March 2018 - Edition Volume 18 Issue 89 Outreach - Value - Input Making A Community Thrive

Dear Neighbours,

March Break starts on Monday! Please be vigilant on our local roads watching for children playing near roadways or crossing. School safety has been in the news for some time. With the unfortunate accident taking place in north Scarborough last week I am asking everyone to always take extra caution when entering school zones. The City has been working with local schools and the police to implement additional safety measures to slow down traffic and address other vehicle infractions which may put children at risk. Ultimately we all have to slow down, be patient and take every precaution to ensure pedestrian safety.

In Ward 43 two pilot safety school zone projects are underway around Willow Park Junior Public School and Cornell Junior Public School. I am working with the schools to ensure they get all of the necessary resources from the city to protect both students and pedestrians in the areas.

I have posted a new PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SURVEY on my website and would very much appreciate everyone's feedback. The data collected will contribute to my decision making on projects to better our community, and the City of . Public Transit remains a top priority across each community. With a number of projects currently being reviewed, your input is essential! PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SURVEY. View the list of city wide public transit projects

This month the Mayor Tory will be holding our Executive Committee meeting in the Scarborough Civic Centre on Monday March 19, 2018. This is an effort by Mayor Tory to provide residents an opportunity to attend and speak on agenda items important to them. You may view the agenda upon its posting in and around March 12th at the following link.

There is still room in the City's March Camps! Register for programs including skating and swimming. Details

Mark your calendars for The Guild Alive with Culture Arts Festival on the July 28 – July 29 weekend. The festival has become one of the best arts festivals in southern ! Visit the Festival page for regular updates.

Please continue to support The Guild Festival Theatre in bringing live theatre to Scarborough East please click here for more information. To date their efforts have been successful allowing them to plan for a 2018 summer theatre season. More information is available in the Guild Community section of this report.

I welcome you to continue contacting me at [email protected], Tel: 416-396-7222 or visit my Constituency Office located in the Scarborough Civic Centre, 150 Borough Boulevard 2nd Floor.

All My Best, Paul W. Ainslie Toronto City Councillor Ward 43 Scarborough East

March Break at Toronto Zoo - Farewell to Giant Pandas! Join Toronto Zoo this March Break for your last chance to see to Da Mao, Er Shun, Jia Panpan and Jia Yueyue before ’s only four giant pandas end their five years at the Toronto Zoo and make their move to the Calgary Zoo. The Giant Panda Experience officially closes to the public as of 6pm on Sunday, March 18, 2018. For all you need to know this March Break at the Zoo - Click Here

Garbage Tags: Residents can now buy garbage tags online for any excess garbage at https://secure.toronto.ca/webapps/swmWebStore/.

Index 1. Your Community News Sections 2. Toronto Region Conservation Authority 3. City Hall Budget 2018 4. My Calendar and Community Events/Meetings 5. Services and Job Opportunities in the Community Toronto Public Library Events in Ward 43 6. Get Involved in your Community 7. Projects, Grants and Public Service Information

Helping out during Centennial College's Community Skate Day at the Morningside Park outdoor natural skating rink

Your Community News Sections 1. Cedar Ridge Community & Cornell Community 2. Coronation and West Hill Community 3. Curran Hall Community 4. Guildwood Village Community 5. Seven Oaks Community 6. High Rise News

With Mayor John Tory, Councillor De Baeremaeker, Councillor Crawford at Cedarbrae Library speaking on Sunday Hour Enhancements. Cedarbrae Library was one of the first to receive the extended hours.

Cedar Ridge Community & Cornell Community top of your community news Back to Index Toronto Public Library: Cedarbrae District Branch the list of activities

New Road Signs in Cornell – view image New local road signs are being installed in communities across the City as they are required. Cornell has received one new sign to date located at Greencrest Circuit at Markham Road.

Willow Park Junior Public School "Vision Zero" Program - Update On Thursday, March 1st, the City of Toronto Traffic Management Program team with representatives from the school, parent council, my office, Transportation Services, Public Health and Green Communities Canada conducted a "Neighbourhood Walkabout" at the Willow Park Junior Public School. The group observed the afternoon pick-up period of students at the school to identify any potential issues which may jeopardize the safety of children going home after school. Observations focused on obeying parking regulations, stop signs, vehicle speed and crossing guard operations at the intersection of Windover Drive and Susan Street in particular. An updated action plan to be presented in April, 2018

Cornell Junior Public School Traffic "Vision Zero" Program - Update On Wednesday, March 7th, the City of Toronto Traffic Management Program team with representatives from the school, parent council, my office, Transportation Services, Public Health and Green Communities Canada conducted a "Neighbourhood Walkabout" at the Cornell Jr. Public School.

The group observed the afternoon pick-up period of students at the school to identify any potential issues which may jeopardize the safety of children going home after school. Observations focused on obeying parking regulations, stop signs, vehicle speed and crossing guard operations at the intersections of Scarborough Golf Club Road and Holmfirth Terrace, and also Greencrest Circuit and Holmfirth Terrace in particular. An updated action plan to be presented to the group in April, 2018.

City Street Furniture Installation in your Community! Just a reminder, as part of the City "street furniture" program across Ward 43 a litter receptacle will be installed at the South/East corner of Markham Rd. and Lawrence Ave. East. This is in place for pedestrian traffic to keep our community clean, it is not meant for any household waste.

Traffic Management lights at Marcella Street & Scarborough Golf Club Road Upon my request Traffic Signal Services investigated this intersection as the timing on the vehicle detection system is not responding to waiting vehicles. Staff have advised the system will be replaced by new technology where a camera will detect the required traffic light response. The current system no longer works. The new system will be installed in June/July 2018. Although the traffic light may take longer than necessary it will be replaced and does not pose any safety concerns.

Cedar Ridge Creative Centre 225 Confederation Drive Toronto, ON, M1G 1B2 416-396-4026 Email: [email protected] ● Cedar Ridge Studio Gallery ● City arts galleries ● Permanent art collections ● Contemporary exhibitions: Exhibition schedule and residency information

Speaking at the Sir Robert Borden BTI Redevelopment Stakeholders Meeting last month. I am continuing to work with the Province, the public school board, and community stakeholders to build a community hub/jobs trades training centre at 200 Poplar Road.

