Community Update: November 1, 2024

Neighbour --

Arts and culture builds connections between people, and makes our city vibrant. In recent years, and with the COVID-19 pandemic, many beloved cultural spaces in our community have been lost. For me, it’s critical that Toronto invests in the arts and culture programming, spaces, and support needed by makers and creators that shape this sector. 

Strengthening arts & culture

Chairing the City’s Economic and Community Development Committee last week, we considered the new Action Plan for Toronto’s Culture Sector: Culture Connects. The plan seeks to address challenges that arts organizations, artists and cultural workers are experiencing, while expanding arts and culture opportunities for residents. It’s built around the following key themes: 

• Culture everywhere – supporting the development of one million square feet of new cultural space across Toronto over the next ten years
• Culture for all – ensuring every resident has access to at least one free cultural experience in their neighbourhood each month
• Culture for the future – increasing the City’s investment in culture by $35 million over the next decade to support diverse cultural initiatives
• Culture beyond our borders – enabling 1,000 new creative export and artist exchange projects

The action plan will come forward for a final vote by Council in mid-November. I look forward to working with our local Davenport arts community to advance the priorities in this plan and deepen our community’s commitment to supporting arts & culture.

Inclusive economy

The economy is all of us, but as Toronto has grown, it’s become more unequal. More people are living and working precariously, struggling to afford housing and other basics. New infrastructure, development and commercial activity should improve livelihoods and neighbourhoods.

Also at Economic & Community Development Committee, we considered the newAction Plan for Toronto’s Economy: Sidewalks to Skylines. The plan includes a commitment to the development of an Inclusive Economic Development (IED) framework for the City. As Chair, I’ve been engaging with community economic development, community wealth-building, and worker organizations to help the city shape this framework. The City has an opportunity to show leadership, and use its position as an employer, purchaser of goods, and contractor, as well as its regulatory and land use powers to create opportunities and to build fairer local economies. Through tools like facilitating community benefits agreements, buying goods from local businesses, and hiring local youth, we can make sure that the investments in our city closes the wealth-gap in local communities. 

You can find local updates, city-wide news, and more below.

Alejandra Bravo
City Councillor • Ward 9 • Davenport
Chair, Economic & Community Development Committee

In this edition

• Preventing Renovictions
• Winter Services Plan
• Vacant Home Tax Declaration
• Make the Right Call 📞🚨
• Help Shape Toronto's Parks and Recreation Facilities 
• Treaties Recognition Week
• Stormwater Management Incentives
• New Registration and Booking System for City Programs
• Remembrance Day Events
• Erwin Krickhahn Park Playground Update
• Community Consultation Meeting: 1875-1901 Eglinton Avenue West, 137 Kirknewton Road & 156 Dynevor Road
• Construction & Work Notices
  
  • Road Reconstruction and Road Resurfacing on Dufferin Street from Bloor St W to Geary Ave
  • Essential Streetcar Rail Grinding Maintenance: Queen Street West from Brookfield St to Brock Ave
• TTC Notice: Bus Replacement on 512 St Clair from November 1-14
• In the community
• Community Events
• Other updates

Preventing Renovictions

We’re taking long-overdue action to protect renters by ending unlawful renovictions and holding landlords accountable. Thanks to the hard work of tenant advocates and the leadership of Mayor Chow, Councillor Fletcher and Councillor Perks, the proposed renoviction by-law will come to City Council in November. You can read more about the proposed by-law in news reports here and here.

Winter Services Plan

In my role as Chair of the City’s Economic and Community Development Committee, I joined Toronto Shelter Services and Supports Division to provide an update on this season’s Winter Services Plan and the ongoing work to support people who are experiencing homelessness in our city. The Plan includes new shelter spaces and supportive housing units, 24/7 respite spaces, and expanded drop-in service hours and Warming Centre spots. 

While these are all critical services that will protect people’s health this winter, we know that more still needs to be done. City staff will continue to look for additional ways to enhance the Plan as the season progresses. You can find out more details and read my full statement here. 

Vacant Home Tax Declaration

The Vacant Home Tax declaration portal opens today. The Vacant Home Tax (VHT) program requires homeowners in Toronto to let the City know if their property is occupied or vacant every year by making a declaration. Homes should be lived in. The goal of the program is to increase the supply of housing by encouraging owners to make their vacant residential property available for rent or for sale. Owners who choose to keep their properties vacant are subject to a tax, with the revenue being allocated to affordable housing initiatives. 

