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Ward 35 News

A Letter from Go Transit to Ward 35 Residents

Posted on Friday, May 2, 2008

Bear with us…GO Transit is expanding.

Dear Resident,

All three levels of government are financing a major GO Transit Rail Improvement Program, GO TRIP, to expand and ... (more) enhance commuter rail service in the Greater Toronto Area.

As part of this project, GO Transit is making improvements to Scarborough GO Station.

This project will include the addition of a new tunnel complete with elevators to provide access to the north platform. Upon completion of all station work in spring 2008, the station will be handicap accessible.

While some of the work on Scarborough GO Station has already begun, over the next four to six weeks some of that work will occur at night.

The construction work is restricted to the station, but there will be some noise from equipment moving around on site and train whistling to protect the crews working around the tracks.

The night work is in preparation for the installation of the new tunnel in June/July 2008.

Further notifications will be issued should the nature of the construction work change in a way that may increase the impact on residents.

We are sorry for any inconvenience this work may cause, and want to reassure you that we are doing our best to minimize the impact of construction on GO Transit customers and local residents.

For more information on this project, or any other GO TRIP projects, visit our website at www.gotransit.com/gotrip. If you require additional information, please contact:


Ms. Trina Melatti
Communications Manager
GO Transit Rail Improvement Program
(416) 869-3600 ext. 5175
trina.melatti@gotrip.ca

Mr. Geoff Bubbers
Corridor Manager
GO Transit Rail Improvement Program
(416) 869-3600 ext. 5178
geoff.bubbers@gotrip.ca

We thank you for your patience as we work towards improving Scarborough GO Station.

Sincerely,

GO Transit

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Harmonized Landscaping Requirements

Posted on Monday, Apr 14, 2008

As part of the ongoing amalgamation process in the City of Toronto, staff are working towards a single harmonized zoning bylaw. Recently, the City of Toronto has harmonized the requirements for the ... (more) widths of driveways and the amount landscaping in the front yards of small residential buildings in the city.

Find out more information: http://www.toronto.ca/building/pdf/landscaping_requirements_feb08.pdf


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New Garbage Bin Programme

Posted on Monday, Apr 7, 2008

As a resident in one of Toronto’s waste management pilot program neighbourhoods, you know all about Blue Bins and Garbage Bins.

Your participation in the pilot helped Toronto prepare ... (more) for the City-wide launch of the new Garbage Bins, and for that we thank you. You recently ordered your permanent Blue Bin and now it’s time to order your permanent Garbage Bin. Choose from four sizes: Small (S), Medium (M), Large (L) or Extra-large (XL). There is a corresponding fee for each size Garbage Bin. You’ll follow the same steps you took to choose your permanent Blue Bin.

In the past, the average fee of $209 for managing garbage was included in property taxes. This will change November 1, 2008, when the City starts charging your waste management fee through a new utility bill. The average household $209 garbage fee will be given back to you as a rebate on your new utility bill and used toward paying your garbage fee. Your fee pays for garbage, recycling, green bin, litter prevention, landfill management and other diversion programs. Your water charge will also appear as a separate item on the new utility bill.

Choosing your Garbage Bin

Consider these important factors:

1. Given your past experience with bins in the pilot, you already know which size works best for you. Be realistic and choose a permanent Garbage Bin that meets your current garbage needs. If you are able to produce less garbage, there is no charge to exchange your permanent Garbage Bin for a smaller size. There is a $20 charge to exchange for a larger bin. Your collection day and schedule remains the same.

2. You may continue to set out bulky items (e.g. furniture, mattresses, box springs, etc.) beside your Garbage Bin for separate collection at no cost.

3. You must use your new Garbage Bin to receive collection service. Extra garbage bags can be left beside the bin if you attach a Cityissued bag tag to each bag. Each household will receive four free bag tags to use for excess garbage. Additional bag tags will be made available, at a cost of
approximately $3.10 each (details to follow with bin delivery).

4. The less garbage you produce, the less you will pay. The choice is yours. If you can make good use of your Blue Bin and Green Bin, it’ll pay off for the environment and for your pocketbook.

Step 1 — Confirm your Garbage Bin size
Knowing how many garbage bags you set out every two weeks, match that with the Garbage Bin size that holds that number of bags.

