December 30 - Request for Mandatory Helmet Requirement for Mobility Scooter Operators Outdoors
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Dear Premier Ford,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you to express concern regarding the safety of individuals operating mobility scooters in outdoor environments. While these devices provide essential independence and accessibility for many Ontarians, their use also presents risks, including potential falls, collisions, and other incidents that can lead to serious injuries.
It is widely recognized that helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in various forms of transportation, including bicycles and e-scooters. However, there is currently no mandate requiring helmet use for mobility scooter operators, leaving a critical gap in our shared commitment to public safety.
I respectfully urge your government to consider implementing a province-wide policy requiring mandatory helmet use for individuals operating mobility scooters outdoors. This policy would align with existing safety regulations for other personal mobility devices and help protect vulnerable residents from preventable injuries.
To ensure inclusivity, I also propose that such a mandate allow for accommodations or exemptions for individuals whose health conditions or disabilities preclude the use of standard helmets. Education and outreach efforts could accompany this initiative to provide guidance and support for users in adapting to this new safety measure.
As leaders, we share a responsibility to safeguard all Ontarians, particularly those who may be more vulnerable due to mobility challenges. I trust that your government will give this matter the attention it deserves and take steps to enhance the safety and well-being of mobility scooter operators across the province.
Thank you for your consideration of this important issue. I am happy to collaborate further or provide additional input as needed.
Sincerely,
Tom Mrakas Mayor
cc:
The Honourable Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, MPP, Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill The Honourable Prabmeet Singh Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation, MPP, Brampton South
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December 12 - Mayor Mrakas Statement on Municipal Accountability Act, 2024 and The Peel Transition Implementation Act, 2024
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“I applaud the Province of Ontario for introducing the Municipal Accountability Act, 2024 and the Peel Transition Implementation Act, 2024. These two pieces of legislation represent significant steps forward in strengthening municipal governance, accountability, and local decision-making, enabling communities to serve residents more effectively.
The Municipal Accountability Act, 2024 provides a standardized code of conduct and integrity framework across municipalities. By enhancing oversight and establishing clearer consequences for violations, this legislation ensures transparency, accountability, and reinforces public trust in local government. Stronger ethical standards and a consistent approach to integrity will benefit all municipalities, and I support efforts to implement these measures across the Province.
Additionally, the Peel Transition Implementation Act, 2024 empowers local municipalities by transferring key services from the Region of Peel to Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon. This model of giving municipalities greater autonomy and responsibility is a welcome step in enhancing efficiency and responsiveness to local needs.
As Mayor of Aurora, I am encouraged by these proactive measures and look forward to seeing similar reforms applied to York Region. Strengthening governance frameworks and enabling municipalities to manage services independently are critical to addressing the challenges of growth, housing, and service delivery.
I appreciate the Province's commitment to strong, accountable, and responsive local governance, and I remain dedicated to advocating for changes that empower Aurora and York Region to better serve our communities.”
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December 2 - Mayor Mrakas Statement on Appointment of Eric Jolliffe as Chair of York Region
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“I want to congratulate Eric Jolliffe on being named Chair of the Regional Municipality of York, following the retirement of long-time Chair Wayne Emmerson earlier this year. Eric’s appointment by the Ontario Government is a fantastic decision that I warmly welcome, as Eric is a proven public sector leader with a strong track record of making government services more responsive to the needs of community members.
The Regional Chair plays a crucial role in providing leadership and key recommendations to Regional Council, helping ensure Council decisions, as well as regional policies and programs, are being executed efficiently and serving the best interests of the entire Region. I’ve known Eric for years through his time at York Regional Police (YRP), including 10 years as Chief, and I have seen firsthand his commitment to consensus building, transparency, accountability, and financial integrity. I’ve also seen him strongly advocate for innovation in the deployment of government services, including his ongoing efforts to help modernize policing across Canada.
