Words From Eastern Toronto

May 6, 2020 

Dear Neighbours, 

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

I am writing to Premier Doug Ford regarding the economic vitality of our active business communities. May 1^st has passed and many of our small businesses have not been able to pay rent. They have made it clear that the current Federal/Provincial CERCA program for small businesses will not work for most. I am asking for an immediate moratorium on commercial evictions and further rent subsidies. Please see my letter here.

Today, we honour the 6 fallen Canadian Armed Forces members who were tragically killed in a helicopter crash while deployed on Operations reassurance and went down in the Ionian Sea off the coast of Greece. The repatriation ceremony, which took place at Canadian Forces base in Trenton, can be viewed here. Following the ceremony, the motorcade proceeded to Toronto, via the Highway of Heroes. My deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the members lost.

City of Toronto launches ActiveTO plan to provide more space for physical distancing as part of the city’s restart and recovery

Today, the City of Toronto announced high-level details of the ActiveTO plan that will provide more space for pedestrians, cyclists as well as transit riders to allow for better physical distancing as part of the city’s restart and recovery from COVID-19.

ActiveTO is about making sure people have space to get outside, get around while respecting physical distancing, and – when it comes to the larger bike lane projects – that we have a safety valve when it comes to the TTC. Initiatives under the program include:

–       Creating quiet streets – identifying local routes with traffic calming measures that would enable local car traffic only and opening up space for pedestrians and cyclists,

–       Active transportation on major streets – closing some major roads adjacent to major trails or recreational attractions where crowding on weekends and holidays has been observed, and

–       Expanding cycling network – expanding the cycling network and installing temporary active transportation lanes, as well as expanding and accelerating key parts of the council-approved Cycling Network Plan, that connect the cycling network, as well as bikeways that mirror major TTC routes.

More information is available in the City’s news release, and further details about the ActiveTO plan will be announced next week.

City to distribute PPE to frontline shelter staff and second COVID-19 recovery site to open for homeless

Today, the City announced that starting next week, we will distribute 35,000 masks weekly to City and sector partners for frontline shelter staff. This is on top of personal protective equipment (PPE) we’ve already distributed and $6.1 million for PPE, infection control & wages for partner agencies.

As well, the City of Toronto with University Health Network, Inner City Health Associates and other partners are opening a 2nd recovery site for homeless who are COVID-19 positive. This site opens Friday with up to 250 spaces along with current 200-bed recovery site. Wrap-around health, harm reduction and peer supports are provided. This program is unique integrated model of care for City’s most vulnerable to recover in dignified way. It isn’t a hospital because they do not require acute care. And it isn’t a shelter because additional medical supports are provided.

City of Toronto update on COVID-19

As of this afternoon, there are 6,665 cases of COVID-19 in Toronto. Cases include 6,019 confirmed cases and 646 probable cases. There are 391 cases hospitalized, with 99 in intensive care units. We continue to see COVID-19 deaths; to date, 504 people in Toronto have died from COVID-19. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform. Full news release here.

The decreasing number of COVID-19 cases represents residents’ commitment to public health measures and protecting the community, but we need to continue remaining diligent and continue to practise physical distancing when outside.

Update on enforcement activity

The fight against COVID-19 continues and the majority of Toronto residents are doing their part to help stop the spread of this virus. Yesterday, the City received 210 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks. Bylaw and police officers issued one ticket – bringing the total number of tickets issued under City’s physical distancing bylaw and the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act to 621 since April 3. Bylaw and police officers have spoken to more than 14,000 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures.

The City also received 27 complaints yesterday related to non-essential businesses remaining open. Since March 24, Municipal Licensing & Standards and Toronto Public Health have issued 113 tickets and 236 notices to non-essential businesses.

City of Toronto reminds residents of proper waste disposal

Keep in mind that all personal hygiene/sanitary products, including tissues, napkins, paper towels, wipes, masks and gloves should be disposed of in the garbage. Diapers can continue to be disposed of in the Green Bin. All material placed in garbage bins should be bagged, specifically cleaning products such as wipes, tissues/napkins/paper towels and other sanitary/hygiene products. Find more information here.

Wildlife in Toronto

The public is reminded to never interfere with, handle or feed wildlife in Toronto. Wildlife that lose their fear of humans can pose dangers to people, as well as themselves. Dog owners are also reminded to keep their dogs on a leash at all times. If you see injured, sick or very young wildlife, call 311. More information is available at toronto.ca.

Mental health support during COVID-19

Many people may be feeling anxious, unsure and even scared at this time. These are normal and healthy responses to unexpected or stressful situations. Being taken out of our regular daily routines, and distanced from our support groups and family is hard and many are struggling as a result. Reach out to friends by phone or video chat, stay active while staying at home, and do your best to eat well and get lots of rest. More information including tips and mental health support services can be found on the City’s website.

Ontario further eases restrictions on retail stores and essential construction during COVID-19

The Ontario government is allowing all retail stores with a street entrance to provide curbside pickup and delivery, as well as in-store payment and purchases at garden centres, nurseries, hardware stores and safety supply stores. The business owners should review the health and safety guidelines developed by the province and its health and safety association partners. Full news release here.

Ontario extends electricity rate relief during COVID-19

The Ontario government is extending emergency electricity rate relief to families, farms and small businesses until May 31, 2020 during the COVID-19 outbreak. Customers who pay time-of-use electricity rates will continue to be billed at the lowest price, known as the off-peak price, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This electricity rate relief, initially provided for a 45-day period starting on March 24, 2020, has been extended by an emergency order under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. The rate relief is intended to be in place for an additional 24 days. Full news release here.  

