pat.saito@mississauga.ca                        905-896-5900                      ward9.ca  
In This Issue
Upcoming Events
Annual Seniors' Fair

My annual Seniors' Fair is taking place on Tuesday September 13, 2016 from 10:00 am - 12:00 noon at the newly renovated Meadowvale Community Centre.  Please join me and over 30 exhibitors and learn about all the various programs and organizations that support seniors.
Union Park Grand Opening

Mark your calendars for the official opening of Union Park taking place on September 24, 2016 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.  The park is located at the north east corner of Tenth Line and Aquitaine.  
 
There will be a FREE BBQ, bouncy castles, plaque dedication and much more. Come and check out our amazing new park with something for everyone: We have a playground, adult fitness, skateboard park, multi purpose pad with basketball hoops, a dog run, water feature, covered shelter, benches and in the winter we will have two ice rinks and an improved toboggan hill.   
 
Union Park land was bought to replace Plum Tree Park which we sold to the school board.  We are very fortunate to be able to build and open this amazing new park in our community. The park is expected to be completed by the end of August.
 
This is a FREE drop in program for kids ages 6-12 this summer.  The program runs week days starting July 4 to September 2 at Lake Aquitaine. Click above for details.
 
Riders Against Hunger is a motorcycle charity ride held on the third Saturday in August each year in support of Eden Food for Change. This year the ride takes place in August 20, 2016.  Click above for details.
Meadowvale Community Centre

Mark your calendars for the official opening taking place on October 22, 2016 and watch for news here and on my website at  ward9.ca.
Lisgar GO Station Farmers Markets
 
The farmers markets at Lisgar GO station are open for business every Sunday!
 
Eden Food for Change and Many Feathers  will run the farmers markets every Sunday to October 16 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
 
The Backyard Farm & Market at the northeast corner of Erin Mills at Eglinton is open Saturdays until October 1st from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
 
Mississauga is the official host city for the 2016 Ontario Summer Games taking place August 11 to 14.   Click here for information about the games.  Click here to view a video about our local athletes.
SaugaBusk Pilot Project

The city has rolled out the SaugaBusk pilot project and  Buskers  will be performing throughout the city until September.  Ward 9 was the first to have a busker, entertaining the crowds at the Lake Wabukayne event on May 14th. Below is the busking schedule for the summer months for Ward 9: 
  
Lisgar GO Farmers Market
Aug 7, 14, 21 and 28        
11:00 am - 200 pm

Lake Aquitaine     
Sept 17 - 18               
12 noon - 4:00 pm
Olympic Theme Community Event

The Salvation Army Cornerstone Community Church located at  3020 Vanderbilt Rd. is hosting a 
FREE Olympic themed community event on 
Saturday September 17, 2016 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.  There will be  games for all ages, prizes to be won, great music and great food!  
Quick Links and Updates
The City of Mississauga now offers property owners the convenience of viewing their interim and final property tax bills online through e-bill.  Click above for more info.
Miway Logo
A reminder that the senior $1 cash fare is valid Weekdays (from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm and after 7:00 pm) and all day on Saturdays, Sunday and Holidays.

Click above to download and print your schedule. You can also update your electronic calendar.  
Youth ages 12 to 14 can get unlimited free rides within Mississauga on MiWay and unlimited free public swimming at City of Mississauga heated indoor and outdoor pools during July and August.
Click above and enjoy this special pass for over 2 months of fun at our indoor and outdoor pools!
There is funding available for eligible organizations with less than 99 full time employees for projects that improve accessibility and safety for people with disabilities.
City fire crews will be 
door-knocking this spring and summer to talk about fire safety.  Click above for more information.
    EFFC
Please remember to help those in need.
  The Dam
Please support the Dam Youth Drop-In by making a donation. 
Meadowvale Residents' Association - MRA

For information or to  get involved in the residents' association, please click here to send an email. 

You can also visit their website and like their Facebook page.

With members of the MRA
   Be A Donor
Help save the life of someone waiting for an organ. One donor could save 8 lives! 
returntotopJuly 28, 2016
Dear Neighbour:

Summer is in full swing and we have had some very hot days with the Region of Peel's Medical Officer of Health issuing Heat Warnings from time to time. Please ensure you check my website often for Heat warnings.    Click  here for info and tips on how to stay cool this summer.  

This July is very special for me as 60 years ago on July 9, my mom, 2 brothers and I landed in Quebec after an ocean voyage from Belfast Northern Ireland. I celebrated this anniversary with my brothers, sister and our families. 
 