Eric’s work has undoubtedly made him one of York Region’s most highly respected leaders, and he has been recognized by many diverse organizations, including PFLAG Canada/York Region, the Transformation Institute for Leadership, and the National Ethnic Press Media Council of Canada. Eric was made an Officer of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces by the Governor General of Canada in 2015, received the Order of Vaughan and YRP’s police training facility is named the Eric Jolliffe Training Centre for Leadership and Learning in his honour.
Eric’s leadership and wisdom will be of great benefit to Regional Council and all York Region residents, and I look forward to working closely with him.”
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November 30 - Mayor Mrakas' Statement on Comments Made by Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Opposition on Infrastructure Funding for Municipalities
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“I was disappointed to hear the ill-informed comments from the leader of the opposition with regards to much needed infrastructure funding for municipalities. Municipalities like Aurora are the level of government closest to the people, providing essential services that residents rely on daily, from safe drinking water and well-maintained roads to recreation programs and parks. Suggesting that municipalities are 'flush with cash' does not reflect the reality we face.
Unlike higher levels of government, municipalities operate under strict financial constraints, with limited revenue tools primarily reliant on property taxes and user fees. Municipalities in Ontario receive an average of only nine to eleven cents of every tax dollar collected but are expected to handle an increasing number of services. In Aurora, we take pride in being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars, focusing on transparency and long-term planning to ensure every dollar is spent wisely.
Pierre Poilievre’s refusal to support my motion with over 50 Ontario municipalities in support to redistribute a portion of GST from home sales to municipalities is short-sighted. While the Conservatives’ plan to remove GST on new homes under $1 million is a positive step to lower costs, it doesn’t address the broader need for predictable infrastructure funding to support growth.
Redirecting GST from higher-priced new homes to municipalities would ensure communities can build the infrastructure needed for housing and avoid placing the burden on residents through higher property taxes. Instead of pointing fingers, we invite leaders at all levels to work with municipalities to address systemic funding challenges, including the growing gap between infrastructure needs and available resources. Collaboration, not division, will ensure our communities continue to thrive."
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November 28 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on Town of Aurora Budget 2025
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“The Town of Aurora’s Budget 2025 has been adopted as presented, with a 2.5 per cent increase plus 1 per cent for capital and asset management.
I want to thank the councillors who took the time over the past six months to meet with myself and staff to discuss priorities that are important to their wards. I also want to thank those Councillors who thoroughly reviewed Budget 2025, and participated in robust and healthy discussions, during the Budget Review Process that took place throughout November.
Per the budget process, members of council had the opportunity to put forward amendments to Budget 2025 prior to final adoption. At the final budget meeting on Monday, November 25, 14 amendments were brought forward by two members of council. Of these:
- 5 amendments were withdrawn after staff answered questions that were raised
- 3 amendments were defeated 7-0, with the councillor who proposed them voting against their own amendments
- 2 amendments were defeated 5-2 and 4-3
- 2 amendments were deferred, as they require an additional report before moving forward
- 2 amendments were approved: one, limiting the scope of renovations for Victoria Hall but still maintaining the budget amount, which aligned with staff’s original direction; and the second, removing a new HVAC maintenance position. However, as the Town will continue to rely on a contractor for HVAC maintenance, this will result in no savings.
I am pleased that Council has once again adopted a Town budget that continues to deliver the services our residents expect and deserve, all at the best possible value. We remain committed to making responsible investments in our community. This approach not only ensures Aurora is one of the best places to live, work, and play, but also keeps our tax rate among the lowest in the GTHA.”
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November 20 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on Redistribution of Provincial Land Transfer Tax and Federal GST
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“As municipalities are being asked to meet targets for growth, we are in urgent need of predictable, long- term funding to support critical infrastructure like roads, bridges, and public transit.
Our current sources of municipal revenue, including property taxes and user fees, are not enough to meet the increasing demands for infrastructure investment. Municipalities need all levels of government to work towards a solution that doesn’t just look at property taxes being the only way to pay for critical infrastructure.
We are therefore urging our provincial and federal partners to consider the redistribution of a portion of the Provincial Land Transfer Tax and GST from new homes sales to local municipalities. Over 28 municipalities to date have adopted a resolution to this effect with many more across the province joining the call.