The Coronation and West Hill Community top of your community news Back to Index www.coronationca.com

Morningside Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation and Road Resurfacing The City of Toronto" contractors started the western portion of the bridge work on Monday March 5, now that Bell Canada has completed their long overdue work. (Our Legal Department is seeking financial repayments from Bell Canada) The City contractor will undertake the bridge demolition work in 2 shifts: a day shift from 7am to 5pm and an evening/night shift from 5pm to 3am. The additional shift will reduce the demolition by 2 weeks providing for a 3 week period instead of 5 weeks.

The existing traffic control measures will remain the same for both day and night. The anticipated completion date is scheduled for early August 2018 due to the Bell delay.

New Road Signs – view image New local road signs have been installed in communities across the City as they are required. The following signs have been installed in the Coronation and West Hill Community:  Morningside Avenue at Tefft Road  Ellesmere Road and Morningside Avenue  Rodda Boulevard at East  Craggview Drive at Weir Crescent  Waldock Street at Havenway Gate  Morningside Avenue at Beath Street

85 Galloway Road Property beside CNR at the Ontario Municipal Board During the September meeting of Scarborough Community Council, I requested to have the City's Legal staff attend the Ontario Municipal Board OMB second Pre- Hearing which will be held on November 22, 2017 to oppose the application put forward by the owners of 85 Galloway Road. The matter has now been put over for another pre-hearing scheduled for Monday, October 1, 2018. City Legal will be attending to represent our community's position against the proposal to see a private road and townhouses built.

If you would like to attend the hearing and make a presentation, or send in comments please contact the OMB Case Coordinator: Agenda link

- By emailing to: [email protected] - By telephoning: Toronto 416-212-6349 or Toll Free 1-866-448-2248 - By faxing to: Toronto 416-326-5370 - TTY: 1-800-855-1155 via Bell relay

Myself, along with Mayor John Tory, and Councillor De Baeremaeker talking with residents at Cedarbrae Public Library

Upcoming Pesticide Use in Morningside Park March 2018 The City of Toronto Urban Forestry will be using pesticide in Morningside Park starting March 6, to control woody invasive species, and will take approximately up to 2 days to complete depending on weather conditions. For more information about the pesticides being used and species being treated click here.

Curran Hall Community Curran Hall Community Centre - AODA Compliant 277 Orton Park - 416-396-5156 Back to Index - top of your community news

Curran Hall Programming – Join the programming offered within your community link. Located at 277 Orton Park Road A number of programs are offered for all ages at Curran Hall Community Centre from yoga, pilates, dance for all ages, cooking classes, marital arts, visual arts, and adventure camps, youth leadership programs and much more. The centre also offers drop in programs for youth 9 -12yrs old on Saturdays from 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm. Take a look!

New Road Signs in Curran Hall – view image New local road signs have been installed in communities across the City as they are required. The following signs have been installed:

 Ladysbridge Drive at Orton Park Road  Orton Park Road at Ladysbridge Drive  Scarborough Golf Club Road and Greenock Avenue  Scarborough Golf Club Road and Slan Avenue  Par Avenue and Scarborough Golf Club Road  Scarborough Golf Club Road and Mossbank Drive  Newark Road at Scarborough Golf Club Road

Bus Route on Brimorton Road/Scarborough Golf Club Road/Orton Park Road: I would like to thank residents for continuing to send in their support forms for a bus route from Ellesmere Road along Scarborough Golf Club Road, Brimorton Road, and Orton Park Road, and back to Ellesmere Road. Please continue to send them in!

Spring Garden Talk – Hosted by the Curran Hall Community Association Sheridan Nurseries staff will be giving their best gardening and lawn care advice to residents on March 19, 7-9 PM @ Curran Hall Community Centre, 277 Orton Park Road.

Easter Craft & Bake Sale and tearoom – Hosted by the Curran Hall Community Association Fresh baked goods and a visit with neighbours. March 24, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM @ Curran Hall Community Centre, 277 Orton Park Rd. Kid's Easter Egg Hunt from 10:30am – 11:00am.

I got to cut an anniversary cake with the Honourable Mitzie Hunter M.P.P., along with members of the Friends of the Guild Park and Gardens during their Annual General Meeting

The Guildwood Village Community Toronto Public Library: Guildwood Branch Library link The Clark Centre for the Arts Facility Development Update (Building 191) Website update Guild Park and Gardens Management Plan: Take the online survey https://goo.gl/YzWLdE

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Guild Alive with Culture Festival – Volunteers Needed! As we go into our 11th year, I am proud to continue to host this amazing arts festival, along with the Guild Renaissance Group. The Festival dates for this year are Saturday July 28 – Sunday and July 2018. Please email to volunteer. Also visit the festival website for updates.

New Road Signs in Guildwood Village – view image New local road signs have been installed in communities across the City as they are required. The following signs have been installed in Guildwood :

 Hill Crescent at Markham Road  Fordover Gate at Morningside Avenue  Scarborough Golf Club Road and Guildcrest Drive  Guildwood Parkway at Chancery Lane

Toronto District School Board (TDSB) Pupil Accommodation Review Committee (PARC) meetings resume for Guild area schools The TDSB will be holding a series of meeting to discuss their future plans for Jack Miner Senior Public School, Poplar Road Junior Public School, Elizabeth Simcoe Junior Public School and Guildwood Junior Public School. All the information and meeting dates can be found at The PARC website link. If you would like to directly contact the TDSB on this matter please Email: [email protected] and our local Public School Trustee Jerry Chadwick: [email protected]

Metrolinx Construction Alert: Guildwood GO Station Metrolinx has advised their contractors will be performing demolition work of the old tunnel and elevator structure until March 12, 2018. The work crews will be working during the day and overnight. I have asked Metrolinx to direct their contractors to do everything they can mitigate noise and vibration. This work has to be done at night to not disrupt train service on these very busy tracks above the work area. Please see the notice with details on the work.

