurora’s cultural core everyone

By Brock Weir The renovation and restoration of Trinity has been in the planning stages for more than 10 That’s why the government Library Square has received a years. Its scope and scale reflects both the social significant amount of focus in recent and spiritual growth of the town as a whole. of Ontario has worked with weeks as the Town looks to take another Since the early 1990s, Trinity’s congregation step on the path towards downtown has grown to the point where it is now considered health o cials, school revitalization. among the top 10 growing Protestant parishes Recent Councils have zeroed in on the in North America. boards and educators to importance of what has become known The old church, built in the late 1800s, has as Aurora’s “Cultural Precinct” to the become a chapel for smaller worship gatherings develop a comprehensive overall vision of the historic downtown and meetings. and, in our first year of publication, an Trinity Anglican has been a part of the plan to keep kids and sta integral part of that precinct was ready Aurora community for more than 150 years. to open its doors. This is the third building on the site and is, safe. The May 29, 2001 edition of The without a doubt, the most expensive. Auroran was a first for the paper, The first church was built for about $1,600 • Physical distancing featuring a special pull-out section and the second for about $7,200. to commemorate the opening of the St. Andrew’s College wasn’t the only site measures will be newly-expanded Trinity Anglican made available to the Trinity family during the Church. construction. implemented such as desk It was a momentous occasion for the Church group meetings throughout the week Trinity community and, in time, it would were given space courtesy of Aurora’s Howard separation, signs, floor prove to be an important milestone for Johnson Hotel, while Our Lady of Grace, the wider community as well. St. Andrew’s Presbyterian and St. Paul’s markings and one-way Over the last 20 years, Trinity has in Newmarket, opened their doors to provide become an important community hub worship space for funerals, weddings and choir hallways. for numerous programs and services, practices. including Welcoming Arms, The ABLE “We are deeply grateful to those who have • Face coverings will be Network, the Clothes Closet and, welcomed us and give us the opportunity to following a devastating fire in April continue our mission as a community of faith required for sta and 2014, welcomed the Aurora United this past year,” said Rev. Poole. “This is Church under their Victoria and an exciting time for our parish. We welcome students in Grades 4-12. Church roof. everyone to be a part of our vision for the future.” THE TOP STORY • Hand hygiene will be TRINITY SPONSORS The impending visit of then-premier enabled with hand Mike Harris to the upcoming Aurora Inside, the special pull-out Street Sale, as the Aurora Chamber section included an interview with sanitizer and hand Street Festival was then known, might the Reverend Canon Philip Poole, have taken the top banner, but Trinity’s photographs of Trinity in transition, washing. re-opening is what ultimately drew and a full page of local businesses the eye, along with the headline “The welcoming Trinity home. Participating • More nurses will be in waiting is over.” businesses included Shopper’s Drug Mart, Tayson Meats, Omar’s Shoes, schools. The 400 seats will be filled Sunday morning Hartwell Thayer Financial Services as Aurora’s brand-new Trinity Anglican Group, realtor Sean Herbinson, The Church addition opens to its parishioners for Hurst Bakery, Thompson Funeral • School cleaning will be the first time. Home, Irene Robinson Interiors Co., For the past 13 months, the 700 families of Barth’s Dry Cleaners, Biggs’ Gallery enhanced. the church have been holding worship services at and Framing Shop, Decorating Works! St. Andrew’s College. Interiors, and Marilyn Redvers – the Now, the $3.8 million project is about to late realtor who also chaired Trinity’s become a reality, as the 117-year-old building Capital Campaign. puts on a new face and multiplies the available Aurora’s then-mayor Tim Jones also usage area. offered a message on Trinity’s milestone: A total of 17,000 square feet of space has been added to the original 2,700 square foot TIM’S PERSPECTIVE building. And, as far as the congregation is concerned, While walking through the downtown core it’s time to let the celebrations begin. last week, it was hard not to look up the street and notice the wonderful addition to the Trinity As noted on the front page, the Anglican Church which is almost completed. dedication was set to take place The official re-opening ceremony is scheduled Wednesday, June 6, 2001 with a special for June 6. What a tremendous addition to our musical program. An ecumenical Town. I admire the thought that has gone into service was followed the following blending the old and the new on this site as evening, involving music from Our well as the consideration