Choose from four sizes: Small (S)= 1 bag, Medium (M)= 1½ bags, Large (L)= 3 bags or Extra-large (XL)= 4½ bags. Seeing the bins may help you confirm the size you need.

Garbage Bins are on display at Scarborough Civic Centre. For more display locations, visit toronto.ca/target70

Step 2 — Placing your Garbage Bin order:

Please complete the enclosed postage-paid order card (use blue or black ink) and mail it back by April 24, 2008. If you miss this deadline, the Medium-size Garbage Bin will
automatically be delivered to your home.

You will receive your new Garbage Bin over the next several months. At that time or shortly after, we will pick up your pilot Garbage Bin.
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Pharmacy Watermain Environmental Assessment

Posted on Wednesday, Apr 2, 2008

The City of Toronto has initiated a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) to determine a preferred route for the construction of a new 1350 mm diameter watermain to support the existing ... (more) watermain along this route, reinforce the supply of water, increase the security of the water supply, and improve the overall system hydraulic performance. The existing 1050 mm diameter watermain runs along Pharmacy Avenue and Kenworthy Avenue from Gerrard Street and Blantyre Avenue to the Eglinton Reservoir on Ashtonbee Avenue on the route shown in the map found at the link below.

www.toronto.ca/involved/projects/pharmacy_watermain/index.htm


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Clairlea Park Playground Improvements

Posted on Monday, Mar 3, 2008

As part of a ward-wide park strategy, I am pleased to announce the results of the Clairlea Park Playground Improvement meeting held on Tuesday February 15th.

The residents that braved ... (more) the storm were able to choose from three manufacturers who produce playground structures. City Parks, Forestry and Recreation staff walked through the process and answered questions about the proposals. Attendees were then encouraged to take a closer look at the renderings and choose one as their first selection. The overwhelming choice was with a company that encompassed a new wave feeling with innovative play and climb structures. I have attached renderings of the proposed equipment and you can find them in the Photo Gallery section under Clairlea Park Playground Equipment. The park will receive new sand, a finer - easier to clean sand will replace the current base, benches and some minor landscaping will round out the plan.

Thank you to those who attended and participated in the process!

*note due to the purchasing process, there is not a guarantee that the exact equipment shown will win the bid - staff will do their best to

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City's Pothole Hotline!

Posted on Monday, Feb 25, 2008

City to begin fixing potholes

The City of Toronto will increase the number of crews that fix potholes on city roads as it winds down its snow removal program.

As we move ... (more) toward completion of snow removal activities, we see an opportunity to divert more crews toward fixing potholes on our roads, said Gary Welsh, General Manager, Transportation Services. We recognize the importance of fixing potholes and keeping our roads in a state of good repair.

About 100 staff (25-30 crews) are involved in pothole and road repairs year-round. These crews are principally deployed for pothole repair, however, many have been recently assigned to the snow removal effort.

During the last three years, the City of Toronto has repaired an average of 165,000 potholes per year. The City spends approximately $4 million per year to fix potholes.

Potholes are created when water penetrates the top layer of asphalt through cracks in the road. After the moisture freezes and expands, sections of the pavement are forced up and the weight of vehicles going over this section of the road breaks the pavement and forces the asphalt up. Potholes are more common during the winter months, especially during repeated freeze/thaw cycles.

City staff fix potholes by pouring hot asphalt and raking it into the pothole. Then, they tamp down the asphalt and smooth it out to improve the road surface.

The public can assist by reporting potholes. Call the pothole hotline at 416-599-9090, push the pound key (#) then 164 to leave a message about the location of the pothole.

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Crime Prevention Tips

Posted on Wednesday, Feb 13, 2008

Work, school, gym, piano lessons and hockey practices? Sometimes it feels like we are never home. Even though this may be true, it is important when it comes to the criminal mind, to give the ... (more) impression that we are home. Recently there have been several break and enters in the area, please read the tips below.

* Indoor lights on timers should be set to go on and off at times which are in keeping with your normal home schedule

* Radios or televisions can also be put on timers again set at normal television viewing times.

* Have a neighbour bring in your garbage can and/or recycling bins if you are away for the evening or longer.

* If out for the evening, close blinds or curtains.

* Phone and answering machine messages should never state that “you are not at home right now”, but that you are unable to answer or unavailable right now.