If you wish to contact Metrolinx regarding any issues or noise complaints please contact Jody Robinson, Community Relations & Issues Specialist, Strategic Communications, Metrolinx at 416-202-7210 or [email protected]

Upcoming Pesticide Use in Guild Park and Gardens March 2018 The City of Toronto Urban Forestry will be using pesticide in Guild Park and Gardens starting March 6, to control woody invasive species, and will take approximately up to 2 days to complete depending on weather conditions. For more information about the pesticides being used and species being treated click here.

Community Response Brings New Hope to Guild Festival Theatre The Guild Festival Theatre has confirmed they will be holding performances this summer!! It was great to see all of the financial support the theatre has received through private donations. I have also connected the theatre with the Artscape Toronto and the City of Toronto Culture Department to put mechanisms in place to have theatre productions in the park for years to come. The theatre has also been successful in their fundraising efforts please click here for more information, There will be a fundraising event taking place on April 19, 2018 to help them reach their financial goal. Please visit the Guild Festival Theatre website here for full details and see the event flyer here.

Changes to TTC bus stops along Guildwood Parkway attachment of TTC Bus Stop proposal The TTC advised me that they were planning to remove some bus stops along Guildwood Parkway as data indicated there were several bus stops along the route that were too close together and did not meet the citywide criteria for riders boarding and getting off at each stop causing a delay in service this measurement used by the TTC is named "stop spacing". Residents voiced their concerns that the increased walking distance between stops would potentially expose members of the community to unspecified public safety hazards particularly at night. In light of these concerns I scheduled an onsite meeting with TTC staff.

In January 2018 I met with TTC staff on site to review the matter. I tasked them to conduct a new investigation to provide me with current data. The results of the new investigation demonstrate that the stop spacing along Guildwood Parkway is considerably less than the 300 to 400 metres, the TTC considers that this spacing does not provide you with good local access to transit stops or reasonable speedy reliable service once you are aboard the bus that in fact the current stops are bunched together and are slowing down your commute. The proposed changes can be viewed in this attachment. The map includes distances between stops along with the passenger on and off data. 300 metres = 4 minutes of walking time for vulnerable persons. The maximum walk to and from the nearest stops would increase from 5 minutes to just under 7 minutes, TTC considers a 10-minute walk good distance between.

Due to the TTC bus stop changes, residents expressed concerns regarding the street lighting and safety on Guildwood Parkway between Livingston Road and Prince Phillip Boulevard. The Toronto Police and Toronto Hydro were asked to address the concerns. Toronto Hydro investigated the lighting conditions to determine if the current lighting conditions meet standards for illumination for pedestrians. The lighting assessment concluded that the existing lighting meets roadway lighting requirements and therefore does not require additional lighting. The Toronto Police 43 Division has provided the 2017 crime statistics in the area; please see the map and refer to the legend. If you have any comments or questions please call my office at 416-396-7222.

The Butterflyway Project in the Guildwood Village Community I am happy to support a citizen-led movement that is growing habitats for bees and butterflies through neighbourhoods in communities across Canada. Sponsored by the David Suzuki Foundation, volunteers from the Guildwood community have seen their proposal selected as one of four communities in the GTA to participate in 2018!! Congratulations to everyone involved!!

Ideally situated along the bluffs and part of the migratory route for Monarch butterflies in particular, Guildwood is a perfect location. If you would like to get involved in creating and enhancing our natural environment please view information on the Butterflway Project here. To participate and volunteer sign up at this link and a volunteer from the Guildwood project will be in contact with you.

Sewer Work on Greyabbey Trail The City of Toronto will be rehabilitating the City-owned portion of the sewer laterals along the front of 220 Greyabbey Trail until April 17, 2018.

- The work will be completed in 4 separate phases, each take 1 to 3 days. The City Contractor will provide a notice 48 hours before Phase 3 to provide further information regarding sewer service disruptions. - Access to the sewer laterals is made through the main sewer from maintenance holes on the street and/or via a cleanout. In order to complete the work in a safe manner there will be road and sidewalk restrictions within the construction work zone. Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times. Typically driveway access will not be restricted. If temporary restrictions to your driveway are necessary, the contractor will notify you directly in advance of the work. - Work will take place 7am-7pm Monday to Friday. The City has approved work to take place as needed Saturday and Sunday between 7am-7pm and overnight, 7pm-6am Monday to Friday. Work will NOT take place on statutory holidays.

Please review the full notice for more details, click here. If you have any further questions, please contact the Field Ambassador at (226)-821-5557 or [email protected] and quote Contract 17TW-OS-12CWD.

Guildwood Junior Public School is collecting dead batteries! As posted on their Facebook Page, students from the Guildwood Junior Public School are asking for your participation in their participation in the Ontario Schools' Battery Recycling Challenge. To bring awareness to the importance to recycling batteries, students are asking neighbours and friends to collect used batteries and bring them either to the Valu-Mart, the Guildwood Public Library or to their school on Livingston Road For more information about the challenge, check out www.rawmaterials.com. Thank you to everyone for helping the environment and supporting Guildwood Junior Public School!!

Scarborough Waterfront Trail Draft Environmental Study – view study There have been two phases to the Scarborough Waterfront Project. The first being the Terms of Reference phase (completed), and the second is the Environmental Assessment phase (currently underway). You may view the Minutes of the July 28, 2018 meeting here. Subscribe to the newsletter here. top of your community news Back to Index

Enjoying the winter weather with Professor Michael Gauthier, and the Environmental Studies Students Association from Centennial College who once again this winter built an amazing natural skating rink in Morningside Park

The Seven Oaks Community top of your community news Back to Index

Neilson Road & East, "Advance Green' Signal Residents contacted my office to ask for a review of the "advance green" turn signal for northbound traffic on Neilson Road turning westbound on to Sheppard Avenue. Transportation Services reviewed the traffic control signal (TCS) at this intersection and determined that no additional left turn features were warranted at this time. More details of the review can be found here. If you do not agree with their findings please let me know

Tow Truck Drivers on the east side of Neilson, just south of Highway 401. Residents have complained to my office about tow trucks parking on the boulevard, doing lots of damage, as well as leaving garbage. Transportation staff have been to the area, and will have the sod will be repaired. Police have been notified as well. Staff are investigating if the installation of posts and cable behind the existing sidewalk to assist in prevention is a viable deterrent. I have also asked the Forestry Department to plant trees on the boulevard to take parking spots away.