Make the Right Call 📞🚨

There’s a difference between an emergency and non-emergency call. Contact 311 for wildlife support and get the help you need.  The right call gets you the right help. Save 911 for emergencies. Learn more at toronto.ca/MakeTheRightCall. 📞

Help Shape Toronto's Parks and Recreation Facilities

Toronto has 1500+ public parks and hundreds of recreation facilities, which provide communities with places to play, connect, celebrate, learn, grow, exercise, build community, access nature and have fun. Help plan the future of parkland and recreation spaces across Toronto by taking this online survey. Choose between a short or detailed version based on your available time.You can complete the survey as an individual, a household, or on behalf of a group or organization. The survey will close on December 18 at midnight.

Treaties Recognition Week (November 3-9)

Toronto Public Libraries has a host of events and resources to mark Treaty Recognition Week. Most of Canada exists under treaty agreements for shared use of land between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.Treaties uphold Indigenous rights to land, water, education, health care and more. Not all of the treaty rights have been honoured by governments, but Indigenous peoples continue to uphold their side of the agreements. Anyone who lives and works in Canada is a treaty partner, making us all treaty people. Toronto is part of Treaty 13. As treaty people, Indigenous issues, including access to clean drinking water, missing and murdered Indigenous people, the legacies of Indian residential schools and food sovereignty are Canadian issues.

Stormwater Management Incentives

The City is consulting the public on opportunities for new and expanded stormwater management incentives for private properties. It aims to gather feedback on existing and potential grants, subsidies or rebates for installing green infrastructure like permeable surfaces, rain gardens or bioswales, and for actions that reduce flooding risks. Complete a short survey to provide feedback by Tuesday, November 5. Find more information on the City’s Stormwater Management Incentives Consultation webpage. 

New Registration and Booking System for City Programs

This November, the City of Toronto will launch a new system for recreation and cultural activities registration, facility bookings and memberships. This system will replace eFun with a more modern look and easier navigation. Toronto residents can attend free information sessions to learn more about the new registration and booking system on October 17, 21 and 22. Find details on the City’s Online Registration & Booking webpage. 

Erwin Krickhahn Park Playground Updates

The City is improving the playground in Erwin Krickhahn Park as part of an ongoing program to enhance playgrounds and play spaces across the city so that everyone can experience the joys and benefits of play for years to come! Stop by the park on November 5, 2024, from 3 to 5 p.m., or take a survey  to share your thoughts on the design and equipment for the improved playground.

Remembrance Day Events

On Monday, November 11, the City will host Remembrance Day ceremonies across Toronto to pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed for our country. Join veterans, military personnel and community members as we honour their courage and remember the sacrifices made for peace and freedom. Wear your poppy proudly and stand together in gratitude. Find more information on the City’s Remembrance Day Ceremonies webpage.  

Construction & Work Notices

Road Reconstruction and Road Resurfacing on Dufferin Street from Bloor Street West to Geary Avenue

In July 2024, the City of Toronto informed residents about the planned road reconstruction and resurfacing of Dufferin Street from Bloor Street West to Geary Avenue. This project will be completed in two phases:

• Phase 1: From Geary Avenue to Dupont Street, work will begin in October 2024 and continue until the planned winter shutdown in December 2024.
• Phase 2: From Bloor Street to approximately 210 m south of Dupont Street, work is scheduled to start in April 2025 and is expected to be completed by August 2025, weather permitting.

Future updates regarding key dates and completed work will be provided as construction progresses. This project is part of the Council-approved 2024 Capital Works Program to renew aging City roads and sidewalk for current and future needs.

Queen Street West from Brookfield Street to Brock Avenue Essential Streetcar Rail Grinding Maintenance

As part of the TTC's ongoing streetcar track maintenance and state-of-good-repair program, rail grinding will take place on sections of the streetcar network along Queen Street West. This process smooths the rail surface to reduce noise and vibration levels, extends the lifespan of the tracks, and provides smoother streetcar operations.

Starting as early as Monday, October 21 until Friday, October 25, 2024, TTC track crews will perform rail grinding nightly between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., on Queen Street West, from Brookfield Street to Brock Avenue. This work is scheduled during these hours to ensure safety when streetcar service is not operating and traffic is minimal.

