The Major Snowstorm Condition and Significant Weather Event declarations remain in effect to assist crews in removing snow as quickly and thoroughly as possible. Snow piles can create challenges for safe travel, parking and businesses, and the parking restrictions help expedite cleanup efforts.
Snow removal operations continue around the clock and today and overnight crews will continue to remove snow from popular cycling routes on Bloor Street, Davenport Road, Yonge Street, Danforth Avenue and Huntingwood Drive.
The City has completed clearing more than 95 per cent of Toronto’s school bus loading zones, with the remainder in downtown and East York to be cleared over the next few nights. Snow removal in school locations can only be done overnight for student safety.
Since January 15, snow removal has been completed on 812 kilometers of roads, sidewalks and bike lanes, which has resulted in 188,120 tonnes of snow moved to snow storage sites.
Approximately 150 surge staff are assisting with snow removal operations today.
With snowfall in the forecast later this week, crews are preparing equipment and materials for salting and plowing.
⚠️ Top 311 service requests
311 answered approximately 4,400 calls yesterday, achieving a 72% service level, with call volumes down 31% from the prior week. Winter-related issues dominated demand, representing 54% of service requests, led by sidewalk snow clearing. Urgent winter requests (136) primarily impacted residents with mobility challenges, while snow clearing for bus stops and bike lanes continued to trend upward.
Today at 9:30 a.m.:
• 610 calls answered with a service level of 50%
• High volume on Tax, Utility Billing and VHT is impacting the Service Level due to the automatic phone calls by Revenue Services /tax calls. Average time to answer under 2 minutes.
Responsiveness and Service Levels – February 3 end of day
• ~4,400 calls answered at 311 with a service level of 72% on the main line
o ~3,400 calls on the main line (~31% decrease from the previous week)
o ~1,000 Tax, Utility Billing and VHT calls answered yesterday
o Average Speed to Answer of 42 seconds and Average Handle Time of 5:18 minutes
Service Requests, Inquires & Trends – February 3 end of day
• ~2,600 service requests created and ~3,100 general inquires
o ~1,400 (54%) winter-related requests being sidewalk snow clearing still at the top with 563 requests. Most impacted wards continue to be Davenport (166 Winter SRs), Beaches-East York (163 Winter SRs) and Toronto-Danforth (130Winter SRs).
o 136 winter SRs were tagged as urgent, mainly from residents who cannot use their mobility device due to snow.
o 36 bus stops snow clearing were created. ~400 created since January 25, 66% already completed.
o 126 bike lane winter maintenance requests were created yesterday being the top 3. ~570 created since January 25
o Tax, Utility Billing and VHT related inquires were at the top.
Snow Storm Strategy For This Weekend
Good Afternoon Ward 24!
Here is what is being planned for this weekend across Toronto:
Identifying and addressing winter-storm-related ‘hot spots’
The City’s snow removal crews will be out in full force this weekend to plow and remove snow from residential roads, highway ramps, bridge decks, hospital routes and transit corridors across Toronto. Crews are also removing snow from Gerrard and Queen Street streetcar routes to keep Torontonians moving.
Please note that parking restrictions remain in effect to help prioritize safe and efficient snow removal.
School bus loading zone snow removal blitz
A school bus loading zone snow removal blitz took place overnight and continues throughout the weekend at schools across the city. As the storm lasted from Sunday into Monday, crews have had limited ability to address these areas sooner because this work needs to be done outside of school hours to ensure the safety of students.
Strengthening our on-the-ground response
Transportation Services, supported by additional staff from multiple City divisions, continues to strengthen field operations through internal and external surge deployments. A total of 150 surge staff are in the field today.
As of January 30 at 6 a.m., the City has removed 8,200 truckloads of snow. Some 82,000 tonnes of snow have been removed from 360 kilometres of streets, sidewalks, bike lanes and 120 bridges.
Parking restrictions and notice
While a Major Snowstorm Condition is in effect, parking is prohibited on snow routes.
Where possible, the City provides advance notice of snow removal operations, typically 24 to 48 hours, through:
· Temporary orange “No Parking – Snow Removal” signs placed in snowbanks
· In some cases, door-to-door notification by City staff
Once the Major Snowstorm Condition is lifted, parking may resume on snow routes provided no orange snow removal signs are present.
Residents are encouraged to continue reporting problem areas by calling 311 or submitting a service request online. These reports help crews identify locations where conditions have changed or where repeated clearing is required.