Brooks Road Park Playground Update The new playground project is on schedule. The playground equipment was ordered in 2017, and installation of the equipment will take place this Spring dependent on how quickly the area can be dry. Upon my request, and along with community input at a meeting last summer, the current swing sets will remain. Staff are going to have them painted. The forecasted completion date is mid-June, 2018.

New Road Signs in Seven Oaks – view image New local road signs are being installed in communities across the City as they are required. Seven Oaks has received one new sign to date located at Morningside Avenue and Tams Road.

1st Centenary Scouts Canada Testimonials ---- "I have two children in Scouts Canada with the 1st Centenary, my daughter age 11 and son age 7. They both love it! We as a family have enjoyed the many outings and community events that Scouts have planned or helped in some way. We look forward to many more years with Scouts Canada." ------"My four kids are in the Scouts program with 1st Centenary and we have found it very rewarding. What is notable is the dedication to and knowledge of the program. My older two are in Scouts and recently came home full of pride after making catapults. I thought it was amazing."

"I encourage all parents if they have an opportunity to check out their local area Scout troupe for their kids, it's a great opportunity for learning and forming friendships." ------"Our family has been involved in Scouting with 1st Centenary for the past 7 years. We know that all the experiences they have gone through with Scouting have enabled our children to discover feelings confidence, skills to become leaders of tomorrow and an appreciation and connection for the outdoors."

The 1st Centenary Scouts Groups (Beavers/Cub Scouts/ Scouts) meet Tuesday/Wednesdays at Saint Edmund Campion, and Highcastle Public School depending on the group. Times and age groups vary, so give call 416-724-9215 and explore what Scouts Canada can do for your children, ages 5 to 26!!

I attended the National Council of Canadian Tamils Grand Gala

High-Rise Communities and Neighbourhoods top of your community news Back to Index

3947 Lawrence Avenue (Lawrence/Orton) Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) is working to repair the intercom system in the building. TCHC advised there are issues with the network which prevent them from making the system available to the tenants in the building. While the work is being done security guards will be available in the lobby to ensure tenants have access to their building.

New Road Sign For Mornelle Court – view image New local road signs are being installed in communities across the City as they are required. Mornelle Court received a new sign at the intersection of Mornelle Court at Ellesmere Road.

Mornelle Court Volunteers Needed! The Mornelle All- Stars is looking for individuals with various backgrounds to volunteer in the community with the Walk Safe Program, Home Work Program, and also an administrative assistant for the highly popular March Break and Summer Camps.

If you are a believer in bringing effective and sustainable change, then this is the place for you!

This is a great experience in community development, one could use this experience as part of their placements/internship, volunteer hours.

If interested please Contact Angela Email: [email protected] or call (647-769-5900)

Mornelle All- Stars & Second Chance Programs Mornelle Ontario Early Years Centre 110 Mornelle Court Phone Number: 416-287-3578 Main floor buzzer 248 Hours of operation are: Monday/Tuesday &Thursday/Friday 9am-4:30pm Closed on Wednesdays

Visions of Science is Hosting a Free Community Science Club This is a weekly program on Saturdays from 11:00am to 1:00pm and will end on May 5th, 2018 Open to children/youth between the ages of 8 to 14 years. Located at 90 Mornelle Court, Community Hub Room Registration is free. For further information you can see https://goo.gl/oGn46z or please call 416-663- 2530

Mornelle Community Programs Safe Walk Program Weekday mornings starting at 8:00AM Monday to Friday

After School Homework Program 3:50 PM to 6PM -Mondays, Tuesday, and Wednesdays Art Programs every Sunday from 3:30pm to 5:30pm

Please call 647-769-5900 to inquire on services for The March Break Camp & Summer Camp Internet safety workshops for all ages Second Chance Rehab ( substance abuse) Mentorship-Life-skills Teen pregnancy support Counselling services Financial solutions ESL and continued education Family restoration Victim support, suicide intervention, anti-bullying Housing shelters Clothing and food bank Job search and re-entry support and much more

TCHC Tenant Guide Residents may pick up your copy of the TCHC Tenant Guide and get all the information you need about your tenancy in one place. Guide link top of your community news Back to Index

2. TRCA – Scarborough Waterfront Project (SWP) TRCA Upcoming Events

Morningside Park Highland Creek watershed falls almost entirely within the City of Toronto with a small section located in the Town of Markham. It’s approximately 102 km2 in size, which is small compared to the other watersheds within the Greater Toronto Area. https://trca.ca/conservation/watershed-management/highland-creek/

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Paul with Councillors, City Staff and Mayor John Tory with Governor General Julie Payette during her first official visit to Toronto

3. City Hall Back to Index

My Committee Work At City Hall (Motions I Have Put Forward)

2018.CD26.2 - Expanding Indigenous-led Early Years Programs and Services - Update http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2018.CD26.2 Adopted Motion – carried by committee member Councillor Fletcher That: 1. The General Manager, Children's Services be requested to explore and report to the Community Development and Recreation Committee on opportunities at the Sir Robert Borden Business and Technical Institute site located at 200 Poplar Road as a potential site to facilitate new programs and services to accommodate the Ministry of Education's Journey Together initiative

2018.PW27.8 - Pilot Bike Share Program in South East Scarborough http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2018.PW27.8

2018.MM36.8 - Creation of a National Portrait Gallery http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2018.MM36.8

2017.PW25.14 - Multi-Use Trail Centennial College Progress Campus and Military Trail Road – Passed at Budget 2018 http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2017.PW25.14

List of Councillor Ainslie's Motions

Council Highlights Toronto City Council meeting of January 31 and February 1, 2018

Council Highlights is a summary of a selection of decisions that Toronto City Council made at its recent business meeting. The City Clerk's formal documentation is available at http://www.toronto.ca/council.

