June 2024 City Council Update

Advancing Indigenous Housing in Scarborough-Guildwood 4201 to 4203 Kingston Road and 120 Galloway Road. With Gabriel Dumont Non-Profit Homes.

https://secure.toronto.ca/council/agenda-item.do?item=2024.SC14.5

I was pleased to see the application for affordable housing come before council this week. This project, a partnership between Gabriel Dumont Non-Profit Homes and the City, will deliver sixty-eight new units for Indigenous residents in our community.

It is exactly the kind of project we need to support – one that provides stability and opportunity while making beneficial use of existing resources.

The focus on one and two-bedroom units aligns perfectly with local needs, and the commitment to sustainability is commendable. This infill development maximizes existing infrastructure and promotes sustainability, directly addressing the lack of accessible housing for Indigenous residents.

I fully endorse this project and am pleased that Council adopted the item on June 26.

Project Overview

  • 4-storey building with sixty-eight affordable rental units for Indigenous community managed by Gabriel Dumont Non-Profit Homes
  • Mix of one-bedroom (79%) and two-bedroom (21%) units
  • Funding endorsement: the project received Open Door incentives and $28M from Rapid Housing Initiative
  • Existing 3-storey buildings with eighty units to be maintained.

The current project is an addition to the 62 Indigenous housing at 525 Markham Road in Ward 24.

As your representative, I am proud to be part of a council that prioritizes the well-being of all its citizens. I look forward to seeing the positive changes this project will bring and to continuing our work towards creating a city that is welcoming, inclusive, and full of opportunity. City of Toronto and Government of Canada supporting non-profit partners to rapidly deliver 260 new affordable and supportive homes in Toronto – City of Toronto

I want to thank Gabriel Dumont Non-Profit Homes, all my fellow council members, city staff, and the community members who have engaged with us throughout this process. Your input and support are invaluable.

Paul

Vacant Home Tax Update

April 5, 2024

Dear Scarborough-Guildwood Residents,

The roll-out of the Vacant Home Tax (VHT) invoices has caused confusion, and anger by residents, including me. During this month’s City Council meeting, I asked questions of staff, as I was genuinely concerned on the process used to send the VHT invoices to residents.  In my opinion, which was validated by all the problems this week, there was no communication to everyone in easily understandable language. There was also not enough consideration given for seniors, those who do not have access to computers, and people whose first language is not English.  Staff have been asked to rectify these issues immediately by myself, Mayor Chow, and my colleagues on City Council to ensure this situation does not occur again.

My office is working diligently with the Finance Department to address this miscommunication. Financial Services have stationed staff in all the Civic Centres, including the Scarborough Civic Centre, to assist residents with their VHT declarations.

 I have also spoken with the General Manager of Toronto’s 311 Centre to have measures put in place to reduce the wait time and get people the information they need as quickly as possible.

If you have access to a computer: Please visit the City’s VHT website and click the large blue button which says, “Submit Complaint/Appeal or Respond to Audit” to file a Notice of Complaint (NOC).

If you need help? Contact 311 or my office at councillor_ainslie_co@toronto.ca / 416-396-7222 : My office is working with Revenue Services, by collecting your information and having Revenue Service staff contact you directly to complete your declaration for you.

I understand the 311 line is at full capacity and the wait time is lengthy.

If you want to attend in person, extra staff are available at Revenue Services’ Customer Service counters at Toronto City Hall and the Civic Centres, including the Scarborough Civic Centre from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day until the end of the business day on Friday April 12.

If required, staff will be available into the following week if the demand for dedicated assistance remains high.

I want to make clear: IF YOUR HOME IS OCCUPIED, DO NOT PAY THE INVOICE OR LATE FEE. City Council will be waiving the $21.24 late fee for everyone impacted this year during our next City Council meeting on April 17th. The invoices were sent to households where the city did not receive a Vacant Home Tax declaration, which is required annually.

The city will be sending out a new letter by first class mail for those who do not respond next week.  This letter will clearly state:    

  • The property owner does not have to pay the Vacant Home Tax if the property is their principal residence, or was occupied by tenants, or other permitted occupants for more than six months in 2023.
  • The owner still must file a Notice of Complaint.
  • Upon receiving and confirming their occupancy, the City will reverse the Vacant Home Tax assessed on your property, along with any interest that may be incurred after the May 15, 2024, initial payment due date. 
  • The letter will also include information about how to file a Notice of Complaint (on the Vacant Home Tax portal or by mailing Revenue Services’ Vacant Home Tax Complaints/Appeals team).

To assist you further please see the following questions with answers:

Q: Do I have to pay the Vacant Home Tax? 

You only must pay the VHT on your property if it was unoccupied (by you, other occupants, or tenants) for more that six (6) months in the calendar year. You do not have to pay if your property is your principal residence. 

Q: I received a notice in the mail saying I must pay the Vacant Home Tax, but I do not think I should have to.  What do I do? 

You may have received a Vacant Home Tax charge even if your property is occupied.  This could have happened if the City had not received an updated declaration this year, or if a declaration were received after the property tax bills were issued. 

If your property was occupied for more than six (6) months in 2023, do not pay the Vacant Home Tax charge.  Instead, please file a Notice of Complaint and upon receiving and confirming your occupancy, the City will reverse the Vacant Home Tax charge along with any interest that may have been incurred after the May 15, 2024, initial payment due date. 

Q: Where do I go to complete the Notice of Complaint/Appeal? 

You can do this online or via mail.   

Online:  

Mail: 

  • Please ensure your complaint in writing includes: 
  • assessment roll number and customer number 
  • complainant’s full name and contact details (telephone number or email) 
  • information that specifies your authority to act on the behalf of the owner, if this applies and you are a complainant acting on someone’s behalf. 
  • reason(s) for the complaint and why the residential property should not be subject to the tax. 
  • If you are declaring an exemption, supporting documentation and evidence to substantiate the reason(s) for the complaint. 
  • Mail to:   

City of Toronto, Revenue Services 
Vacant Home Tax Complaints/Appeals 
5100 Yonge St. 
Toronto, ON M2N 5V7 

Q: Can someone complete the Notice of Complaint/Appeal on my behalf? 

Yes. The form can be done by the owner or someone acting on your behalf.  

Q: What happens after I submit the Notice of Complaint/Appeal? 

Once your complaint is reviewed and the grounds of the complaint are found to be valid, your property tax account will show that the Vacant Home Tax does not apply.  

Q: Do I owe the late fee of $21.40? 

DO NOT PAY THE LATE FEE. City Council will be waiving the $21.24 late fee for everyone impacted this year during the next Toronto City Council meeting on April 17th.

Q: If I do owe the Vacant Home Tax, when is it due? 

The first instalment of Vacant Home Tax is due by May 15, 2024.

My Community Update for March 1, 2022 – COVID-19 Update & City of Toronto News

Dear Neighbours,

I hope that you and your families are safe and healthy during these challenging times. Let’s continue to protect each other and reduce the spread of COVID-19 by getting vaccinated, limiting in-person contacts, maintaining physical distancing, wearing a mask and staying home when ill.

I would like to remind everyone that self-care is key, and it is important to prI would like to remind everyone that self-care is key, and it is important to prioritize your well-being. Make sure to stay active, drink water, connect with loved ones for support over the phone or virtually and reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Remember local Mental Health supports and services can be accessed online here.

Given the threat posed by the COVID-19 Omicron variant, there is a critical need for all eligible residents to get their first, second and third “booster” doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. Learn about why, how, and where to get vaccinated on the City’s COVID-19: How to Get Vaccinated webpage. 