What residents can do to help
· Watch for temporary orange No Parking – Snow Removal signs on your street
· Clear snow from and around vehicles
· Move vehicles whenever possible
· Permit holders may park anywhere within their permit area during snow removal operations
· Stay well back from heavy equipment, which has limited visibility and maneuverability
Warming Centres and winter supports
The City’s Warming Centres remain open, providing a warm place for individuals to rest, access meals and get referrals to community services. Further programming is available through the Winter Services Plan. Spaces remain available.
All my Best,
Paul
Here is what is being planned for this weekend across Toronto:
Identifying and addressing winter-storm-related ‘hot spots’
The City’s snow removal crews will be out in full force this weekend to plow and remove snow from residential roads, highway ramps, bridge decks, hospital routes and transit corridors across Toronto. Crews are also removing snow from Gerrard and Queen Street streetcar routes to keep Torontonians moving.
Please note that parking restrictions remain in effect to help prioritize safe and efficient snow removal.
School bus loading zone snow removal blitz
A school bus loading zone snow removal blitz took place overnight and continues throughout the weekend at schools across the city. As the storm lasted from Sunday into Monday, crews have had limited ability to address these areas sooner because this work needs to be done outside of school hours to ensure the safety of students.
Strengthening our on-the-ground response
Transportation Services, supported by additional staff from multiple City divisions, continues to strengthen field operations through internal and external surge deployments. A total of 150 surge staff are in the field today.
As of January 30 at 6 a.m., the City has removed 8,200 truckloads of snow. Some 82,000 tonnes of snow have been removed from 360 kilometres of streets, sidewalks, bike lanes and 120 bridges.
Parking restrictions and notice
While a Major Snowstorm Condition is in effect, parking is prohibited on snow routes.
Where possible, the City provides advance notice of snow removal operations, typically 24 to 48 hours, through:
· Temporary orange “No Parking – Snow Removal” signs placed in snowbanks
· In some cases, door-to-door notification by City staff
Once the Major Snowstorm Condition is lifted, parking may resume on snow routes provided no orange snow removal signs are present.
Residents are encouraged to continue reporting problem areas by calling 311 or submitting a service request online. These reports help crews identify locations where conditions have changed or where repeated clearing is required.
What residents can do to help
· Watch for temporary orange No Parking – Snow Removal signs on your street
· Clear snow from and around vehicles
· Move vehicles whenever possible
· Permit holders may park anywhere within their permit area during snow removal operations
· Stay well back from heavy equipment, which has limited visibility and maneuverability
Warming Centres and winter supports
The City’s Warming Centres remain open, providing a warm place for individuals to rest, access meals and get referrals to community services. Further programming is available through the Winter Services Plan. Spaces remain available.
All my Best,
Paul
The Latest 311 Statistics on Winter Storm Clean-up
Dear Ward 24 Residents,
Here are the latest statistics from Toronto’s 311 on the clean-up of last week’s huge snowfall.
January 31, 2026, 8:30 a.m. update:
311 is experiencing a reduction in call volumes as of now. End-of-day results from January 30 show continued stabilization, with total calls down 11% and winter service requests declining by 36%, though sidewalk snow clearing remains the leading driver and Davenport continues to be the most impacted ward followed by Toronto-Danforth, and Beaches-East York.
Currently 219 calls answered 95% Service Level.
~200 Service Requests Created (SRs)
From Jan 25 to Jan 30, Total Winter SRs 15,425 (52% Completed)
From Jan 15 to Jan 24, Total Winter SRs 9,451 (92% Completed)
Responsiveness & Service Levels – January 30th end of day
~4,400 calls received at 311 ( including tax line ) with a service level of 88% in the main line
~3,400 main line calls, 11% less compared to previous day (~430 calls)
~1,000 Tax, Utility Billing, and VHT calls
Average Speed to Answer of 34 seconds and Average Handle Time of 5:25 minutes
Service Requests, Inquires & Trends – January 30th end of day
~2,700 service requests created and ~3,100 General Inquires
~1,500 (55%) Winter related requests being Sidewalk Snow Clearing still at the top with 588 requests. Most impacted wards were Davenport, Toronto-Danforth, and Beaches-East York
52% of the winter service requests are completed for the requests created between January 25th – 30th
Property tax billing, vacant home tax, and utility bill payments are most of the general inquires.
160 winter SRs have been tagged as urgent, mainly from residents that cannot use their mobility device due to snow.