This predictable and sustainable source of funding could provide for local infrastructure projects and ensure our communities continue to run smoothly without having to raise property taxes to do so - no new taxes, just a fair share of our own money.”
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November 19 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on 95 Dunning Avenue
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“I am pleased to share with community members that an Ontario Court last week imposed a $10,000 fine and two-year probation order on the landlord of 95 Dunning Avenue in Aurora, the location of an illegally operating cannabis facility that was in violation of Town bylaws.
A representative for the landlord confirmed to the court that a notice of termination was given to the tenant who had been operating the business, and the tenant is taking steps to move out.
The Town had initially charged the owner and tenant in 2022 with illegally operating the business against the Town’s zoning bylaws and Official Plan, as this type of operation was not permitted in the highly residential area. Residents also had serious concerns, chief among them the odour emanating from the facility.
This legal victory for the Town and for residents reaffirms that both our bylaws and Official Plan cannot be flagrantly ignored, and we will pursue legal action against anyone who flaunts the rules. Zoning bylaws and the Official Plan are vital instruments we use to ensure land is being used appropriately across Aurora to serve the interest of all community members.
I want to sincerely thank Town Staff, in particular our Building and Legal teams, for their diligence in finding a resolution to this issue. I also want to acknowledge the Town Park Area Residents Ratepayers Association, and Ward 1 residents for their advocacy on this issue. I also thank them for their patience as the issue made its way through the courts.
Town staff will inspect the building at the end of November to ensure the tenant is no longer operating on the premises.”
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October 30 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on Town of Aurora 2025 and 2026 Budget
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“I am pleased to present the Town of Aurora’s 2025 and 2026 Operating Budgets and 10-Year Capital Plan. This Budget maintains all current service levels and makes strategic investments in key areas that will sustain Aurora’s very high quality of life.
The proposed tax-levy increase for 2025 is 3.5 percent and 2.9 percent for 2026 – for a home assessed at 800,000, this translates to an annual increase of $87.52 in 2025 and $75.05 in 2026. This increase includes a one percent rise in capital reserve contributions, ensuring long-term financial stability for major community projects. It was extremely important to keep this tax increase as low as possible, as I know that many people in our community continue to feel financially strained. The inflationary portion of the tax levy is lower than the Consumer Price Index, and the Town of Aurora continues to strive to keep the levy in-line or below the level of inflation.
This Budget ensures the Town of Aurora can continue offering all the exceptional services and programs that are important to so many community members, including our world-class recreational programs, Town-led special events, snow clearing, maintenance of our parks and trails, and so much more. Moreover, it enables us to support Central York Fire Services and other important community partners, including the Aurora Public Library and the Aurora Cultural Centre, organizations that all significantly improve the lives of Aurorans.
In 2025, we will also move forward on key capital projects in our 10-Year-Capital Plan that will significantly strengthen our community as we continue to grow. These include modernizing Town facilities, redeveloping playgrounds, and improving tennis and pickleball courts in several parks. We will enhance the Benjamin Pearson Park boardwalk, upgrade our technology to accommodate online tax and water billing for residents, conduct a Traffic Calming Study, and develop a Community Planning Permit By-law to streamline zoning and approval processes to accommodate our projected growth. Importantly, we will make needed improvements to local infrastructure, including numerous roads, stormwater ponds, sewers and pumping stations – projects that keep Aurorans healthy and moving, and that also ensures we’re climate resilient.
This Budget is the result of a tremendous amount of teamwork, with staff, elected officials, residents and businesses all providing input on priorities during our pre-budget consultations. I want to thank everyone for their input and their commitment to helping make Aurora one of the best places to live, work and raise a family.”
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October 24 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on Retirement of York Region’s Chairman Wayne Emmerson
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“I want to thank Wayne Emmerson for his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to York Region. I will greatly miss Wayne – not only has he been a wonderful colleague but also a good friend I could always call on. I will miss his laugh and positive attitude in the chamber, qualities that brought warmth to every meeting. On behalf of the Town of Aurora, I wish Wayne all the best in his future endeavors, and we are deeply grateful for his many years of service.”