On Monday, March 7th, please join me, Hon. John McKay MP and Mitzie Hunter MPP for a virtual town hall meeting with special guests from the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority! 

Date: Monday, March 7, 2022

Time: 7:00 pm 

To join the town hall please visit: 

Submit questions and comments on TRCA related projects to councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca by March 3 at 12pm. 

COVID-19 Update

NEW: City of Toronto enters Roadmap Exit Step of provincial COVID-19 reopening. Today, the City of Toronto entered the Roadmap Exit Step of the Province of Ontario’s Roadmap to Reopen, with most temporary public health and workplace safety measures implemented to limit the spread of COVID-19 now lifted.

The following changes came into effect today at 12:01 a.m.:

  • All indoor and outdoor capacity limits are now lifted, including for all businesses, public gatherings and events.
  • Proof of vaccination requirements are lifted, with continuation of such requirements now being the decision of individual businesses.
  • Industry-specific public health measures are lifted, subject to conditions.

Across Ontario, protective measures including wearing a mask or face covering in indoor public settings and health screening continue to be required, subject to the same exemptions as Step 3 Reopening. The City’s mask by-law also remains in effect.

For up-to-date information about what has changed as Toronto enters the Roadmap Exit Step of provincial reopening, residents are encouraged to visit the City’s online COVID-19: Guide for Toronto Residents.

NEW: Check out the latest Scarborough Pop-Up Vaccine Clinics! More information is available online at www.scarbvaccine.ca or online here!

  • March 5 | 10am to 3pm | Toronto Chinese Methodist Church, 8 Metropolitan Rd
  • March 14 | 3pm to 7pm | Sri Radha Krishna Temple, 9-1960 Ellesmere Rd
  • Every Friday starting March 4 | 12pm to 6 pm | Parkway Mall, 85 Ellesmere Rd
  • March 7, 14, 21, 28 | 11:30am to 6pm | TPL Cedarbrae, 545 Markham Rd
  • March 7, 14, 21, 28 | 11:30am to 6pm | TPL Malvern, 30 Sewells Road

UPDATE: City-run Immunization Clinics. Today, Toronto Public Health opened a new immunization clinic at Eglinton Court, 1940 Eglinton Ave. E. The new clinic will offer first, second, third and paediatric doses for walk-ins and booked appointments Tuesday to Friday, from 2 to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. More information on City-run immunization clinics can be found online here.

NEW: Team Toronto continues to make solid progress vaccinating all age groups! To date, 63.8% of eligible residents have received three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine and 35% of kids ages five to 11 years-old have received two doses! Learn more about our new hyper-local vaccination approach here!

City of Toronto COVID-19 Case & Vaccination Update: (Data as of March 1, 2022) Case status and vaccination dose data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

  • 317 – Newly Reported COVID-19 Cases
  • 2,668 – Total number of Active COVID-19 Cases
  • 143 – Hospitalized Cases (Cumulative) 
  • 288,018 – Number of COVID-19 Cases in Toronto (Cumulative)
  • 281,107 – Number of Recovered COVID-19 Cases in Toronto
  • 4,243 – Number of COVID-19 Fatal Cases in Toronto
  • 6,774,841 COVID-19 – Vaccine doses administered in Toronto

Book your 1st, 2nd or Booster (3rd) COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment TODAY:

Where to get accurate COVID-19 information:

Community Update

REMINDER: City of Toronto launches spring recreation program listings. Registration for spring recreation programs starts at 7 a.m. on the following dates:

  • March 5 – Etobicoke York (including York South-Weston) and Scarborough
  • March 7 – North York and Toronto and East York
  • March 7 – Virtual programs city-wide

Residents can visit Toronto.ca/SpringRec for program and registration information.

REMINDER: Scarborough Business Association invites you to their first in-person Career Fair in support of Scarborough businesses! The fair will take place on Thursday, March 3rd from 11:30am to 3:30pm at Centennial College – Progress Campus at 941 Progress Ave. Register for the fair and upload your resume here!

NEW: Extreme Cold Weather Alert terminated for Toronto – Warming Centres to remain open. Based on Environment and Climate Change Canada’s forecast, the Medical Officer of Health has terminated the Extreme Cold Weather Alert for Toronto as of noon today. Out of an abundance of caution, due to colder nighttime temperatures and forecasted wind chill values, the City’s four Warming Centres at the following locations will remain open:

  • 129 Peter St.
  • 5800 Yonge St.
  • Exhibition Place, Better Living Centre, 195 Princes’ Blvd.
  • Scarborough Civic Centre, 150 Borough Dr.

When these centres do close, details will be shared on the City of Toronto’s Twitter channel and on the City’s website at Toronto.ca/HomelessHelp.

NEW: Mayor Tory marks the reopening of the ArtworxTO Hubs across the city. Running from today – Tuesday, March 1 – through Sunday, May 29 at ArtworxTO Hub WEST, HOME(LAND) is a series of three multimedia exhibitions examining how the idea of land is connected to people’s sense of identity, belonging and home across and between races, regions, cultures and nations, with connections to the four elemental energies from which all of life is created: water, earth, fire and air. HOME(LAND): Terra Firma is the second in the series.

NEW: Latest updates to library services. All open branches are offering regular services with the exception of MAP passes and in-person programming. We are currently limiting capacity to allow for two-metre physical distancing. Sixteen branches remain closed due to COVID-19 related staffing challenges. We continue to review our staffing levels and will work towards opening the remaining closed branches in the weeks to follow. Please visit this page for regular updates!

NEW: Toronto Zoo Update. Toronto Zoo will continue to require proof of vaccination to enter the Zoo until all COVID-19 susceptible animals, some of which are critically endangered or endangered, are vaccinated. Vaccine receipts with or without a QR code along with ID will be required as proof of vaccination. More information on visiting the Toronto Zoo is available at www.torontozoo.com.

REMINDER: Supports available for small businesses in Toronto. The City of Toronto and its partners offer many supports to help small business owners and operators mitigate and recover from the impacts of COVID-19. These include grants, incentives, online training, advisory services and a new small business property tax sub-class. Small businesses, including restaurants, are encouraged to take advantage of these resources. Find a full slate of resources at toronto.ca/BusinessSupport.

Have your say on how to reduce single-use and takeaway items in the City of Toronto! Your feedback will help to inform a report that will be considered by the Infrastructure and Environment Committee in spring 2022 and present the final proposed Single-Use and Takeaway Items Reduction Strategy Stage 2 mandatory measures (e.g., a fee or “ask-first/by-request” bylaw).  Take the online survey by March 6, 2022 at toronto.ca/single-use.

Applications are being accepted for the City of Toronto’s Retail Accelerator Program. Part of the Toronto Main Street Recovery and Rebuild Initiative, the new program provides access to retail training, advisory services and mentoring opportunities, as well as a micro grant of $10,000 to help retail businesses develop and expand. Apply by March 31, 2022.

REMINDER: Registration for CaféTO 2022 is now open! Local restaurant and bar operators interested in expanding their outdoor dining space into the curb lane and onto sidewalks can register and apply for permits online. Visit toronto.ca/CafeTO for more information. The deadline to apply is April 2!

Councillor Ainslie’s Community Survey is now open! Submit your feedback on the 2022 City Budget, City services and projects. Take the survey online here today!