to the aesthetics that Lady of Grace Catholic Church and surround this revitalized place of worship. And Aurora United Church, alongside not just a place of worship, but also a gathering Trinity talents. place for numerous functions and potential Festivities continued June 9, with opportunities. guided tours of the new building, a It did not seem that long ago when Stephen “Stewardship Fair” featuring displays Mills and Father Philip Poole appeared before from church groups, and a full day-long Council with their vision. Given the location music program: of the church, right in the downtown core of our Town, we all did our best to ensure The new building includes a Christian that sensitivity was given to the surrounding education centre, modern nursery facilities, functions of the area. Personally speaking, I church hall and office space. am very proud of this rejuvenated facility. This The old church building is linked to the is such a successful example of maintaining the new facility and will be used as a chapel and historic value we try so hard to preserve while meeting area. also considering the more modern applications “This has been a project of tremendous of today’s society. scope and it required the commitment and vision It is a tribute to all the parishioners of Trinity of all parishioners to see it through,” said Rev. who have believed in and supported this vision Canon Philip Poole, rector of the church. Our from its inception. On behalf of the members parish is privileged to have been a part of the of Council, I offer congratulations to all who Visit ontario.ca/ReopeningSchools creation of a new church; we have a lot to be played a part in this wonderful reconstruction Paid for by the Government of Ontario thankful for.” right in the heart of our Town. Page 14 THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020 “I am definitely the black sheep in the bunch,” says Gallo on Council decisions category, he says, are both Library Square By Brock Weir and Council’s $7.5 million purchase of buildings just north of the Aurora Public Councillor John Gallo says he sometimes Library as part of that greater Library feels like “the black sheep in the bunch” Square vision. when it comes to Council’s decisions. It “I am not sure to what extent the general is not something he necessarily wants to public is [aware] of what we’re actually hang his hat on – indeed, he says he is doing and that has always been my issue,” “disappointed” that this is the reality he says Councillor Gallo. “Our connection to sees, but, “I just don’t know how else to do the residents has been extremely poor and it.” it is clear I have a different perspective on Speaking to The Auroran ahead of how Council should conduct business than Council’s decision this week on tendering some others.” out the redevelopment of Library Square, In recent weeks, Councillor Gallo has he said “Some of the things are just so made his position on Library Square clear. shocking that it is beyond me.” From his perspective, it is time to hit “pause” “Some things just don’t sit well with me on the project due to financial uncertainty and I can’t get over that,” he says. “There is stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. more happening that I am not in the loop, “We’re in an unprecedented time and I or at least that must be happening that I think some of my colleagues, unfortunately, am not in the loop for some of the Council have their heads in the sand,” he says of members to make the decisions they make, the Town’s finances, an issue he cites as Councillor John Gallo is pictured at the Aurora Community Arboretum. and I just can’t explain it any other way. one area he will be particularly focused on Auroran photo by Brock Weir They just don’t make sense to me.” once Council resumes regular meetings Among the decisions that fall into this next month. “I don’t think they realize the impact this global pandemic is going might have on that particular sector, he says to have on our finances. To me, that is a there was a “great exchange of information Advertorial huge concern and I am trying my best to and a great depth of knowledge” that was convince them, particularly the two major shared around the table, and the initiatives Studying Online is a issues – to really reflect on it and better stemming from the group “demonstrated understand whether it is the right time or how wonderful a community we have” and Viable Option for High not. how knowledge and talent can be tapped. “To me, there are significant issues that As Council shifted focus to COVID-19, really haven’t been planned out to the Councillor Gallo says some initiatives he School Students degree they should. At least as a sitting was looking to bring forward had to be Given the risks and uncertainties ASK Online teachers are an email, councillor, I am unsure [of] the impact of pushed to the backburner, but come this around back to school plans in Ontario, phone call or Zoom meeting away. We spending all that money [will have] on our fall, these will