East Scarborough Boys and Girls Club (ESBGC) Free Pick-Up Lunch on Friday

In partnership Children’s Charity by Presidents Choice, ESBGC has launched weekly Free Lunch Drive Through to have a meal with the local community weekly, starting this Friday, May 8 from 12:30PM to 2:30PM. Register here.

Additionally, ESBGC currently offers the following Emergency Access Services:

• Weekly Family Meal Kits (delivered 2x weekly)
• Prepared meals for families and individuals in crisis (delivered daily)
• Hygiene personal care kits (female, male, family)
• Educational, and craft kits

Sign up with this form.

BusinessTO Digital resources, webinars and events

Ask an Accountant – Applying for COVID-19 Support Programs webinar (Free) – Wednesday, May 13, 3:30 p.m. – Register

Coming Together in Times of Uncertainty Webinar (Free) – Monday, May 11, 7 p.m. – Register 

Elevate Live 13-week Event Series (Free) – Wednesdays, 12 p.m. – Register 

MaRS COVID-19 Collection – Browse a collection of tools and tactics startups can use to respond to the business impacts of COVID-19. Learn More.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24 

Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information. 

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough 

Essential Government Information for COVID -19 

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca 

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages. 

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites: 

City of Toronto 

Province of Ontario 

Government of Canada 

World Health Organization 

Official Global Travel Advisory 

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311. 

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information: 

 

Website: 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 

May 5, 2020 

Dear Neighbours, 

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

Revised due dates for City of Toronto property tax and utility bills

The 60-day grace period for property tax, utility bill payments and late penalties extended by the City during the COVID-19 response ends on May 15. There are important changes to instalment amounts and due dates for customers on all payment schedules. All customers will receive a mailed notification of their revised interim bill due dates. Final tax bills will be mailed in mid-May as usual.

Property taxes for the remainder of 2020 will be due on the following dates: 

• Two-instalment plan: August 4
• Six-instalment plan: June 1, July 2, August 4, September 1 and October 1 
• Eleven-instalment plan: June 15, July 15, August 17, September 15, October 15, November 16 and December 15.

Customers on the 11-instalment plan will have their original May and June interim instalment amounts combined with the final billing and spread evenly over July through December payments. Customers who are already enrolled in the City’s pre-authorized payment plan don’t have to re-enroll – payments will start again automatically on the new due date. Customers who have sent the City post-dated cheques do not need to re-send cheques for the revised due dates, as any cheques previously submitted will be processed on the new due dates. Any cheques received after April 1, 2020 will be cashed according to the date on the cheque.

Further details can be found in this news release.

Resuming of Toxic Taxi service
The Toxic Taxi service for pickup of Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) has been resumed. Pickup must be prearranged by calling 311 to make an appointment. There is a maximum of 50 litres/kilograms and minimum of 10 litres/kilograms per pickup (equivalent to 10 full standard household paint cans). Details about what is accepted and how to properly set it out are available on the Household Hazardous Waste web page under “Proper Disposal Options.”

City of Toronto update on COVID-19

As of yesterday afternoon, there are 6,448 cases of COVID-19 in Toronto. Cases include 5,809 confirmed cases and 639 probable cases. There are 394 cases hospitalized, with 105 in intensive care units. We continue to see COVID-19 deaths; to date, 469 people in Toronto have died from COVID-19. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

Today, Dr. de Villa explained preliminary findings suggesting COVID-19 may be disproportionately affecting certain people in our city. Toronto Public Health preliminary analysis suggests that people living in areas that have the highest proportion of low income earners, recent immigrants and high unemployment rates had higher rates of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. To better understand and strengthen capacity to address these issues, Toronto Public Health is adding socio-demographic questions to the case and contract tracing management process. Beginning soon, staff will be asking all people who test positive for COVID-19 about their race, income, household size, Indigenous identity, and First Nation status.

City of Toronto to begin opening community gardens and allotment gardens 

The City will follow a phased approach in opening its 81 community gardens and 12 allotment gardens to ensure public safety while providing access to an essential source of fresh food. Community gardens will begin to open this week on a location-by-location basis. Allotment gardens will begin to open during the week of May 11. More information in this news release.

Update on enforcement activity

Enforcement of the City’s physical distancing bylaw and the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act orders is ongoing. Complaints related to non-essential businesses remaining open have fallen, with only 20 complaints yesterday. No tickets or notices were issued yesterday for the operation of a non-essential business. Toronto Public Health continues to visit essential businesses to provide advice, recommendations and instruction on physical distancing, cleaning, and disinfection to protect workers and patrons.

Complaints involving people gathering, using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks or squares continue, with the City receiving 163 complaints about use of amenities and lack of physical distancing in parks or squares and 21 complaints related to gatherings yesterday. Municipal Licensing & Standards and Toronto Police Service officers issued 10 tickets for behaviour in parks. This month, bylaw and police officers have spoken to almost 1,124 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures. For the most part, where officers have spoken to park goers, people have responded positively to education about public health recommendations and willingly adjusted their behaviour.

Mental health support during COVID-19

Many people may be feeling anxious, unsure and even scared at this time. These are normal and healthy responses to unexpected or stressful situations. Being taken out of our regular daily routines, and distanced from our support groups and family is hard and many are struggling as a result. Reach out to friends by phone or video chat, stay active while staying at home, and do your best to eat well and get lots of rest. More information including tips and mental health support services can be found on the City’s website.

In addition, starting today, the Ontario government is expanding virtual mental health services to help thousands of Ontarians experiencing anxiety and depression, including frontline health care workers, during the COVID-19 outbreak. These Internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) programs were developed in partnership with MindBeacon and Morneau Shepell and will be provided at no out-of-pocket costs to Ontarians across the province. More information can be found on the Government of Ontario website.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: 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

May 5, 2020 

Dear Neighbours, 

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

Giving Tuesday Now

Today is Giving Tuesday Now, a global day of giving and unity to help support #COVID19 emergency relief efforts. There are many ways you can support your community during these unprecedented times. Learn how you can help during the #COVID19 pandemic here.

The Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) annual Mental Health Week

This week is Mental Health Week from May 4-10, 2020! As we continue to face the challenges of COVID-19, many people may be feeling anxious, unsure, and even scared during these difficult times. It is important that we focus on what we can control and take care of our mental health and well-being. Remember it’s OK to not feel OK. More resources on taking care of your mental health and well-being can be found here. More details on CMHA’s Mental Health week can be found here.

Supporting Canada’s farmers, food businesses, and food supply 

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announce important measures within agriculture programs and an investment of more than $252 million to support farmers food businesses, and food processors who provide essential services to Canadians every day by ensuring a safe and reliable food supply. He also announced that the government intends to propose an additional $200 million in borrowing capacity for the sector. Full news release can be found here.

The Reading Partnership: KidsReadTO

Kids ReadTO is a virtual book club connecting children across the GTA through good books. Meet-ups, led by professional facilitators, allow kids to safely socialize on-line. Guided reading activities, discussions, and games strengthen literacy skills and build confidence. We select titles by diverse authors – stories from around the world that kids can relate to, delivered to your doorstep.

Click Here to Register

Application Deadline: May 11, 2020

If you have any questions, or would like more information please contact Jasmine Burke- Ishmael at projects@readingpartnership.com or 647-981-5290. 

UPS Road Code Program

The Boys and Girls Club of East Scarborough is hosting a UPS Road Code Program that will be held virtually on Thursday May 7^th and Friday May 8^th from 4:00PM to 5:30PM via zoom. This is an opportunity for youth between the ages of 14-18. For registration, contact Onyx at 416-254-3066 or oduggan@esbgc.ca. See event flyer here.

Public Safety Alert, Protecting Vulnerable People

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Toronto Police Service has not experienced an increase in reports for crimes against vulnerable people, however, crimes often go unreported. If you are a victim of any kind of abuse or if you believe someone you know is being victimized, please see the following community resources available below:

Child Abuse

Kids Help Phone – 1-800-668-6868
Children’s Aid Society of Toronto – 416-924-4646
Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Toronto – 416-395-1500
Jewish Family & Child Service of Greater Toronto – 416-638-7800
Native Child & Family Services of Toronto – 416-969-8510

Intimate Partner Violence
Victim Services Toronto – 416-808-7066
Assaulted Women Helpline – GTA: 416-863-0511 – T/F 1-866-863-0511

Elder Abuse   

Toronto Seniors Helpline – 416-217-2077
Seniors Safety Line – 1-866-299-1011
Advocacy Centre for the Elderly – 1-855-598-2656 or 416-598-2656

Ontario Nonprofit Network Webinar

The Ontario Nonprofit Network (ONN) is creating engaging and informative webinars for the non-profit sector. Topics for upcoming webinars range from scenario planning and cash flow management to how lessons from previous crises can help us prepare for a post-COVID-19 world. 

You can find more details on each webinar and register for free by clicking on the links below.

• May 7, Scenario planning and cash flow management in uncertain times
• May 21,Tips and traps to avoid when banking online
• June 4, How to cut, contain, and restructure costs in uncertain times
• June 18, Responding to the financial crises then and now

All registered participants will receive a recording of the webinar and slide deck. Should you have any questions regarding the webinars, feel free to reach out to Melanie from the ONN team at melanie@theonn.ca. 

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: 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

May the 4^th be with you, 2020 

Dear Neighbours, 

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory physical distancing bylaw!

Practise physical distancing today and everyday by staying apart 2metres (6feet), or about the length of two lightsabers. May the Fourth be with you!

The Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) annual Mental Health Week

Today is the start of Mental Health Week – May 4-10, 2020! As we continue to face the challenges of COVID-19, many people may be feeling anxious, unsure, and even scared during these difficult times. It is important that we focus on what we can control and take care of our mental health and well-being. Remember it’s OK to not feel OK. More resources on taking care of your mental health and well-being can be found here. More details on CMHA’s Mental Health week can be found here.

Toronto Water warns of fraudulent City of Toronto letter to residents

A letter from the City’s “Department of Water” is being delivered to residents telling them the City will be conducting lead pipe replacement to their property in Fall 2020 that will result in a significant charge to the utility bill; e.g. half of $38,000. This is fraud and we are asking anyone who receives this letter to report it to the Toronto Police Service non-emergency line at 416-808-2222. Anyone with questions about Toronto Water operations can contact 311.

City of Toronto to begin opening community gardens and allotment gardens 

On April 25, the Province of Ontario announced amendments to an Order under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act that permit the use of allotment gardens and community gardens. To help increase the resiliency of and food security for Toronto’s residents during the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Toronto will open its community and allotment gardens for the 2020 gardening season. The City will follow a phased approach in opening its 81 community gardens and 12 allotment gardens to ensure public safety while providing access to an essential source of fresh food. More information in this news release.

City of Toronto update on COVID-19

As of yesterday afternoon, there are 6,278 cases of COVID-19 in Toronto. Cases include 5,641 confirmed cases and 637 probable cases. There are 387 cases hospitalized, with 105 in intensive care units. We continue to see COVID-19 deaths; to date, 449 people in Toronto have died from COVID-19. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

Enforcement of the City’s physical distancing bylaw and the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act orders is ongoing. Yesterday, the City received 184 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks or squares. Bylaw and police officers issued four tickets – bringing the total number of tickets issued since May 1 to 11 tickets. This month, bylaw and police officers have spoken to almost 1,000 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures.