Community Events

REMINDER: Scarborough Business Association Career Fair

March 3, 2022 | 11:30am to 3:30pm

Centennial College – Progress Campus, 941 Progress Ave

Register and upload your resume here!

Scarborough-Guildwood Live Town Hall

March 7, 2022 | 7:00pm to 8:00pm

Link to join:

Save The Date: Poplar Road Strawberry Festival

June 10, 2022 | 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

For more information please visit: www.poplarsf.com

Follow me on social media and/or visit my website for regular updates:

Twitter: @Ainslie_Ward24

Facebook: @cllrainslie

Instagram: @cllrainslie

www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,  

Paul

My Community Update for February 24, 2022 – COVID-19 Update & City of Toronto News

Dear Neighbours,

I hope that you and your families are safe and healthy during these challenging times. Let’s continue to protect each other and reduce the spread of COVID-19 by getting vaccinated, limiting in-person contacts, maintaining physical distancing, wearing a mask and staying home when ill.

I would like to remind everyone that self-care is key, and it is important to prioritize your well-being. Make sure to stay active, drink water, connect with loved ones for support over the phone or virtually and reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Remember local Mental Health supports and services can be accessed online here.

Given the threat posed by the COVID-19 Omicron variant, there is a critical need for all eligible residents to get their first, second and third “booster” doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. Learn about why, how, and where to get vaccinated on the City’s COVID-19: How to Get Vaccinated webpage. 

COVID-19 Update

UPDATE: City-run immunization clinics. On March 1, as part of its efforts to target neighbourhoods with low vaccine uptake, Toronto Public Health (TPH) will open a new immunization clinic at Eglinton Court, 1940 Eglinton Ave. E. This new clinic will replace clinic at Scarborough Town Centre, which will close on Saturday, February 26. The new clinic will offer first, second, third and paediatric doses for walk-ins and booked appointments Tuesday to Friday, from 2 to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TPH is also adjusting the hours of operations at City-run clinics from seven to six days per week as resources are shifted to support hyper-local efforts. The new hours of operation for walk-ins and appointments are as follow:

  • Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Woodbine Mall and Mitchell Field Community Centre: Monday to Friday, 2 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Cloverdale Mall and Scarborough Town Centre (soon-to-be Eglinton Court): Tuesday to Friday, 2 to 8 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

More information about where to get vaccinated across the city including at over 525 pharmacies and primary care offices is available on the City’s webpage.

NEW: Shop And Vax is back! As part of this campaign, 19 clinics will be held by Toronto Public Health and Team Toronto partners across the city starting today, February 24, to Sunday, February 27. Shop And Vax clinics will accept walk-ins for first, second, third and paediatric doses. More information is available on the City’s COVID-19: Pop-Up Immunization Clinics webpage.

NEW: Toronto Voices vaccine engagement series. The City of Toronto has launched “Black Bodies,” the newest feature in the Toronto Voices vaccine engagement series. “Black Bodies” profiles Dr. Akwatu Khenti, Chair of the City’s Black Scientists’ Task Force on Vaccine Equity, who shares a personal message about COVID-19 vaccination with Toronto’s Black community. Watch the Toronto Voices: Black Bodies video here.

SHN Vaccine Pop-Up Clinics – Full details at: www.scarbvaccine

  • February 26 | 9am to 2pm | Tropicana Community Services, 1385 Huntingwood Dr | Walk-in or Book Online
  • February 26 | 10am to 3pm | Toronto Simpson Chinese Alliance Church, 200 Commander Blvd | Walk-in or Book Online

City of Toronto COVID-19 Case & Vaccination Update: (Data as of February 24, 2022) Case status and vaccination dose data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

  • 377 – Newly Reported COVID-19 Cases
  • 2,804 – Total number of Active COVID-19 Cases
  • 185 – Hospitalized Cases (Cumulative) 
  • 286,557 – Number of COVID-19 Cases in Toronto (Cumulative)
  • 279,540 – Number of Recovered COVID-19 Cases in Toronto
  • 4,213 – Number of COVID-19 Fatal Cases in Toronto
  • 6,714,639 COVID-19 – Vaccine doses administered in Toronto

Book your 1st, 2nd or Booster (3rd) COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment TODAY:

Where to get accurate COVID-19 information:

Community Update

REMINDER: The City of Toronto is proposing cycling, pedestrian and road safety upgrades on Scarborough Golf Club Road and is seeking your feedback and lived experience for the project. Please visit toronto.ca/sgcrroadsafety to learn more about the project, timelines and design features. Complete the project survey online by tomorrow, February 25, 2022.

REMINDER: City of Toronto launches spring recreation program listings. Registration for spring recreation programs starts at 7 a.m. on the following dates:

  • March 5 – Etobicoke York (including York South-Weston) and Scarborough
  • March 7 – North York and Toronto and East York
  • March 7 – Virtual programs city-wide

Residents can visit Toronto.ca/SpringRec for program and registration information.

Latest updates to library services. Good news! On Monday, February 28 and Tuesday, March 1, Toronto Public Library will reopen the majority of the branches that have been temporarily closed due to COVID-19 related staffing challenges. online services remain available and can be accessed from anywhere including access to digital collections and online programs. Please visit this page to read the full update.

Have your say on how to reduce single-use and takeaway items in the City of Toronto! Your feedback will help to inform a report that will be considered by the Infrastructure and Environment Committee in spring 2022 and present the final proposed Single-Use and Takeaway Items Reduction Strategy Stage 2 mandatory measures (e.g., a fee or “ask-first/by-request” bylaw).  Take the online survey by March 6, 2022 at toronto.ca/single-use.

Applications are being accepted for the City of Toronto’s Retail Accelerator Program. Part of the Toronto Main Street Recovery and Rebuild Initiative, the new program provides access to retail training, advisory services and mentoring opportunities, as well as a micro grant of $10,000 to help retail businesses develop and expand. Apply by March 31, 2022.

Reminder: Registration for CaféTO 2022 is now open! Local restaurant and bar operators interested in expanding their outdoor dining space into the curb lane and onto sidewalks can register and apply for permits online. Visit toronto.ca/CafeTO for more information. The deadline to apply is April 2!

Councillor Ainslie’s Community Survey is now open! Submit your feedback on the 2022 City Budget, City services and projects. Take the survey online here today!

Community Events

TONIGHT: Scarborough-Guildwood Live Town Hall with Minister Bill Blair

February 24, 2022 | 7:00 pm

Register here.

Freedom to Read Week

February 20 to 26

Learn more about Freedom to Read Week here.

Toronto Virtual Seedy Saturdays

February 26 to March 12

Register and more info here!

Save The Date: Poplar Road Strawberry Festival

June 10, 2022 | 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

For more information please visit: www.poplarsf.com

Follow me on social media and/or visit my website for regular updates:

Twitter: @Ainslie_Ward24

Facebook: @cllrainslie

Instagram: @cllrainslie

www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,  

Paul

My #COVID Update for #Ward24 #Scarborough and #Toronto on February 23, 2022

Dear Neighbours,

I hope that you and your families are safe and healthy during these challenging times. Let’s continue to protect each other and reduce the spread of COVID-19 by getting vaccinated, limiting in-person contacts, maintaining physical distancing, wearing a mask and staying home when ill.

I would like to remind everyone that self-care is key, and it is important to prioritize your well-being. Make sure to stay active, drink water, connect with loved ones for support over the phone or virtually and reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Remember local Mental Health supports and services can be accessed online here.