I have enjoyed hearing from others about their experiences coming to Canada...we are so fortunate to live in the best country in the world! 
 
I hope your summer is going well and that you have a chance to enjoy the outdoors (even if it is to play Pokemon GO) and spend time with family.     I hope you take the time to enjoy our many parks and trails or have a swim at Erin Meadows pool.
There are many festivals and events at Celebration Square for all ages so check them out.  

In the event that you are unable to view this 
e-newsletter please note that there is always a link on the front page of my website  www.ward9.ca to the newsletter.

As always, my staff and I are here to help you with any City or Regional issues.  Just send me an email to  pat.saito@mississauga.ca or call  905-896-5900 and check the Ward 9 website at  www.ward9.ca for ongoing updates.



Ninth Line Road Closure
  
Ninth Line is being reconstructed from Derry Road to Argentia Road and is closed from Saturday July 23, 2016 to December 2, 2016.  Please use Tenth Line and along Argentia to access the north end of Ninth Line. 
Library Update


I am pleased that we reached an agreement with the library union to end the strike that started on July 3. All branches re-opened on July 27, 2016 at 1:00 pm.   Return date for books taken out before the strike is extended to August 27. 
 
This is a reminder that the Meadowvale Library in the Meadowvale Town Centre will close on Saturday, August 6, 2016 to move materials to the new location. It will re-open at the Meadowvale Community Centre on Tuesday, September 6, 2016. 

I have arranged for an extended borrowing time and the due dates for Meadowvale Library material taken out before August 6 will fall on September 6. The old Meadowvale book drop will remain open for returns until September 7, 2016.  

Please stock up on material before the closure to get you through August. 
 
I am very excited to finally have the Library in the same location as the Community Centre after more than 30 years!
Old Blue Box/Green Bin Return Program
 
If you are not re-purposing your old blue boxes/green bins, the region will collect them if you call or email and request pickup at curb side. 
 
Please call 905-791-9499 or
send an email to: 
 
The old bins can also be dropped off at the Battleford Community Recycling Centre, 2255 Battleford Rd. 
 
Hours of operation are: 
Monday to Thursday: 8:30 am - 8:00 pm 
Friday to Sunday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Peel Regional Police Warns of Continued CRA/Immigration Scam

Peel Regional Police reminds the public of the ongoing calls citizens are receiving with regards to the Canada Revenue Agency / Immigration scams.  

Police are urging citizens to be extra vigilant of suspicious phone calls. Residents report that have received phone calls from persons posing as Government Officials from various federal agencies including, and not limited to, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), Service Canada and Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
 
To learn more about this type of scam and other fraud scams currently affecting Canadians, please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website at www.antifraudcentre.ca 
Pets and Hot Weather

This is a reminder that in hot summer weather, please be careful with your pets.  

Do NOT leave pets in hot cars and do NOT walk pets during the hot part of the day.  Hot pavement will burn their pads and the heat can cause heat exhaustion which can be fatal.  Click  here  for information from Animal Services.
Preservation of Oak Tree at Millgrove Park

Residents of Millers Grove are familiar with the lovely old oak trees in the park at Tours and Millers Grove.  This park location is unique due to these large majestic Burr Oak trees that are a true landmark in our community. 
 
The oldest oak at this site is approximately 300 years old with the other oaks scattered throughout the park varying in size and age. As you know, the surrounding area has changed dramatically over the centuries from being a woodland then rural farmland, to the thriving developed community we live in today. These trees continue to play a significant role in the community and the overall urban forest within the City. 

In particular there is a large oak tree adjacent to the playground showing signs of decline that I have been working to preserve in some form.  Forestry staff have conducted ongoing pruning and additional maintenance work in the hopes that it would assist in preserving this majestic oak tree as long as possible.

The intent was that when the tree had to be removed we would have the remaining trunk carved and left as a work of art. 

Unfortunately, it now looks like the remaining limbs on this tree have declined to the point where it is required to be removed. Staff advised me that the trunk is not viable to remain as art but I am still working to preserve something of this tree for the community.    
I am meeting with Forestry staff to assess the tree and decide how to move forward.
Miway Logo
Improved Transit Service for Ward 9 

I recently got an update on the service changes for our community that will take place in the fall.

At my request some changes were made to the 5 year plan for the northwest part of the city and changes were made to some of the routes. There will be further changes in early 2017 as well.  Click here to learn more.
 