The City also received 19 complaints yesterday related to non-essential businesses remaining open. Toronto Public Health issued seven tickets to non-essential businesses yesterday. Read news release.

Experience virtual cherry blossom bloom during closure of High Park

During the High Park closure, residents can enjoy the cherry blossom bloom virtually. Throughout the closure period, the City will provide a continuous livestream of the cherry tree grove in High Park, plus multiple live events and videos featuring virtual walk-throughs of the blossoming Sakura (cherry blossom) trees. Learn more at toronto.ca/cherryblossoms.

Canada and international partners launch the Coronavirus Global Response

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau joined other global leaders to launch the Coronavirus Global Response. This online pledging event aims to initially raise more than $8 billion (USD) to help researchers and innovators develop solutions to test, treat, and protect people, and to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. Full news release can be found here.

Ontario continues to support mental health needs during COVID-19

Today, Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Todd Smith, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and Jill Dunlop, Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues, released this statement to acknowledge Mental Health Week.

Applications for Youth Community Violence Prevention Grant

Applications are now being accepted for the City of Toronto’s Youth Community Violence Prevention grant. The Youth Violence Prevention Grant was established in 2020 to provide agencies with funding to support the de-escalation of youth violence. Agencies can apply for up to $200,000 in funding for projects aimed at programming that is responsive to violence prevention and intervention. Information on eligibility and letter of intent can be found here.

Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre Live Classes

Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre is now hosting live classes on their website and Facebook page. 

Sod Repair program questions

If your lawn was damaged by a sidewalk plow during the winter and have requested or wish to request sod repairs, the Sod Repair program is temporarily suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents who have already submitted their names for repairs will remain on the list and serviced at a later date.

Toronto Hydro Rate Update

The Time-of-use (TOU) rates are set provincially. Toronto Hydro will continue to apply rates as they are set for Ontario. Toronto Hydro is committed to helping customers manage their electricity bills during this challenging time. For more information regarding rates and to access the range of supports available to customers, we urge residents to visit this webpage.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: 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

May 2, 2020 

Dear Neighbours, 

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory social distancing bylaw!

City of Toronto launches first of three pothole repair blitzes planned for May

The City of Toronto has planned three pothole repair blitzes in May to help keep roads safe and in a good state of repair. The first blitz is today, Saturday, May 2, followed by repair blitzes on Saturday, May 9 and 23, weather permitting.

Crews have already been busy all spring repairing as many potholes as possible on Toronto’s expressways, major roads and neighbourhood streets. City staff will work a 12-hour shift today with appropriate physical distancing measures in place.

Traffic volumes on Toronto’s roads are down between 45 and 65 per cent as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the month of April, staff fixed more than 12,000 potholes while making daily pothole repairs. Today’s event will see up 48 crews and 146 people repairing potholes throughout the city. People driving or biking for essential travel today are advised to expect minor delays. The public is asked to be safe by respecting work zones and giving crews space while they make repairs. Please read the news release for more information.

Toronto Public Health warns of callers posing as TPH staff

Yesterday, Dr. de Villa warned that there may be people calling residents in our community who are falsely claiming to be Toronto Public Health staff. In one instance, the individual was asked to provide their banking information and their social insurance number. Dr. de Villa stressed that Toronto Public Health would never request this information because it is not relevant to public health work. Anyone who receives a suspicious call requesting financial information should not give out any personal information and call the Toronto Police Service non-emergency line at 416-808-2222. Anyone with questions about public health operations can contact Toronto Public Health at 416-338-7600.

Experience virtual cherry blossom bloom during closure of High Park

During High Park closure, residents can enjoy the cherry blossom bloom virtually. Throughout the closure period, the City will provide a continuous livestream of the cherry tree grove in High Park, plus multiple live events and videos featuring virtual walk-throughs of the blossoming Sakura (cherry blossom) trees. BloomCam, the continuous live stream, is now live: toronto.ca/cherryblossoms

The use of city parks during COVID-19

As nicer weather approaches, the City wants to leave parks open for residents to enjoy for respite, serenity, and as an escape to nature and green space in our city. However, at this time, the park is not meant to be a destination and all park amenities remain closed. Residents may walk, run or bike through park and ravine green spaces, beaches, trails and boardwalks. Dogs can continue to be walked on-leash. Fishing (with a licence), boating, kayaking and canoeing is also permitted.

Property tax and utility bills

The 60-day grace period for property tax and utility bill payments and late penalties ends May 15. Customers already enrolled in the City’s pre-authorized payment plan don’t have to re-enroll – payments will start again automatically after the grace period ends. Property owners will be receiving a letter in the mail regarding payment due dates. Please visit Property Tax and Utility Bills section of the COVID-19: Changes to City Services webpage for more information.

Residential permit parking renewal

The May 31 deadline for residential permit parking renewal applications has been extended until further notice. Toronto Police will continue to use discretion when enforcing permit parking areas. Learn more at toronto.ca/covid19 under Parking.

Regular updates are being made to the COVID-19: Changes to City Services webpage.

City of Toronto update on COVID-19 cases and enforcement

The City of Toronto continues to respond to COVID-19. Residents are reminded of the importance of reducing all contact with others as much as possible and staying home except for essential outings to help stop the community spread of the deadly virus. As of this afternoon, there are 5,967 cases of COVID-19 in Toronto. Cases include 5,366 confirmed cases and 601 probable cases. There are 375 cases hospitalized, with 112 in intensive care units. We continue to see COVID-19 deaths; to date 398 people in Toronto have died from COVID-19. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

Enforcement of the City’s physical distancing bylaw and the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act orders is ongoing. Yesterday, the City received 116 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks. Bylaw and police officers issued one ticket – bringing the total number of tickets issued since April 3 to 588. Bylaw and police officers have spoken to more than 13,500 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures. The City also received 43 complaints yesterday related to non-essential businesses remaining open. Since March 24, Municipal Licensing & Standards and Toronto Public Health have issued 99 tickets and 210 notices to non-essential businesses.