Given the threat posed by the COVID-19 Omicron variant, there is a critical need for all eligible residents to get their first, second and third “booster” doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. Learn about why, how, and where to get vaccinated on the City’s COVID-19: How to Get Vaccinated webpage. 

COVID-19 Update

NEW: Vax The East wraps up a successful 10-day campaign with more than 3,100 vaccinated across Toronto’s east end

Yesterday, Team Toronto wrapped up the successful 10-day hyper-local Vax The East campaign to bring COVID-19 vaccines close to home for thousands of residents and increase vaccination numbers in Toronto’s east end.

Vax The East launched on February 12 and continued through Family Day. Weekend clinics at the Ontario Science Centre and Thorncliffe Park Community Hub kicked off the campaign, followed by 34 pop-up clinics over eight days in Scarborough schools. In total, Team Toronto vaccinated 3,127 people, including 1,240 children age five to 11 during Vax The East.

NEW: Mayor Tory launches campaign to help small businesses during their pandemic recovery

Today, Mayor John Tory announced a new business supports campaign to help make small business owners and operators more aware of grants, incentives, training and other available resources as they recover from the pandemic. Small businesses, including restaurants, are encouraged to take advantage of these resources, which include access to one-on-one virtual assistance, COVID-19 guidelines, and links to other financial resources and relief measures.

REMINDER: City of Toronto reopening City Hall and civil centres for counter services. Today, City Hall, North York Civic Centre, Scarborough Civic Centre, Etobicoke Civic Centre, York Civic Centre and East York Civic Centre have reopened for a number of in-person counter services. Some services will require booking an appointment in advance while others will operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

SHN Vaccine Pop-Up Clinics – Full details at: www.scarbvaccine

City of Toronto COVID-19 Case & Vaccination Update: (Data as of February 22, 2022) Case status and vaccination dose data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

Book your 1st, 2nd or Booster (3rd) COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment TODAY:

Where to get accurate COVID-19 information:

Community Update

Attention restaurant and bar operators! Are you interested in learning more about #CafeTO and how to transform your patio space? Register for a free webinar on February 23 at 9:30am, hosted by TABIA and Restaurants Canada to learn more! Register online here. Visit www.toronto.ca/cafeto to learn more about the program and to register before the April 2nd deadline.

REMINDER: The City of Toronto is proposing cycling, pedestrian and road safety upgrades on Scarborough Golf Club Road and is seeking your feedback and lived experience for the project. Please visit toronto.ca/sgcrroadsafety to learn more about the project, timelines and design features. Complete the project survey online by February 25, 2022.

NEW: Celebrate Freedom to Read Week: Feb 20 – 26! Freedom to Read Week is an annual event that encourages Canadians to think about and reaffirm our commitment to intellectual freedom. Find out more and learn about some materials from our collection that have been challenged over the years. Learn more about Freedom to Read Week here.

REMINDER: City of Toronto launches spring recreation program listings. Registration for spring recreation programs starts at 7 a.m. on the following dates:

  • March 5 – Etobicoke York (including York South-Weston) and Scarborough
  • March 7 – North York and Toronto and East York
  • March 7 – Virtual programs city-wide

Residents can visit Toronto.ca/SpringRec for program and registration information.

REMINDER: Latest updates to library services. Good news! On Monday, February 28 and Tuesday, March 1, Toronto Public Library will reopen the majority of the branches that have been temporarily closed due to COVID-19 related staffing challenges. online services remain available and can be accessed from anywhere including access to digital collections and online programs. Please visit this page to read the full update.

Have your say on how to reduce single-use and takeaway items in the City of Toronto! Your feedback will help to inform a report that will be considered by the Infrastructure and Environment Committee in spring 2022 and present the final proposed Single-Use and Takeaway Items Reduction Strategy Stage 2 mandatory measures (e.g., a fee or “ask-first/by-request” bylaw).  Take the online survey by March 4, 2022 at toronto.ca/single-use.

Applications are being accepted for the City of Toronto’s Retail Accelerator Program. Part of the Toronto Main Street Recovery and Rebuild Initiative, the new program provides access to retail training, advisory services and mentoring opportunities, as well as a micro grant of $10,000 to help retail businesses develop and expand. Apply by March 31, 2022.

Councillor Ainslie’s Community Survey is now open! Submit your feedback on the 2022 City Budget, City services and projects. Take the survey online here today!

Community Events

REMINDER: CaféTO Information Webinar by TABIA & Restaurants Canada

February 23, 2022 | 9:30am

Register here.

NEW: Scarborough-Guildwood Live Town Hall with Minister Bill Blair

February 24, 2022 | 7:00 pm

Register here.

NEW: Toronto Virtual Seedy Saturdays

February 26 to March 12

Register and more info here!

Follow me on social media and/or visit my website for regular updates:

Twitter: @Ainslie_Ward24

Facebook: @cllrainslie

Instagram: @cllrainslie

www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,  

Paul

My Community Update for February 22, 2022 – COVID-19 Update & City of Toronto News

Dear Neighbours,

I hope that you and your families are safe and healthy during these challenging times. Let’s continue to protect each other and reduce the spread of COVID-19 by getting vaccinated, limiting in-person contacts, maintaining physical distancing, wearing a mask and staying home when ill.

I would like to remind everyone that self-care is key, and it is important to prioritize your well-being. Make sure to stay active, drink water, connect with loved ones for support over the phone or virtually and reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Remember local Mental Health supports and services can be accessed online here.

Given the threat posed by the COVID-19 Omicron variant, there is a critical need for all eligible residents to get their first, second and third “booster” doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. Learn about why, how, and where to get vaccinated on the City’s COVID-19: How to Get Vaccinated webpage. 

COVID-19 Update

NEW: Vax The East wraps up a successful 10-day campaign with more than 3,100 vaccinated across Toronto’s east end

Yesterday, Team Toronto wrapped up the successful 10-day hyper-local Vax The East campaign to bring COVID-19 vaccines close to home for thousands of residents and increase vaccination numbers in Toronto’s east end.

Vax The East launched on February 12 and continued through Family Day. Weekend clinics at the Ontario Science Centre and Thorncliffe Park Community Hub kicked off the campaign, followed by 34 pop-up clinics over eight days in Scarborough schools. In total, Team Toronto vaccinated 3,127 people, including 1,240 children age five to 11 during Vax The East.

NEW: Mayor Tory launches campaign to help small businesses during their pandemic recovery

Today, Mayor John Tory announced a new business supports campaign to help make small business owners and operators more aware of grants, incentives, training and other available resources as they recover from the pandemic. Small businesses, including restaurants, are encouraged to take advantage of these resources, which include access to one-on-one virtual assistance, COVID-19 guidelines, and links to other financial resources and relief measures.

REMINDER: City of Toronto reopening City Hall and civil centres for counter services. Today, City Hall, North York Civic Centre, Scarborough Civic Centre, Etobicoke Civic Centre, York Civic Centre and East York Civic Centre have reopened for a number of in-person counter services. Some services will require booking an appointment in advance while others will operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

SHN Vaccine Pop-Up Clinics – Full details at: www.scarbvaccine

City of Toronto COVID-19 Case & Vaccination Update: (Data as of February 22, 2022) Case status and vaccination dose data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

  • 1002 – Newly Reported COVID-19 Cases
  • 2,996 – Total number of Active COVID-19 Cases
  • 239 – Hospitalized Cases (Cumulative) 
  • 285,871 – Number of COVID-19 Cases in Toronto (Cumulative)
  • 278,675 – Number of Recovered COVID-19 Cases in Toronto
  • 4,200 – Number of COVID-19 Fatal Cases in Toronto
  • 6,714,639 COVID-19 – Vaccine doses administered in Toronto

Book your 1st, 2nd or Booster (3rd) COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment TODAY:

Where to get accurate COVID-19 information:

Community Update

Attention restaurant and bar operators! Are you interested in learning more about #CafeTO and how to transform your patio space? Register for a free webinar on February 23 at 9:30am, hosted by TABIA and Restaurants Canada to learn more! Register online here. Visit www.toronto.ca/cafeto to learn more about the program and to register before the April 2nd deadline.