be in focus. studying online remains a consistent and want students to succeed! reserves. Our financial position relies on Among them is a motion to allow schools viable option for high school students. Finally, anytime but especially during the income from that, which goes towards to use municipally-owned parks during the Why? these uncertain times, online students some operating through reserves. We have school year, something that is not presently Students can log-in and study at their will not experience gaps in their learning. to make that all up. There are a lot of allowed. leisure; they can start and complete their Online students have access to full course question marks there.” “It just doesn’t make sense to me,” he courses at their own pace regardless of content and are expected to demonstrate The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown says. “They are all taxpayers. Short of on-site school schedules. Students can achievement of course expectations so up “a lot of question marks” across the maybe some liability issues and teachers study, complete assessments, projects and there should not be any learning gaps. board, not the least of which is Council’s crossing over to public property and having assignments at their own pace. Students This is particularly important for students ability to convene and engage residents, he kids there, I am sure we can overcome those can complete courses faster or take longer in Grade 12 who are planning to enter contends. and there is no reason why kids couldn’t use to absorb and process course material. university or college in the near future but Meeting remotely on Zoom since April, Town parks during school hours.” ASK Online Canada students are in nonetheless important for all students. Councillor Gallo says he has “felt a bit of a He also plans on continuing to work with complete control of their learning paths ASK Online Canada is a private, online disconnect with the public” in not having Town staff and Metrolinx on pedestrian regardless of external factors! school, authorized by the Ontario Ministry of that in-person engagement and has looked railway crossings, building on a motion he Students have access to caring teachers Education to grant credits towards the OSSD. for ways to remedy that situation. Looking successfully presented to Council earlier at all times throughout their course! If ASK Online Canada is a solid choice for high at a few different options, he has increasingly this year. students are unsure about concepts or school students. For more information, call 416- focused on engagement through a series “One of the things I asked for was a need clarifi cation solving a problem, 735-5547 or email [email protected]. of YouTube videos re-capping that week’s status report on where we are,” he says. “I Council or General Committee meeting think September or October is where they and the decisions that had been made, as will be putting a report to Council.” well as through social media channels. But, in the months ahead, putting a Bay Street Service, “I figured I could make a connection sharp focus on the Town’s finances and Aurora Prices! with residents in that way, but I am still continuing to build connections with the trying to figure out how to get a two-way Gerry is available by appointment in his Aurora Office for public, will be a primary effort. Business, Real Estate and other legal matters. conversation going,” he says, but he notes “Personally, I feel I am connecting more

905-727-9361 (Aurora Line) there are certain things about the Zoom with the residents and they’re hopefully Gerry Miller Managing Partner meetings he has come to like. “[Outside of listening to what I have to say,” he says. “I Council chambers in this setting] you can hope that even though I realize I brought actually see people’s faces and reactions to some negative energy to the Council table, I different things. I find value to get a sense of really didn’t know how else to do it for them where that Council member is or where a to perk up and listen. I am not suggesting staff member is, seeing them face to face. I I know it all, but I have some experience didn’t expect to have that.” and I hopefully have a pretty good sense of Despite Council not being able to host making good decisions. I have connected meetings in chambers for most of the first with residents [and] hopefully turned a half of 2020, Councillor Gallo says he is negative into a positive. proud of some of the achievements that “I am just going to continue what I am have been made. doing. I really hope I am effective. I want to 390 Bay Street, Suite 1202 GARDINER MILLER ARNOLD LLP Toronto, ON M5H 2Y2 An active member of the Town’s Arts get back to work and do some good things Tel: 416-363-2614 Fax: 416-363-8451 BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS and Culture Roundtable, a group brought for the Town, but there are some struggles G M A www.gmalaw.ca Blog: www.ontariocondolaw.com together to discuss the impacts COVID-19 before we get there.”