Targeted spring cleanup across the city

Targeted spring cleanup is taking place across the city over the next few weeks. Spring cleanup activities include:

·         Illegal dumping cleanup

·         Boulevard and laneway cleaning

·         Litter and debris removal in parks

·         Fence-line litter clearing

·         Street sweeping to clean up dirt and debris from Toronto’s streets.

During the pandemic, the City has been working hard to keep public spaces clean and safe. Staff are out each day picking up litter, emptying street and park waste bins and sweeping streets. The public can do their part to help keep Toronto clean and safe by properly disposing of items in available street bins and not littering. You can also report litter hot spots to 311. In light of the COVID-19 situation, the City does not want the public handling items that have been discarded on the ground in Toronto’s public spaces or organizing community cleanup events. If residents find personal protective equipment or other trash discarded on their property, they are advised to use gloves to pick it up and to discard it in the garbage, along with the gloves and then wash their hands.

Pride will be celebrated virtually in Toronto this year 

Pride Toronto has announced that, in lieu of its annual Pride Festival Weekend in June, this year’s celebration will run virtually. Virtual Pride 2020 can be accessed through Facebook here.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: 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

May 1, 2020 

Dear Neighbours, 

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory social distancing bylaw!

Ontario Government release workplace guidelines for businesses to reopen

As of Monday May 4, the following businesses can reopen: garden centres and nurseries with curbside pick-up and delivery only; lawn care and landscaping; additional essential construction projects; site preparation, excavation, and servicing for institutional, commercial, industrial and residential development; automatic and self-serve car washes; auto dealerships, open by appointment only; golf courses and marinas can prepare for the upcoming season, but not open to the public. Ontario government releases guidelines for businesses to reopen, details can be found here.

City Council extends the declaration of the State of Emergency in Toronto

Yesterday, Toronto City Council unanimously voted to extend Mayor John Tory’s State of Emergency declaration in the city of Toronto until the COVID-19 municipal emergency has ended, in accordance with advice from Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health and the Office of Emergency Management. This includes extending the new physical distancing emergency bylaws, to retain physical distancing regulations in parks and public squares for the duration of the COVID-19 municipal emergency. Please read the news release for more information.

City of Toronto accelerates important planned construction and continues maintenance to renew aging infrastructure

This construction season, with traffic volumes on Toronto’s roads down between 45 and 65 per cent as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Toronto will accelerate as many important construction projects as possible. City-led construction is considered an essential service by the Province of Ontario. This year, the planned construction will make repairs to Toronto’s major and local roads, sidewalks and cycling infrastructure, improve public transit infrastructure, replace and rehabilitate watermains and sewers, and build and improve major water infrastructure that will help improve Toronto’s waterways and stormwater systems. For more information, please read today’s news release.

City of Toronto to celebrate a virtual Canada Day 

Based on the recommendations of the Medical Officer of Health, to stop the spread of COVID-19 and save lives, the City of Toronto will join other municipalities across Canada in celebrating a national virtual Canada Day on July 1, 2020. The City is cancelling all in-person Canada Day events. For more information, please read the news release.

City of Toronto statement on encampment fire fatality

Just before 8:30 this morning, Toronto Fire Services responded to a fire in an encampment near Mount Pleasant Road and Bloor Street East. Tragically, one occupant was found deceased by firefighters. A comprehensive investigation into the origin, cause and circumstances associated with this fire is underway in collaboration between Toronto Fire Services, the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal and the Toronto Police Service. The City extends its deepest condolences to the friends and family of the deceased individual. This is the seventh fire fatality in an encampment in Toronto since 2010, and the first since 2018. For more information, please read the news release.

The use of City parks during COVID-19

As nicer weather approaches, the City wants to leave parks open for residents to enjoy for respite, serenity, and as an escape to nature and green space in our city. However, at this time, the park is not meant to be a destination and all park amenities remain closed. Residents may walk, run or bike through park and ravine green spaces, beaches, trails and boardwalks. Dogs can continue to be walked on-leash. Fishing (with a licence), boating, kayaking and canoeing is also permitted. Please see this Parks Fact Sheet for more information.

Property tax and utility bills

The 60-day grace period for property tax and utility bill payments and late penalties ends May 15. Customers already enrolled in the City’s pre-authorized payment plan don’t have to re-enroll – payments will start again automatically after the grace period ends. Property owners will be receiving a letter in the mail regarding payment due dates. Please visit Property Tax and Utility Bills section of the COVID-19: Changes to City Services webpage for more information.

Residential permit parking renewal

The May 31 deadline for residential permit parking renewal applications has been extended until further notice. Toronto Police will continue to use discretion when enforcing permit parking areas. Learn more at toronto.ca/covid19 under Parking.

Regular updates are being made to the COVID-19: Changes to City Services webpage.

Update on enforcement

Enforcement of the City’s physical distancing bylaw and the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act orders is ongoing. Yesterday, the City received 279 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks. Bylaw and police officers issued five tickets – bringing the total number of tickets issued since April 3 to 587. Bylaw and police officers have spoken to more than 13,000 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures.

The City also received 35 complaints yesterday related to non-essential businesses remaining open. Since March 24, Municipal Licensing & Standards and Toronto Public Health have issued 95 tickets and 200 notices to non-essential businesses.