REMINDER: The City of Toronto is proposing cycling, pedestrian and road safety upgrades on Scarborough Golf Club Road and is seeking your feedback and lived experience for the project. Please visit toronto.ca/sgcrroadsafety to learn more about the project, timelines and design features. Complete the project survey online by February 25, 2022.

NEW: Celebrate Freedom to Read Week: Feb 20 – 26! Freedom to Read Week is an annual event that encourages Canadians to think about and reaffirm our commitment to intellectual freedom. Find out more and learn about some materials from our collection that have been challenged over the years. Learn more about Freedom to Read Week here.

REMINDER: City of Toronto launches spring recreation program listings. Registration for spring recreation programs starts at 7 a.m. on the following dates:

  • March 5 – Etobicoke York (including York South-Weston) and Scarborough
  • March 7 – North York and Toronto and East York
  • March 7 – Virtual programs city-wide

Residents can visit Toronto.ca/SpringRec for program and registration information.

REMINDER: Latest updates to library services. Good news! On Monday, February 28 and Tuesday, March 1, Toronto Public Library will reopen the majority of the branches that have been temporarily closed due to COVID-19 related staffing challenges. online services remain available and can be accessed from anywhere including access to digital collections and online programs. Please visit this page to read the full update.

Have your say on how to reduce single-use and takeaway items in the City of Toronto! Your feedback will help to inform a report that will be considered by the Infrastructure and Environment Committee in spring 2022 and present the final proposed Single-Use and Takeaway Items Reduction Strategy Stage 2 mandatory measures (e.g., a fee or “ask-first/by-request” bylaw).  Take the online survey by March 4, 2022 at toronto.ca/single-use.

Applications are being accepted for the City of Toronto’s Retail Accelerator Program. Part of the Toronto Main Street Recovery and Rebuild Initiative, the new program provides access to retail training, advisory services and mentoring opportunities, as well as a micro grant of $10,000 to help retail businesses develop and expand. Apply by March 31, 2022.

Councillor Ainslie’s Community Survey is now open! Submit your feedback on the 2022 City Budget, City services and projects. Take the survey online here today!

Community Events

REMINDER: CaféTO Information Webinar by TABIA & Restaurants Canada

February 23, 2022 | 9:30am

Register here.

NEW: Scarborough-Guildwood Live Town Hall with Minister Bill Blair

February 24, 2022 | 7:00 pm

Register here.

NEW: Toronto Virtual Seedy Saturdays

February 26 to March 12

Register and more info here!

Follow me on social media and/or visit my website for regular updates:

Twitter: @Ainslie_Ward24

Facebook: @cllrainslie

Instagram: @cllrainslie

www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,  

Paul

The City of Toronto Municipal Government is Re-Opening

Dear Ward 24 Residents,

Today at 11 a.m., Mayor Tory made an announcement providing an update on the City of Toronto’s safe re-opening of City buildings and the transition to a hybrid model for Council and Committee meetings.

Re-opening for counter services:

Beginning on February 22 City Hall, North York Civic Centre, Scarborough Civic Centre, Etobicoke Civic Centre, York Civic Centre and East York Civic Centre will be open for a number of in-person counter services, including payments for property taxes, utilities and parking violations, construction permits, tree permit applications and COVID-19 rapid screening kits for small and medium-sized businesses. Some services will require booking an appointment in advance while others will operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Visitors to City Hall and civic centres will be welcomed by greeters to assist with wayfinding and to answer questions. The Metro Hall Early Learning & Child Care Centre and Employment and Social Services offices will continue operation at Metro Hall.

Re-opening for office staff:

Starting on February 22, the City will also begin the return of office workers to City offices and work locations. City staff will return under a hybrid model and offices will be open to allow for maximum capacity based on occupational health and safety guidelines including physical distancing. Some of the health and safety measures already in place include ensuring physical distancing, universal wearing of masks, increased sanitization and enhanced cleaning protocols, improved ventilation in buildings, mandatory daily screening and mandatory vaccinations for all staff.

Re-opening for meetings with public:

Also starting March 21, members of the public will begin to be able to access public areas (beyond the counters) at City Hall and civic centres. This will also allow City Councillors to invite members of the public to meetings in offices, while ensuring all occupational health and safety measures, including physical distancing, are maintained. Staff may attend these meetings in-person or virtually.

City Council and Committee meetings:

Beginning March 21, City Council and Committee meetings will begin the transition to a hybrid model which will allow for members of Council to attend meetings either virtually or in-person.

The health and safety of residents, businesses and City staff remain key priorities in all re-opening plans. All provincial, public health and occupational health and safety regulations and guidelines will be followed. As provincial, public health and occupational health and safety regulations and guidelines evolve, corresponding updates to City services and operating hours will be posted on the COVID-19: Changes to City Services webpage: www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-latest-city-of-toronto-news/affected-city-services/.

I am also taking this opportunity to remind residents the City offers many options for accessing its services online, through the new mobile app for 311 Toronto and MyToronto Pay – which offers online payment options for property tax and utility bills. The City continues to invest in service improvements to provide residents, businesses and visitors access to services where and how they wish to access them, which includes easier access across multiple channels and more self-serve options.

This is an exciting and important time and we look forward to opening our door to the staff and the public. 

I hope you and all of your family remain safe and well during COVID,

All my Best,

Paul

My Community #COVID Update on February 2, 2022 for #Ward24 #Scarborough and #Toronto

Dear Neighbours,

I hope that you and your families are safe and healthy during these challenging times. Let’s continue to protect each other and reduce the spread of COVID-19 by getting vaccinated, limiting in-person contacts, maintaining physical distancing, wearing a mask and staying home when ill.

I would like to remind everyone that self-care is key, and it is important to prioritize your well-being. Make sure to stay active, drink water, connect with loved ones for support over the phone or virtually and reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Remember local Mental Health supports and services can be accessed online here.

Given the threat posed by the COVID-19 Omicron variant, there is a critical need for all eligible residents to get their first, second and third “booster” doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. Learn about why, how, and where to get vaccinated on the City’s COVID-19: How to Get Vaccinated webpage. 

SnowTO Update

The City is prepared for a forecasted snowfall of approximately 25 cm of snow beginning Wednesday evening and will prioritize the safety and movement of residents and emergency vehicles, with salting and plowing of roads, sidewalks and bike lanes Thank you for your ongoing patience and understanding.

311 service requests for snow-related issues will continue to be available – even during this week’s expected snowfall – and can be made on the 311 Toronto mobile app, on the City’s website at toronto.ca/311 or by calling 311. Please follow up with my office should your issue not be addressed in the suggested timeframe: councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca or 416-396-7222.

More information on the City’s ice and snow response plan is available at toronto.ca/snow.

You can also refer to the City’s PlowTO map to track real-time locations of plows, sidewalk plows and salt trucks and identify which roads have been serviced by winter snow clearing vehicles and crews, at toronto.ca/plowto.