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15900 Bayview Avenue Aurora, Ontario, L4G 7Y3 905-726-9532 THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020 Page 17 "Decades of delay" has led to downtown decay: Mayor From page 1 do not have a Council resolution that and Cultural Centre] that there is a need. downtown core; it is a re-connection,” he of this Council and the term before us… is authorizing us to spend the Hydro Certainly we, as proxies for residents, said. “Re-establishing that connection is the Council may not have always agreed on funds. It is clear the funding strategies and as Board of Directors of the Town key to rebuilding a vibrant local economy. the when and the how, but we did [on] for Library Square, which authorize the Corporation, we have to think of the It represents a significant investment in why Library Square is important.” use of the Hydro Funds, was subject to future, think of the vision for what Aurora the revitalization of our downtown core, Few individuals at Town Hall on the grant application’s success. We were can and would look like in the future… but importantly in Aurora as a whole, Tuesday night questioned the importance unsuccessful and therefore a new meeting “When this project is built, I hope so we can realize Aurora’s potential to of Library Square as a whole, but there with proper notice needs to happen before there is some capacity so there is room to be a strong, vibrant locally-supported” were many stops and starts throughout the we continue. grow in this structure. That is what we, as economy and community. Building on the evening on whether the plan ultimately “You should be aware that there are leaders, have to consider. We’re building investments of the Library, the Armoury approved by Council was the right one – many people out there that – I don’t want for tomorrow. I would submit that there and Town Park, Library Square creates and at the right time. to say this as some kind of a threat or has been a lot of consultation through this a destination for people to gather and Before the start of the meeting, something, but there is a lot of passion out over the last several years and I am quite businesses to locate and grow. nearly two dozen community members, there for this issue and they are well aware confident in the financial position of the “Decades of delay has led to further including some past members of Council, of what is happening. Now that they hear Town of Aurora and I am confident that decay. Our businesses and residents have gathered to protest the plan as presented, this, I wouldn’t be surprised if some legal we have the means to pay for the project.” made it clear they want and deserve more. questioning the long-term financial action is taken.” As was Mayor Tom Mrakas, who said We had a very competitive tendering impacts the project might have on the But staff and Council members alike Council’s approval is “the exciting last step process and received very cost-effective community, particularly spending reserve insisted that Tuesday’s resolution followed in a decades-long journey to translate ideas pricing due to many companies seeking funds in a time of economic uncertainty previous motions and stated their case for into action and realize a shared vision” for projects to keep their people employed. stemming from COVID-19. forging forward. Aurora’s historic downtown core. Construction costs invariably rise each These concerns were echoed inside “I have heard from many residents “Over the course of many years, year. Delays today mean the project will Council Chambers by Councillors Wendy and businesses who are just as passionate thousands of residents, businesses and cost more later. We cannot continue to ride Gaertner, John Gallo and Rachel Gilliland, as we are about this historic project, not Council members have directly contributed the merry-go-round of indecision. The each of whom encouraged Council to just in its immediate economic impact in to this shared vision and it is stronger for studies are done and we have a reasonable press “pause” and wait until the fall for a helping the local economy recover from it,” he said. “Library Square has been a funding plan in place that recognizes pending budget update. the pandemic, but how this investment hot topic for decades and most certainly at our residents’ tax concerns and does not “There is a lot of uncertainty with an will act as a catalyst for future economic, every election cycle. Every member sitting impact future tax rates. As we seek to investment this large,” said Councillor social and cultural growth in Aurora,” around this table has discussed in length recover from the ongoing impacts of the Gilliland, contending there is additional said Councillor Sandra Humfryes. the revitalization of our downtown core, pandemic, it is clear our local economy uncertainty on how spaces like what is “This project represents