27 Bus Stops Snow Clearing were created. ~290 created since January 25th, 37% already completed.
Additional Service Information:
The contact centre experienced a shift away from Winter Operations and a strong concentration of Revenue Services calls, with ongoing activity in Solid Waste, Snow Clearing, Property Standards, and miscellaneous municipal inquiries.
Storm related impacts on Solid Waste continued during the day, specially on bin placement during snow accumulation.
If you have an area in your neighbourhood you are still concerned about, please contact 311, or my office at councillor_ainslie_C)@toronto.ca. You can also call at 416-396-7222
All my Best,
Paul
Here are the latest statistics from Toronto’s 311 on the clean-up of last week’s huge snowfall.
January 31, 2026, 8:30 a.m. update:
311 is experiencing a reduction in call volumes as of now. End-of-day results from January 30 show continued stabilization, with total calls down 11% and winter service requests declining by 36%, though sidewalk snow clearing remains the leading driver and Davenport continues to be the most impacted ward followed by Toronto-Danforth, and Beaches-East York.
Currently 219 calls answered 95% Service Level.
~200 Service Requests Created (SRs)
From Jan 25 to Jan 30, Total Winter SRs 15,425 (52% Completed)
From Jan 15 to Jan 24, Total Winter SRs 9,451 (92% Completed)
Responsiveness & Service Levels – January 30th end of day
~4,400 calls received at 311 ( including tax line ) with a service level of 88% in the main line
~3,400 main line calls, 11% less compared to previous day (~430 calls)
~1,000 Tax, Utility Billing, and VHT calls
Average Speed to Answer of 34 seconds and Average Handle Time of 5:25 minutes
Service Requests, Inquires & Trends – January 30th end of day
~2,700 service requests created and ~3,100 General Inquires
~1,500 (55%) Winter related requests being Sidewalk Snow Clearing still at the top with 588 requests. Most impacted wards were Davenport, Toronto-Danforth, and Beaches-East York
52% of the winter service requests are completed for the requests created between January 25th – 30th
Property tax billing, vacant home tax, and utility bill payments are most of the general inquires.
160 winter SRs have been tagged as urgent, mainly from residents that cannot use their mobility device due to snow.
27 Bus Stops Snow Clearing were created. ~290 created since January 25th, 37% already completed.
Additional Service Information:
The contact centre experienced a shift away from Winter Operations and a strong concentration of Revenue Services calls, with ongoing activity in Solid Waste, Snow Clearing, Property Standards, and miscellaneous municipal inquiries.
Storm related impacts on Solid Waste continued during the day, specially on bin placement during snow accumulation.
If you have an area in your neighbourhood you are still concerned about, please contact 311, or my office at councillor_ainslie_C)@toronto.ca. You can also call at 416-396-7222
All my Best,
Paul
June 2024 City Council Update
Advancing Indigenous Housing in Scarborough-Guildwood 4201 to 4203 Kingston Road and 120 Galloway Road. 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 68 new units for Indigenous residents in our community.
It’s exactly the kind of project we need to support – one that provides stability and opportunity while making good 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 68 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 80 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
New EV Charging Station at Scarborough’s Toyota Canada!
Here are my comments on the new EV charging stations which were unveiled at 1 Toyota Place today in Ward 24 Scarborough-Guildwood:
- Good afternoon everyone,
- It is a pleasure to be here today in Scarborough for the unveiling of Jule’s new EV Fast Charging System.
- This is a proud moment for our community, and I want to thank Jule, Toyota Canada, and Mitsui Canada for their leadership and investment in clean technology right here in Scarborough,
- and for helping to shape the future of transportation not just in Toronto, but across Canada and North America.
- As many of you know, transportation is the second-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Toronto.
- In 2022, passenger vehicles alone accounted for 23% of our city’s emissions.
- That is why the City of Toronto has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2040 through our TransformTO Net Zero Strategy.
- One of our key targets is for 30% of all registered vehicles in Toronto to be electric by 2030.
- But to get there, we need the right infrastructure and that is exactly what today’s event is about.
- Public EV charging, especially fast charging, is essential for people who can’t charge at home.
- It’s also vital for encouraging more people to make the switch to electric.
- This new fast charging system is more than just a piece of technology, it is a symbol of progress.
- It represents cleaner air, quieter streets, and a more sustainable future for our city.
- Thank you again to Jule, Toyota, and Mitsui for your partnership and your commitment to innovation.
- Your work in battery energy storage, EV charging, and EV vehicles is important to our city’s climate goals and economic growth.
- And thank you to everyone here today for supporting a greener, healthier, and more connected Toronto.
- Let’s keep moving forward together.
