City News
City is seeking residents to serve on Casa Loma Board of Trustees
As part of Toronto’s ongoing commitment to civic participation, the City is seeking residents who are at least 18 years of age to serve on the Board of Trustees of Casa Loma. People with expertise ... (more) in heritage buildings, Toronto history, Casa Loma community history, fundraising, finance, marketing, hospitality, event management or tourism are encouraged to apply.
“We are proud that the City’s agencies, boards and commissions reflect the diversity of Toronto’s population better than ever before,” said Councillor Janet Davis, Chair of the Civic Appointments Committee. “We continue to encourage women, youth aged 18-30, people with disabilities, Aboriginal/First Nations people, and members of racial minorities to apply to serve on City boards.”
Interested residents can obtain an application form online at www.toronto.ca/public-appointments, by calling Access Toronto at 416-338-0338, or by visiting the City Clerk’s Secretariat office at City Hall, or the Scarborough, Etobicoke and North York Civic Centres.
Applications will also be available at two information sessions:
• Thursday, May 15, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Casa Loma
• Friday, May 16, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., City Hall, Committee Room 4
Applications must be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office no later than 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 20.
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Important Notice: Changes to Recycling Collection
Beginning the week of April 28, 2008, the City will no longer collect your recycling in your old blue/grey box. All residents must use their new City-issued Blue Bin to continue receiving recycling ... (more) collection service.
If you do not have a new Blue Bin, please call 416-392-BINS (2467) to arrange for the delivery of a new Blue Bin.
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Toronto’s contingency measures for transportation and other City services during potential TTC disruption
The Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 113, representing TTC drivers and other employees has indicated that it may strike as of 4 a.m. on Monday, April 21. The City remains hopeful that a negotiated ... (more) settlement can be reached in the TTC contract discussion. In the event that a TTC service disruption occurs, the City has prepared contingency plans and emergency traffic measures that will remain in effect throughout the disruption. This will ensure that all City roads and services will continue to operate as efficiently as possible. In addition, all City services and programs will continue to operate as efficiently as possible during the disruption. All permits will continue at City facilities.
The City of Toronto will ensure that all emergency vehicles and services will continue to be available to residents throughout the transit disruption. In order to do this, the City has implemented a series of traffic measures and is encouraging drivers to “Keep Right” when they hear an emergency vehicle approaching and to clear a path in the middle of the road.
“While we remain hopeful a negotiated settlement can be reached, if TTC users do have to make alternative arrangements for travel, such as walking, cycling or car pooling, I hope they will do everything they can to minimize road congestion,” said Deputy Mayor Joe Pantalone. “I appeal to drivers to watch for cyclists and children and take extra care, especially when driving near schools, parks and playgrounds.”
To ensure the highest degree of access for emergency vehicles, emergency routes will be established where parking will be prohibited between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday to Friday, as follows:
• Avenue Road/University Avenue between Lawrence Avenue and Front Street
• Bloor Street/Danforth Avenue between Jane Street and Victoria Park Avenue
• Yonge Street between Front Street and Steeles Avenue
• Eglinton Avenue between Allen Road and Brentcliffe Road
• Bayview Avenue from Eglinton Avenue to Lawrence Avenue
• Finch Avenue from Highway 400 to Jane Street
• McCowan Road from Eglinton Avenue to Ellesmere Road
• Lawrence Avenue from Markham Road to Brimley Road
• The Queensway from Roncesvalles Avenue to Parkside Drive
There will be no exemption from the “No Parking” provisions for persons displaying disabled parking permits on roads designated as emergency routes.
To assist all residents in getting to work, reserved bus lanes on Eglinton Avenue, Fleet Street, King Street and Pape Avenue will temporarily be designated as car pool lanes (vehicles carrying three or more people) for the duration of the transit disruption.
To extend the existing bike path and lane network, the curb lanes on both sides of Bay Street, between Queens Quay West and Yorkville Avenue; Queens Quay West, between Lower Spadina Avenue and Yonge Street; Dundas Street East, between River Street and Broadview Avenue will be designated for bicycles only. Stopping will be prohibited on the sections of roadway designated as bicycle only lanes.
The Parking Enforcement Unit of the Toronto Police Service will activate plans for aggressive tagging and towing of vehicles parked on city streets during posted “No Stopping,” “No Standing” and “No Parking” periods. The “No Stopping” rule for vehicles will be waived for those motorists stopping at transit stops to pick up or discharge passengers.
The City is encouraging employers to consider flexible work hours, car pooling and any other arrangements that may help reduce road congestion during peak periods.
Parking lots at 14 designated City community centres will be available free of charge primarily for car pooling (list provided below).
All businesses are encouraged to review their scheduled delivery times to ensure that they have the least impact on traffic on major roadways.
If necessary, the City will promptly communicate to residents and businesses any changes to the delivery of City services via the media, the City’s website, www.toronto.ca and Access Toronto at 416-338-0338.
Parking lots at 14 City of Toronto community centres will be available free of charge primarily for car pooling for the duration of the transit disruption as follows:
West District
Centennial Park - Centennial Park Road, Renforth north of Rathburn
Chris Tonks Arena - 2801 Eglinton Avenue West, Black Creek and Eglinton
Gord and Irene Risk Community Centre - 2650 Finch Avenue West, Finch and Islington
Downsview Arena - 1633 Wilson Avenue, Wilson and Jane
Elmbank Community Centre - 10 Rampart Road, Martin Grove south of Finch
East District
Kidstown parking lot - Birchmount and McNicoll Avenues
Centennial Community Recreation Centre - Ellesmere Avenue and Markham Road
Scarborough Village Community Centre - Kingston Road and Markham Road
North District
Fenside Arena - 30 Slidell Crescent, Victoria Park and York Mills
York Mills Arena - 2539 Bayview Avenue, Bayview and York Mills
Baycrest Arena - 140 Neptune Drive, Bathurst, south of 401
Herb Carnegie North York Centennial Centre - 580 Finch Avenue West, Finch and Bathurst
Esther Shiner Stadium - 5720 Bathurst Street, Bathurst, south of Steeles
John Booth Arena - 230 Gorsford Blvd., Jane and Finch
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Potential measles exposure in Toronto
Toronto Public Health has determined that an individual contagious with measles may have inadvertently exposed other people to the illness at multiple locations. Toronto Public Health is currently ... (more) investigating a measles outbreak in the city.
The risk for the general public is considered low because most people are immune to measles as a result of past illness and Canada's high immunization rates.
However, as a precaution, Toronto Public Health is asking anyone born after 1970 who attended the following places at the following times to call 416-338-7600 for assessment and follow-up.
Date/Time, Location
- Tuesday, April 1, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m., Wednesday, April 2 - Thursday, April 3, 7:30 p.m. - 10 a.m., Toronto East General Hospital, 850 Coxwell Ave., Emergency Room
- Tuesday, April 1, 7 p.m. - 11 p.m., Wednesday, April 2, 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m., Toronto East General Hospital, 850 Coxwell Ave., Prenatal Assessment, 7th floor
- Saturday, April 5, 8 a.m. - midnight, Toronto East General Hospital, 850 Coxwell Ave., Floor A3
- Wednesday, April 2, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m., East End Community Health Centre, 1619 Queen St. E.,
Toronto Public Health is working with the hospital and the community health centre to contact those people who may have been exposed.
Clinics will be held to provide vaccination or immune globulin, an immune system booster, to people who may have been exposed and who have not been immunized or had measles. Individuals exposed to measles can be given vaccine within three days of exposure or immune globulin within six days to prevent or reduce the severity of illness due to measles.
The clinics will run on Tuesday, April 8 and Wednesday, April 9 from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. at the East York Civic Centre, 850 Coxwell Ave., across the street from Toronto East General Hospital.
It is important to call 416-338-7600 and speak to a Toronto Public Health staff member for an assessment before attending the clinics. Staff will be available to answer questions tonight and tomorrow until 8:30 p.m.
The individual also visited Wal-Mart at 1900 Eglinton Ave. E. on the afternoon of Friday, March 28. Because of the amount of time that has elapsed since that date, neither vaccination nor immune globulin will help prevent the illness from developing. Toronto Public Health is asking people who were at that store between 3:15 and 5:45 p.m. on March 28 to watch for signs and symptoms of the illness. If symptoms develop, seek medical attention. Be sure to call ahead and advise the medical facility that you may have been exposed to measles.
Most people who get the measles are sick for about 10 days, and recover completely without any treatment. Measles can be more severe for infants. Measles is unlikely to cause harm to fetuses or to newborn infants of immune mothers.
Symptoms of measles include: cough, runny nose, fever, white spots in the mouth and red watery eyes that are sensitive to light. These symptoms are followed by a red rash which lasts about six days.
Measles is highly contagious and spread by droplets and direct contact with nasal and throat secretions of an infected person. Measles can also be spread through the air. A person with measles can infect others from four days before to four days after the onset of rash.
For a Fact Sheet on measles, visit www.toronto.ca/health .