sound public as have the members of many Councils needs investment now more than ever. planned for Library Square will be used investment in our economy that will foster before us. Why? Because we all recognize Now is not the time for inaction. There in a post-COVID world. “It is prudent to a renaissance for the downtown core. its importance.” has never been a better time to make this consider what any financial situation might “I have campaigned and been elected The Downtown Core, he added, is investment in our community.” look like as a result of COVID-19 and [in] on the platform of taking meaningful economic, social and cultural hub in the these uncertain times I am concerned not action towards the revitalization of community but a lack of investment in it NEXT WEEK: The Library, Cultural only personally but professionally and, Library Square. Our downtown core has resulted in a decline. Centre, Chamber of Commerce and members of most importantly, as an elected official. has been in desperate need of significant “The project is not just revitalizing our the public state their cases. How we socialize might look different for capital investment for quite some time, but a rather long time. there has never been the right project or “I am not saying shelve this. I am the political will to make it happen. For saying, why not buy some time? We have too long, little has been done to renew our 120 days (until the tender bid expires). We downtown core. Despite the desperate have a report coming back to Council need, the untold taxpayer dollars spent in October. The director has said it is no on report after report, from expensive problem, we can have something to give consultant after expensive consultant, us that visual. Why not take advantage of year after year, Council after Council and www.tholiver.com that time while we have it on our side?” always the same result: ‘Let’s wait, let’s For Councillor Gaertner, the Library rethink, pause, don’t move ahead.’ No, 905.727.4258 Square decision was “the most critical I think the residents have been through decision Council has ever made” and enough, businesses have had enough, 20 1924 - 95 Years Serving York Region - 2019 there is too much uncertainty to move years of inaction is long enough.” forward at this time. For Councillor Thompson, Tuesday’s “The residents trust us to run the Town decision was a vote in favour of Aurora’s efficiently and to build a secure future for future. them,” she said. “I don’t think spending a “Library Square is very much about thousand dollars per resident on one project the future of our community,” he said. represents that. In this time of COVID, “We are not only building for today but this time of financial uncertainty when so also planning for tomorrow. Do we really many residents, businesses, are struggling, need this? Absolutely. Today, Aurora’s we can’t take any chances. We need to be population is 60,000 and we have been told on the right side of history. Organizations, by the Province through their growth plans corporations, municipalities are following to prepare and see our population rise to the path of caution. Let’s do the same. 76,000 by 2031 and 86,000 by 2041. The Our future financial health may depend construction of the addition to Church on it. Street School and the enhancements to “This is not the right time, this is not the the Library will help us meet the demands right project, [and] Council needs to say placed on our facilities, services and no.” programs by the increase in population. Councillor Gallo agreed more time Furthermore, the transformation of our was needed to address financial and parking area into a vibrant open square operational uncertainty. In stating his featuring an amphitheatre, skating, seating case, Councillor Gallo raised a number of and other amenities will help strengthen procedural concerns with how things have this community and draw Aurorans from progressed, including the use of Hydro all four corners into our downtown. Funds. “This is a long-anticipated project A resolution before Council last year, needed to revitalize our downtown. he said, stated that the final operating plan Downtowns are the heart of any town needed to come before Council before or city and having a healthy heart is final construction on Library Square essential to having a strong and thriving could be approved. community. They serve as the engine for “The resolution says that the draft local economies and represent the image operating plan be approved and finalized and character of a Town. Downtowns prior to the approval of the construction are unique in that they are typically the tender,” he said. “Am I living in a dream only neighbourhood that belongs to and world? I clearly know what ‘prior’ means is shared by everyone. While this may be and we don’t have that. It is very clear; it true for many Canadian towns and cities, is black and white. Listen, do