* If home for a short time and then going out again, take a moment to check the front door and pick up any newspapers or flyers that may have been left during the day.

* If you are at a location where you can be reached, forward your home calls to you cell phone.

* If away for a longer period of time, have a trusted neighbour check your home and if available, park one of their cars in your driveway.

* Again, for extended absence, be sure your lawns and garden areas are maintained and in the winter, snow removed including sidewalks and walkways up to the house.

* If you have a garage, park you vehicles in the garage. This way a criminal will not be able to tell if you are home or not according to your vehicle in the driveway.

Criminals are in the business to make money from the contents of your home. If they think they are going to get caught, they are less likely to take the chance and will probably move on. Keeping your home looking occupied is the best way to prevent a break and enter. Having neighbours looking out for each other means that there are more eyes on the neighbourhood and streets increasing the risk that someone will be caught performing an illegal activity.

It is known; through crime prevention experts that most break and enters are committed by people between the ages of 13-18 years of age who usually live 2-3 km away from the home they are breaking into. Living in or near the area gives them the advantage of knowing a home owners routine and what time the house will be occupied or unoccupied. The University of Miami during did a study and spoke to 30 known active burglars. According to this study, criminals are very opportunistic and often work with people, some unwittingly, who have inside knowledge about things to steal within the home. Reducing the feeling of a “good opportunity” for the criminal will decrease the chance of them targeting you home and property.


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Youth Challenge Fund

Posted on Thursday, Jan 17, 2008

The Youth Challenge has allocated over $4 million dollars targeted towards marginalized youth in Toronto's 13 priority neighbourhoods, $42, 218 of which has gone to programming in the Eglinton ... (more) East/Kennedy Park community.

YCF has funded the following organizations and programs in the Eglinton East/Kennedy Park community:
--East Metro Youth Services -- The Violence Intervention Project (VIP)
--Woodgreen Community Services -- Our Voice
--Young Urban Entertainment -- Unite the Neighbourhoods
--Youth in Power -- Youth in Power '08
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Jones Auto Wreckers Fire

Posted on Thursday, Jan 17, 2008

Two technical reports have now been posted on the Ministry of Environment website in relations to the Jones Auto Wreckers Fire:

Report #6565e - Technical Memorandum: Mobile TAGA Response ... (more) -Jones Auto Wreckers Toronto Ontario

6564e - Technical Memorandum: Jones Auto Wreckers Fire Toronto 2007

They can be found at the following URL, under the heading "Location-Specific Reports":

www.toronto.ca/planning/vicpark_station.htm


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Ward 35 Challenge - Top Ten Actions to Help the Environment

Posted on Friday, Jan 11, 2008

1. Park It
Leave your car at home for a day (or a week or a month) and try walking or biking. If work is too far away to walk, take public transit or carpool.
One city bus eliminates the ... (more) emissions of 40 cars.

2. Shut Down
Turn off the lights, the computer and the TV when they are not in use.
Using only highly efficient and money saving appliances can reduce the electricity consumption of an average household to one tenth of the US average.

3. Where's The Beef?
Try eating meat-free at least one day a week.
A meat-based diet requires seven times more land than a plant-based diet. Livestock production is responsible for more climate change gasses than all the motor vehicles in the world.

4. Eat It
Choose foods produced organically, locally and in season.
Support your regional farmers & farming industry: buying locally and in season is better for the environment than buying foods that have been shipped hundreds of kilometers to your local market.

5. Let It Rot
Put a composter in your backyard or use your green bin to reduce household waste.
Composting organics has two key benefits: it reduces the amount of waste going to landfills and when added to your garden, helps nourish soil and plants.

6. Don't Be Idle
Turn off your car's engine if stopped for more than 10 seconds.
If every driver of a light duty vehicle avoided idling by five minutes a day, collectively, we would save 1.8 million litres of fuel per day, almost 4500 tonnes of GHG emissions, and $1.7 million in fuel costs each day (assuming fuel costs are $0.95/L).

7. Keep Your Eye On The Temp
Set your thermostat above room temperature in the summer and below room temperature in the winter.
For each degree you adjust, you can save five per cent on your utility bill and one per cent on your energy use.

8. Bright Ideas
Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs).
A CFL uses only 25 per cent as much energy as an incandescent bulb and lasts 10 times longer.