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City Council meeting of March 3, 4 and 5, 2008
Council Highlights
City supports climate change goals by greening its vehicle fleet
Council unanimously approved the Green Fleet Plan 2008-2011, which will see the City purchase ... (more) more environmentally friendly vehicles. These vehicles will help the City Fleet meet or surpass its emission reduction targets adopted by Council: it will reduce locally produced smog emissions by 20 per cent by 2012, and meet Kyoto greenhouse gas reduction targets. The City Fleet will add a minimum: 80 vehicles in 2008, 100 vehicles in 2009, 140 vehicles in 2010 and 200 vehicles in 2011. The City will test electric and hydrogen powered vehicles. Also, the City’s street sweepers will be replaced with dustless models that will trap the swept particles, preventing them from becoming airborne. The Fleet Services Division will work with other City divisions to reduce the overall number of vehicles used and kilometres travelled, and to use vehicles more efficiently.
Council adopts bylaw to allow property owners to generate and sell electricity
Council unanimously approved a new bylaw that allows for the production of energy from renewable energy sources and cogeneration sources city-wide, and for the distribution of the energy off-site, such as the electrical system or to a district energy system. The new bylaw brings clarity to the current situation where the 43 zoning bylaws are silent on the issue, mainly because they were written at a time where options, including solar panels or windmills, were not available. The integration of 'green energy' into the electrical system or district energy systems will help reduce greenhouse gases and air pollution in the city. Use of such power sources will help the City reach its climate change goals.
Retail holiday shopping locations and hours remain unchanged
A report outlining new options for holiday shopping was received for information only by Council, which means the status quo remains. Most stores in the City must continue to close on New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Chapter 510 of the Municipal Code lists 15 categories of exempt store types that are permitted to remain open. In addition, stores in the Eaton Centre, Distillery District, Queen's Quay Terminal, Downtown Yonge BIA and the Bloor Yorkville BIA are permitted to remain open on certain designated holidays.
Support for Toronto’s film and television industry
City Council approved a motion to oppose the Federal government’s Bill C10, which would allow tax credits to be denied to productions deemed to have "offensive content." Canadian law and the current tax credit system already require Canadian productions to meet high standards of quality and decency. Under the new bill, productions approved for tax credits would have to return the funds if their final product did not meet with government approval, making it even more difficult to attract financial backers. Council also voted in favour of asking the Federal government to conduct a nationwide consultation with industry stakeholders on the implications of the proposal prior to implementing any change to the tax credit system. In 2006, production companies spent more than $704 million filming on location in Toronto, and more than 35,000 people are employed in the city’s film and television industry.
City endorses plan to build a creative city
Council adopted the Creative City Planning Framework, a plan to increase economic competitiveness and long-term prosperity by adopting a Cultural Planning model and developing "Creative Toronto." Cultural Planning seeks to leverage the connections between place, culture and the economy. "Creative Toronto," one of the four pillars outlined in the Agenda for Prosperity: a Prospectus for a Great City, states that Toronto can compete in sectors that add value, increase productivity and grow the economy through research, development and the commercialization of ideas. The Creative City Planning Framework was developed in conjunction with The Agenda for Prosperity and supports its priority actions. City Council adopted the Agenda for Prosperity at its January 2008 meeting. The report will be used to guide major strategic policies having an impact on Toronto’s economic competitiveness and growth.
Ratification of the Toronto-Ontario Agreement on Cooperation and Consultation
Council ratified the Agreement on Cooperation and Consultation between the City of Toronto and the Province of Ontario, signed on January 15, 2008. Under the agreement, the two governments will consult with each other on proposed changes to legislation, regulations, bylaws and resolutions, and on policy matters of mutual interest, as provided in the City of Toronto Act, 2006. The Act, which came into force on January 1, 2007, gives the City new tools and flexibility to better respond to residents’ needs.
Leaf and yard waste collection and Christmas tree pick-up extended
Council voted to extend the current leaf and yard waste, as well as Christmas tree collection schedules starting in September 2008. Given that religious holiday celebrations now extend into the second and third weeks of January, and that changing climate conditions have altered seasonal weather patterns, the extended spring and fall leaf and yard waste collection, and extended Christmas tree collection will provide better service to residents. Under the new schedule, bi-weekly collection of leaf and yard waste will occur from March 16 through to December 31, and Christmas tree pick-up will take place bi-weekly from January 5 to 23. Currently, the City provides single-family residences with curb side collection of leaf and yard waste beginning the first full week of April and continuing through until the first week of December, on an alternating weekly/bi-weekly schedule. Christmas trees are currently collected from single-family residences weekly during the first two weeks of January.
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Toronto Mayor David Miller launches online petition for Canada-wide handgun ban
Toronto Mayor David Miller today launched a campaign to have handguns banned in Canada.
The campaign’s centre-piece is an online petition posted on the City’s website ... (more) (www.toronto.ca/handgunban) which will enable Canadians from coast to coast to coast to join the call for a Canada-wide handgun ban. A print-friendly version of the petition is also available on the website for individuals and groups that wish to canvas their neighbourhoods and workplaces.
"Toronto continues to face unacceptable incidents of gun violence," said Mayor Miller. "These cannot be fully addressed without a total ban on handguns. Handguns are designed for one purpose and that is to kill people and have no place in our society. Statistics show that in jurisdictions with gun bans, supply is limited and shootings are less common.
"I call on Canadians, and especially Torontonians, to add their names to the petition and tell the federal government no more lives should be lost in this way."
www.toronto.ca/handgunban
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The Mobile City--Youth Photography Contest
February 15 to May 15
An urban digital photography contest for youth 16 – 22.
Enter the Mobile City contest today and you could be one of 10 youth to exhibit and publish ... (more) your photos plus travel to Milan, Italy.
The Mobile City Project offers you an opportunity to share your ideas, your thoughts and your photos about urban life with other young people in Toronto and Milan.
Visit www.mobilecityphoto.org to find out how to enter or call 416 392-6833 for more information.
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Zerofootprint Toronto goes live
Mayor David Miller and Dr. Ron Dembo, Founder and CEO of Zerofootprint will join together with community partners and sponsors to launch Zerofootprint Toronto on Tuesday, February 26. Zerofootprint ... (more) Toronto is an innovative and interactive website that allows residents to measure and understand the impact of their lifestyles on the environment, and compare their behaviour with other individuals or groups.
For more information about Zerofootprint, please visit www.zerofootprint.net .
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First balanced budget since amalgamation protects services and invests in priorities
This year, for the first time since amalgamation, the City of Torontos staff recommended operating budget was introduced as balanced.
The 2008 recommended Operating Budget protects ... (more) existing services and contains important new investments in the Citys highest priorities.
This is a tremendous achievement for the City, said Toronto Mayor David Miller. Building a City that is liveable and provides prosperity and opportunity for everyone is the most important role of local government. This budget allows us to start to make the kinds of investments Torontonians want and deserve. As a government, we have made difficult decisions over the past several months and are now starting to turn the corner, said Mayor Miller.
At the introduction of the Operating Budget, the Chair of Budget Committee, Councillor Shelley Carroll said, A balanced recommended budget demonstrates our ability to contain costs and ensure our spending is focused in those areas that have the greatest impact on the quality of life in Toronto.
The recommended Operating Budget includes a recommended property tax increase of 3.75% and a recommended non-residential property tax increase of 1.25%.
The Citys total $8.2 billion recommended Operating Budget leverages partnerships with other governments to deliver a total of $53.4 million in new investment to support City priorities. This total new investment is made possible through an investment by the City of $12.4 million. Highlights include:
*Providing improved public transit through the Ridership Growth Strategy which will see 100 new buses on the road to relieve peak-period congestion, enhanced off-peak service and investments in the cleanliness and appearance of subway stations
*Meeting our commitment to reduce the waste that goes to landfill through investments that ensure the City reaches the 70% diversion target by 2010 and expansion of the Green Bin program
*Delivering on the Citys plan to fight climate change through initiatives such as Live Green Toronto
*Keeping Toronto Clean and Beautiful through increased neighbourhood beautification project funding, clean-up of orphan spaces and improvement of public spaces through new street furniture
*Delivering on the vision for a new waterfront - 2008 will see the opening of new waterfront parkland and facilities
*Strengthening one of Torontos key cultural events by expanding Nuit Blanche to more locations
*Investing in communities and keeping a safe city safer by providing funding to the Community Partnership Investment Program that keeps pace with inflation and increase the support given to the very effective Streets-to-Homes initiative to help people living on the street find and keep permanent housing
*Staying the course on improving Torontos business climate through investment in an international centre for Financial Services Training and the Financial Services Information Technology Innovation Initiative and establish green economic sector development initiatives in targeted areas
*To keep up with Torontos rapid growth and maintain healthy and vibrant neighbourhoods the City will add additional planners to support community and transportation planning, heritage preservation and support good quality urban design.
Toronto City Manager Shirley Hoy said, The Toronto Public Service continues to perform well as the City compares very favourably to other service providers. Cost containment measures in 2007, which were carried over into budget planning for 2008, transitional provincial funding for TTC operating costs and the start of some uploading of provincial costs and the new taxes has all combined to assist the City address what are our biggest financial challenges.
Torontos Chief Financial Officer and Deputy City Manager, Joe Pennachetti said, The upload of the costs for social services is required to ensure Toronto continues to use all the revenues we directly collect to fund municipal services and we will continue to focus the discussion with the province to ensure this happens.
The City continues to work together with other Ontario municipalities and the province to resolve basic funding problems in provincially mandated cost-shared programs that are not adequately funded. In addition, Toronto and all of Canadas municipalities continue to seek a source of revenue that grows when the economy grows - the equivalent of one cent of the GST (onecentnow.ca) and the establishment of a national strategy to support public transit in Canada. These measures are needed if Toronto is to balance its budget in the future.