as you will Aurora’s downtown has struggled. We [but] you have been put on notice that have all seen the empty storefronts and moving forward on this you are making a the businesses come and go. Residents and serious error.” entrepreneurs and others are investing Staff contended that nothing will change their hard-earned dollars into their operationally from what is before Council businesses and our community. They are with the exception of who is delivering the trying to make a better life for themselves service, but Councillor Gallo questioned and in many cases add to the community whether enough notice had been given to by giving back. Now it is our turn to the public on Council’s intention to use the support them by making this investment Hydro Funds for Library Square. in our downtown.” He said he believed previous resolutions Councillor Harold Kim’s position before Council were contingent on the in favour of Library Square was also success of Aurora’s ultimately unsuccessful bolstered by looking into the future. $31 million grant application to the “People said, ‘Do we need a new Provincial and Federal Governments to meeting place where people can gather?’ put towards Library Square. or an arts centre,” he said. “We can debate “It is very clear: we approved the that all night, but I think given the reports strategies subject to the success of the that we have seen over the last couple off grant application. It is my view that we years, we have [heard from the Library Page 18 THE AURORAN, Thursday, August 27, 2020

FRONT PORCH PERSPECTIVE Homegrown Gordon Lightfoot tribute set to From page 5 “What about candidates – myself included – who hate door knocking, and column that contained the following depend on other methods to get elected? close Concerts season two paragraphs; “Because we (they) elect not to knock on record player. During college parties I doors, does that make us (them) any less By Brock Weir would play more than drink, and was “Before any of the other councillor/ competent? always asked to play Canadian Railroad mayoralty candidates write to the editor or “You can bet if I ran your comments on It has been a Concerts in the Park Trilogy. As job and family took up more e-mail me that The Auroran should not be candidate X, every candidate would be in my season unlike any other, but the popular time and music became a cloudy memory providing free publicity for any one particular office demanding similar coverage. Wednesday night summer series is set to I happened to form a duo and perform candidate by virtue of this article – please “You’re right, we will do something closer close next week with further homegrown in clubs and bars as often as I could understand that this column is not an to the election by providing space to each talent. and performing pop-folk-rock. Often, I›d endorsement of candidate X. candidate in the paper; and The Auroran On Wednesday, September 2, the curtain be asked to perform a Lightfoot tune, as “As Aurora does not have a ward system, will also sponsor the Chamber of Commerce will come down on Aurora’s 2020 summer they thought I sounded a bit like him. municipal candidates are therefore free Election Fest slated for Howard Johnson’s a concert series with Classic Lightfoot Live, “Moving to Aurora in 1988 and finding and encouraged to seek support throughout couple of weeks before the election. Aurora resident John Stinson’s tribute to Red Shea living here, then taking lessons all of Aurora, and as no one knew that I “If candidates elect not to respond, that’s the Canadian icon. from him got me more and more excited was writing this column, all prospective their problem. But The Auroran will not Pre-registration for the 100 free tickets about Gord’s music. Around 2000, the candidates had a fair chance at being the first select a slate nor recommend who should be available for the season finale concert will duo was less important, I started to re- one to come to my door or leave something in the mayor of the community.” begin Friday, August 28, at aurora.ca/eplay. awaken my forgotten musical taste for the mailbox.” Classic Lightfoot Live is set to bring to Lightfoot. Hearing all the great tunes I was very disappointed and puzzled life such standards from the Canadian again on new CDs and iPods. I created No dice. The editor was not buying at the time as to why he would not music songbook as If You Could Read My a solo act of all Lightfoot tunes and either my arguments or my revisions. publish my contribution. In hindsight Mind, Canadian Railroad Trilogy, Wreck performed them live in local clubs and The e-mail from the editor to moi: however, the editor was right in not of the Edmund Fitzgerald, Early Morning bars.” allowing the column for the clear Rain, and more. The love affair will only continue at “The reason you’re writing the column in reasons he enunciated above. Speaking to The Auroran before