January 27th, 2021 · Comments Off on FORUM: Vigilance is key, though the vaccine is here (Jan. 2021)
Many reasons for optimism for the year ahead
By Mike Layton
As we enter the new year, I know the majority of us are still having to make big sacrifices to keep each other safe and healthy, but I also believe there is positive change in the air and I am hopeful for the coming year. Read more
December 21st, 2020 · Comments Off on FORUM: Find ways to support local businesses (Dec. 2020)
Your support may prevent “ghost” towns on main streets
By Mike Layton
One of the most challenging years in recent memory is almost at an end, and I want to take this time to express my gratitude for the work of so many who saw us through. From our Medical Officer of Health and city staff, to local businesses, community groups and residents, it is clear that the majority of us want to work to overcome this pandemic, together. Read more
December 4th, 2020 · Comments Off on NEWS: Park set for improvements (Nov. 2020)
Joseph Burr Tyrrell Park named after dinosaur hunter
A plaque memorializes the long time Walmer Road resident. BRIAN BURCHELL/GLEANER NEWS
By Tanya Ielyseieva
A plan to redo Joseph Burr Tyrrell Park (Dalton Road and Bloor St. West) is set to be completed by the end of next year, with construction scheduled to begin next summer. Read more
December 4th, 2020 · Comments Off on CHATTER: Community groups push pedestrian safety on Avenue Road (Nov. 2020)
Narrow sidewalks plague pedestrians on Avenue Road. BRIAN BURCHELL/GLEANER NEWS
According to the City of Toronto, over 60,000 cars, on average, are caught driving over the speed limit on Avenue Road every week. The sidewalks between Bloor Street West to St. Clair Avenue West do not meet the accessibility standards requiring a minimum width of 152.5 cm, and local groups want improvements to start immediately. With the support of councillors Mike Layton and Josh Matlow, they have requested the launch of a Pedestrian Safety Improvement Pilot Project that would replace a lane on both sides of the road with a temporary barrier. Read more
December 4th, 2020 · Comments Off on FORUM: City budget a real challenge but we can work together (Nov. 2020)
Impact on homeless is most acute
By Mike Layton
Winter is fast approaching, and with COVID-19 cases on the rise, we must prepare for how to support residents and small businesses through the next couple of months. Read more
November 2nd, 2020 · Comments Off on NEWS: Parking versus housing (Oct. 2020)
Kensington Market considers a change
By Mary An
Priorities are shifting in Kensington Market, according to a recent motion adopted by Toronto City Council that declares the parking lot at 25 Bellevue Ave. a surplus location that could be used to build affordable housing. Read more
November 2nd, 2020 · Comments Off on FORUM: Inclusionary zoning is the answer (Oct. 2020)
Growth in affordable housing is impossible without making it mandatory
By Mike Layton
The city’s need for affordable housing has never been more apparent than over the course of the pandemic. The public seems to have taken notice. My colleagues and I have been working on this issue and asking for additional and substantial investments in housing for more than a decade. We believe that housing is a human right and we need the funding and policies in place to treat it as such. Read more
September 9th, 2020 · Comments Off on FORUM: Making it green (Aug. 2020)
Parks must grow with the city
By Mike Layton
As summer slowly comes to a close, it is important to reflect on the ways that our city has developed during these challenging times. Our response to the pandemic has uniquely highlighted that investing in public green spaces and active transportation infrastructure means a better quality of life for Torontonians. Read more
June 15th, 2020 · Comments Off on FORUM: We are here to support you (May 2020)
On the road to recovery and a sustainable future
By Mike Layton
As we prepare for a summer like we have never seen in Toronto, I want to take a moment to look back on what our community has accomplished so far. Whether you are part of the frontline response, or are doing your part by practicing physical distancing, this has been a challenging time. However, the sacrifices we have all been making have worked and we have saved lives. Read more