- Thank you!
My Comments At Toronto’s Open Data Awards
Open Data Awards Showcase
Tuesday, March 4, from 4-6pm ET
The Metro Hall rotunda (55 John. St.).
Approximately 60 attendees, including award winners, Councillor Paul Ainslie, City DCM David Jollimore, CTO Sonia Brar,
Good afternoon Everyone,
I’m truly delighted to be here today to talk about something I’m deeply passionate about: the City’s open data program.
We’re here to celebrate its history, its evolution into an award-winning initiative, and most importantly, the crucial role you, the public, play in transforming data into tangible value for our residents.
My involvement with open data at the City predates the program’s official launch in 2009. I’ve been a champion of this initiative from its very inception. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the growth and evolution of our open data portal. It’s been a remarkable journey.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on some of the milestones.
In 2015, Toronto Open Data was ranked second in Public Sector Digest’s Open Cities Index, a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team.
More recently, in 2023, Toronto was named the third smartest city in the world by Juniper Research. And what was a key factor in this prestigious recognition? Our use of open data, particularly in identifying and resolving civic issues. This is a source of immense pride for our city.
As a Councillor, I’ve consistently advocated for greater access to City data. I’ve put forward numerous motions at Council and committee to ensure that more information is made available to the public. Because open data is far more than just about transparency. It’s about fostering innovation.
When we unlock government data, we unleash its potential for re-use and analysis by civic technologists, community advocates, researchers, entrepreneurs, and businesses.
This collaboration is what truly drives positive change and improves the lives of our residents.
However, open data’s true value lies in its utilization. It’s in the creation of new tools, services, and the resulting positive impacts.
That’s why I’m so thrilled that Technology Services and the Open Data team have launched the Toronto Open Data Awards. This initiative is a celebration of the remarkable tools, services, and impacts that users of open data are creating for their fellow citizens.
Whether it’s helping them navigate the TTC with ease or planning a safe and enjoyable swim in Lake Ontario, these projects are making a real difference.
On behalf of myself and my colleagues on City Council, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the inaugural Toronto Open Data Awards. Your work, whether it’s a part of your daily job or a passion project, truly matters. You are the driving force behind the transformation of data into a better future for our city.
Thank you!
Tuesday, March 4, from 4-6pm ET
The Metro Hall rotunda (55 John. St.).
Approximately 60 attendees, including award winners, Councillor Paul Ainslie, City DCM David Jollimore, CTO Sonia Brar,
Good afternoon Everyone,
I’m truly delighted to be here today to talk about something I’m deeply passionate about: the City’s open data program.
We’re here to celebrate its history, its evolution into an award-winning initiative, and most importantly, the crucial role you, the public, play in transforming data into tangible value for our residents.
My involvement with open data at the City predates the program’s official launch in 2009. I’ve been a champion of this initiative from its very inception. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the growth and evolution of our open data portal. It’s been a remarkable journey.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on some of the milestones.
In 2015, Toronto Open Data was ranked second in Public Sector Digest’s Open Cities Index, a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team.
More recently, in 2023, Toronto was named the third smartest city in the world by Juniper Research. And what was a key factor in this prestigious recognition? Our use of open data, particularly in identifying and resolving civic issues. This is a source of immense pride for our city.
As a Councillor, I’ve consistently advocated for greater access to City data. I’ve put forward numerous motions at Council and committee to ensure that more information is made available to the public. Because open data is far more than just about transparency. It’s about fostering innovation.
When we unlock government data, we unleash its potential for re-use and analysis by civic technologists, community advocates, researchers, entrepreneurs, and businesses.
This collaboration is what truly drives positive change and improves the lives of our residents.
However, open data’s true value lies in its utilization. It’s in the creation of new tools, services, and the resulting positive impacts.
That’s why I’m so thrilled that Technology Services and the Open Data team have launched the Toronto Open Data Awards. This initiative is a celebration of the remarkable tools, services, and impacts that users of open data are creating for their fellow citizens.
Whether it’s helping them navigate the TTC with ease or planning a safe and enjoyable swim in Lake Ontario, these projects are making a real difference.
On behalf of myself and my colleagues on City Council, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the inaugural Toronto Open Data Awards. Your work, whether it’s a part of your daily job or a passion project, truly matters. You are the driving force behind the transformation of data into a better future for our city.
Thank you!
Seven Oaks Town Hall
Speaking Points for Community Meeting
Opening
- Good evening, everyone, and thank you for coming out tonight. I am Paul Ainslie, your City Councillor for Ward 24.