9. Don't Dump It - Blue Box It!
The simple act of recycling has more impact on the environment than the average Canadian thinks.
The amount of wood and paper North Americans throw away each year is enough to heat five million homes for 200 years.

10. Tell Someone
This is a great opportunity to brag.
Tell someone what you’re doing to make the world a better place. Support the cause. Encourage them to get involved too!









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2008 Neighbour's Night Out

Posted on Friday, Dec 14, 2007

Toronto is a City of communities, where enthusiastic and energetic people contribute to making their neighbourhoods a lively and vibrant place to live, work and play.

Neighbours’ Night ... (more) Out is a wonderful event that allows neighbours and community groups to have a “Fun Evening”, where people on the same street meet their fellow residents and learn more about each other and building community spirit.

It’s easy to organize and when you register with the Crime Prevention Association of Toronto (CPAT) you will receive flyers, crime prevention information and event ideas. By joining together in the spirit of celebration and fun, the people of Ward 35 can strengthen their sense of community, help discourage crime and contribute to the safety of their neighbourhoods.

For more information: call 416-225-1102 or visit

www.toronto.ca/planning/vicpark_station.htm


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What Happens When It Snows?

Posted on Friday, Dec 14, 2007

When the snow starts to fall, salt trucks are sent out to the expressways and main roads. If 5cm of snow has already fallen and it is continuing to snow, ploughs are sent out to these roads. If ... ... (more) (more) 5-8cm of snow has fallen, ploughs are also sent out to collector roads, bus routes or local streets with hills.

Please wait 24 hours after the snow has stopped before calling us to let us know if your street has not yet been ploughed.

What Can You Expect From Us?

Every effort will be made to keep the expressways and main roads open during a snowstorm.

• Ploughing of snow on City expressways begins when the snow has accumulated to a depth of 2.5-5cm and is still snowing. It takes 2-3 hours to complete one round of ploughing on all the expressways.
• Ploughing of arterial roads begins when the snow reaches 5cm and is still snowing. It takes 6-8 hours to complete one round of ploughing on arterial roads.
• Ploughing on local roads begins when snow accumulates to a minimum depth of 8cm and has substantially stopped. It will usually be completed within 15-20 hours.
• Sidewalk will generally be ploughed within 24-36 hours. Areas where there is on-street parking or limited roadway width will not be cleared.
• Bus stops and transit shelters will generally be ploughed within 48 hours after a snowstorm.
• Residential driveway windrows will be opened after a side street is plowed. Please note that our intent is to only plough a sufficient amount of snow from the windrow to permit a vehicle to easily drive across. Windrow clearing is not provided on narrow streets with no boulevards or where on-street parking is permitted.

What can you do to Prepare for a Snow Storm?

• Do not push snow from your property back onto the street.
• Please minimize use of salt.
• If possible, keep parked cars off the street so that ploughs can move through the streets more effectively.
• Wait until the ploughs have gone by before completely shoveling your driveway. This also applies if you have a sidewalk in front of your property.
• When a snow storm is in the forecast, you should ensure that you purchase any food, medication and household supplies that you might need for the next 48 hours. Try to stay off the streets.
• Remove encroachments adjacent to sidewalks and curbs that may interfere with sidewalk ploughs and roadway ploughs.
• Ensure the sod on your boulevard is kept cut back to the edge of the sidewalk.

For more information about the City’s winter maintenance plan, please call 416-338-SNOW (7669) or visit http://www.toronto.ca/transportation/snow/index.htm



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In Honour of our Veterans

Posted on Wednesday, Dec 12, 2007

With all the new development taking place in our ward, it is with great pride that most of the new Ward 35 streets will be named in honour of veterans who gave their lives for our country. As part of ... (more) the City’s Street Naming policy, City staff, along with the assistance of long-time Ward 35 resident; Bill McDonald, have diligently conducted research resulting in an impressive list of over 20 names for new streets to be named after fallen veterans. Visit the Veterans Affairs Canada website at www.vac-acc.gc.ca for some interesting facts and figures on our war heroes.
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A new BIA in Ward 35!

