June 30 - Update

Dear Friends and Neighbours,

Change is coming to the Toronto Police Service and I would like to thank everyone who shared their thoughts with me on this subject.Taking into consideration my discussions with many of you, the many emails I received, and the questions and answers from yesterday's Council session, I voted in support of motions that have set in motion the development of alternate service delivery models for services traditionally provided by the police – for example, having those with specialized training in mental health providing first response for calls related to mental health issues. I also supported motions to realign the city's budget priorities so that we are focusing more on funding programs and projects that actually address the root causes of crime. The complete set of recommendations that were adopted will bring about change to the Toronto Police Service, lead to a reduction in the police budget, and will reduce systemic racism within the Toronto Police Service.

Today, at the recommendation of the Medical Officer of Health, City Council approved making masks or face coverings mandatory in all indoor spaces in Toronto that are openly accessible to the public effective July 7th. The bylaw will include exemptions for those who cannot wear a mask for medical reasons, children under the age of two, and other reasonable accommodations. The bylaw will also permit the temporary removal of a mask or face covering when receiving services, having a meal, or engaging in athletic or fitness activity. The bylaw will not apply to apartment buildings and condominiums, child care facilities and schools, and areas that are not enclosed and will expire at 12:01 a.m. on the first day after the completion of the first Council meeting following summer recess (currently scheduled for September 30 and October 1, 2020), unless extended by Council. It is important to remember that face masks and coverings do not replace the need to keep a distance of two metres or six feet from others, wash hands often, and stay home when sick. Lean more on the City’s website.

This year, the City is joining other municipalities in hosting a national virtual Canada Day. All in-person Canada Day events have been cancelled. Canada Day 2020 will feature four livestream segments on the City’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/culture_to. Full program details, a link to livestreams, celebration kits, a pancake recipe, and lyrics for a special sing along are available at toronto.ca/canadaday. Make sure to check out some York South--Weston talent with Lexxicon from UrbanArts performing during the Culture Jam livestream (2-5 PM)!

Please find notices for upcoming construction projects in York South—Weston as follows:

• Weston Rd Infrastructure Improvements from Lawrence Ave W to Humberview Cres

• Weston Rd Improvements and Intersection Improvements at Jane St & Trethewey Dr

• Lane Reduction on Eglinton Ave W at Caledonia Station, July 2

Please note that starting Thursday, July 2, the City of Toronto permit parking program will begin accepting and issuing new and renewed parking permits. While the office will be closed to the public, it can be accessed in the short-term by phone at 416-392-7873 and by email at permit.parking@toronto.ca from 8:30 AM - 8 PM, Monday to Friday. Permit parking enforcement was paused due to COVID-19, but enforcement is expected to begin again starting August 14 at midnight.

I’d like to remind everyone that the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) will require riders to wear a face covering beginning Thursday, July 2. 

I will miss seeing everyone at Weston Lions Park and Amesbury Park for Canada Day celebrations this year, but I wish you all a wonderful Canada Day. Stay safe!

Sincerely,

Frances

_______

City of Toronto Canada Day services and amenities

The City of Toronto encourages residents and visitors of all ages to celebrate Canada’s 153rd birthday on Wednesday, July 1. Although many City attractions remain closed due to COVID-19, the City continues to gradually reopen services and amenities for residents to enjoy.

Those heading outside are reminded to adhere to Toronto Public Health’s advice to wash hands often, stay within their social circle of no more than 10 people, avoid crowds, practise physical distancing, and wear a face covering or mask in all indoor public spaces. Residents are reminded that bonfires and the consumption of alcohol are not permitted in parks, beaches or public spaces. Enforcement officers will issue tickets related to the consumption of alcohol and bonfires, with fines of up to $300.

For a detailed list of Canada Day service openings and impacts, including ActiveTO, the Toronto Island, splash pads and pools, beaches, parks and amenities, washroom facilities, fireworks and more, read the news release.

City of Toronto update on COVID-19 cases

There are 14,320 cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 50 cases since yesterday. There are 214 people hospitalized, with 55 in ICU. In total, 12,432 people have recovered from COVID-19, an increase of 88 cases since yesterday. To date, there have been 1,093 COVID-19 deaths in Toronto. Case status data can be found on the City’s reporting platform.

Provincial Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act orders and the City bylaw on physical distancing remain in effect. As COVID-19 continues to circulate in the community, residents visiting a beach or park must practise physical distancing and avoid crowding. Yesterday, the City received 93 complaints related to parks use and physical distancing. Officers have spoken to or cautioned more than 8,700 people this month. Bylaw officers issued three tickets yesterday in City parks or squares.

For the latest updates from the City of Toronto, please click here.

For the latest updates from the Federal Government, please click here. 

For the latest updates from the Province of Ontario, please click here.