COVID-19 Update

NEW: 12,500 new COVID-19 vaccination appointments now available including 7,000 appointments for kids. Today at 8 a.m., Toronto Public Health (TPH) will release 12,500 new vaccination appointments for City of Toronto-run immunization clinics. The appointments, booked on the provincial booking system, are available between Thursday, February 3 and Saturday, February 19. There are 7,000 appointments available for residents five to 11 years of age and 5,500 appointments for residents 12 years of age and older. Book now at www.toronto.ca/covid19.

NEW: Scarborough Health Network x Scarborough Ontario Health Team Pop-up Clinics

Stephen Leacock Collegiate Institute:

Where: 2450 Birchmount Road

When: Saturday, February 5 from 10am to 3pm

What: 18+ Pfizer & Moderna Boosters and Ages 12+ (1st & 2nd doses)

Walk-in or book online at ScarbVaccine.ca today!

David and Mary Thomson Collegiate Institute:

Where: 125 Brockley Drive

When: Sunday, February 6

 What: Pediatric dose for Kids 5-11 (1st & 2nd doses) – 9-11 a.m. | 18+ Boosters and Ages 12+ (1st & 2nd doses) – 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Walk-in or book online at ScarbVaccine.ca today!

REMINDER: SHN VaxFacts Clinic! SHN is also encouraging families to utilize SHN’s VaxFacts service – a confidential, judgment-free resource. The clinic gives parents, families and vaccine-hesitant individuals the opportunity to schedule a one-on-one phone call with an experienced SHN doctor, ask their questions, and make an informed decision. The VaxFacts Clinic is free to use and only takes seconds to book an appointment at shn.ca/vaxfacts.

REMINDER: Walk-ins are now available at City-run vaccine clinics! To continue to encourage residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19, all five City-run immunization clinics are now welcoming walk-ins for first, second, third and paediatric doses of COVID-19 vaccines. City-run clinics are open Monday to Friday, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for walk-ins and booked appointments. Visit www.toronto.ca/covid19 for more information.

Toronto is in modified Step 3 of the Province’s Roadmap to Reopen, effective January 31 at 12:01am. Review the Guide for Toronto Residents and the City’s COVID-19: Changes to City Services for the latest information of public health measures and city services.

City of Toronto COVID-19 Case & Vaccination Update: (Data as of February 2, 2022) Case status and vaccination dose data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

  • 762 – Newly Reported COVID-19 Cases
  • 7,880 – Total number of Active COVID-19 Cases
  • 530 – Hospitalized Cases (Cumulative) 
  • 278,219 – Number of COVID-19 Cases in Toronto (Cumulative)
  • 268,802 – Number of Recovered COVID-19 Cases in Toronto
  • 4,085 – Number of COVID-19 Fatal Cases in Toronto
  • 6,559,444 COVID-19 – Vaccine doses administered in Toronto

Book your 1st, 2nd or Booster (3rd) COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment TODAY:

Where to get accurate COVID-19 information:

Community Update

NEW: Share your ideas to help build the 2022 Ontario Budget! You can share your ideas by taking this survey before February 11, 2022 or send a written submission by email or mail. Learn more on how you can share your feedback online here.

NEW: TTCriders – Keep Scarborough Connected Report! A new report from transit user group TTCriders warns that the majority of Scarborough RT users are not aware that Line 3 will close permanently in 2023. The group is calling for urgent action to prevent Scarborough residents getting stuck on replacement shuttle buses for 7+ years before a planned subway replacement opens. Read the Keep Scarborough Connected report here.

NEW: Toronto City Council approves year-one implementation plan for SafeTO. Toronto City Council has approved the year-one implementation plan for SafeTO: Toronto’s 10 Year Community Safety and Well-Being Plan. SafeTO is the City of Toronto’s new and bold approach to community safety that focuses on creating a culture of prevention through collaboration with the community, other orders of government and community safety organizations.

NEW: Toronto City Council supports community-led solution to respond to mental health crisis calls. Today, Toronto City Council unanimously approved implementing the City of Toronto’s Community Crisis Support Service pilots, including the selection of four community partners who will deliver the service to be piloted in four areas of the city, starting this spring and summer.

REMINDER: Scarborough Golf Club Road Safety Improvements: Ellesmere Rd to Kingston Rd

On February 10, 2022, City of Toronto staff will host a Virtual Public Consultation Meeting to invite residents to learn more and provide feedback on opportunities for cycling, pedestrian, motor vehicle operations and road safety upgrades on Scarborough Golf Club Road. The City is also seeking feedback on options for upgrades between Lawrence Avenue East and Kingston Road. Visit www.toronto.ca/sgcrroadsafety to register for the meeting, for more information about the complete streets model, key dates and updates related to the project.

Scarborough Health Network Foundation #LoveScarborough Campaign! Show your love to Scarborough and help SHN Foundation raise 100 million dollars to support our Scarborough hospitals. Scarborough is one of Canada’s most diverse communities and deserves the same innovative technology and updated facilities other Toronto hospitals offer. Visit www.lovescarborough.ca for more information and to donate today.

Scarborough Love Auction with Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities! The Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities (SCHC) is hosting a virtual auction from February 3rd to 6th. Proceeds support youth, seniors and those in the hospice/palliative care program. Visit the auction site here to register and begin bidding on February 3rd. 

City of Toronto opens CaféTO registration for local restaurant and bar operators! Restaurant and bar operators interested in expanding their outdoor dining space into a curb lane and onto sidewalks in 2022 can now register for the CaféTO program. Visit www.toronto.ca/cafeto to learn more about the program and to register before the April 2nd deadline.

Online applications for the new Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program are now open. The provincial government program provides eligible businesses that are required to close or reduce capacity with rebate payments for up to 100 per cent of the property tax and energy costs they incur while subject to public health measures in response to the Omicron variant. To receive the grant, a small business must be required to close due to public health orders that took effect on January 5 and have fewer than 100 employees. Apply today.

Applications are now being accepted for the City of Toronto’s Cultural Festivals Funding Program! These funding programs represent a form of partnership with community-based organizations that contribute significantly to the goals in relation to community capacity, equitable access, well being, diversity, civic participation and civic cohesion. Applications for all streams will close February 11, 2022. Program information, eligibility and applications is available online at www.toronto.ca/culturegrants.

Applications are being accepted for the City of Toronto’s Retail Accelerator Program. Part of the Toronto Main Street Recovery and Rebuild Initiative, the new program provides access to retail training, advisory services and mentoring opportunities, as well as a micro grant of $10,000 to help retail businesses develop and expand. Apply by March 31, 2022.

Councillor Ainslie’s Community Survey is now open! Submit your feedback on the 2022 City Budget, City services and projects. Take the survey online here today!

Community Events

BGC East Scarborough x MAAT Youth Innovation & Cultural Centre Black History Month Trivia Evening

February 3, 2022 | 5pm to 7pm

Follow this link at 5pm on Thursday to play!

Newcomer Youth Engagement Program: StridesTO – Black History Month Kick Off (Online Event)

Thursday, February 3, 2022 | 4pm to 5pm

Send a Direct Message to @nyep_stridesto on Instagram for the Zoom link.

SBA: Cyber Breakfast Conference

February 3, 2022 | 9:15am to 10:00am

Register here.

SCHC Scarborough Love Auction

February 3-6, 2022

Visit the auction website for more details.