Posted on Wednesday, Dec 12, 2007

Ward 35 is proud to announce that a new BIA (Business Improvement Association), is in the final stages of formation. The Crossroads of the Danforth BIA will represent the area of Danforth Avenuen, ... (more) from Victoria Park to Warden Avenue. BIA’s help create thriving, competitive and safe business areas that attract shoppers, clients, diners, tourists and new businesses. BIA’s establish strong and distinct neighbourhood identities that help ‘main streets’ compete in an age of shopping malls and big-box retail. Help support your neighbourhood businesses –
SHOP LOCAL!
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The Don Montgomery Community Recreation Centre

Posted on Wednesday, Dec 12, 2007

On November 29th The Mid Scarborough Community and Recreation Centre will be renamed The Don Montgomery Community Recreation Centre. As many of our residents know, Don Montgomery was a tireless ... (more) volunteer with the Scarborough Hockey Association. He helped to develop a number of leagues including the first girl’s hockey league. His work through the creation of the Indianapolis Peace Games and a host of other volunteer activities raised over $600,000 for hospitals in Scarborough. All too often in our lives, we don’t acknowledge the silent heroes in our community and who never asked for recognition. Unfortunately Don died earlier this year, and as a fitting tribute, the renaming ceremony was held on November 29th 2007. It was attended by the Mayor, Don's immediate family including his wife and children as well as other relatives and friends, from as far as the Maritimes. This was an evening of honour and pride for the Scarborough community.
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Toronto Hydro Project REBUILD on Mack Ave between Warden Ave. and Danforth Rd

Posted on Monday, Dec 3, 2007

Toronto Hydro is planning to rebuild the overhead electrical system on Mack Ave between Warden Avenue and Danforth Rd. The existing system is nearing the end of its life expectancy and so these ... (more) projects will improve service and reliability and reduce the frequency of outages.

The project is scheduled to begin in January 2008. The work involves staking the area, installing new poles, replacing overhead service cables/equipment and restoring the landscape.

During the course of our work, residents in the proximity may experience some power interruptions. These are necessary to switch from the old to the new supply arrangements. Toronto Hydro will endeavor to keep the interruptions to a minimum and to give you prior notice. We apologize for any inconvenience and advise customers to exercise caution around construction areas.

Thank you in advance for your co-operation and understanding in this matter. Should you require additional information, please contact Marina Leyderman at Toronto Hydro at 416-542-3366 or rebuild@torontohydro.com.

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OAKRIDGE COMMUNITY CENTRE BOOKMOBILE STOP

Posted on Tuesday, Nov 13, 2007

OAKRIDGE COMMUNITY CENTRE BOOKMOBILE STOP
(63 Pharmacy Ave.; north of Danforth)

Every other Thursday 6 – 7:15 pm

2008

January 3, 17, 31
February ... (more) 14, 28
March 13, 27
April 10, 24
May 8, 22
June 5, 19
July 3, 17, 31
August 14, 28
September 11, 25
October 9, 23
November 6, 20
December 4, 18

Ask Bookmobile staff to:
•Check out or place holds for books, DVDs, magazines, audiobooks, and CDs for all ages.
•Register you for a library card.
•Provide you with a monthly list of “What’s New on the Bookmobile”.

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On Track Pre-Employment Programme for Women

Posted on Friday, Oct 19, 2007

On Track Pre-Employment Programme for Women

This program is offered in a non-judgmental and supportive environment which encourages women to set short and long term employment goals
... (more) />
It includes workshops on:

*Self esteem, attitude and assertiveness, goal setting, team building
*Skills and aptitude assessment, working within a group
*Group and career exploration exercises, action planning
*Presentation and interview coaching
*Links to community partners training, employment & placement,work opportunities
*Résumés, cover letters, Internet job search
*Free faxing, Internet access and photocopying

Scarborough Location:
2425 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 218(at Kennedy Road)
Toronto, Ontario M1K 2P6
Call for Appointment or information:
(416) 701-9041

Parking is provided free of charge



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What Ward 35 Residents are saying.....