Budget Committee will begin its review of the Operating Budget on February 4 and will hear deputations from the public on February 5. At the conclusion of the review by Budget Committee the Operating Budget goes to the Citys Executive Committee on March 25 and then to Toronto City Council at its meeting scheduled for March 31 and April 1.
The public can learn more about city services and how they are paid for and find out how to make a deputation or comment on the Citys budget by visiting the Citys website at www.toronto.ca Public deputations will take place at Budget Committee on February 5, 2007. To engage residents and businesses in the budget process, the City has prepared a dedicated budget website and a public outreach poster campaign that will appear in free City transit shelter and street bins.
The City has both an operating and capital budget.
The day-to-day operation of City services is paid for from the Citys operating budget - the money dedicated to salaries and operating expenses such as rent, fuel, electricity, equipment, etc. The City, like everyone else, must pay the increased costs of fuel and electricity and other services when these costs rise. The delivery of City services such as police, fire, emergency medical services, TTC, waste collection and recycling, libraries, parks and recreation, child care and many others are paid for through the Citys Operating Budget.
The 2008 Capital Budget of $1.610 billion was approved by Council last December and is part of an $8.355 billion Five-Year Capital Plan (2008-2012). The Citys capital budget pays for construction and maintenance of roads, the purchase of transit vehicles, the building of major facilities, and the purchase of major equipment. The budget funds the maintenance and construction of City assets and infrastructure, which are needed to support service to residents and businesses.
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City of Toronto launches online guide to quality child care
Toronto Children’s Services has launched a website to help parents make informed decisions about quality child care. At a demonstration of the website today, Councillor Joe Mihevc (Ward 21 St. ... (more) Paul’s), Chair of the Community Development and Recreation Committee and Brenda Patterson, General Manager of Toronto Children’s Services, explained how the new site uses scores based on the Toronto Operating Criteria service standards to rate how child care centres across Toronto are measuring up.
The site, www.toronto.ca/children/quality.htm, lists more than 900 child care centres that operate in Toronto. A search tool allows parents to search for child care by postal code, ward or centre name. Centres are rated on important areas of quality, such as programming, activities, health, safety, interaction and nutrition. The site also provides information about each centre, including contact information, age groups served, vacancy rates and whether a centre receives subsidy. Toronto is the first jurisdiction in Canada to make this level of information available to parents.
“The Mayor and City Council have made a commitment to be open and transparent, and the need for transparency can’t be greater than when were we’re talking about the well-being of this city’s children,” said Councillor Mihevc. “We believe that by posting the scores of child care centres, operators will be motivated to ensure that they score well, improving the quality of child care across the city.”
“The most important thing to any parent is their children. When deciding to entrust their children’s care to others they need all the reassurance they can get that they are leaving them in the best possible hands,” said Brenda Patterson. “Children’s Services takes this responsibility seriously and we continually look for new ways to make our service and quality better. This website offers parents a new tool to help them choose quality licensed child care so they can be confident in the well-being of their children.”
The City of Toronto is the second largest provider of child care in Canada, with more than 54,800 licensed child care spaces, second only to Quebec. The City works collaboratively with Toronto Public Health and the Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth Services to ensure that child care centres comply with regulations and offer safe, clean and healthy environments for children.
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Toronto Public Health offers Metropass prize for quitting smoking
Toronto Public Health is offering city residents a chance to trade in their cigarettes for a years free ride on the TTC.
This years provincial Driven to Quit Challenge, which starts ... (more) during National Non Smoking Week, will have a uniquely Toronto prize for one resident who quits smoking and remains smoke-free for the entire month of March. In addition to qualifying for the grand prize of a Toyota Prius hybrid car, and one of seven regional prizes of a $3,000 Future Shop gift card, one Toronto resident who successfully quits will receive a free Metropass for one year.
We fully support the Driven to Quit Challenge and wanted to give extra incentive for Toronto residents to participate in this innovative program, said Suzanne Thibault, Acting Manager, Healthy Living, Toronto Public Health. One lucky resident who remains smoke-free for at least the month of March will also get to ride the TTC for free for a year.
The Driven to Quit Challenge will be launched on Monday, January 21 at 10 a.m. at the Eaton Centre. The Challenge is hosted by the Canadian Cancer Society Ontario Division, with funding from the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion.
Smokers need to register for the contest by March 1. More information about the Driven to Quit Challenge is available at www.toronto.ca/health/smokefree/index.htm or 416-338-7600.
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Scarborough's Little Brothers & Little Sisters needs Volunteers!
SHARE A LITTLE MAGIC!!! BE A BIG BROTHER OR BIG SISTER
Child and Youth Mentoring Program, matching volunteers (Big Brothers and Big Sisters) ages 18 and older to serve as friends and ... (more) positive influences to children and youth (Little Brothers and Little Sisters) ages 6-16. Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Toronto serves over 1000 children and youth with over 500 waiting to be matched with a volunteer. Currently there are more boys than girls on the waiting list. We are in need of men who live in the Scarborough area that can be a friend and share some quality time with a child.
What Is A Mentor?
As a mentor, you are helping to make a big difference in a child’s life, just by being a big friend to a child. As a Big Brother or Big Sister you build a special friendship with a young person and have fun together. Being a mentor is about sharing time and exploring the world together by playing catch, reading a book or watching movies and making popcorn.
As a Big Brother or Big Sister, you talk, listen, support, guide, encourage – believe in your Little Brother or Little Sister and help them believe in themselves. A mentor provides inspiration, acceptance, challenge, a sympathetic ear and exposure to new ideas and activities. It's about sharing little moments to create big magic!
Children matched with mentors show improved
Confidence, self-esteem and sense of hope
Academic grades
School attendance
Interactions with peers, parents and teachers
Social and communication skills
Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Toronto Programs
We provide flexible programs that fit every volunteer's schedule.
Original Program
• two hours a week or four hours bi-weekly
• year round program
In-School Mentoring Program
• one hour a week
• September to June
• during school hours on school property
Group Program
• two-four hours, twice a month, Saturday or Sunday
• six month participation
• little Brothers and Little Sisters meet as a group with Big Brothers and Big Sisters and participate in pre-arranged activities. Outings include ice skating, golfing, sports, cultural events and much more
Go Girls
• two hours a week
• 7 week participation
• Big Sisters lead fun and active mentoring sessions with 12-14 year old Little Sisters
CONTACT INFORMATION
If you are interested in joining the BBBST team and impacting a child’s life, please call Sally at 416-925-8981 ext 4102 or email sbernard@bbbst.com or check our website to apply on line.
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Proposed bylaw would permit renewable energy generation on all properties
The City of Toronto will consider a renewable energy bylaw that, if passed, would permit the production of energy from renewable energy sources on all properties. The bylaw would allow devices such as ... (more) solar panels, wind turbines and heat pumps to be used to convert sun, wind and geothermal energy to electrical or heat energy.
The bylaw would also permit the distribution of that energy off-site, subject to applicable legislation.
Through this bylaw, residents would be able to produce renewable energy on their properties, subject to local bylaws that require these generation devices to be placed in a manner that respects the existing community character.
By providing the opportunity for residents to generate their own renewable energy, this proposal fully supports the Citys climate change initiatives, said Councillor Norm Kelly (Ward 40 Scarborough-Agincourt), Chair of the Citys Planning and Growth Management Committee. This bold new direction is unique in the province. All Toronto property owners will have the chance to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the quality of the air we breathe, while drastically reducing their energy costs and improving the environment.
In 2007, City Council adopted Change is in the Air: The Climate Change, Clean Air and Sustainable Energy Action Plan, which is guiding Torontos actions as it becomes a North American leader on the issue of climate change.
The adoption of a permissible renewable energy bylaw would bring zoning in line with the climate change action plan and the Citys Official Plan, both of which support the use of renewable energy as a means to improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce electricity demand.
Yesterday, the Citys Planning and Growth Management Committee directed staff to draft the bylaw, which will be open to public consultation at the committees next meeting on February 13.
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Torontos Streets to Homes among the worlds best housing programs
The City of Torontos Streets to Homes program is one of the finalists for the 2007/08 World Habitat Awards, making it one of the worlds finest examples of housing projects that deliver practical and ... (more) innovative ways to house people. Two winners will be chosen from the 12 finalists at the annual United Nations global celebration of World Habitat Day, October 6, 2008.
Streets to Homes is helping us to end street homelessness, said Mayor David Miller. It is making Toronto a more inclusive city, and the world is taking notice. This recognition is a tribute to both City staff and our community partners, who have worked together tirelessly and seamlessly to help some of our most vulnerable citizens.
Approved by City Council in February 2005, Streets to Homes has since helped more than 1,500 homeless people find housing directly from the streets, parks and ravines in the city. Almost 90 per cent remain housed. The program is operated by City staff in partnership with 25 community not-for-profit agencies that provide street outreach, housing support, and related services.
Streets to Homes is the front line of our overall housing first approach, said Councillor Joe Mihevc (Ward 21 St. Pauls), Chair of the Community Development and Recreation Committee. Homeless people tell us they want permanent homes, and we are focusing our limited resources across all services for homeless people on helping them to find and keep permanent housing. You have the best chance of dealing with your problems when you have the safety and dignity of a place to call home. Housing is the very best medicine.