- Tonight, we will be discussing various local topics, including community safety.
- I want to acknowledge our special guests from 43 Division’s Neighbourhood Officers Wesley Corbie and Todd Parker who are here to answer any of your community safety concerns.
Constituency Updates
- Completed work in Seven Oaks Community 2024
- Basketball Court in Seven Oaks Park
- Speed Humps on Keeler Boulevard
- Military Trail reconstruction
- New Parking Regulations on
- Oakmeadow Boulevard (at north entrance and by Highcastle Road to improve safety on the road)
- Military Trail by St. John Paul Catholic Secondary School
- Ellesmere Reservoir Park Sports Field Improvements
- Meadoway Multi-Use Trail between Military Trail and Morningside Ave.
- Speeding and Traffic Calming
- Received resident requests for Traffic Calming on Pineslope Crescent and on Pickthall Terrance to address cars speeding on both streets.
- Please call my office to provide your feedback on these requests or email 416-392-7222 / councillor_ainslie_co@toronto.ca
- We have requested 43 Division provide more speed enforcement on these streets.
- Received resident requests for Traffic Calming on Pineslope Crescent and on Pickthall Terrance to address cars speeding on both streets.
- Councillor Ainslie on Snow Removal
As we move into warmer months, it’s crucial we remember the severe disruptions caused by February’s record snowfall. The lingering impact wasn’t just about the storm itself, but the flawed 2021 snow removal contracts that left our city unprepared, which I strongly opposed and voted against.
Those contracts, totaling $981 million, included deals with inexperienced, unaccountable companies and sole-sourced agreements, bypassing standard bidding. Experts warned of inadequate resources, and their concerns were validated when streets remained impassable for weeks, impacting vulnerable residents.
The City’s response was further hampered by reduced penalties for contractor failures, as confirmed by Auditor General reports. While the snow is now gone, the lessons remain. We must hold contractors accountable, consider renegotiating these contracts, and ensure future winter preparedness. This isn’t just about past failures; it’s about ensuring our city is ready for the next winter season.
A.Sod damage from snow plowing
- Call 311 to report damage to have your address added to the contractor’s repair list and keep record of your reference number
- Contractor will begin repairs in late Spring/early Summer
- If your sod is not repaired, please reach out to our office, sharing your reference number and photos of the damage
- Scarborough Golf Club Road Watermain Replacement & Road Reconstruction
(notice available at info table)
Starting March 2025, the City of Toronto will replace the watermain, reconstruct the road, sidewalks and replace the City-owned portion of substandard water services on Scarborough Golf Club Road from Ellesmere Road to Lawrence Avenue East.
Changes include:
- New one-way/two-way separated bike lanes (cycle tracks) on both sides of Scarborough Golf Club Road from Ellesmere Road to Lawrence Avenue East
- New protected intersections at Ellesmere Road, Brimorton Drive and Lawrence Avenue East
- Wider sidewalks on both sides of Scarborough Golf Club Road
- Accessible platforms at transit stops
- Raised crosswalk/crossride at several intersections along Scarborough Golf Road to slow vehicles travelling through the intersection and increase the visibility of pedestrians and cyclists
- Two new signalized intersections at Mossbank Drive/Densgrove Road and the Gatineau Hydro Corridor
- New bioretention planters and green gutters to capture stormwater runoff and increase green space.
Road and Sidewalk Access: To complete the work in a safe manner, there will be road and sidewalk restrictions within the work zone.
Traffic Management: Road users should expect delays and increased traffic on nearby main and side streets. Motorists are reminded that bicycles and cars will be sharing the lane. When driving, please be mindful of vulnerable road users.
Construction work will start at Lawrence Avenue East. Work will require reduced travel lanes to at least one lane in each direction from Lawrence Avenue East to Ellesmere Road.
- Botany Hill Park Off Leash Dog Park Closure
The City will be closing the Botany Hill Off Leash Dog Park from April 1st to June 1st to allow for staff to provide aeration and seeding and enable staff to perform maintenance. There will be signage posted at the park regarding this closure.
At City Hall
PLEASE REMEMBER- Annual Vacant Home Tax Declaration
- Deadline to declare your property’s occupancy status is April 30th.
- Ways to declare:
- Online: toronto.ca/VacantHomeTax
- By Phone: call 311 (available in 180 languages)
- Visit a Tax and Utility counter at any Civic Centre or City Hall
Relief Programs
- Property Tax, Water and Solid Waste Relief Programs provide financial support to eligible low-income seniors and residents with disabilities in Toronto.