Review of shelter and respite services Council adopted numerous recommendations to guide a review of the City's current cold-weather respite and shelter services, including reaffirming a 90 per cent occupancy cap for shelters. The City will keep respite/warming centres and drop-in programs operating as needed beyond April 15 this spring as a response to crowding in Toronto's shelter system. Funding for expanded shelter capacity is part of the City's 2018 budget process.

Poverty reduction strategy Council adopted a 2018 work plan for TO Prosperity, the City's poverty reduction strategy. Actions include the implementation of a discounted transit pass for low- income residents. Designed as a 20-year strategy, TO Prosperity contains recommendations in the six core areas of housing stability, service access, transit equity, food access, quality jobs/livable incomes, and systemic change.

Business taxes in Toronto Council considered options for supporting Toronto businesses through tax measures and decided to provide that support by capping this year's total tax increases for the commercial, industrial and multi-residential property classes at no higher than 10 per cent over last year's taxes. Recent increases in provincial reassessments resulted in high property tax increases for many small downtown businesses last year.

Costs of waterfront/islands flooding Council approved steps to manage the financial impacts of last spring's extremely high water levels in Lake Ontario. The high water affected the entire Toronto waterfront and flooded Toronto Island Park, which was closed until the end of July. Staff estimate the impact on the City's operating budget at about $8.45 million to cover flood mitigation/repairs and revenue losses. Assessment of infrastructure damage is estimated at a $7.4 million at this time, with further damage assessment to inform the 2019 capital budget.

Plan for waterfront transit network Council endorsed a plan for Toronto's waterfront transit network and adopted a series of recommendations for implementation and reviews/studies on specific features of the network. Providing an underground transit link below from Union Station to is a particularly challenging and important section of the network. The ultimate goal is an effective waterfront transit network from Long Branch and Lake Shore in the west to and in the east.

Road safety plan Council approved several actions related to delivery of the City's Vision Zero road safety plan, which is focused on reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries on Toronto's streets. The actions that Council authorized pertain to automated speed enforcement, use of red-light cameras and safety measures in school safety zones.

Data on Toronto's homeless population Council voted to have staff improve the tracking of admission and discharge of homeless individuals as they move among Toronto shelters, respite facilities and hospitals, and the tracking and reporting of in-house health care provided. Council also approved releasing data that City shelters collect on daily occupancy numbers – not using personal identifiers that would interfere with clients' privacy.

Toronto Community Housing portfolio Council provided direction on a process to transfer ownership of the Toronto Community Housing Corporation's Agency House and Rooming House portfolio to non-profit corporations as part of the City's Tenants First strategy. The portfolio is to be maintained for its current housing purposes. In addition, Council adopted an interim process to appoint tenant representatives to the Toronto Community Housing Corporation Board for the 2018-2020 board term.

Gender diversity – corporate boards of directors Council took steps in support of encouraging more gender diversity on the boards of directors of companies that do business with the City. The City will collect information as part of the process for procurements from companies and will monitor the Ontario government's Women in Business Steering Committee's progress on increasing gender diversity. The ideal is gender parity on corporate boards.

Municipal accommodation tax Council approved the introduction of a four per cent municipal sales tax on hotel accommodations effective April 1 and on short-term accommodations (such as those occurring in principal residences registered under the City's licensing regime) effective as early as June 1. In each case, guests pay the tax and the hotel or short-term rental operator collects and remits payment to the City. The Greater Toronto Hotel Association will administer the hotel accommodation tax and licensed short-term rental companies such as Airbnb will collect for short-term rentals.

Toronto's supply of hotels Council asked staff to review and report on potentially implementing a City policy/strategy to protect existing hotel space in designated areas. Several Toronto hotels have been redeveloped into residential condominiums in recent years. Even though some new hotel properties have come on stream, the number of available hotel rooms in Toronto has stagnated since 2000. Hotel accommodation is a vital part of Toronto's tourism, hospitality and convention industries.

Master plan for open data Council adopted an Open Data Master Plan that will help the City grow as a leader in open data. For the City, open data refers to making City data freely available for people to analyze and republish in support of improved delivery of public services, enhanced engagement with citizens in government decision making, and more innovative approaches to civic problem solving.

Day of Remembrance on January 29 Council supported a motion to designate January 29 in Toronto a Day of Remembrance and Action on Islamophobia for future years, and to ask the Canadian and Ontario government to mark the date in a similar way. On that date in 2017, a gunman carried out an act of terrorism at the Centre Culturel Islamique de Québec in Quebec City. Council reaffirmed that Islamophobia, like all other forms of racism, hate, xenophobia and bigotry, has no place in the City of Toronto.

Future of Old City Hall A plan for the future use of Toronto's Old City Hall (60 Queen St. W.) received Council's approval. The plan calls for the historic building – a national historic site – to house a Museum of Toronto, a library branch, a wedding chamber, a museum café and shop, and spaces for public events and institutional uses. A possible Toronto Transit Commission museum component will be discussed. Provincial and municipal courts currently use the building.

City resources during election periods Council approved an updated policy for the use of municipal resources during elections, including the City's municipal election later this year. The policy has been updated to include registered third-party advertisers and amended to recognize that political activity provisions for public servants are now in effect through the Toronto Municipal Code. The policy applies to municipal, provincial and federal elections/by-elections.

Evaluation of diesel for City's fleet Council asked for information about criteria for any future tender on using biodiesel for the City's fleet vehicles. Staff have consulted with the University of Toronto's Transportation Research Institute, which is going to undertake a detailed analysis comparing biodiesel and renewable diesel fuels to regular diesel fuel for use in the City's fleet vehicles. Moving toward increased use of bio-diesel or renewable diesel is a way for the City to accelerate reduction of its overall fleet emissions.

Preparing for automated vehicles As the next step in the City's efforts to prepare for the introduction of highly automated vehicles on Toronto's streets in the coming years, Council asked for a report with recommendations and a detailed automated vehicle tactical plan. Highly automated vehicles - often referred to as driverless or autonomous cars - are now being tested on roads in Ontario, including Toronto. These vehicles have the potential to affect road safety, traffic congestion, mobility equity and environmental health.