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August 23 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on Settlement Offer For 65 St. John’s Sideroad
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“While I did vote against the settlement offer, there are positive aspects to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) decision for the development at 65 St. John’s Sideroad. These include the elimination of the emergency access off Pittypat Court, the inclusion of a trail connection and public parking spaces to Atkinson Park, and an increase in the buffer from 30 to 40 metres.
As I have often stated, the OLT process is inherently challenging, requiring us to balance community interests with the legal and planning frameworks that govern development. Once an application reaches the OLT, Council has limited influence over land use planning decisions for our community. In this case, the issue was not whether development should occur, but rather how much and what type would be appropriate. The process has been thoroughly followed, and the decision reflects these complexities.
Although I am not fully satisfied with the overall outcome, it is important to note that the application satisfied the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority and the settlement offer reflects the will of the majority of Council and has been finalized by the OLT. I respect the decision made through this process.”
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August 22 - Mayor Mrakas' Statement on New Provincial Planning Statement
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“I want to commend the Ontario Government for its release of the new Provincial Planning Statement (PPS) and express that the Town of Aurora fully supports the updated measures that will get more housing built across the province.
By consolidating its Provincial Policy Statement, 2020 and the “Growth Plan” into a single, concise document, the Ontario Government is making it much easier for both the development community and municipal officials to quickly determine if local development applications and land-use policies are aligned with provincial planning priorities. This will help eliminate uncertainty and reduce administrative burden, ultimately getting more shovels into the ground faster.
What is most encouraging for me is that many of the updates we recently made to the Town of Aurora’s new Official Plan directly align with the most significant updates in this new PPS, including those that direct municipalities to intensify in transit-oriented growth areas, build more housing on underused low-density lands, and create more affordable housing. Through the Town of Aurora’s updated Official Plan, we have, for example, been proactive at directing growth to our Major Transit Station Area (MTSA) around the Aurora GO Station. We are encouraging the appropriate intensification of underutilized sites in our downtown and Aurora Promenade. And perhaps most importantly, we are committed to building more affordable housing, with our Official Plan requiring that at least 25 per cent of all new residential developments in Aurora be affordable, with that minimum increasing to 35 per cent in the Major Transit Station Area. Through our own made-in-Aurora Affordable Housing Action Plan, we will also continue to ensure that we meet these affordable housing targets.
I also want to applaud the Ontario Government for including several measures in the new PPS that give municipalities greater flexibility to plan for growth and innovative housing opportunities. Our upcoming Comprehensive Zoning By-law Review will continue to proactively apply best land-use planning practices that conform to this new PPS with measures such as the pre-zoning of strategic growth areas and corridors, the elimination of minimum parking requirements in the Major Transit Station Area, and the permitting of four units per lot as-of-right. I firmly believe measures like this reflect the Ontario Government’s understanding that local planners know how to plan their communities best.
I want to again thank the Ontario Government and The Honourable Paul Calandra, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, for making these much-needed changes to the provincial planning landscape, and for giving municipalities the tools they need to solve the housing crisis across the province.”
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May 1 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on Bill 185 – Removal of York Regional Planning Responsibilities
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“The Town of Aurora is fully prepared to move forward with the removal of York Regional planning responsibilities by July 1, 2024, as directed by the Province through Bill 185, the “Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act”.
The provincial government introduced Bill 185 on April 10, 2024. Amongst other matters, the Bill specifically directs that York Region is to no longer have planning responsibilities as of July 1, 2024.
This concept of “upper-tier municipalities without planning responsibilities” is not new though. The notion was first introduced as early as 2022 under Bill 23, with the goal of the Province’s legislation being to remove barriers to the approval and construction of housing by avoiding duplication of work and expediting the development review process.
Town of Aurora staff have known about these changes and have taken proactive steps since 2022 to fully prepare and be ready to move forward without Regional planning responsibilities.
The Town’s updated Official Plan has appropriately built in Regional policies and interests, the development review process has been enhanced, and new local projects are being pursued to promote housing creation and responsible growth management in line with the goals and objectives of the Province.