- This support includes property tax deferrals, cancellations, and utility rate rebates. More information is available on the Property Tax and Utility Relief Program webpage. Call our office for more information.
Responding to U.S. Tariffs
- Amid the U.S. tariffs battles, I had the honor of representing Mayor Chow and the City of Toronto as a delegate at the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative’s “Advocacy Days” in Washington, D.C.
- This event brought together Canadian and American Mayors from Ontario, Quebec, and various U.S. districts to advocate for the protection of our economy and precious natural resources within the largest watershed in the world.
- Our mission was not only to champion environmental conservation but also to address the new tariffs imposed by the United States government.
- The City of Toronto is part of a Team Canada approach in responding to these tariffs. Business owners, employers, and labor leaders can find out more about how Toronto is responding to United States Economic Policy – City of Toronto.
EVENTS:
- Environment Day – Morningside Yard April 12, 10am-2pm
- Compost Day for Seven Oaks Community-Tam Heather Tam Heather Curling Club 12:30pm-1:30pm
- Guild Alive with Culture Arts Festival- Guild Park and Gardens July 26/27
CITY WIDE INFORMATION
Clean Toronto Together: Annual Spring Cleanup Takes Place April 25 to 27
Clean Toronto Together is an annual spring cleanup event where community groups, families, individuals, and businesses in Toronto come together to clean up litter in local parks, beaches, ravines, and other natural spaces. This year’s event will take place from April 25 to 27, and participants are encouraged to spend 20 minutes picking up litter to help keep Toronto’s public spaces beautiful1. It’s a great way to contribute to the community and make a positive impact on the environment!
SLOW DOWN SIGN CAMPAIGN
The City is running a “Please Slow Down” Lawn Sign Campaign to improve road safety in residential areas. By encouraging residents to display signs from April 1st to November 30th. These signs serve as a friendly reminder to drivers to reduce their speed and be more mindful of pedestrians and children playing. Together, let’s make our neighborhoods safer!
You can pick up a sign directly from my Constituency Office located in the Scarborough Civic Centre at 150 Borough Drive. Please contact my office in advance to arrange pickup at 416-396-7222/councillor_ainslie_co@toronto.ca.
Committee of Adjustment Annual Stakeholder Update and Engagement Session on May 6
City Planning staff from the Committee of Adjustment (CoA) office are excited to invite you to their Annual In-Person Stakeholder Update meeting! This year, we’ll be discussing the implementation of the KPMG CoA Review recommendations, our work plan, and the KPMG Service Delivery Model review. We’ll also be gathering your feedback on new COA participation materials.
- Location and Time: Tuesday May 6, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at City Hall (100 Queen Street West), Council Chambers/Members Lounge. Please note there will be no virtual option for participation.
- Please Register Using the Following Link: https://ca.mar.medallia.com/?e=440499&d=l&h=1A8007903B0865C&l=en
We are asking participants to register in advance. Due to room capacity, please limit registration to 1 – 2 individuals per organization.
Thank you everyone who attending last night’s meeting
Paul
Toronto to Collaborate with Ontario Municipalities through AMO Membership
Toronto, December 18, 2024 – I am pleased to announce Toronto City Council has unanimously adopted a Resolution to join the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO). This strategic decision aims to strengthen our collaboration with other municipalities across Ontario, while preserving Toronto’s direct government-to-government relationships with the Provincial and Federal governments
The new AMO membership is a thoughtful and strategic decision for Toronto, reflecting our extensive history of current and past collaborations with AMO. These collaborations include participation in the Canada Community Building Fund Oversight Committee, the Affordable Housing and Homelessness Task Force, and the National Housing Strategy Trilateral Coordination Forum.
Councillor Paul Ainslie was proudly appointed to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Board of Directors for the term from January 1, 2025, to November 14, 2026.
“I am ready to make a positive contribution to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario. I am confident AMO membership will strengthen our municipality and enhance the quality of life for all residents,” stated Councillor Ainslie.
This membership will further enhance the City of Toronto’s ability to address critical challenges and leverage shared resources effectively, ensuring Toronto remains at the forefront of municipal innovation and collaboration.
2024.EX19.7 – Toronto Membership in the Association of Municipalities of Ontario
https://secure.toronto.ca/council/agenda-item.do?item=2024.EX19.7
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:
- Go to City’s Vacant Home Tax page.
- Click on the large blue button that says, “Submit Complaint/Appeal or Respond to Audit”.
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.