City of Toronto launches youth violence prevention grant

Mayor John Tory today announced that the City of Toronto will launch a youth violence prevention grant to support the de-escalation of youth violence in Toronto communities. The grant, which was approved by Toronto City Council on February 19, 2020, will see $2 million in funding allocated to community agencies for youth violence prevention projects in nine communities.

The nine communities identified for funding are:

• Mount Olive-Silverstone-Jamestown (Priority: Pittsboro/Orphington)
• Lawrence Heights (Priority: Neptune)
• Regent Park (Priority: Regent Park, St. James Town, Yonge & Gerrard and the Esplanade)
• Flemingdon/Thorncliffe
• Malvern/Morningside/Woburn (Priority: Empiringham, Orton Park, Cedarbrae and Danzig)
• Rexdale/Kingsview Village (Priority: Willowridge, Capri, East Mall and West Mall)
• Dorset Park (Priority: Glenmorgan, Canlish)
• Steeles L’Amoureaux (Priority: Glendower, Bay Mills and Chester Le)
• Oakwood Village (Priority: Eglinton West, Little Jamaica, and Vaughn Road)

To be eligible for a grant, the:

• projects should be aimed at programming that is responsive to violence prevention and intervention for youth ages 10 to 29
• agency must have a proven track record (three or more years) of working with youth most vulnerable to being involved in serious violence and crime
• agency must display success with violence intervention and de-escalation strategies
• lead agency must be a Toronto-based, incorporated for public benefit organization with audited financial statements for the last fiscal year.

See full news release here.

311 for Household Hazardous Waste Pick Up

Residents can now contact 311 in order to schedule household hazardous waste pick up. Information on household hazardous waste can be found on the City’s website here. 

The 2020 Annual Human Library

A Human Library is an event where individuals share their stories and experiences with the community. The Mind & Spirit Youth Leadership committee is looking for story tellers to join in a community story telling virtual event! This event will be held online via Zoom. If you are interested in being a ‘Living Book’, please send in your story by Monday, May 11th, 2020 to msyleadership@gmail.com or call 647-521-5755/ 647-382-9193. Storytellers will be compensated.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: 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

April 30, 2020 

Dear Neighbours, 

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory social distancing bylaw!

Thank you to everyone who participated in last night’s Virtual Town Hall with myself, MP Hon. John McKay and MPP Mitzie Hunter. In case you missed the meeting, you may access the video on my Facebook page here, or if you are not a Facebook user you can access the video here. Plans to host future meetings are in process.     

Today, Toronto City Council held its first ever virtual meeting using online conferencing platforms. You can watch the meeting at this link.  

Yesterday, a Royal Canadian Air force helicopter deployed on Operation Reassurance went down in the Ionian Sea off the coast of Greece. Six members were onboard, one casualty was recovered and the mission to find the other five are still ongoing. My deepest condolences go out to family and friends of Sub-Lieutenant Abbigail Cowbrough as well as the brave crew onboard HMCS Fredericton. 

Please see the following update regarding COVID-19 key information and resources in the City of Toronto:  

Community Supports and Resources 

The Toronto District School Board is committed to the safety and well-being of our students and families, while continuing to support students learning at home in a variety of ways. To ensure access to information on essential services and supports, we have developed a list of external community-based resources that we hope can offer assistance during this period. 

For the most updated list, please visit the TDSB webpage for Community Supports and Resources. 

Update on Labour Negotiations 

The Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA) and the Government of Ontario have reached a tentative agreement with the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF) at both the teacher/occasional teacher and education worker central bargaining tables. OSSTF has indicated that the new contract will be put to a ratification vote in May. 

An agreement between the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO), OPSBA and the Government of Ontario has also been reached. This agreement was ratified on April 28.  

For more information, please visit www.tdsb.on.ca/labour. 

COVID-19 case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform. The advice from Toronto’s public health officials has been clear and consistent: To stop the community spread of this deadly virus, we must reduce all contact with others as much as possible. Stay home, except for essential outings. 

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: 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