It is recognized that the Region will still have a role to play in the delivery of infrastructure and other key services, but ultimately when it comes to planning, the Town of Aurora is fully capable of managing its responsibilities independent of the Region.”
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April 22 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on OLT Decision – 1289 Wellington Street East
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“In a significant ruling, released this past Friday, the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) has upheld the Town of Aurora's position opposing the proposed 13 storey condo development application at 1289 Wellington Street East.
Specifically, “The Tribunal finds that a 7-storey height limit on the subject property has regard for Provincial interests, is consistent with the PPS, conforms with the Growth Plan and the Region OP, and appropriately implements the in-effect Town OP."
The OLT’s decision sets a precedent that the Town's height restriction of 7 stories constitutes good planning, underscoring the importance of balanced urban growth and preserving the character of our community.
As I have stated before, Official Plans are the vision for appropriate growth of our community. And it is encouraging to have a decision upholding our Town’s right to determine where and how we intensify, as outlined in our Official Plan.
Per the OLT’s decision, "… intensification must be done properly and in conformity with surrounding uses, and it cannot be intensification at all costs."
A sincere thank you is owed to the staff who diligently worked on this appeal and to the dedicated councillors who steadfastly fought for responsible development that aligns with the intent of our Official Plan."
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April 10 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on New Provincial Housing Bill
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“The Ontario government introduced a bill today to tackle rules and regulations across several ministries. I am carefully reviewing the Province's new bill which largely impacts housing and look forward to seeing the finer details.
There are several positive aspects to this announcement. Firstly, the implementation of a "use it or lose it" policy framework for municipalities is a welcome development. This allows us to reallocate servicing capacity from developments that are not moving forward in a timely manner, which is crucial for getting homes built in our community. Additionally, the removal of the mandatory five-year development charge rate phase-in framework from Bill 23 addresses potential challenges for municipalities, ensuring they have the necessary resources to fund infrastructure needed for new growth.
I also want to express my appreciation to the Minister for establishing a firm date for the removal of planning from the Region. This measure will significantly streamline bureaucracy in the process and empower local municipalities to make informed decisions about growth in their communities. And I am thankful that the Minister recognizes that local municipalities are best positioned to understand how growth should occur, firmly rejecting the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach to planning.
Overall, I believe that the new bill presents opportunities for positive change, and I look forward to working with our partners at the provincial level to ensure that it benefits our community here in Aurora.”
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March 28 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on Aurora Council Reinstating Total Compensation Increase of 42.6%
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“At last night’s Council meeting, on a 4 – 2 vote (with Councillors Gallo, Gilliland, Gaertner, and Weese in favour), Council in the majority approved a motion to reinstate a 42.6% total council compensation increase (including a 30% salary increase) effective immediately.
We have now debated and discussed a Council compensation increase four times in less than a year. As a Council, I believe our focus should be on more pressing matters that directly impact our residents.
I will not be swayed or pressured into approving a decision that residents of Aurora have made clear to me they staunchly oppose, and I believe does not serve the best interests of our community.
After careful consideration, and as required by the Municipal Act, I have notified Council of my intention to potentially veto the proposed bylaw seeking to immediately increase Council's total compensation by 42.6% and salaries by 30%, as the utilization of funds from the tax rate stabilization fund was not anticipated for this purpose when the 2024 budget was adopted. I will take the next 14 days as per the Act and carefully consider this option, and what is in the best interest of our community.
As I have reiterated throughout the multiple debates on this matter, I remain committed to serving the best interests of our residents and advancing the positive growth our town has experienced over the past six years. I hope this will mark the conclusion of this debate, allowing us to redirect our focus to more urgent and productive matters.”
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March 22 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on Provincial Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program
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“The Province's announcement regarding the $1 billion Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program that will support core infrastructure projects for municipalities is indeed welcome news. This significant investment of tax dollars back into our communities will assist in covering the costs of building necessary infrastructure as we aim for responsible growth.