Innovation and collaboration have been the hallmarks of this program right from the beginning, said Phil Brown, General Manager, Shelter, Support and Housing Administration. The City division operates Streets to Homes as well as Torontos social housing portfolio, the emergency shelter system, and related services for homeless and vulnerable people. We no longer ask clients how can we help you? We ask: how can we help you get into housing?
The research shows this program is making people healthier, happier, and more optimistic about the future. We are also seeing overall advantages since clients who are housed are making less use of costly services such as emergency room visits and jail. This program is about getting results with the resources at hand, a model that we think can be replicated in other parts of the world.
Focusing on the needs of clients fosters collaboration across City divisions, other orders of government, and among not-for-profit community service and health care organizations, said Brown. We have benefited greatly from the guidance of our Street Outreach Steering Committee, which brings together people from the worlds of health care, psychiatry, business, social service agencies and government.
The other finalists for the World Habitat Awards are projects from: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Italy, Kyrgyzstan, Namibia, the Netherlands, Norway, Sri Lanka, United States and Vietnam.
Toronto is Canadas largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.6 million people. It is the economic engine of Canada and one of the greenest and most creative cities in North America. In the past three years, Toronto has won more than 70 awards for quality, innovation and efficiency in delivering public services. Torontos government is dedicated to prosperity, opportunity and liveability for all its residents.
For more information on Streets to Homes, see www.toronto.ca/housing/about-streets-homes.htm . For information on the World Habitat Awards, www.worldhabitatawards.org .
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People, Dogs and Parks policies now in effect
January 9, 2008
People, Dogs and Parks policies now in effect
Following Councils approval in July 2007, the City of Toronto has implemented two new policies within the ... (more) People, Dogs and Parks Strategy that governs the use of Toronto parks, green spaces and waterfront areas by dog owners and commercial dog walkers.
The Off-Leash Policy and the Commercial Dog Walkers Permit Policy, which are designed to promote everyones enjoyment of Toronto parks, green spaces and waterfront areas, require:
all dogs be licensed
all dogs be on-leash when in public areas, unless they are in municipally-designated off-leash areas
development of a local dog owner association in order to complete an application to request the establishment of an off-leash area
commercial dog walkers, who walk four to a maximum of six dogs at any one time in the city parkland system, to obtain a commercial dog walker permit by completing an application form and paying the $200 permit fee.
The Commercial Dog Walker Permit Policy will be enforced beginning February 1.
As population growth and development density increase across the city, demands on existing parks, green spaces and waterfront areas are becoming more pronounced. The People, Dogs and Parks Strategy provides a consistent approach to the provision of off-leash areas within the parks system, and takes into consideration the interests of various park users, including families and dog owners, in addition to protecting sensitive natural areas, said Brenda Librecz, General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation.
Comprehensive information about the People, Dogs and Parks Strategy and its policies is available on the Citys website at www.toronto.ca/parks/dogs.htm , including:
application forms
details on how off-leash areas may be established, operated, managed and monitored across city parkland to ensure consistency and transparency
the process to obtain a commercial dog walker permit and conditions of use.
We are grateful to the many residents who attended public meetings to assist in the development of this strategy, and we look forward to continuing the dialogue as we implement the strategy, added Librecz.
Parks, Forestry and Recreation will report back to Council in one year on the strategys effectiveness and to make any necessary revisions.
Toronto is Canadas largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.6 million people. It is the economic engine of Canada and one of the greenest and most creative cities in North America. In the past three years, Toronto has won more than 70 awards for quality, innovation and efficiency in delivering public services. Torontos government is dedicated to prosperity, opportunity and liveability for all its residents.
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High marks for Toronto confirms quality of life amongst best in the world
Toronto continues to rank well on several fronts as compared to many world cities. This recognition demonstrates that Toronto is a leader in providing a quality of life that is amongst the best in the ... (more) world for the approximately 2.6 million residents who choose to live and work here.
The most recent ranking came from Standard & Poor’s 2007 Industry Report Card that ranked Toronto as one of the top 10 economic centres in the world. Selected from more than 15,000 local, state, and regional governments in the United States, and more than 340 others in 27 countries, Toronto’s role as a major economic hub in Canada, its depth of services, and deep and well-diversified economy has earned the city top marks. Toronto joins Chicago, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Milan, Moscow, New York City, Paris and Yokohama on the list. All cities considered have a population of more than one million.
“Toronto’s continued placement along side the world’s greatest cities confirms that the quality of life we enjoy is highly sought after and serves as a model for other urban centres,” said Mayor David Miller. “We are committed to providing valuable, high quality programs and services that have the greatest impact on the lives of our residents and the livelihood of our businesses. Our successes in securing a New Deal for Toronto, improving access to our waterfront, laying out a bold plan to tackle climate change, revitalizing major infrastructure such as Nathan Phillips Square and Union Station, and keeping our streets and public places clean and beautiful are what make Toronto a city that is liveable, prosperous and provides opportunity for all.
“But, we can't rest on our laurels,” Mayor Miller continued. “One of the things all of the world’s great cities have in common is a strong relationship with their state and federal governments. The most successful communities are those that receive the support they need from the other orders of government in their country, and share the responsibility for building and maintaining a high quality of life. In order to maintain the quality of life that Torontonians expect and deserve, this city needs meaningful partnerships with the federal government to deliver a national transit strategy and further to provide all of Canada's municipalities with a share of revenues that grow with the economy - like the equivalent of one cent of the GST.”
A further testament to Toronto’s success is the number one ranking in the quality of life category the city received earlier this year from Foreign Direct Investment (fDi) magazine as part of its 2007 North American Cities of the Future index. One hundred and eight cities were evaluated on economic potential, cost effectiveness, human resources, quality of life, infrastructure, business friendliness, development and investment promotion. The April edition of fDi magazine put Toronto second only to Chicago as the 2007 North American City of the Future.
KPMG’s 2006 Competitive Alternatives study found that Toronto offers one of the most cost-effective business and investment climates in the world. When compared to the city’s prime competitors - large North American cities with a population of more than two million - Toronto has lower overall business costs than 18 of the 19 large U.S. cities that were considered; Atlanta is the lone city with lower business costs, by just 0.1 per cent. Toronto ranks ahead in cost competitiveness against such U.S. cities as Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, New York, and San Jose, and global cities such as Amsterdam, Frankfurt, London, Paris, Turin, and Yokohama. The KPMG study measured 27 cost components, including labour, taxes, real estate, and utilities as applied to business costs in nine countries, and 128 cities.
A study released in March 2007, titled Cities of Opportunity: Business-Readiness Indicators for the 21st Century, ranked Toronto near the top with Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and Singapore in the areas of cost, ease of doing business and demographic advantages. The ranking compiled by the Partnership for New York City and PricewaterhouseCoopers compared 11 cities - Atlanta, Chicago, Frankfurt, London, Los Angeles, New York, Paris, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo and Toronto - based on cost, intellectual capital, technology IQ and innovation, transportation assets, demographic advantages, financial clout, ease of doing business, lifestyle assets, and safety and security.
The Economist Intelligence Unit (the Economist Magazine) ranked Toronto fifth in the world for liveability. The December 2006 study surveyed 132 cities. Low crime, little threat from instability or terrorism, and a highly developed transport and communications infrastructure helped Toronto make the top five most liveable cities in the world.
For the second year in a row, Toronto’s quality of living was ranked fifteenth in the world by Mercer Human Resource Consulting. The 2007 Quality of Living Survey also placed Toronto second in North America, after Vancouver. Two hundred and fifteen cities were evaluated and 50 cities were selected based on 39 quality of living criteria, including political, social, economic and environmental factors, safety, public services and transportation, and recreation. Also of note is that, unlike 2006, Toronto did not place on Mercer’s 2007 Worldwide Cost of Living Survey that lists the top 50 most expensive cities in the world in which to live. In 2006, Toronto ranked forty-seventh.
A study published this month by the Conference Board of Canada ranked Toronto as the second best Canadian city in which to live, after Calgary. The study looked at the performance of 27 cities in the following categories: economy, health, society, housing, environment, innovation, and education. Toronto’s young, diverse and culturally rich population also helped the city make the top 20 list of great cities in North America.
According to the 2007 Ontario Community Sustainability Report by the Pembina Institute, Toronto ranked first in the overall community sustainability index out of 27 Ontario municipalities. The study used 33 indicators in three broad categories. Toronto placed first for smart growth, twenty-fourth for liveability, and fifth in the economic vitality category.
A survey conducted by Z/Yen Group Limited for the City of London (UK) ranked Toronto thirteenth on the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI), just behind Tokyo, Paris and Boston, and ahead of San Francisco and Dublin. Toronto is rated within the top 10 financial centres in the world in terms of its people factors. The September 2007 report evaluated the competitiveness of 50 financial centres worldwide using results of online surveys completed by financial services leaders, and 54 separate indices of competitiveness.
In the 2006 edition of the Anholt City Brands Index (CBI), Toronto ranked fourteenth for best city brand. The CBI polled 15,255 people in 20 countries and 60 cities around the world on issues including the city’s people, climate, lifestyle, affordability, transport and presence on the world stage. The CBI measures the power and impact of a city’s brand and its overall international image, taking into account the potential and opportunities it presents for people abroad.
MoneySense magazine also ranked the top 50 cities to live in Canada. Out of 123 cities with a population of 10,000 or greater that were considered for a spot on MoneySense’s 2007 Best Places to Live, Toronto placed twelfth. Cities received scores based on weather, housing, income, unemployment, and the percentage of people who walk or bike to work.