April 27, 2020
Dear Neighbours,
I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory social distancing bylaw!
Please see the following update regarding COVID-19 key information and resources in the City of Toronto:
CurbTO to re-allocate road space to support physical distancing and access essential businessesAlthough pedestrian traffic has dropped across the city as people follow to stay home, there are hot spots on some sidewalks in some areas where it is difficult to physically distance.
CurbTO is a common-sense approach to addressing sidewalk hot spots to help encourage physical distancing in areas where it is challenging to avoid the creation of lineups and to support increased demand for pickup and delivery services near essential businesses. Known sidewalk hotspots have been identified by Toronto Public Health, City of Toronto staff in Transportation Services, and Councillors, and more locations will be identified in a measured way based on evidence so that physical distancing can be achieved.
CurbTO aligns with the current directive from the Medical Officer of Health that the public should continue to stay home as much as possible and only go out for essential needs such as food and medicine. Businesses can apply and learn more about eligibility criteria and program guidelines for CurbTO at toronto.ca/covid19BusinessTO.
Help save lives by staying home- Promising signs public health measures are workingAs Toronto moves into week seven of this pandemic, officials are seeing promising signs that public health measures are working. Dr. de Villa stressed the need to continue to practise social distancing and only leave the house for essential reasons, noting restrictions will be eased sooner if people continue to heed public health advice.
As of this afternoon, there are 4,973 cases of COVID-19 in Toronto. This includes 4,493 confirmed cases and 480 probable cases. There are 308 cases hospitalized, with 104 in intensive care units. We continue to see COVID-19 deaths: to date 297 people in Toronto have died from COVID-19. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform. The advice from Toronto’s public health officials has been clear and consistent: To stop the community spread of this deadly virus, we must reduce all contact with others as much as possible. Stay home, except for essential outings.
COVID-19 Enforcement Team continues important work across the cityEnforcement of the City’s physical distancing bylaw and the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act orders is ongoing. Yesterday, the City received 40 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks. Bylaw and police officers issued three tickets – bringing the total number of tickets issued since April 3 to 536. Bylaw and police officers have spoken to more than 11,500 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures. The City also received 46 complaints yesterday related to non-essential businesses remaining open. Since March 24, Municipal Licensing & Standards and Toronto Public Health have issued 76 tickets and 159 notices to non-essential businesses. Residents can report non-compliance online though the City’s website.
What can you do in a park?At this time, the park is not meant to be a destination like it used to be. People can walk/run, get some exercise and then keep moving. While visiting a park, people must practise physical distancing. Under the City’s physical distancing bylaw, any two people who don’t live together, who fail to keep two metres of distance between them in a park or public square, can receive a $1,000 ticket. For more information visit the City’s website.
Guild Inn Landslides Clean-Up to BeginI would like to inform you that the Guild Inn Landslides Clean-Up was successfully completed as of last Friday. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority crews were onsite for clean-ups in early April.
Ontario Unveils Guiding Principles to Reopen the Province Today, the Ontario government released A Framework for Reopening our Province, which outlines the criteria Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health and health experts will use to advise the government on the loosening of emergency measures, as well as guiding principles for the safe, gradual reopening of businesses, services and public spaces. The framework also provides details of an outreach strategy, led by the Ontario Jobs and Recovery Committee, to help inform the restart of the provincial economy. Full news release here.
Workers’ Mourning Day – National Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured in the Workplace In honour of persons killed or injured in the workplace, all flags on official flagpoles at Toronto City Hall, East York Civic Centre, Etobicoke Civic Centre, Scarborough Civic Centre, and Metro Hall will be flown at half-mast on Tuesday April 28 to mark Worker’s Mourning Day – National Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured in the Workplace.
Toronto Public Library Digital Card The Toronto Public Library has launched a new initiative where residents that do not have a library card can now access Overdrive, our largest collection of ebooks and audio books using the new instant digital card. These digital cards will expire September 1, 2020. This service available for individuals 13 years and older.For more information and to access the library digital services, please click on this link.
The List: Great Reads for Youth 2020 Great Reads for Youth 2020 is now available online with 100 title recommendations and 13 video reviews by our teen readers. This resource was created by the Youth Materials Selection Committee (YMSC). 92 of the 100 recommended titles are available digitally. The List: Great Reads for Youth 2020 magazine will be available at branches after we reopen. The magazine can be downloaded as a pdf from the link below. Have fun reading! List Website: https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/teens/the-list.jsp
Excess Recycling Place excess recycling in a large clear bag beside your Blue Bin. Flatten excess cardboard, cut into small pieces and bundle with string or twine. More details here.

On my website www.paulainslie.com you can find a list of food banks and soup kitchens in Ward 24:Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Essential Government Information for COVID -19Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca
The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.
If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:City of Toronto Province of OntarioGovernment of CanadaWorld Health OrganizationOfficial Global Travel Advisory
The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.
I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information: Website: www.paulainslie.comYou can also reach me by: telephone at 416-396-7222 or email me at councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca
All my Best,
Paul

April 26, 2020 

Dear Neighbours, 

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory social distancing bylaw!

In celebration of Ramadan during the COVID-19 outbreak, Mosques may mark sundown each night by broadcasting the call to prayer over their speaker throughout the month of Ramadan (until May 23). 

Please see the following update regarding COVID-19 key information and resources in the City of Toronto:

Statement on notice of application regarding City emergency shelters

The City of Toronto is in possession of the notice of application with respect to its unprecedented, determined and expedited action to protect those experiencing homelessness in Toronto. Toronto’s Shelter, Support & Housing Administration has worked tirelessly with Toronto Public Health, other City divisions, provincial and federal governments, and the community non-profit sector to rapidly tailor solutions for the city’s most vulnerable. Nothing on this scale has ever been experienced by Toronto. The City of Toronto has declared an emergency for the first time in its history to respond to this pandemic and save lives. The City will respond to this notice of application through appropriate court channels. Read the statement on the City’s website.

City reminds residents of the importance of reducing contact with others

As of yesterday, there are 4,628 cases of COVID-19 in Toronto. This includes 4,176 confirmed cases and 452 probable cases. There are 305 cases hospitalized, with 112 in intensive care units. We continue to see COVID-19 deaths: to date 253 people in Toronto have died from COVID-19. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform. Residents are reminded of the importance of reducing all contact with others as much as possible and staying home except for essential outings to help stop the community spread of the deadly virus.

Update on enforcement activity

Enforcement of the City’s physical distancing bylaw and the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act orders is ongoing. Yesterday, the City received 354 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks. Bylaw and police officers issued 18 tickets – bringing the total number of tickets issued since April 3 to 505. Bylaw and police officers have spoken to more than 11,000 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures. The City also received 44 complaints yesterday related to non-essential businesses remaining open. Since March 24, Municipal Licensing & Standards and Toronto Public Health have issued 71 tickets and 149 notices to non-essential businesses. Residents can report non-compliance online though the City’s website. 

Ontario Allows the Redeployment of Staff to Better Care for Vulnerable People During COVID-19 

On the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Ontario government is introducing new and amending some emergency orders under subsection 7.0.2 (4) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act to better support Ontario’s long-term care homes and deafblind community. The orders would allow for the redeployment of staff to ensure they can work where they are needed most during the COVID-19 outbreak. 