Many municipal leaders, including myself, have advocated for more predictable funding to support infrastructure needs as our communities expand. It's widely recognized that growth does not pay for growth. For every tax dollar collected, municipalities typically receive only 9 to 11 cents, despite being responsible for over 65% of infrastructure. This unsustainable practice underscores the importance of the funds announced by the Province, marking a positive step towards ensuring our communities have the necessary infrastructure to continue thriving and growing.
I will be awaiting for the particulars of the newly announced Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program to see how our Town stands to gain in accessing this critical funding.”
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March 05 - Mayor Mrakas’ Statement on Federal Housing Accelerator Fund
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“In 2022, as part of its budget, the Federal government announced, with much fanfare, The Housing Accelerator Fund, a $4B initiative from the Government of Canada intended to provide incentive funding to local governments so that they can increase their housing supply. The Municipalities were to be given the funds in exchange for making changes that will facilitate the creation of new housing, with each recipient laying out three and 10-year housing goals for the funds.
Today, municipal leaders within the Northern 6 communities of York Region, one of the fastest growing areas in the country, learned that not one of our communities will receive any of this much needed housing funding.
I recognize that with a federal election on the horizon, politics is part of the calculus of every decision the current government makes. But given the enormity and urgency of the housing crisis in communities across this country, I am deeply dismayed by the Federal Government's decision to politicize such a critical issue as housing. It's disheartening to see them withhold taxpayer funds from municipalities with strong applications, while seemingly favoring those that align with their political agenda. This approach undermines the genuine efforts of those of us working tirelessly to address the housing crisis and achieve "housing for all." It's a disservice to communities in need and reflects a prioritization of optics over real solutions.
York Region, one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, is poised to experience significant population growth of over 800,000 people by 2051. While the Provincial government has recognized the need for investment in infrastructure to support this growth, the Federal government's failure to approve funding, especially for the northern six municipalities of York Region, is concerning. This decision neglects the urgent need for resources to accelerate growth and address housing challenges in these areas. Unfortunately, with the Federal Government turning a blind eye to the needs of our rapidly growing communities, it is our residents and communities that will bear the brunt of the consequences.
I intend to further address this matter in the coming week, as it's essential to highlight the impact of such decisions on our communities' well-being and future prosperity.”
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February 23 - Statement on Motion to Immediately Increase Council Compensation By 42%
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“Per the release of the public agenda for Tuesday’s Council meeting, there is yet another motion being presented by Councillor Gallo to ask that Council – once again – consider granting Councillors what amounts to a 42% increase in total Council compensation.
As residents recall, in October 2023, on a 4-3 vote, Councillors Gilliland, Gallo, Gaertner, and Weese voted first at General Committee and then at Council, in support of an immediate additional and substantial increase in Councillor Compensation including a significant hike in salary and the addition of up to 12 months of severance. This despite the fact that Council members as a whole are already receiving an 11% cost of living
(COLA) increase in compensation, over the course of this term with an increase of $4300 in compensation by the end of term.
From the communications I received prior to and immediately following the previous two votes on the matter, residents expressed their overwhelming opposition to the proposed immediate increase to Council Compensation. And their views aligned with mine. Consequently, I did not include this additional and unwarranted expenditure of taxpayer money in the Town’s Budget.
The fact that this matter is resurfacing for a third time is not only disappointing but also deeply concerning.
As someone who is dedicated to serving the best interests of our constituents, as I said the first time and the second time and now the third time, I cannot support any additional increase in council compensation.
As I said previously, “when so many in our community are struggling to make ends meet, I do not believe an immediate and, in my opinion, frankly staggering increase in Council compensation is in the best interest of the community.
I urge my fellow colleagues to prioritize addressing issues of immediate concern for our residents and the community we serve.
It is crucial that we, as a Council, focus on ensuring that every taxpayer dollar is used effectively and efficiently as we work to find sustainable solutions to the pressing issues facing our community.
I remain steadfast in my commitment to advocating for responsible stewardship of public funds and will continue to oppose any measures that I feel are not in the best interests of the community we serve.
And in my opinion, an immediate 42% increase in total Council compensation does not serve the public’s or taxpayer’s best interest.”
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