In October of 2005, Toronto was declared North America’s top-rated economy according to LaSalle Investment Management’s 2005 North American Regional Economic Growth Index. This index is a leading indicator of economic strength in North America’s largest metropolitan areas. The index is based on factors such as employment and population growth, as well as momentum and risk factors including volatility, diversity, and business costs. Four Canadian cities - Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal - are included in the 36 North American cities evaluated. The ranking looked at strong employment and population growth through 2009, as well as a positive economic outlook for the city as being the major factors behind Toronto’s top ranking.
Much of Toronto’s success as a liveable city can be attributed to the city’s creative and culturally diverse residents. In 2006, the Canadian Institute for Research on Public Policy and Public Administration at the University of Moncton released a research study that used Professor Richard Florida’s four indices to measure Canadian cities and determine their Creative Class ranking. They are: the Mosaic Index (the percentage of the population that is foreign-born); the Tech Pole Index (the city’s degree of specialization in technology-intensive activity); the Talent Index (the percentage of the population, 20 years and older, with a bachelor’s degree); and the Bohemian Index (the number of people employed in artistic and creative occupations). Toronto ranked first for mosaic, first for tech pole, second for talent (after Ottawa-Hull), and third for bohemian.
A 2007 survey conducted by the CanadaWest Foundation revealed that 81.1 per cent of Toronto residents think the overall quality of life in their city is “good” or “very good.”
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Everybody Gets To Play!
Public information sessions encourage residents to find out how “Everybody Gets To Play” through improved access to recreation programs
Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation’s new ... (more) report entitled Everybody Gets To Play, presents a strategy to increase access to and participation in recreation programs by all Torontonians. The report will be considered by the Community Development and Recreation Committee at its January 14 meeting.
Toronto residents are encouraged to find out more and share their thoughts at any of the following public meetings:
Thursday, January 17, 2008 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Scarborough Civic Centre Committee Rooms 1 and 2 (150 Borough Dr.)
Feedback received at the public meetings will be considered as part of a supplementary report that will be forwarded to the Community Development and Recreation Committee in February.
Everybody Gets to Play is a bold plan that will:
• increase access to and participation in recreation programs, especially by children and youth
• respond equitably to local community recreation needs
• reinvest in recreation programs city-wide to ensure equitable access for all Torontonians in a financially sustainable manner.
“Our vision with Everybody Gets To Play is to deliver recreation programs that will be viewed as catalysts for a healthy lifestyle. Sports and leisure bring communities together. By investing in recreation, we also foster social inclusion and community development,” said Councillor Joe Mihevc (Ward 21 St. Paul’s), Chair of the Community Development and Recreation Committee.
The proposed service enhancements outlined in the report include new, free age/grade skill-based programs with targeted outcomes in youth leadership, swim skills and learn to skate that will instill active, healthy lifestyles in children and youth. Other enhancements include an increase in the number and range of non-fee drop-in and leisure opportunities and community engagement on service options.
“This strategy is a significant milestone for the City of Toronto. Everybody Gets to Play takes us closer to realizing the goals and targets set out in Our Common Grounds, City Council’s 15-year strategic plan for the delivery of Parks, Forestry and Recreation programs and services. Equitable access to recreation services is at the heart of Our Common Grounds, ensuring that all Torontonians have increased opportunities to participate in recreation, regardless of their ability to pay,” said Brenda Librecz, General Manager of Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation.
The City of Toronto is a proud partner in the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association’s Everybody gets to play initiative to enhance the quality of life of all Canadian children through recreation without barriers. The Everybody gets to play word and design marks are trade marks of the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA, www.cpra.ca)
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Did You Know....
Did you know….
• Ten seconds of idling your car uses more fuel than restarting your engine?
• The Toronto Zoo gets approximately 1.3 million visitors per year?
• The ... (more) Toronto Public Library is the largest library system in Canada?
• There are over 20,000 intersections in Toronto?
• There are 8200 km of sidewalks and 535 bridges?
• PATH is North America’s largest continuous underground pedestrian system?
• There are 10,002 km of sewers under the City?
• There are 40,460 water (fire) hydrants?
• There are 3 million trees on public land in the City and 4 million trees on private land?
• The majority of City trees were planted in 1920?
• 164,000 people live in Toronto Community Housing?
• Approximately 70% of the tenants work to earn a living?
• 18% are seniors, 65 and over?
• 44% of Peel Region’s revenues come from taxes?
• 53% of York municipalities’ revenues come from taxes?
• 47% of Halton municipalities’ revenues come from taxes?
• 36% of Toronto’s revenues come from taxes?
• More than 100 languages and dialects are spoken in Toronto?
• The TTC is North America’s third largest transportation system behind Mexico City and New York City?
• The TTC grows by 3% each year-equivalent to the entire Mississauga transit system?
• With 70 % diversion of our solid waste, Toronto will recycle 240,000 tonnes of paper annually, to save 4.5 million trees a year?
• For every Federal and Provincial dollar leaving our city- only 6 cents comes back to Toronto in funding?
• In 2003, we sent 142 truckloads of waste to Michigan and in 2007 (January to August) we have sent only 74?
• I have a constituency office at 442 Kennedy Road and am available to my residents on Thursdays from 4 to 7pm? (please call for an appointment)
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Free Tree Planting on City Boulevards
Trees are the lifelines of Toronto. Whether its by cleaning our air and protecting us from the sun, or contributing to the positive image of our City, trees make Toronto a better place to live. Call ... (more) the City to have a FREE tree planted on the City owned street allowance fronting your residential property. Call now for spring planting 416-338-TREE (8733) or
print a form from the website at www.toronto.ca/trees/pdfs/FreeTree_Final.pdf
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New Feature on TTC Website
The TTC launched a new feature on its website that may be particularly useful to you and your constituents. The Service Advisories page will keep you up-to-date on:
- Subway and RT ... (more) disruption
- Route diversions
- Service changes
- Construction projects
- Elevator and escalator planned maintenance.
I hope you'll find it helpful. It can be accessed from the main TTC webpage at www.ttc.ca or at http://www.toronto.ca/ttc/serviceadvisories.htm.
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Toronto Police Service On-Line Bicycle Registration System
Thefts of bicycles can be reduced if owners acknowledge the need for adequate security, and invest in equipment that will be effective.
Protect Your Bicycle
*Register your bicycle ... (more) with the police. On-line registration at http://bikereg.torontopolice.on.ca/BicycleRegistry/Submit
*Use a good quality locking device such as a hardened steel "U" shaped lock, or a hardened steel chain and padlock.
*Lock your bicycle and both wheels to an immovable object which cannot be easily cut or broken.
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Toronto Police Bargaining Process
The 2008 collective bargaining process is underway between the Toronto
Police Services Board and the Toronto Police Association. Updates on the
bargaining process will be available on the ... (more) Board's website,
www.tpsb.ca.
The website will also provide you with a link to the Chair Alok Mukherjee's new blog which will
contain additional items of interest.
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City launches online meeting monitor for remote tracking of committee meetings
September 28, 2007
The City of Toronto will launch an innovative meeting monitor on Monday, October 1 during the Executive Committee meeting. This web-based application will allow ... (more) the public to track in near real-time the status of agenda items and the progress of committee discussions. The public can use the monitor to track the meetings of all the City’s standing policy committees, community councils and Board of Health.
“I have made openness and transparency in this city’s government one of the cornerstones of my administration and I believe the ability of citizens to participate in and easily understand the decision-making process is critical to that,” said Mayor David Miller. “The meeting monitor is an innovative tool developed entirely using internal staff resources and will allow citizens to track committee meetings anywhere using their computers. It’s another example of how we are making the city more accessible and accountable.”
“The meeting monitor is part of an ongoing initiative to improve public access to the City’s decision-making processes,” said Ulli Watkiss, City Clerk. “We heard from the public that they found it confusing when they attended committee meetings, because there was no way to find out what agenda item the Councillors were discussing at the time, and what decisions they had already made. The monitor clearly displays this information and is accessible not just inside committee rooms, but anywhere with Internet access. With near real-time access, people can find out about decisions right away as the meeting progresses.”
The meeting monitor highlights the item that committee members are currently discussing. It also shows what decisions have been made on other agenda items, and what items are still pending. The monitor will also show any new items that have been added to the agenda during the committee meeting. Users can find the monitor by visiting the City of Toronto’s Windows on Council page: http://www.toronto.ca/city_council/window.htm, or directly at http://app.toronto.ca/tmmismonitor/index.do. The monitor will be live about 15 minutes following the beginning of a committee meeting, after the committee adopts the meeting agenda.
The meeting monitor is the public interface of the first phase of Toronto Meeting Management Information System, one of four projects in the City’s Meeting Management Initiative. Other aspects included a new Council procedure bylaw, clear-language standards for staff reports and improved meeting room infrastructure. Earlier this week, the City of Toronto received a Public Sector Quality Fair Award of Excellence, as well as a Showcase Ontario Merit Award - Business Value and Results Through Technology - for its Toronto Meeting Management Information System.
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HPV vaccine program to protect young women against cervical cancer
September 7, 2007
HPV vaccine program to protect young women against cervical cancer
Toronto Public Health is distributing information to parents about a new vaccination ... (more) program to protect young women from Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can cause cervical cancer and genital warts. Grade 8 females will receive the vaccine free of charge in schools beginning mid September. This program is funded by the provincial government and is being delivered by health units across Ontario. The vaccine is voluntary.