Virtual Public Consultation: Road Safety Improvements on Scarborough Golf Club Road

February 10, 2022 | 6:30pm to 8:00pm

Register at www.toronto.ca/sgcrroadsafety

Follow me on social media and/or visit my website for regular updates:

Twitter: @Ainslie_Ward24

Facebook: @cllrainslie

Instagram: @cllrainslie

www.paulainslie.com

You can also reach me by telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,  

Paul

My Weekly #COVID Update for #Ward24 #Scarborough and #Toronto for the week of January 18, 2022

Dear Neighbours,

I hope that you and your families are safe and healthy during these challenging times. Let’s continue to protect each other and reduce the spread of COVID-19 by getting vaccinated, limiting in-person contacts, maintaining physical distancing, wearing a mask and staying home when ill.

I would like to remind everyone that self-care is key, and it is important to prioritize your wellbeing. Make sure to stay active, drink water, connect with loved ones for support over the phone or virtually and reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Remember local Mental Health supports and services can be accessed online here.

Given the threat posed by the COVID-19 Omicron variant, there is a critical need for all eligible residents to get their first, second and third “booster” doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. Learn about why, how, and where to get vaccinated on the City’s COVID-19: How to Get Vaccinated webpage. 

City of Toronto update on City services following winter storm

Yesterday, Toronto experienced a significant amount of snowfall throughout the day which impacted some City of Toronto services. As the City continues its snow clearing efforts, emergency services continue to be prioritized for the safety of Toronto residents.

The City’s emergency services are directly connected with Transportation Services Road Operations via the Emergency Operations Centre to ensure each emergency service has direct and timely access to snow clearing support to facilitate the response of ambulances, fire trucks and police vehicles.

Snow Clearing Update:

The City continues to clear snow from roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, multi-use trails, bus stops and pedestrian crossovers. Crews completed multiple rounds of plowing and salting overnight on expressways, major roads and local roads. Crews continue to plow all local roads. The City’s snow clearing operations will continue throughout Tuesday and Wednesday.

Solid Waste Management Services:

Crews are out today working to collect waste as regularly scheduled; however, due to the snow, delays are expected. Please put your waste out on your regularly scheduled collection day and leave it out until it’s collected. Please clear snow around bins, do not place bins behind or on snowbanks and ensure a clear path from your bin to the road. if possible, please hold onto any oversized and metal items until your next collection.

Parks, Forestry & Recreation:

Community centres that support child care, immunization clinics or social services will open, but all other centres remain closed today. Snow has been cleared from many outdoor rinks and this work will continue throughout the day. Earl Bales and Centennial Ski and Snowboard Centres are open today. Skaters can check the status of their rink online before heading out. Permit holders for outdoor ice rinks with bookings today should check the status of their rinks online or contact 416-396-7378.

Toronto Employment & Social Services (TESS):

In-person services are back to normal today. All three locations (Metro Hall, Scarborough Village and York Humber) are open today and operating at regular business hours 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Toronto Transit Commission:

The TTC continues to monitor the special weather statement issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada for the city of Toronto. The TTC has increased staff where available to accommodate additional service and are monitoring surface route disruptions. Follow @TTCNotices on Twitter for service updates or www.ttc.ca.

Libraries:

All Toronto Public Library branches remain closed today. More information is available on the Toronto Public Library website.

COVID-19 Update

NEW: Team Toronto has now administered third doses to more than 1.2 million Torontonians. This exciting milestone comes exactly one year after opening the first City of Toronto operated proof-of-concept immunization clinic on January 18, 2021. Team Toronto has also now administered a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine to 89.9 per cent of eligible Torontonians age 12 and older, with 87 per cent already having received two doses, and 51 per cent of eligible children age five to 11 receiving their first dose. This work is continuing with Team Toronto delivering first, second and third doses at City-run clinics, mobile clinics, hospital partner clinics and more than 525 local pharmacies and doctors’ offices.

NEW: Team Toronto Kids continues to vaccinate five- to 11-year-old Torontonians as quickly as possible. As of January 17, at 8:30 a.m., 133,630 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered to residents between five and 11 years old. In less than two months, approximately 51 per cent of Toronto children in this age group have received at least one dose.

Toronto Public Health continues to work with health care partners and school boards to provide as many vaccination opportunities as possible for residents five to 11 years old and their families. To date, there have been more than 520 school-based clinics held as part of the data-driven and needs-based plan to provide COVID-19 vaccines to children and youth between the ages of five and 17 years old.

NEW: City of Toronto to distribute COVID-19 rapid antigen test kits to community-based child care providers. The City of Toronto is working with the Province of Ontario to distribute rapid antigen tests to licensed child care programs in the community for use where a staff member, child care provider or child in care is showing symptoms of COVID-19.

Beginning today, the City will support this provincial initiative by helping to ensure that rapid antigen test kits are distributed as quickly as possible to community-based child care programs, including licensed home child care agencies. Child care programs that are located in schools will receive rapid antigen test kits directly from their school or school board.

UPDATE: Team Toronto’s latest mass vaccination event, Vax The North West on Sunday, January 23 – News Release! Appointments for the clinic opened at 8 a.m. today in the provincial vaccine booking system, available by calling 1-833-943-3900 or by booking online.

UPDATE: FH Health x Toronto Zoo Mass Vaccination Clinic is now OPEN! Book your booster appointment today! You will need an email address and your health card (valid or expired) to book an appointment. Book now at www.fhvax.com

UPDATE: Scarborough Health Network Vaccine Pop-ups – By Appointment Only – Book now at www.scarbvaccine.ca

UPDATE: Toronto Public Health (TPH) approach to monitoring and reporting COVID-19 in schools. The Ministry of Education will be requiring schools to monitor their own absenteeism rates and report on student and staff absences, and school closures, daily through the absence reporting tool (ART) to support ongoing monitoring and transparency related to COVID-19 impacts on schools. When a school’s absenteeism rate increases sharply (e.g., 30% above their baseline), schools are required to notify TPH.

TPH will continue to meet with school boards and provide public health guidance to keep the school environment as safe as possible. TPH is working with school boards on how best to implement the new provincial directions, including those regarding monitoring and reporting of COVID-19 in schools. More information will be shared as it becomes available.

For additional school-specific information please visit the COVID-19 Guidance: Educational Institutions & Instructional Services webpage.

The City of Toronto remains in a modified Step Two of the Province’s Roadmap to Reopen until at east January 26, 2022. The City has updated its website to reflect the changes in City services, residents can review the changes here.

City of Toronto COVID-19 Case & Vaccination Update: (Data as of January 18, 2022) Case status and vaccination dose data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

Book your 1st, 2nd or Booster (3rd) COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment TODAY:

Where to get accurate COVID-19 information:

Community Update

NEW: City of Toronto opens CaféTO registration for local restaurant and bar operators! Restaurant and bar operators interested in expanding their outdoor dining space into a curb lane and onto sidewalks in 2022 can now register for the CaféTO program. Visit www.toronto.ca/cafeto to learn more about the program and to register before the April 2nd deadline.

NEW: Online applications for the new Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program are now open. The provincial government program provides eligible businesses that are required to close or reduce capacity with rebate payments for up to 100 per cent of the property tax and energy costs they incur while subject to public health measures in response to the Omicron variant. To receive the grant, a small business must be required to close due to public health orders that took effect on January 5 and have fewer than 100 employees. Apply today.