The government is also amending an emergency order to help ensure food security for some individuals and families during the pandemic. Full news release can be accessed here: https://bit.ly/352FhTs 

Property Tax Questions

My office has received questions regarding property tax due dates and clarification on extensions. After reaching out to staff, I have been advised that for property owners on the regular three-instalment payment plan, the April 1 property tax instalment due date would be extended to June 1, 2020. Customers will be advised in advance of any rescheduling of revised withdrawal due dates and amount following the 60-day grace period. The City is providing a grace period for payments and payment penalties for 60 days. For more information please visit this website. 

Keep in mind: 

COVID-19 is spread by contact with droplets, so it’s most important to wash your hands and avoid touching your face after touching surfaces to reduce the risk of infection.  There is no evidence that COVID-19 is spread by food or food packaging. Wiping down containers or packaging is not necessary. In general, you can lower your risk of infection by following safe food handling practices.

It is important to:

·         Wash your hands before and after handling groceries, take-out bags & containers

·         Clean and disinfect surfaces after handling groceries and packaging

·         Wash reusable shopping bags

·         Wash vegetables and fruit under cold running water

CFIA provides recommendations on the cleaning of reusable shopping bags on their website, here.  

Other tips for grocery shopping and food are available under “Food Safety” on the City’s website, here.

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: 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

April 24, 2020 

Dear Neighbours, 

I want to thank everyone for your efforts during this very difficult time. It is very important for all of us, to the best of our ability to follow the mandatory social distancing bylaw!

Please see the following update regarding COVID-19 key information and resources in the City of Toronto:

City of Toronto begins targeted spring cleanup across the city

Targeted spring cleanup will be taking place across the city over the next few weeks.

Unfortunately, the annual Clean Toronto Together community cleanup campaign was cancelled due to COVID-19. The public can do their part to help keep Toronto clean and safe by properly disposing of items in available street bins and not littering. You can also report litter hot spots to 311. In light of the COVID-19 situation, the City does not want the public handling items that have been discarded on the ground in Toronto’s public spaces or organizing community cleanup events. If residents find personal protective equipment or other trash discarded on their property, they are advised to use gloves to pick it up and to discard it in the garbage, along with the gloves and then wash their hands.

Saad Rafi appointed to lead the Toronto Office of Recovery and Rebuild to begin planning post-COVID-19

Today, Mayor John Tory announced the start of Toronto’s Recovery and Rebuild Strategy including the establishment of an office led by Mr. Saad Rafi, with a public health strategy led by Dr. David Mowat. While the City’s priorities remain on reducing the spread of COVID-19, minimizing demand on the health care system, and ensuring the delivery of essential and critical City services, preparing Toronto for recovery and rebuild in the weeks and months to come must begin now. Decisions about timing of re-opening and relaxing current measures to help stop the spread of COVID-19 have not been determined and will be guided by advice from public health officials. For more information, please read the news release.

Sing for Canada this Sunday

The Canada Together initiative is asking everyone to sing the anthem on Sunday at 12 p.m. Visit canadatogether.com/en for more information.

City urges residents to stay focused on stopping the spread of COVID-19

As of this morning, there are 4,480 cases of COVID-19 in Toronto. Cases include 4,048 confirmed cases and 438 probable cases. There are 300 cases hospitalized, with 113 in intensive care units. We continue to see COVID-19 deaths; to date 238 people in Toronto have died from COVID-19. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform. As the weekend approaches, residents are reminded of the importance of staying home and remaining focused on fighting COVID-19.

Update on enforcement activity

Enforcement of the City’s physical distancing bylaw and the Emergency Measures and Civil Protection Act orders is ongoing. Yesterday, the City received 483 complaints involving people using outdoor amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks. Bylaw and police officers issued five tickets – bringing the total number of tickets issued since April 3 to 489. Bylaw and police officers have spoken to close to 11,000 people in City parks about the closures and public health measures. The City also received 39 complaints yesterday related to non-essential businesses remaining open in contravention of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. Since March 24, Municipal Licensing & Standards and Toronto Public Health have issued 65 tickets and 141 notices to non-essential businesses.

How to Dispute a Ticket

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, new legislation and bylaws have been put in place which have not existed in the past. If you feel that you were wrongly ticketed, you have the option of requesting an early resolution meeting with a prosecutor and challenging it in court. You can do this by requesting early resolution meeting, or requesting a trial. For more information is available on the City’s website.

Eglinton GO Station 

At Eglinton GO Station, the overnight drilling work that was scheduled for Sunday, April 26 and Monday, April 27 is cancelled. Drilling work can be expected during the daytime next week, however this overnight work is canceled. The purpose of this work is to install groundwater monitoring wells to collect and monitor groundwater quality information needed for the planned Eglinton GO Station Accessibility Upgrades Project.

Visit this website for the latest GO Transit, UP Express and Metrolinx-related COVID-19 news updates. 

Please click here for a list of food banks and soup kitchens in the Ward 24

Please remember to call ahead to book to ensure they are properly stocked. For those interested in volunteering, food banks are always looking for volunteers, so please feel free to save and share this information.

Please click here for a list of food banks in Scarborough

Essential Government Information for COVID -19

Public Health’s information line & 311 are experiencing high call volumes. Residents can get the information they need online at www.toronto.ca

The City’s website has a tool that can translate pages into 51 different languages.

If you need info on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

City of Toronto

Province of Ontario

Government of Canada

World Health Organization

Official Global Travel Advisory

The City’s website is updated daily with the latest health advice, and information about City services and social supports. Check https://www.toronto.ca/covid-19/ for answers to common questions before contacting the Toronto Public Health COVID-19 Hotline or 311.

I am continuously updating my social media platforms and my website with up to date information:

Website: 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