Simply put, this vaccine is about cancer prevention for young women, said Dr. Barbara Yaffe, Associate Medical Officer of Health and Director of Communicable Disease Control for the City of Toronto. Last year, there were 500 cases of cervical cancer and 140 deaths in Ontario. This vaccine can prevent serious illness.
The vaccine is safe and very effective. It is offered in several other provinces and countries throughout the world.
Toronto Public Health is distributing HPV vaccine information and consent forms to parents in 13 languages, and has also developed teaching resources for classroom use. Nurses will visit grade 8 classrooms at pre-arranged times throughout the year to administer the three doses of the vaccine required for protection. Only those students whose parents sign the consent form will be vaccinated. Students who do not get the vaccine at their school may still be vaccinated by their physician but must pay for the shots, which cost a total of $400 to $500 for all three doses.
We support this vaccine as a complement to cervical cancer screening using the Pap test, said Patti Payne, Senior Advisor, Prevention, Ontario Division, Canadian Cancer Society. Vaccination and screening can significantly reduce the number of cervical cancer cases and deaths in Ontario.
Dr. Yaffe urged parents to talk with their daughters about the vaccine, and about steps they should take to prevent cancer and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The vaccine does not replace the need for regular Pap tests, which are recommended for girls once they become sexually active, nor does it protect against other STIs.
Parents with questions about the vaccine can call the Toronto Public Health Immunization Information Line at 416-392-1250 or visit www.toronto.ca/health .
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September 2007
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program for grade 8 girls
What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?
HPV is a very common virus that can lead to cancer of the cervix and genital warts.
What are the symptoms of HPV?
Most people never get symptoms and may not know they have been infected with HPV but they still carry the virus and can infect others. However, some infected individuals may develop genital warts. Although usually painless, genital warts can be very difficult to get rid of and may be itchy and uncomfortable.
Though the bodys immune system usually gets rid of the virus on its own, in some women the virus can also lead to cervical cancer. There are about 400 deaths in Canada and 140 deaths in Ontario each year from cervical cancer.
How can parents protect their daughters against cervical cancer?
Parents should get their daughters vaccinated. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. The vaccine is close to 100 per cent effective in preventing four strains of HPV - strains 6, 11, 16 and 18. In Canada, strains 16 and 18 cause 70 per cent of cervical cancer. Strains 6 and 11 cause 90 per cent of genital warts.
The vaccine does not replace the need for regular Pap tests, which are recommended for girls once they become sexually active, nor does it protect against other sexually transmitted infections.
Is the vaccine safe?
Yes. The World Health Organization has been advocating for the vaccines widespread availability for the past three years. The vaccine has now been approved for use in 80 countries around the world.
The most common side effect is soreness at the injection site. Rarely, other side effects include throat spasms, inflammation or infection of the gastrointestinal tract, swollen glands, high blood pressure, vaginal bleeding and reduced arm movement where the shot was given.
Who is funding the program?
After the federal government approved funding earlier this year, a number of provinces announced HPV vaccine programs. The Ontario government announced funding for public health units to offer the HPV vaccine free of charge to grade 8 females at school-based vaccination clinics. The vaccine is voluntary.
Why only to grade 8 girls?
The provincial government is providing funding for grade 8 girls through school-based clinics only. The HPV vaccine is most effective when given before sexual activity begins, as the virus is most commonly spread during sexual activity by skin to skin contact with an infected person.
Toronto Public Health will be offering the voluntary vaccine to 14,000 grade 8 girls within the city. Three doses of the vaccine are required for protection and will be given over the course of the school year. Consent forms and educational materials in 13 languages are being sent home with students in early September.
Can other females get the vaccination?
Yes. The vaccine is approved for use in Canada for females aged 9 to 26. Those who want the vaccine can also get it at their doctors office at a total cost of $400 to $500 for all three shots.
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For more information:
For more information or a vaccination clinic schedule, visit www.toronto.ca/health . Parents with questions can call the Toronto Public Health Immunization Information Line, 416-392-1250.
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City of Toronto wins 24 Public Sector Quality Fair awards
September 5, 2007
City of Toronto wins 24 Public Sector Quality Fair awards
The City of Toronto has won 24 awards recognizing outstanding achievements in public service. City ... (more) initiatives will receive nine Awards of Excellence, 10 Awards of Merit and five Recognition of Commitment to Quality. The awards will be presented at the Public Sector Quality Fair (PSQF) on Monday, September 24 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
These awards are confirmation that Toronto continues to offer the best in public services for our residents, businesses and visitors alike, said Mayor David Miller. Even faced with fiscal challenges, the City and its staff will continue to deliver excellent services to meet our needs.
Since 2004, the City has won 74 PSQF awards for a wide variety of innovative, quality projects.
The Toronto Public Service continues to build a culture of continuous improvement through constant diligence in delivering innovative, quality services to Toronto residents, said City Manager Shirley Hoy.
The Citys group of entries was diverse and included many cross-divisional and community partnerships with the goal to improve direct service to some of the citys most vulnerable residents. Other initiatives indirectly create service improvements through innovations in new databases and monitoring systems. In addition, several focus on the environment and the revitalization of public space.
The PSQF is a province-wide showcase for service excellence in government, health care and education. Its objectives are to promote awareness and the use of quality principles and practices, to share ideas and to celebrate successes. All applications to the PSQF are evaluated against the same quality criteria that the National Quality Institute uses for the Canada Awards for Excellence. Submissions are assessed on a range of criteria, including leadership, citizen/client focus, people focus, process management, supplier/partner focus, and organizational performance.
For more information, visit www.toronto.ca/city_manager .
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September 2007
Public Sector Quality Fair award winners
Award of Excellence
Meeting Management Initiative - Toronto Meeting Management Information System / Meeting Monitor
City Clerks Office
The Toronto Meeting Management Information System consists of an automated process and the tools to report complex decision-making information clearly to members of Council, the Toronto Public Service and the public. The City developed the innovative business application entirely with in-house resources and based it on three fundamental changes - the Council procedure bylaw, clear-language writing and reports, and improving the infrastructure of meeting rooms.
Nathan Phillips Square Revitalization Design Competition
Facilities and Real Estate
Nathan Phillips Square has been Torontos premier public space and civic gathering place, a leading tourist attraction and landmark for more than 40 years. In October 2006, the City of Toronto developed and executed an international design competition to seek bold and creative design proposals for the revitalization of the square. The City received 48 submissions from around the world. A prominent competition jury selected the winning design, by Plant Architect Inc. and Shore Tilbe Irwin & Partners, which was approved by City Council in June 2007.
Long-Term Care, Mental Health Framework Implementation
Homes for the Aged
The Homes for the Aged division was retained by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care to apply a framework for the 85 long-term care homes (including for-profit nursing homes, charitable homes and municipal homes) within the city of Toronto boundaries. The framework provides an integrated Long-Term Care/Mental Health model for the homes by collaborating with the Community Care Access Centers, the Geriatric Mental Health Outreach Team, hospitals and other stakeholders to improve the care of seniors with serious mental health or significant behavioural issues.
Shelter, Support and Housing Administration Website
Shelter, Support and Housing Administration
The divisions new website is a more engaging and efficient platform to meet the information and program needs of all stakeholders. Program delivery is enhanced by a speedier rollout of new initiatives and by continuously updating information about programs already in place. The website offers information about programs and services for people who are homeless or at risk. There are resources and tools for community agencies, learning materials and exercises for teachers and students, and information for researchers and the general public.
Streets to Homes
Shelter, Support and Housing Administration
Streets to Homes works with a range of community partners and has helped more than 1,300 homeless individuals to move directly from the street into housing. The program changed the philosophy of street outreach in the city from can I help you? - which met immediate needs but did not focus on the long-term solution to homelessness - to can I help you get housing? Evidence-based planning has guided strategic innovations in program delivery and has assisted in addressing service gaps. Continued dialogue with service users and service partners has resulted in ongoing refinements.
Streets to Homes Employment Follow-Up Initiative
Shelter, Support and Housing Administration, and Social Services
This project is a collaborative, interdivisional project established to conduct an employability needs assessment of street homeless clients, provide psycho-vocational assessment and employment counselling to a group of previously homeless clients, and enhance the employment-related skills and knowledge of staff working with street homeless individuals. The project has established a new standard in terms of the level and intensity of assessment, service planning and follow up for homeless clients seeking to move toward sustainable livelihood after experiencing homelessness and social exclusion.
Toronto Social Services Scheduler
Social Services
The scheduler is a web-based tool that provides comprehensive and streamlined management of appointment scheduling, including client notification, in-office registration, space allocation, outcome tracking and real time reporting. There are over 500,000 visits each year to 14 Social Services offices and numerous off-site locations across the city. The scheduler provides effective and efficient access to the divisions 1,800 staff, which is essential to ensure clients receive the services and supports they need.
Falls Intervention Team
Toronto Public Health
The Falls Intervention Team (FIT) pilot project consisted of a falls prevention program, with an emphasis on identifying and removing the risk factors of falling. FIT used a virtual information system as a communication and tracking tool, a client health record, clinical database and a source for analysing and evaluating the program. FIT targeted community-dwelling veterans and seniors with at least four risk factors for falling. The program included approximately six intervention visits over 10 to 12 weeks, follow-up assessments and six months post-completion visits by a public health nurse and/or community-based physiotherapist.