NEW: 360˚ Stories Online Book Launch! The Reading Partnership is pleased to announce the launch of “Great Stories Through the Eyes of Kids”, an anthology written and illustrated by 14 kids (ages 9-12) from East Scarborough. The official book launch will take place on Thursday, January 27, 2022. Learn more about 360 Stores Online and the book launch here.

NEW: Councillor Ainslie’s Community Survey is now open! Submit your feedback on the 2022 City Budget, City services and projects. Take the survey online here today!

Share your feedback on the City of Toronto’s 2022 tax-supported budget! The budgets will be reviewed and debated by Budget and Executive Committees before being finalized and approved by City Council at its meeting on February 17. You can share your feedback on the staff-recommended budget with the Budget Committee by registering to speak at its meeting on January 24 and 25, or by submitting comments by email or mail.

Speakers are asked to register by 4:30 p.m. on January 21. More information about ways to provide feedback is available at www.toronto.ca/budget.

Arts funding for youth with Toronto Arts Council, ArtReach! Are you a youth artist or part of a youth-led group/ collective/ organization that serves youth from equity-deserving populations in Toronto? Looking for funding for your next art project? Supported by Toronto Arts Council, ArtReach offers funding to community-based arts programming geared to youth who face systemic barriers to accessing high-quality arts opportunities. The deadline to apply is February 1, 2022. Visit: www.artreach.org/grants

Applications are now being accepted for the City of Toronto’s Cultural Festivals Funding Program! These funding programs represent a form of partnership with community-based organizations that contribute significantly to the goals in relation to community capacity, equitable access, well being, diversity, civic participation and civic cohesion. Applications for all streams will close February 11, 2022. Program information, eligibility and applications is available online at www.toronto.ca/culturegrants.

Applications are being accepted for the City of Toronto’s Retail Accelerator Program. Part of the Toronto Main Street Recovery and Rebuild Initiative, the new program provides access to retail training, advisory services and mentoring opportunities, as well as a micro grant of $10,000 to help retail businesses develop and expand. Apply by March 31, 2022.

Community Events

The East Scarborough Storefront’s Academic Upgrading & Financial Literacy Information Session

January 20, 2022 | 9:30am to 12:30pm

Register by calling 416-208-9889 or email info@thestorefront.org.

SBA Cyber Breakfast: The Impact: Reintroducing Business Restrictions & Lockdown

January 20, 2022 | 9:15am to 10:00am

Register here.

Open House – Ontario Line & Scarborough Subway Extension Zoning By-law Amendments

January 25, 2022 | 6:30pm to 8:30pm

Register here.

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website:

 

You can also reach me by telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,  

PaulSUBSCRIBE | UNSBSCRIBE

Community Health Update from The Scarborough Health Network President Elizabeth Buller

January 12, 2022

Dear Neighbours,

I hope you and your families are safe and healthy during these challenging times. Let’s continue to protect each other and reduce the spread of COVID-19 by getting vaccinated, limiting in-person contacts, maintaining physical distancing, wearing a mask and saying home when ill.

The Province of Ontario has temporarily moved to a modified Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen to limit the transmission of the Omicron variant and to prevent Ontario hospitals from becoming overwhelmed. The City of Toronto has updated its website to reflect changes in City services, I encourage residents to review the changes here. The City has also updated its COVID-19: Guide for Toronto Residents webpage.

I wanted to take this time to share an update on the current situation at our Scarborough Health Network hospitals:

Scarborough Health Network (SHN) has seen a rapid and increasing trend of hospitalizations due to COVID-19. Just this past weekend SHN admitted almost 100 new COVID-19 patients. SHN hospitals currently have over 200 COVID-19 patients and are expecting this number to increase in the coming days and weeks. 

SHN is also experiencing “outbreaks” across several hospital units impacting the ability to care for patients efficiently. In order to best serve patients and our community, SHN has taken concrete actions to manage this ongoing situation, including:

Capacity

• Pausing non-emergency and non-urgent services to provide more resources and capacity for patients in Critical Care, Medicine and Emergency.  

• Opening a Cold/Flu/COVID clinic at SHN General Hospital for residents who feel they need to see a doctor and to redirect people from the Emergency Department and manage their care expediently.

• Utilizing the regional referral service to support patient discharges to home with support as soon as safely possible.

• Working with nurses and all health care providers to provide optimal care while optimizing our health human resources most effectively

• Supporting staff to work from home where possible. 

Staff Safety

• Launching a new Workplace Health & Safety COVID-19 Exposure and Symptom Screening Tool.

• Expanding use of N95 respirators under face shields for all clinical interactions, regardless of the patient’s COVID-19 status.    

• Prioritizing SHN staff, medical staff and families for both vaccination and booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

• Making testing with expedited results available to SHN staff and medical staff.

• Addressing issues proactively at SHN leadership’s twice daily Omicron Operations Committee meetings.

Vaccinations

• Ongoing vaccine clinics across Scarborough for all eligible ages. www.scarbvaccine.ca

• Dedicated vaccine spots at our Centennial Vaccine Clinic for education workers and pregnant women

• Upcoming pop ups in the community 

• Supporting shelters and community vaccination centers for targeted at-risk populations

Emergency Department 

Additionally, SHN’s emergency departments are open 24/7 if residents need medical attention, however SHN is asking for your support to ensure those who need emergency care, can receive it immediately:

• If you have only mild COVID-19 symptoms, you do not need to come to the emergency department.

• For advice on managing your mild COVID-19 symptoms at home, please access your primary care provider; urgent care or walk-in clinics, or after-hours clinics; or Telehealth Ontario (call toll-free to speak to a registered nurse at 1-866-797-0000 or TTY: 1-866-797-0007).

Additional non-emergency resources:

• SHN Cold and Flu Clinic: SHN Cold/Flu/COVID-19 Clinic, located at SHN’s General hospital (3050 Lawrence Ave E), is for patients who develop moderate symptoms common to COVID-19, the flu or a cold and need to see a doctor. Patients seen at the clinic will be given a medical assessment by a physician, who will consult with them about next steps they should take for their care.

• SHN Kids After Hours Clinic: For access to a paediatrician to treat common medical issues when your child’s doctor may be away or unavailable.

• Scarborough Virtual Urgent Care Clinic: If you need to be seen by a doctor for an urgent medical condition that is not life- or limb-threatening, then the Scarborough Virtual Urgent Care Clinic can provide you with services and care right through your phone, tablet or computer. The virtual clinic is available for adults and children (aged three months or older) from Scarborough and nearby communities.

• If you visit the emergency department, you will receive care based on the severity of your illness, even if you arrive by ambulance. As a result of very high patient volumes, this will mean longer-than-normal wait times for less severe illness or injury.

• Please do not come to Emergency for COVID-19 testing. If you meet the province’s current eligibility criteria, book an appointment at our COVID-19 Assessment Centres.

Please visit www.shn.ca/covid-19 for more information on SHN’s COVID-19 cases, non-emergency resources, and updates on policies and practices.

You can follow Scarborough Health Network on social media and visit their website for regular updates regarding vaccination pop-up clinics, 1st, 2nd and 3rd (Booster) dose appointments and more:

• Twitter: @shncares

• Instagram: @shncares

• Website: www.scarbvaccine.ca

Scarborough Health Network Foundation

The Scarborough Health Network just launched its #LoveScarborough Campaign. The goal of this campaign is to shine light on the inequities in healthcare and to raise $100 million to support our Scarborough communities. To donate and to learn more about the campaign, please visit www.lovescarborough.ca

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website:

You can also reach me by telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca

All my Best,  

Paul