Posted on Thursday, Sep 20, 2007

These are actual quotes from Ward 35 residents on the service and assistance they have received from my office. (all quotes have been used with the permission of the resident)

"Thank you ... (more) very much. It's wonderful to have the bench there. It's nice to have it back so fast."
Town Haven Place Resident

“Before Councillor Heaps came along, I thought my dispute with a City contractor would have to be resolved in court. Councillor Heaps and his staff’s hard work helped me to resolve this matter. Thank you!”
Trinnell Boulevard Resident

“Thanks again for the great job you're doing. We are grateful!”
Santamonica Birchmount Resident

“It is refreshing to have the problem resolved in an expedient manner to everyone’s delight. Thank you.”
Brenda Crescent Resident

“We would like to take this opportunity to say thank you very much… Your kind generosity in this matter is received with job and is very much appreciated by the Progress Church.”
Progress Church

“Thank you very much! Your hard work is appreciated Adrian”
Midland Avenue Resident

“Thank you for the most comprehensive update on our ward that I have received in the 42 years I have lived here. Your Issue 1, Volume 1 is most informative and well received.”
Bill – Ward 35 Resident (on the first newsletter)

"I must say, yours is the fastest turnaround (less than 20 minutes) & most direct & helpful reply I've received (I usually got their assistants) in all my years as a Canadian citizen. As your constituent, I deeply appreciate this and the sincerity as a politician that it implies."
Ward 35 Resident

“I must say I was very impressed with the content, particularly "The Planning File". Kudos to Councillor Heaps and the team that put it together.”
Clairlea Resident (on the first newsletter)

"On my and my neighbours' behalves, I wish to express our deepest thanks to you
for having responded to our concerns by initiating the investigation that led to
this public service."
Bexhill Avenue resident

"Thank you very much for addressing the concerns I had brought up....Thank you once again for your prompt response and all the help with getting this through."
Ward 35 Resident

"Thank-you for getting back to me so promptly. I will make sure to pass along the wonderful news! ....I am tremendously grateful for all your efforts and I sincerely look forward to the unveiling!"
Ward 35 Resident (on the Mid Scarborough Arena renaming)

"Thank you for your help in finally getting this done."
Greystone Walk Drive Resident - (anti-whistling at the Midland/Danforth intersection)


"Thank-you for the reply and for helping in getting the Train whistling to stop...it is very much appreciated by myself and the residents of my community."
Greystone Walk Drive Resident - (anti-whistling at the Midland/Danforth intersection)

“Thank you for your kind and prompt attention in quickly processing my inquiry. The updates and communication provided by you and your office was appreciated. You have stayed true to the grass roots campaign you ran. This says much about you and your character. I am proud of the fact that we have someone like you representing our ward.”
Byng Avenue Resident


“I'm VERY impressed with the level of service provided by your office.”
St. Dunstan Road Resident

“Thank you very much for the cessation of the train whistle… for ten years the residents were not able to sleep.”
Greystone Walk Drive

“I was surprised and delighted to receive a letter informing me that the
train whistling at Midland & Danforth has stopped. I would like to
congratulate you and your office for a job well done. It is an impressive
start for a first time Councillor. Keep up the good work.”
Greystone Walk Drive

“Dear Mr. Heaps, I would like to extend my gratittude to you for a job very
well done.”
Greystone Walk Drive Resident

“I would just like to express my Thanks and appreciation to everyone involved in fixing and improving the island on Roebuck Drive. The new curbs are in and they look fantastic, the trees are neatly trimmed and the piece de resistance was the new sod they laid last Thursday.
Please pass along my gratitude to Adrian Heaps for his efforts in getting this resolved so quickly!”
Roebuck Drive Resident

"I would just like to thank you sincerely for coming out to my house... knowing that you are behind us on the street gives me the incentive to keep pushing to make it a better place to live. clean neighbourhoods makes happy residents. Thanks again"
Ward 35 Resident

“Wow... you've really come through for this community. Thank you! The lights are up and running the cross walk is no longer there. Not only are the lights in place but you went above and beyond with the new signage and painting on the road. It looks so fantastic!!!”
Clairlea Resident

“Thank you greatly. I had the chance to read the write up on you regarding the soccer league you coached. And then again about your recent Major Miller job decline. Very impressive. How refreshing to see someone from office actually formulating and working with their community. Your efforts are greatly appreciated and recognized.”
Ward 35 Resident

“The traffic lights at Pharmacy & Knightsbridge have been on the ,,, agenda for over two years. For most of that time our lobbying fell on deaf ears. We brought the issue to Councillor Heaps' attention during our first meeting ,,,, this year. Around that time a crossing guard was hit at the intersection by a motorist, again underscoring our concerns. The fact that the lights are installed is a tribute to Adrian's commitment to our neighbourhood.”
Clairlea Resident