Toronto Co-ordinated Street Furniture Program
Transportation Services
Under the umbrella of the Clean and Beautiful City initiative, this effort was co-ordinated by Transportation Services, Urban Design and the Clean and Beautiful City Secretariat. The program focuses on harmonizing the design, scale, materials and placement of street furniture to reduce clutter, beautify city streets and give Toronto an identifiable streetscape. The proposed rollout for the first of the 25,640 street furniture elements (transit shelters, benches, multi-publication boxes, tourist information pillars, neighbourhood postering kiosks, bike parking and washrooms) is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2008.
Award of Merit
Electronic Financial Filing System
City Clerks Office, Information and Technology
Toronto is the first municipality in Canada to develop a web-based tool for remote filing and viewing of the financial information of municipal election candidates. The Electronic Financial Filing System (EFFS) application was developed in-house by staff of the Information and Technology division and the City Clerks Office. The EFFS provides a secure, integrated system for candidates to e-file their campaign financial statements and rebate applications, as well as electronically issuing receipts. The system allows the public to view detailed campaign financial information anytime via the Citys website.
Listen to Their Needs and Work Together to Make It Happen
Homes for the Aged
The Homes for the Ageds Supportive Housing Program collaborated with partners such as Toronto Community Housing, Central and North Etobicoke Supportive Services, the Shelter, Support and Housing Administration and a New Horizons Grant from Human Resources and Social Development Canada, to improve health and social programs at three Kendleton Drive locations for formerly homeless clients and seniors in the Supportive Housing Program. Enhanced programming includes wellness sessions, safety programs, falls prevention, inter-generational programs, social activities and outreach to formerly homeless clients and seniors in a diverse community that is located in one of the City's priority neighbourhoods.
Carefree Lodge Volunteer Youth Council
Homes for the Aged
The Volunteer Youth Council improves the experience for both the residents of Carefree Lodge and the student volunteers who dedicate their time and skills. Since the program began, students are given the option to take leadership in organizing, implementing and evaluating their own programs. Of the student volunteers, 37.5 per cent dedicate more then their required 40 hours to Carefree Lodge residents. Of those, 23 per cent have committed over 100 hours of service. The Youth Council has provided an opportunity for leadership while providing a source of renewal for the volunteer program.
Toronto Public Service Employee 25 Years Recognition Database
Human Resources - City Managers Office
This unique database is designed to plan, manage, track, forecast, report and archive information about the Toronto Public Service long-term employee service recognition project. Since amalgamation in 1998, employees achieving 25 Years of Service are acknowledged at an annual corporate event. Each year, between 400 and 750 employees are recognized. Before the database was created in 2002, all the co-ordination and management of this annual function was managed manually. With the database, the program is administered more efficiently and expediently by fewer employees which produces multiple cost savings for the organization.
Tree Advocacy Planting Program
Parks, Forestry and Recreation
The Tree Advocacy Planting Program (TAPP) and its signature planting event Trees Across Toronto are initiatives that support the goal to double Toronto's tree canopy. TAPP was implemented by Toronto City Council in 1999 to plant trees along city streets, arterial roads, in ravines and neighbourhood parks. Since that time, TAPP has received over $1.5 million in cash and in-kind support from corporate sponsors and individual donors. More than 400,000 native
trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants were planted at over 300 sites across the city since the beginning of the program. Each year, hundreds of volunteers plant trees at sites across the city for the annual Trees Across Toronto event.
Street Needs Assessment
Shelter, Support and Housing Administration
The Street Needs Assessment was conducted in April 2006 to determine the service needs and number of homeless individuals in Toronto - on the street, in shelters, in hospital and treatment facilities, in correctional facilities and in violence against women shelters. The approach was informed by a Street Outreach Steering Committee comprised of members of a variety of community agencies, business and various City divisions. The Street Needs Assessment involved more than 1,200 volunteers, team leaders and City staff to survey homeless individuals on their needs. The results have assisted in service planning, public education and aided homeless people to obtain permanent housing.
Case Profile
Social Services
This case management tool provides a demographic and employment overview of an Ontario Works benefit unit and identifies areas of service opportunity. It combines information from the provinces Service Delivery Model Technology, which assesses client employability, and 11 in-house operational reports to provide a comprehensive single source of information. The Case Profile promotes a holistic approach to case management by providing current and historical employment and demographic information and ensures timely responses to emerging priorities and initiatives. With the Case Profile, frontline staff can make informed decisions, streamline their workloads, and enhance their overall efficiency to best serve Ontario Works clients.
Toronto Social Services Mail Merge
Social Services
Social Services deliver employment services and financial supports to over 120,000 of the citys most vulnerable families and individuals every year. Effective communications with the clients is essential to make sure they receive the services and support they need. Through Mail Merge, a web-based application, Social Services staff can quickly and simply produce a series of standardized letters with personalized content in four simple steps. Easily adaptable and scalable, Mail Merge can also produce letters and forms in multiple languages.
ICI WaterSaver Program
Toronto Water
The ICI WaterSaver Program helps industrial, commercial, and institutional (ICI) facilities to minimize the impact of present and future water rate increases and to save water. The program provides preliminary water use audits and offers rebates to facilities that permanently reduce
their water use. The ICI sector accounts for over one-half of the Citys overall water use and is the greatest potential for water savings. The savings will help delay infrastructure expansion by freeing up capacity for future growth, while helping the customer to operate more efficiently, reduce operating costs and save water. Participants have saved approximately 2.5 million litres of water per day. By saving water and deferring the need to expand water and wastewater infrastructure, the program has saved the City $2.8 million dollars and is expected to result in cost savings of over $24.5 million in the future.
Temporary On-Street Permit Parking Internet System
Transportation Services
Transportation Services built upon the City's established internet technology foundation to improve and expand citizen access to temporary parking permits. The system provides on-line access to printable Temporary/Visitor Parking permits and an electronic interface that links to existing City of Toronto and Toronto Police Service systems. Users can obtain a temporary
on-street parking permit from anywhere there is internet access, provided that parking space is available, the required information is supplied and payment is made.
Recognition of Commitment to Quality
Agenda Forecasting System
City Manager's Office, Information Technology
The Agenda Forecasting System assists in forecasting and managing the thousands of agenda items that come forward for consideration by Toronto City Council and its Standing Committees. It makes tracking Council directives and forecasting agendas a more efficient and comprehensive process. The system provides senior management teams with up-to-date information on the status of reports and items expected to come forward from each division and business cluster. It has the ability to share information, collaborate on agenda reports, appropriately schedule and track items, and link interdependent items as required. It avoids duplication and increased accuracy. The Agenda Forecasting System has resulted in better co-ordination of agenda reports.
Housing and Homeless Services Alignment
Shelter, Support and Housing Administration
Prior to 2004, the division managed six grant programs with different, but overlapping, mandates to serve people who are homeless or marginally housed. Each program had its own application process and, due to separate reporting requirements, funding was allocated on a rolling basis throughout the year, making it difficult for applicants to plan. The overall process was onerous and confusing for agencies seeking funding. The division took on the organization and co-ordination of the grants programs, which has resulted in an efficient funding application process, a consolidated and transparent approval process and, among other benefits, an improved ability to review, plan and coordinate services.
The Homeless Environmental Volunteers Project
Shelter, Support and Housing Administration and Policy, Planning, Finance and Administration
The Homeless Environmental Volunteers Project is a partnership between the Transition to Work Pilot Project (Shelter, Support and Housing Administration) and the Toronto Environmental Volunteers Program (Policy, Planning, Finance and Administration). The aim is to make
opportunities in the Toronto Environmental Volunteers available to residents of both City-operated and community-based homeless shelters. The liaison between the two programs makes it possible to match volunteer positions with suitable shelter residents and the pre-employment coaching and support of those volunteers during their involvement with Toronto Environmental Volunteers Program.
Streets to Homes Follow-up Support Program
Shelter, Support and Housing Administration
The follow-up support program is a key component of the Streets to Homes program which helps ensure formerly homeless individuals housed directly from the street have the supports necessary to maintain their housing. To date, 87 per cent of people housed through Streets to Homes stay housed. The follow-up support program focuses on serving the needs of the formerly homeless person, the landlord and the community at large. Community partners are integral to the success of the follow-up support program and meet regularly to share ideas and case conference.
The Domestic Violence Initiative
Social Services
Social Services designed and delivered a one-day workshop on domestic violence to all divisional staff, including senior management. Over 1,800 Social Services staff attended the workshops. The Domestic Violence Initiative (DVI) trained staff to deliver more effective service responses to Ontario Works clients who may be experiencing domestic violence. The DVI workshop and a supporting resource website provide essential information to assist staff in identifying indicators of domestic violence, to understand the challenges victims of domestic violence face, and to apply strategies for an effective response.
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New web portal assists immigrants to Toronto
New web portal assists immigrants to Toronto
The City of Toronto has launched a web portal to help new and prospective immigrants to the city find the important information they need to ... (more) succeed.
Toronto’s new immigration portal, www.toronto.ca/immigration provides information on; how to pursue employment, start a business, access public transit and City services, as well as profiles of Toronto neighbourhoods.
Toronto was one of the first five Ontario cities selected for $200,000 in project funding from the Ontario government via Citizenship and Immigration Canada; the funding for the project was provided through the Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement to enhance online information about settling and working to help immigrants integrate into Canadian society.