Modernized access symbol A new access symbol that shows a human figure moving forward in a wheelchair, referred to as the dynamic symbol of access, will gradually replace the traditional, static wheelchair image at City-owned properties. Council agreed to endorse the modernized symbol, as recommended by the Toronto Accessibility Advisory Committee and informed by the Forward Movement campaign. Council also supported asking the Ontario government to adopt the new symbol.

New police station A detailed proposal to establish a new, consolidated 54/55 Police Districts facility at 1627 Danforth Ave. received Council's approval. The property, currently a Toronto Transit Commission garage, is to become a multi-functional site for various civic and employment-generating uses in addition to use as a police station. The existing stations for 54 and 55 Divisions are due for replacement. The property was deemed the most suitable in a selection process that included community input.

2026 FIFA World Cup Council authorized Toronto to be part of a North American bid to host the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup of soccer. The national soccer associations of Canada, the United States of America and Mexico are leading a joint bid to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup in cities across North America. Individual host cities will be selected in 2021, after FIFA's selection of the host country/countries this June.

Volume 21 Issue 1

I was at the Scarborough and Rouge Hospital - Centenary Site for the provincial government's announcement of the redevelopment of the Emergency Department by the Premier of Ontario the Honourable Kathleen Wynne, and the Honourable Mitzie Hunter M.P.P.

4. My Calendar and Community Events - link to My Calendar Back to Index

Registration for museum summer camps The Toronto History Museums offer a variety of engaging summer camps for children ages 5 to 14. Registration is now open for Colborne Lodge and Scarborough Museum. Registration for Gibson House Museum begins March 6. Registration for Spadina Museum and Todmorden Mills begins March 7. Details

Toronto Homeless Count Seeking Volunteers Members of the public who want to help solve homelessness can volunteer for the night of April 26 for the fourth city-wide Street Needs Assessment. Hundreds of people are needed to ask people experiencing homelessness about the services that matter to them. Information collected will help shape City programs serving Toronto's most vulnerable residents. Details and signup

Food Drive Donations Toronto Paramedic Services and the St. Patrick's Day Parade Society are joining to collect food and raise funds for Toronto's Daily Bread Food Bank. You can donate to the food drive online or take a donation to the St. Patrick's Day parade on Sunday, March 11 (watch for the Toronto Paramedic Services' ambulance and also the volunteers collecting donations during the parade). Food drive

History of Jazz in Toronto A new exhibit exploring the history of Toronto's jazz scene is now on display at City's Market Gallery. The exhibit is called Notes in the Night: The History of Toronto Jazz Clubs since 1946. Details

Let's Clean Toronto Together! April 20 - 22 Hey Toronto! It's time for some spring cleaning. Gather your friends, neighbours, co-workers and classmates to clean a park, laneway, or any other public space that needs your help. Friday, April 20 is the Corporate & School 20-Minute Makeover, and Saturday April 21 and Sunday April 22 are the Community Cleanup Days. Learn more, register your event and find out when and where to get your free GLAD® garbage and recycling bags at livegreentoronto.ca or call 311 for details. Here's to a cleaner, greener Toronto!

Spring Flower Shop at Conservatories The annual spring flower shows at the Allan Gardens and Centennial Park conservatories, running from now to April 29, feature flowering plants and topiaries inspired by spring. The conservatories are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free. More information here.

Registration for City of Toronto's summer camps and spring/summer recreation programs begins this weekend Registration online is the quickest and easiest way to sign up for programs. You can find steps to registering online here and you can find the online registration here.

The Scarborough Seedy Saturday and Green Fair Saturday March 24, 2018 is the 7th Annual Scarborough Seedy Saturday and Green Fair! Running from 11am to 4pm this popular heirloom seed exchange/sale, gardening and environmental event will again be held at Blessed Cardinal Newman High School at 100 South, (south of Kingston Rd.) The Fair is hosted by the Stewards of the Earth at St. Agatha Catholic School, the Treehuggers at Blessed Cardinal Newman Catholic High School, Dr. Norman Bethune High School BEAT club, Seeds of Diversity and Toronto Urban Growers. It is also supported by Access Alliance on the Danforth and the Toronto Seed Library. Admission is $2.00 of Pay What you can Kids are free! See event flyer here.

February Events at Church of the Holy Trinity, Guildwood 2018 Family Day Winter Fair 2018 Black History Month Service “Transformative Women of the Bible” Joint Lenten Study

Sunday Concert Series at Scarborough Civic Centre Concerts will begin on January 14! Admission: FREE Time: 2 – 4 p.m. Location: Scarborough Civic Centre, 150 Borough Dr. (at McCowan & Ellesmere) 2018 Concert Schedule – click here There is no reserved seating for any concerts. Concerts can be subject to change or cancellation due to extreme weather conditions.

Full Toronto Zoo Events Calendar City of Toronto Events Calendar City of Toronto Flag Raising What is happening in our City City of Toronto Festival Page Tourism Toronto – Official website

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Proudly speaking at the Scarborough Muslim Community Family Day event. This year's theme was “Healthy Family – Healthy Society”

5. Services in the Community and Job Opportunities Back to Index

2018 CRAFT Info Sessions 14-week paid Pre-Apprenticeship Program in the Construction Trades with Job Placement Support. Attend an information session for more details. See the following for details: In Regent Park @246 Sackville St. Toronto, ON

- Monday March 26 @ 2PM - Tuesday March 27 @ 5:30PM - Register at this website

At the College of Carpenters and Allied Trades @ 222 Rowntree Dairy Rd. Woodbridge, ON

- Wednesday March 28 @ 5:30PM - Thursday March 29 @ 5:30pm - Register at this website

See full flyer here.

Weekly KGO Updates Community Events, Programs and Services:

- Dental Bus dates. See flyer here. - Weekly Guided Walks. Find March schedule here. - Introduction to Mural Art. See flyer here.

Job and Training Opportunities

- Become a Guided Walk Leader in Rouge Natural Urban Park! More information here. - Hiring an Inclusion, Equity and Diversity Facilitator. More information here. - Making Sense of Movements – paid opportunity for Black and Indigenous Youth. More information here.