“Congratulations, saw the operating lights at Knightsbridge and Pharmacy. Very fast work being in time for the beginning of school, well done. Thanks.”
Clairlea Resident

"Thank you very much for your quick response I'm very impressed. "
Martorino Drive Resident

” Thank you that this matter has been attended to so expeditiously. “
Vernadale Resident


















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"Watch Your Speed" Program

Posted on Monday, May 7, 2007

Speeding on our local roadways remains a concern in our communities. In response to these issues, the "Watch Your Speed" program was developed. Designed to imporve the quality of life in our ... (more) neighbourhoods and safety on our streets by raising motorists' awareness to speeding and reminding drivers of their responsibility to comply with posted speed limits.

If you are concerned about speeding vehicles on your street, register your street with the City's Transportation Services Division to get your street on the list.
Call 416-599-9090, program #155 which will provide general information regarding the program and allow the opportunity to provide feedback and make requests.


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Sign up for Toronto Police - 41 Division Community Alert

Posted on Tuesday, May 1, 2007

The Toronto Police Service operate a mailing list to help keep citizens of Toronto up-to-date on current happenings across the city, and in their community. To sign up for the 41 Division Community ... (more) Alert visit this website:


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The Planning File

Posted on Wednesday, Apr 11, 2007



Currently there are several active developments, at various stages in the planning process, across Ward 35. Regardless of the size of the development, my main interest will always be ... (more) the quality of each project. I am encouraged when I see concerned residents attending community meetings and offering their input. If the community works together, we can ensure our neighbourhood retains its unique character while providing enhancements at the same time.

• 240 Danforth Road – Ranka Enterprises – five two-storey townhomes (rezoning application under review, severance applications on hold)
• 300 Danforth Road – Ranka Enterprises– 348 units consisting of semis, townhomes and retirement apartments. (zoning approved, subdivision and site plan under review)
• 350 Danforth Road – Goldman Group – 446 singles, semis and townhomes (zoning and subdivision approved, townhome site plans under review)
• 3520 Danforth Avenue- Icon Developments Ltd. - preliminary stages requesting by-law amendment and site plan approval proposing 126 residential units with ground floor commercial uses. Proposed height at highest point; 12-storeys down to 2-storeys at lowest point
• 25 Herron Avenue – Caliber Homes – 10 single residential homes (draft plan of subdivision approved, site plan under review)
• 41 Lebovic Avenue – T. Junction Developments – two-storey mixed commercial and office development (site plan under review)
• 3595 St. Clair Avenue – St. Clair Investment Group – 167 singles and townhomes (0fficial Plan/Rezoning subdivision applications under appeal/review)
• 400 Danforth Road – Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) – 5.5 – 6.5 m (18 – 21 ft) high acoustical sound barrier wall across the rear of bus garage property (site plan under review)
• 556 Danforth Road - Birchdan Animal Clinic and 2nd floor residential units (site plan under review)
• 641 Danforth Road – Georgian Cliffside Inc. – 388 residential development consisting of two ten-storey buildings and three blocks of 3.5-storey townhouses. Applicant presented revised proposal of 208 units in 3 four-storey buildings – April 2006. Application currently on hold.
• Eglinton Square Mall – 166m2 (1,787 sq.ft) Shoppers Drug Mart expansion (site plan approved)
• 2751 Eglinton Avenue East – proposed Shoppers Drug Mart store (site plan approved)
• 60 Fairfax – Norstar – (site plan application under review)198 units
• Former CNR line north of St. Clair Avenue just east of Mattamy – Rexton Developments –proposed subdivision with 43 townhomes. (Zoning and subdivision applications recommended for approval)
• 678 Kennedy Road - addition of Tim Hortons to the Kennedy Park Plaza (site plan under review)
• 744 Kennedy Road – Kennedy Birch Properties Inc. – 9 condominium townhouse units (site plan under review)
• 544 Birchmount Road – Medallion Corporation – zoning by-law amendment application to permit the intensification of the site with a second apartment building (preliminary report)
• 651 Warden Avenue – Goldman Centennial- 229 units both semis and townhomes.(zoning approved, subdivision draft approved, site plan under review)
• 671 Warden Avenue – Stafford Homes – 115 units including 2 singles and 83 townhomes as well as 30 stacked condominium townhomes. (zoning approved, subdivision draft approved, site plan under review)
• 673 Warden Avenue – TD Bank – a new branch for Toronto Dominion Bank planned with drive through facility. (zoning approved, site plan application approved)
• 675 Warden Avenue – Ina Grafton Gage Nursing Home – 128 beds (under construction)
• 685 Warden Avenue – No Frills – plans for a new grocery store with additional retail on the property. (rezoning and site plan applications under appeal/review)
• 800 Warden Avenue – proposed Lowe’s building plus garden centre (site plan application under review)
• 720 Warden Avenue – Tim Horton’s – the new home for the Tim Horton’s on the west side of Warden north of St. Clair. (larger store with drive-through facilities)
• 725 Warden Avenue – Mattamy Homes – mixed subdivision with a total of 563 units including semis, townhomes and condominiums. (zoning approved, subdivision draft approved, site plans under review)
• 750 Warden Avenue – HMO Ltd. – five separate one-storey public storage buildings consisting of 221 units. (site plan under review)
• TTC Victoria Park Subway station – Bus terminal replacement project (site plan under review)