Community Consultation Meeting: 1875-1901 Eglinton Avenue West, 137 Kirknewton Road & 156 Dynevor Road

The City of Toronto’s Development Review Division has received an application to permit a mixed-use building at 1875-1901 Eglinton Ave W, 137 Kirknewton Rd, and 156 Dynevor Rd. The application proposes the following: 

• Height: 32-storeys 
• Number of Dwelling Units: 422 units 
• Parking Spaces: 121 spaces, including 9 visitor space and 23 commercial spaces 

The City is holding a virtual Community Consultation Meeting on Monday, November 4  6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, and an in-person. Pre-registration required here:  http://www.toronto.ca/cpconsultations

There is also an Open House where you can learn more about this application, ask questions, and share your comments on Tuesday November 5th, 6:00- 8:00 pm

• Location: Games Room, Fairbank Memorial Community Recreation Centre, 2213 Dufferin Street, Toronto, Ontario, M6E 2A8

TTC Notice: Bus Replacement on 512 St. Clair from November 1-14

TTC is scheduled re-open St. Clair West Station Loop to streetcars and buses ahead of schedule on November 14, 2024. In order to complete final overhead power, structural and track upgrades at St. Clair West Station, 512 St Clair buses must replace 512 St Clair streets across the corridor temporarily from November 1 (11:00pm) to November 14 (5:00am). 

Earlier this year, my office worked with the TTC to restore as much service as possible earlier than scheduled. This allowed streetcars to serve the community, while bypassing St. Clair West Station to allow for the station-related work to continue. As that work comes to an end, this temporary removal of streetcar service is required in order to finalize the construction and bring the St. Clair West Station Loop back into service. 

Not implementing this phased return of service would have prolonged the full removal of streetcar service across the corridor from June to mid-November. This final phase of work which will take place from November 1-14 could not have been done when streetcar service was removed earlier this year. 

After service resumes on November 14, the 512 St Clair streetcar will service all stops, including the St. Clair West Station Loop. The TTC appreciates our community’s patience while this important state-of-good-repair work has been completed to ensure the continued safe operation of our public transit.

In the community

I had a blast taking in the Night of Dread at Dufferin Grove Park with community members, setting the perfect mood for Halloween. Thanks to Clay and Paper Theatre for their leadership on this treasured local tradition.

Had fun carving pumpkins at Santa Chiara Parkette with the Northcliffe Village Residents Association, the Regal Heights Residents Association, and local BIA.

Happy Diwali to all celebrating! I was honoured to get to celebrate this week at the South Asian Women’s Centre.

Community Events

The Period Purse Packing Party

On Wednesday, November 6th from 6-8pm, The Period Purse, a grassroots Toronto-based charity striving towards menstrual equity and destigmatizing periods through education and advocacy, is hosting a Period Product Packing Party at Society Clubhouse (967 College St). We are reaching out in hopes that you would be able to join in the period product packing. Register here.

Bloor Gladstone Library Exhibit

Through the month of November at the Bloor Gladstone Branch of the Toronto Public Library, come see the beauty in something unexpected: utility covers!

2024 EcoFair Toronto 

The 16th Annual EcoFair Toronto will take place on Sunday, November 3rd, from 11 AM to 4 PM at nearby Wychwood Barns, located at 601 Christie St. This is a free, family-friendly, and informative event you won’t want to miss! Visit over 60 environmentally-friendly businesses and organizations and discover how to make greener choices for your life, home, and community.

What to Expect at EcoFair:

• Explore over 60 environmental non-profits and vendors
• Test drive e-bikes and more with Zygg E-bikes
• Donate new socks to the Na-Me-Res Sock Drive 
• Recycle your electronics with Free Geek Toronto
• Donate food to The Stop Food Bank
• Delight in eco-friendly and delicious food
• Participate in a silent auction with wonderful gifts, all supporting Ecofair Toronto! 

Pumpkin Parades

Other updates

• City of Toronto unveils Campfire, a new Indigenous-led public art installation at Humber Bay Shores 
• Martha Friendly honoured with a Key to the City 
• S&P Global raises City of Toronto’s credit rating to AA+ for the first time in more than two decades 
• City of Toronto to launch new, user-friendly system for recreation and cultural program registration and facility bookings on November 6
• TTC ready to get everyone to and from Eras Tour shows safely and swiftly 
• TTC announces final day to use old TTC tickets, tokens, and day passes 
• City of Toronto staff report aims to unlock 20,000 new rental homes, immediately kick-starting process to create 7,000 new rental homes 
• City of Toronto’s winter maintenance plan is heating up for colder weather
• Upcoming subway closures and service adjustments