Toronto Seniors' Forum is Recruiting New Members! Experience opportunities to:

- Advocate for change on issues that matter - Develop an age-friendly Toronto - Network with other senior organizations

To apply and for more information please visit this website.

General Interest: Parks, Forestry and Recreation Are you a community organization looking to access space for meetings, trainings, etc. at Cedarbrook CC? Does your organization meet the following requirements? - 90% residency (City of Toronto) - Not-for-profit organization - Membership open to the public Do you have an account set up? If not … - You will need to complete the necessary paperwork to determine the category of your organization - Set up a CLASS account Please note: You may be eligible to access the space at no charge during regular operating hours. However, recovery fees may be applied (e.g. staff charges, clean up fees, etc.) See fly here for more information.

Human Services Integration (HSI) HSI is a partnership across Shelter Support and Housing Administration, Toronto Children's Services and Toronto Employment and Social Services that is focused on integrating access and intake for the core income support programs. HIS is pleased to announce that they are integrating their 67 client/resident facing phone numbers into a single human services number – 416-338-8888

Residents and clients will be able to contact this service and hear a menu of options to which will direct them to the range of human services including housing support, child care information and subsidy, Ontario Works and related financial support, employment support, and medical and funeral benefits.

Existing phone numbers will be transitioned into the new number into two batches: on November 25th SSHA's Housing Connection, TCS' Application Office ad District Offices, TESS' Application Centre, Welcome Policy Line, Emergency Energy Fund Line and T5 Replacement Line and on December 9th TESS' Employment Centres, Local Offices, Client Services and Information Unit and Client Special Services, these services will integrated into the new human services number.

Job Opportunities

Toronto Parks Forestry and Recreation The City of Toronto Parks Forestry and Recreation Summer Hiring has been extended, the deadline is now April 3rd, 2018. More information can be found here.

The Reading Partnership We need your help! The Reading Partnership in association with Spotlight on Literacy is seeking to expand their committee. Their 6th annual Forum is taking place in May 2018 and is a one-day event for everyone with an interest in ensuring literacy lives in the Kingston-Galloway-Orton Park (KGO) community.

The purpose of this forum is to: - Raise awareness and promote multiple literacies within the community - Facilitate dialogue between community stakeholders - Connect families to existing opportunities, information, resources and supports As a Committee Member Volunteer, you will: - Work as a group to champion, plan and produce the annual SOL forum with a group of enthusiastic like-minded people - Contribute ideas and objectivity during the planning process - Regularly attend Tuesday evening meetings between 5:30pm to 7:30pm Benefits of Volunteering: - Give back by helping to plan and implement a growing and much needed community event - Learn and enhance event planning skills - Add experience to your resume in community program development - Broaden your personal and professional network To learn more about Spotlight on Literacy please visit https://goo.gl/JNFYpK To apply, please visit this website

East Scarborough Storefront There is a lot happening at the East Scarborough Storefront. Please see a full list of activities and services open to all residents to enrich and better their lives. view full list here Community Events, Programs and Services:  Newcomers Speak Up for Success Program Job and Training Opportunities:  Paid Training & Job Placements for Youth  Volunteer Mentors Needed for Newcomers Program National Housing Strategy Online Consultation view full list here

Meet With An Employment Specialist Are you looking for your next job opportunity? Do you need to update your resume or cover letter? Connect with an employment specialist Appointments are available until 6:30pm. Contact the East Scarborough Storefront at 4040 Lawrence Ave E, 416-208-9889 for more details Flyer here https://goo.gl/LrcwCz

Job Search Supports Available in your KGO Neighbourhood Meet with their employment team and widen the scope of your job search: - Update your resume with new experience - Tailor your cover letter to each job posting - Develop a list of contacts to network - Create various profiles on differ job search sites Drop in hours: Tuesdays 12:00pm to 4:00pm and Wednesdays 12:00pm to 3:00pm No registration required Located at the East Scarborough Storefront, 4040 Lawrence Ave East

Boys and Girls Club of East Scarborough 100 Galloway Road, Scarborough -- Calendar of Events and Programs Telephone: (416) 281 - 0262 ext. 208 www.esbgc.org -- View Full list of services

Home Maintenance Assistance There are agencies that provide home maintenance services for seniors and adults with disabilities. For outdoor maintenance such as grass cutting and snow removal, agencies will often arrange for a student to do the work for a fee. For indoor work such as installing grab bars, agencies would arrange for a handyman to do the work for a fee. In Scarborough there are two agencies as follow: Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities - 416-642-9445 - 926 Markham Rd., Unit 2 - www.schcontario.ca/ - [email protected] - Snow shovelling and grass cutting - Elderly and adults with disabilities - Fees apply TransCare Community Support Services - 416-750-9885 - 1045 McNicoll Ave - www.tcare.ca - [email protected] - Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm - Grass cutting and snow removal - 55+ and adults with disabilities - Fees apply

Women Support Project Presents Computer Club Are you a resettled refugee interested improving your computer skills? Activities and services are available at other OEYC locations in Scarborough. TTC assistance and refreshment available. Services are available in Arabic and English. It's FREE. Every Saturday: 11:30 – 12:30am Boys and Girls Club of East Scarborough 100 Galloway Road Please call and register now: Nadia Youssef 647-801-3222 [email protected]

Programs Available Boys and Girls Club of East Scarborough Galloway Ontario Early Years Centre 100 Galloway Road Phone Number: 416-281-0262 ext. 208

Ontario Early Years Programs - Open to all OPEN TO ALL RESIDENTS Programs available at 4218 Lawrence Ave Ontario Early Years October calendar of programs is now available. They have various programs aimed at children birth to 6 years. is 4218 Lawrence Ave. E Unit 15 Phone number is 416-282-7284 www.earlyyears.edu.gov.on.ca

Toronto Public Library Events in Ward 43 View events and programs You can also stay up-to-date with the latest library news and upcoming programs by signing up for our What’s On at the Library enewsletter: http://tpl.ca/e-news.

Check out some of Toronto Public Library events at the Cedarbrae and Guildwood locations below. For a full list and more details of programs and events please visit this page.