It is my intent to keep our community informed of issues that impact our ward. I will continue to update this list as information becomes available.




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Good News for Traffic Control in Ward 35!

Posted on Wednesday, Apr 4, 2007

Installation of Traffic Control Signals at Pharmacy Avenue and Knightsbridge Road

At the January Community Council meeting, the proposal to install traffic control signals at the ... (more) intersection of Pharmacy Avenue and Knightsbridge Road was passed. The installation of these signals is expected to begin in the fall.




Speed Limit Reduction on Knightsbridge Road

In conjunction with the installation of the traffic control signals at Pharmacy Avenue and Knightsbridge Road, Community Council recommended reducing the speed limit on the entire length of Knightsbridge Road from 50km per hour to 40 km per hour.




All-Way Stop Control on Southmead Road at Harris Park Drive

At the January Community Council meeting, the results of a recent Traffic study were introduced to propose an all-way stop control at the intersection of Southmead Road and Harris Park Drive. Council voted to approve this proposal.




Installation of Traffic Control Signals at 685 Warden Avenue (North of Firvalley Court)

The proposal to install traffic control signals at 685 Warden Avenue was passed at the January Community Council meeting. This signal will serve to control the flow of traffic on Warden near the proposed No Frills. The installation of this signal will coincide with construction of the property on Warden Avenue.




All-Way Stop Control on Civic Road at Prudham Gate

At the January Community Council meeting, the results of a recent Traffic study were introduced to propose an all-way stop control at the intersection of Civic Road and Prudham Gate

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TREES ON PRIVATE PROPERTY

Posted on Tuesday, Apr 3, 2007

While the majority of Toronto’s trees grow on private property, they are an important part of the urban forest that is nurtured and protected by Urban Forestry Services. In some cases, trees on ... (more) private property are protected and regulated under the provisions of municipal by-laws.
Urban Forestry Services encourages property owners to work with us to keep Toronto’s trees green and healthy and to protect healthy trees on private property that are not subject to the provisions of municipal by-laws.

Learn more about the Private Tree By-Law and how it affects you at
http://www.toronto.ca/trees/private_trees.htm

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Victoria Park Station Land Use Planning Study

Posted on Friday, Mar 30, 2007

The City of Toronto is conducting a land use study of the TTC Victoria Park subway station lands and its surroundings. The study includes a community services and facilities review, and is considering ... (more) public infrastructure issues and opportunities in the study area, in addition to the redevelopment potential of the subway station lands.
The City is now proceeding with the completion of the final phase (Phase 3) of the Victoria Park Station Land Use Planning Study. See the details of the study at www.toronto.ca/planning/vicpark_station.htm
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TTC – Victoria Park Station Rehabilitation Project

Posted on Wednesday, Mar 28, 2007

In December 2006, the Toronto Transit Commission approved the design and construction of a perimeter bus terminal to replace its existing terminal at the Victoria Park Station. The new amenities will ... (more) include passenger pick-up and drop-off and commuter parking facilities. Buses will continue to enter the terminal from Denton Avenue however provisions are being made for the buses to exit directly onto Victoria Park Avenue. The construction of the replacement bus terminal will free up land at the station for redevelopment.
"View the details of the modernization plan at
http://www.toronto.ca/ttc/station_modernization.html
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