the Town Park bandshell next week. the first place is the reason for my decision. The final paragraph of that non- he performed at a 2018 fundraiser for After some initial uncertainty “For the mayor to continue his column column is still valid for upcoming CHATS (Community & Home Assistance stemming from emergency restrictions would give him unfair advantage over any elections: to Seniors), Mr. Stinson said he first fell in put in place due to COVID-19, the Town challengers. That’s why we stopped it and love with Gordon Lightfoot’s music as a forged ahead with a five-concert lineup, replaced it. He understood that. He’d be “Please take the time to read through the teen while learning to play the guitar. a series which was limited to just 100 the first one in my office if I allowed your literature, compare the candidates, attend He tried to copy what he thought individuals on-site with the community comments to appear. the upcoming town forums and when the were Lightfoot’s simple sounds, but, after as a whole invited to watch a live stream “Publicity, as you know, good, bad candidates show up at your door, treat them discovering they were more complex of the performances through YouTube or indifferent, is still publicity, and any with respect and courtesy. But by all means than he imagined, the seeds of a passion and the Town’s social media channels. public mention of a candidate, via column ask them the tough questions – after all, it is were firmly planted. For more information on the final particularly, is a plus for whoever is your Town’s future that is at stake.” “I loved his lyrics and unique concert, and how to stream the music mentioned.Candidate X gets a mention melodies,” he said. “You’d buy his latest online, and re-live highlights of past because he/she was, apparently, the first Stephen can be contacted at album, listen, and read through the lyrics Concerts in the Park events, visit aurora. candidate to knock on your door. [email protected] as the new songs came across your 2-bit ca/summerconcerts. Aurora’sAurora’s At Your Service OPENFOR BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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trumped the clear, precise ‘NO’ vote voters’ intentions for voting for a system will have a significant impact Letter compared apples of the majority of residents who particular councillor. on the community and therefore a and oranges on ward voted in the 2014 Ward Referendum! In short, the letter provides no credible, fair and decisive outcome The apparent attempt to validity whatsoever to the writer’s will only be accomplished by a system: reader compare the two events, and draw a theory that the question of whether further referendum, in which an conclusion that they have a common we should have wards was answered entire electorate is invited to answer When a person compares two relationship is a perfect example of simply by way of electing those who a single question: Yes or No to items that are so different as to make a false analogy. were ultimately elected to represent Wards. the comparison invalid, we often The 2014 Ward Referendum was us. describe this as comparing “apples Peter Smith a vote by the electorate on a single In my opinion, introducing a ward Aurora and oranges.” political question: yes or no to wards, That is exactly what was done in whereas the 2018 Elections were a letter entitled “No one should be based on candidates campaigning How do want surprised by Ward decision: reader”, on numerous issues. ou which compared the 2014 Ward There is no way of knowing if toY be Referendum Results to the 2018 voters agreed on absolutely every emembered? Council and Mayoral Election. issue. Residents generally evaluate Each one of us is uniqueR with our own story to tell. This same logic had also previously the candidates’ campaign platform At Thompson Funeral Home we understand this been applied by the Mayor and some and award votes based on the and that’s why you can rely on us to capture a Councillors to justify their recent collective “message” delivered by person’s essence with a service that’s both a fi tting decisions to implement a ward each candidate. Therefore, to accrue refl ection and a memorable tribute. Take the emotional system in the Town of Aurora. votes received by each councillor and and fi nancial stress from your family, and guarantee The skewed reasoning in the letter mayor during the 2018 Election and todays costs with affordable monthly payment options. was that, since they had personally then use this to ascertain residents’ supported the introduction of a opinion on introducing a ward HOMPSO 530 Industrial Parkway S., Aurora ward system as part of their 2018 system is farfetched and inaccurate TFuneral HomeN 905-727-5421 campaign platform, this somehow because there’s no way to know the www.thompsonfh-aurora.com

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