Cedarbrae Events: Toronto Public Library New Comer Settlement Services An ongoing event from Aug 9, 2017 to Sept 26, 2019 Creative Writing Workshop An ongoing event from Jan 20, 2018 tp Mar 31, 2018 Robotics Club From 4:00pm to 5:00pm on Mar 2, 16 and 30, 2018 Guildwood Events: Toronto Public Library Toddler Time From 10:30am to 11:00am on Mar 2, 2018 Guildwood Discussion Group From 2:00pm to 3:00pm on Mar 16, Apr 20 and May 18, 2018

#ImLibraryPeople (Toronto Public Library Foundation) The Toronto Public Library had more than 18 million visits to their 100 branches in 2017. They are asking for supporters to help spread the word and to let others know why they are such great supporters. Visit http://tplfoundation.ca/belibrarypeople/ for more details! Be Library People. #IMLIBRARYPEOPLE

Peer Support Group All genders welcome. Share your struggles and concerns in a safe, confidential space. Receive support and encouragement from each other. Ages 14-18. Contact: Scott Leathem - [email protected] - 416-420-1632 Wednesday Nights 5pm to 7pm (Beginning February 1st) East Metro Youth Services 1200 Markham Road, 3rd Floor (The Zone)

Toronto Police Service Parking Issues and Traffic Complaints: Residents are advised to contact Toronto Police Parking Enforcement regarding parking complaints at 416-808-6600 or email at [email protected].

Crime Stoppers Toronto Police Service is asking that anyone with information contact them at 416- 808-2222, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637).

What's around your community Brochure: Please see the inside to view

List of Agencies that Offer Employment Assistance to Persons with Disabilities Please see list

Please see the list of helpful Government and Community Services - link

Environmental Studies Students' Association members from Centennial College students taking a break around the natural skating rink in Morningside Park

6. Get Involved in your Community Back to Index

Let's Talk: An Open Dialogue on Vulnerability in Toronto Series The City of Toronto's Specialized Program for Interdivisional Enhanced Response (SPIDER) team wants to hear from you. Join us at the "The Open Dialogue on Vulnerability in Toronto" series. Let's talk about how we can increase awareness about situations affecting vulnerable Torontonians, what programs and services are available, and how we can build networks to create operation and systemic level innovation. See flyer for dates, start time and locations here.

7. Projects, Grants and Public Service Information Back to Index

Neighbourhood Grant Program The Neighbourhood Grant program aims to activate neighbourhood and advance the Toronto Strong Neighbourhood Strategy 2020 (TSNS 2020). Funding will be available for events that take place in the 31 Neighbourhood Improvement Areas (NIA) and the 8 Emerging Neighbourhoods between July 15 and December 31, 2018 Grant Program Details: - Grants from $1,000 - $3,000 are available to activate neighbourhoods and advance the Toronto Strong Neighbourhood Strategy 2020 (TSNS 2020). - Only resident-lead groups from 31 NIAs and 8 Emerging Neighbourhood are eligible to apply (not registered not-profit groups). - The funded event or activity is to be held between July 15 – December 31, 2018. - Funding is available for on-time events or activities held in one of the 39 neighbourhoods. See map. - The Online Application Form will be open starting April 3rd. - Application deadline is May 4th.

Suicide Prevention Workshop Toronto Public Health invites you to attend Suicide Prevention Workshops Objectives: - Safely explore your knowledge and attitudes about suicide prevention and intervention - Learn and practice basic Suicide Prevention intervention skills using relevant case studies - Discuss approach and process use to implement an organizational wide suicide prevention strategy Date and Location: March 21, 2018 227 Victoria Street, Room 502 9:30am to 4:30pm To register please visit this website.

Ward 43 Approved Grants Hatha Yoga Group - $ 1,500.00 Morningside-Mornelle Community - $1,500.00 KGO Adult Literacy Program - $1850.00 Active Seniors Body and Mind - $1,150.00 Friends of Lawrence-Orton - $3,000

Further information about Neighbourhood Grants is available at Community Funding Unit Cultural Hotspot 2018 May through October the Cultural Hotspot shines on spotlight on arts, culture and community in diverse neighbourhoods, inspiring new ideas about where culture thrives in Toronto. In 2018 the Cultural Hotspot celebrates centre/north Scarborough an area bordered by to the north, Lawrence Avenue to the south, to the west and the Toronto boarder to the east. Artists, Arts Organizations, Residents, Community Groups and Businesses – Here's how you can get involved! - Create a Community Arts Project - Share your Community events, festivals or gatherings - Showcase your restaurants through Hot Eats - Volunteer at Hotspot events and programs! For more information please see flyer here.

Public Service Information

City of Toronto 2018 Waste Collection Calendar The 2018 Waste Collection Calendar is now being delivered to Toronto households. The 2018 calendar is packed with information and tips on how to reduce, reuse and dispose of your waste properly, and includes a "Put Waste in its Place" poster to help you figure out what goes in the Blue Bin, Green Bin, Garbage Bin and more!

UTSC Public updates: Highland Hall (Spring 2018) A new five story addition facing Military Trail will add much needed faculty and administration space. It is also going to create a welcoming addition, with signature architecture to the campus. The university is proud this addition is going to double the current amount of space dedicated to students, and providing for flexible community access spaces. For details please see: https://goo.gl/DC2nfY

University of Toronto Scarborough Secondary Plan The University has filed an Official Plan amendment with the City that will form the basis of a Secondary Plan for the university. The application is proceeding through the planning review process, including the scheduling of community consultation meetings.

Student Residence (Fall 2020) The university has submitted a zoning by-law amendment to the City with respect to the development of a new 750 bed student residence. The application is proceeding through the planning review process including the scheduling of community consultation meetings. Back to Index

100 Queen Street West Suite C52 Toronto, Ontario M5H 2N2 Tel: 416-392-4008

SCARBOROUGH WARD 43 CONSTITUENCY OFFICE Scarborough Civic Centre 150 Borough Drive Scarborough, Ontario M1P 4N7 Tel: 416-396-7222 Fax: 416-392-4006

Email: [email protected] Website: www.paulainslie.com

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