"No other city in the world welcomes immigrants as warmly as Toronto, and that’s probably because about half of us are immigrants," said Mayor David Miller. "Our residents come from more than 200 different countries of origin, speak more than 150 languages, and observe virtually every religion. The City’s motto Diversity Our Strength speaks to how much we value and welcome immigrants to Toronto. This web site will help immigrants settle and participate fully in life in Toronto sooner."
The Toronto immigration portal, found on the Living in Toronto section of the City’s website, will link to the province’s website for newcomers, www.OntarioImmigration.ca and other online resources offered by the Ontario and Canadian governments, as well as community agencies serving immigrants in Toronto.
"Newcomers bring a world of experience to Toronto," said Gerry Phillips, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration. "Toronto’s new portal and the province’s OntarioImmigration.ca will help prospective immigrants and newcomers get the information they need easily and conveniently. These tools will help attract needed skills and investment to Toronto and Ontario."
"Canada's New Government wants newcomers to succeed with their new lives in Canada," said Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada. "And one of the best ways to help get local information about language training, job training and other settlement services is through the Internet. We've committed $10 million over the next four years to assist municipalities, such as Toronto, launch their own web portals and help newcomers and their families."
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Helpful information about proper tree care
The responsibility of care for a tree rests with the owner of the property; the City of Toronto when a tree is on City land, and by the property owner when on privately owned land. Trees require care ... (more) over time to remain healthy and there may come a time when a tree, in whole or in part, needs to be removed for public safety or for the protection of property.
City bylaws require that trees on private property be safe, and that unsafe parts of trees (such as dead limbs) or entire trees be removed in the interest of public safety. This is done at the cost of the owner.
Steps that Toronto property owners can take to maintain trees on private property:
- Residents who have safety concerns about a particular tree on private property should contact a professional arborist or tree care company
- Trees should be maintained by a professional arborist or tree care company, and property owners should have their trees assessed every five to seven years or as advised by the arborist
- Professional and certified arborists are qualified to assess tree maintenance requirements and determine if trees can be maintained in safe condition or need to be removed
- Professional maintenance of trees does not require a permit from the City and hazardous or dead trees can be removed without a permit as they are exempt from City bylaws
- People seeking removal of healthy trees on private property, or healthy trees in ravine-protected areas must seek a permit from the City.
City of Toronto responsibility for trees:
- Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation, Urban Forestry Branch maintains trees on City property and protects healthy, and viable trees on both City and private property, including ravines
- Residents who have safety concerns about a particular tree on City property can report this to the City through 416-338-TREE.
For more information about how to maintain and care for your trees, visit: www.toronto.ca/trees.
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City releases results of recent lead testing
The City of Toronto has completed the lead testing ordered by the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) on May 23 and submitted the results on June 6. Out of the 20 homes tested by Toronto Water, two (10 ... (more) per cent) of the homes had samples that exceeded the Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standard (ODWQS) of 10 ppb (parts per billion).
The results from the fire hydrant samples (indicative of the distribution system) were all well below ODWQS limits.
In addition to the required test results, Toronto Water also submitted the results of an additional 160 samples from private properties, taken during the period of January 1 to June 2. Of those samples, 12 (less than eight per cent) exceeded 10 ppb. Samples were also collected from fire hydrants near the 12 homes that had the elevated lead levels and all the results were well below the limits of the standard.
Homes found to have lead exceeding the 10 ppb are immediately referred to the City’s Water Service Repair Program and designated as priorities for replacement. Through this program, the water service line is replaced, from the watermain to the property line, and the homeowner is advised that it is best to have the private portion changed at the same time. Change outs on homes designated as priorities are typically completed within four weeks. Cases of homes that significantly exceed ODWQS limits are changed out within five days.
“The City has had a program to address the lead issue in place for many years and we will continue to invest in the renewal of all our infrastructure,” said Lou Di Gironimo, General Manager, Toronto Water.
Since the MOE order was issued, the Central Lab of Toronto Water has received more than 600 requests from homeowners for lead testing and will complete all of them.
Toronto Public Health is advising that homeowners with lead levels above Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standard who are waiting for replacement of their water service pipes should take steps to reduce their lead consumption by using a water filter or bottled wat
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City of Toronto Measures UP!
The Toronto government continues to make great strides in providing services and programs that contribute to the City’s economic competitiveness, prosperity, opportunity and liveability. Toronto’s ... (more) 2005 Performance Measurement and Benchmarking Report measures the City’s performance over a five year period and shows that for 91 per cent of indicators, Toronto’s service levels have been maintained or improved (i.e. units of service per 100,000 population).
“Torontonians enjoy outstanding service and program delivery which contribute very directly to their quality of life. As demonstrated in the Report, this cycle of continuous improvement shows that residents and businesses are receiving excellent value for their tax dollars.” states Councillor Heaps.
The Report includes comparisons of municipal performance across the province through the Ontario Municipal Benchmarking Initiative (OMBI) which represents 15 municipalities. It examines 17 key service areas that have a major impact on the quality of life in each of the municipalities such as fire, social services, roads, water, transit and solid waste.
The City’s benchmarking results indicate that continuing efforts to deliver efficient and effective municipal services have been very successful. Toronto’s own internal performance measurements (efficiency, customer service and community impact) show over the past few years the City had results that were either improved or stable in 67 per cent of the measures. In relation to other municipalities, Toronto is better than the OMBI median for 51% of these performance measures, which is comparable to the other large single-tier municipalities in OMBI who also have responsibility for the full range of services that were included in the Report.
Other measures that show Toronto performing below that of other municipalities relate more to the City’s unique status as being the largest City in Canada with older infrastructure. For example, the City runs a multi-modal transit system which includes subways and light r
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City of Toronto performance results among the highest in the Province
The Toronto Government continues to make great strides in providing services and programs that contribute to the City’s economic competitiveness, prosperity, opportunity and liveability. Toronto’s ... (more) 2005 Performance Measurement and Benchmarking Report, demonstrates the City provides stable, efficient, and high quality services in a number of key areas including transit, library services, solid waste diversion, social services administration, fire services, water treatment, and roads maintenance.
The 2005 Report includes the City’s own results over a five-year period as well as comparative data input from 14 other participating municipalities in the Ontario Municipal Benchmarking Initiative (OMBI), which represents 9.1 million residents or 72 per cent of Ontario’s population.
The City’s benchmarking results indicate that continuing efforts to deliver efficient and effective municipal services have been very successful.
• Toronto’s results show that for 91 per cent of the service level indicators (i.e. units of service per 100,000 population), service levels have been maintained or improved in recent years. In direct comparison to other OMBI municipalities, Toronto ranks higher than the median for 58 per cent of the service levels measured.
In addition, Toronto’s own internal performance measurements (efficiency, customer service and community impact) show over the past few years the City had results that were either improved or stable in 67 per cent of the measures. In relation to other OMBI municipalities, Toronto also achieved the best result in a number of key areas including:
• lowest rate of governance and corporate management costs
• highest solid waste diversion for houses
• lowest rate of residential fire-related injuries per 100,000 population
• highest rate of total library uses and electronic library uses per capita
• highest pavement quality rating for our roads system.
“Although the Toronto Government’s municipal property taxes account for only 4.7 per cent of all taxes pai
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TTC Employment Website
The TTC is Canada 's largest public transit system and each year we help more than 430 million riders get to their destination safely and on time. We are an award winning organization long recognized ... (more) as one of the safest transit systems in the world. The TTC offers a wide range of challenging career opportunities. From our highly visible position of Transit Operator, to employment in the Skilled Trades and Engineering, we've got it all!
At the Toronto Transit Commission we place a high value on establishing a workplace where people are challenged and respected every day and we keep Toronto moving with a dedication to service, safety and convenience that is unparalleled in our industry. If you are looking to build a career with an organization you can growth with, you will want to check the opportunities offered by the TTC.
The opportunities listed are the positions that the TTC is presently recruiting for. This list changes regularly and there are new opportunities advertised on a regular basis. All positions available to external applicants are advertised on the Current Opportunities listings, as well as on our Jobs Hotline - 416-393-4564, and on the Employment Office Bulletin Board. Some positions may also be advertised in newspapers and on other websites. Please continue to check our website for an up to date list of the opportunities being offered.
The TTC accepts applications and/or resumés for advertised employment opportunities only.
Visit the website at:
http://www.toronto.ca/ttc/jobopps.htm
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Backyard Tree Planting Program
LEAF is a non-profit group dedicated to improving and protecting our urban forest. We plant native trees in Toronto backyards at a subsidized cost.
Let us help you get the right tree in ... (more) the right place.
Trees are the simplest way to breathe easier. One mature tree produces enough oxygen for four people. Leaves also absorb harmful air pollutants - especially important in Toronto, where poor air quality is a serious threat to our health. And tree-covered neighbourhoods are cooler neighbourhoods, where air-conditioning needs can be reduced by up to 40%. Take part in this community effort to reforest our city.
LEAF
416-413-9244
www.leaftoronto.org
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Toronto FUN Guide – The City’s guide to programs and facilities in Parks and Recreation
The FUN Guide Fall 2007/ Winter 2008 edition is now available. Toronto FUN Guide has something for everyone. Browse through the City of Toronto's Parks, Forestry and Recreation programs for people of ... (more) all ages. Search the FUN GUIDE on line at www.toronto.ca/parks/torontofun/index.htm, visit your local library or community centre for a copy of the guide or call my office and we’ll send one out to you!
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