Miway will also be holding Open Houses at Meadowvale Community Centre on Saturday October 1, 2016  from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and at Erin Meadows Community Centre on Tuesday October 4, 2016 from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. 
Make a Wish - Grant a Wish at Erin Mills Town Centre 

Many thanks to Erin Mills Town Centre for supporting our local food bank.  For the next year the new infinity fountain at Erin Mills Town Centre is taking wishes - for Eden Food for Change. 
 
Any coins thrown into the fountain at the Erin Mills Town Centre will be collected and donated to Eden Food for Change.  Since June, Eden Food for Change has already received $259. 
 
The new fountain can be found in the centre of the mall located under the featured sphere skylight and was part of all the renovations done to update the building over the past few years.
Pulsepoint AED iPhone App
  
When someone has a heart attack, finding an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can help save a life. That takes knowing where AEDs are located.  

Click here to download this app to pinpoint the closest defibrilater. 
Ping! New Mississauga Services Available on the Pingstreet App

More of Mississauga's most popular online services are now on Pingstreet - a free mobile app. 

The City of Mississauga is expanding services available through the "Report a Problem" button and "Meetings & Events" button. 

Report a Problem 24/7
Using a smartphone, residents can now report on five new issues under the "Report a Problem" button:
  • Three hour parking violations on a City street
  • Abandoned shopping carts on private property
  • Damaged trees on City property
  • Dead/unhealthy trees on City property
  • Request pruning of a City owned tree

Return to top

Bike Safety on Trails

I continue to get complaints about cyclists both young and old not indicating when they approach pedestrians on our park trails.  I had signs installed along Aquitaine Trail advising cyclists it is the law to have a bell or horn and to use it.  A senior was injured last month when a cyclists ran into her on his bike. 

Our trails are all multi use and in order for users to 
co-exist safely we all must take responsibility. 

CYCLISTS MUST RING THEIR BELL to let others know you are approaching from behind. 
 
Please follow these rules:
  • Keep to the right of the trail
  • Yield to pedestrians
  • Advise when passing
  • Avoid speeding
Please be careful and courteous and let people know you are approaching. This simple action can prevent injury.
Why not salt water in New Meadowvale Community Centre Pool 

I recently had an inquiry about the type of water used in our public pools.  Click here to read about the city's pools and the use of chlorine vs. salt water.
Lake Aquitaine Splash Pad Update

Construction continues on the new splash pad at Lake Aquitaine.  Regrettably the splash pad is not open this summer.   

Please note that during construction, the pathway loop adjacent to the parking lot will be closed.  I am aware that many residents use the pathway and I
asked staff if we could allow some access.  Unfortunately as heavy equipment is moving in that location, the path must remain closed for safety concerns.

Staff have assured me that they will reopen it at the earliest possible time.  

The closest splash pads are located at Quenippenon Park, 2625 Erin Centre Blvd. and Churchill Meadows Community Common, 3370 McDowell.
Vote Anywhere for the 2018 Municipal Elections
  
As Chair of the Governance Committee, I am pleased that Council endorsed our recommendation to implement Vote Anywhere for the 2018 municipal elections. 

I was pleased with our discussion on potential reforms and of our decision to implement this one. This means voters can vote at any poll across the city in advance polls and at any poll in their ward on voting day.  

Our intent is to make polls more accessible and encourage greater voter turnout.  Click here to read the corporate report.
Update on Speed Humps on Edenwood Drive
  
As a result of difficulties related to construction staging and maintaining safe access to the road while work was being completed, the contractor had decided to delay the installation of the permanent speed humps until school was let out for the year.  I am pleased to repor that t he speed humps were installed the week of July 25th.
Repair Work starting at Erin Mills Pkwy and 403 Underpass
  
The Ministry of Transportation continues on repair work on the underpass of Erin Mills Parkway at the 403.  Construction is planned through to the fall. 

During this time Erin Mills will be reduced to 2 lanes in this area and there will be lane closures on the 403 at times as well as ramp closures at night both north and southbound.   Please click here for road closure dates.
2016 Road Resurfacing
  
This is a reminder that Glen Erin Drive (between Middlebury Dr and Britannia Rd) will be resurfaced this year. The work is scheduled to be completed by November 2016.
New Community Recognition
Pilot Program 

Community organizations can request recognition either through a flag raising or lighting of the Civic Centre clock tower.  Click here to learn more.
Anniversary/Birthday Congratulations

If you know someone who is celebrating a milestone birthday or anniversary please contact me at 905-896-5900 or at pat.saito@mississauga.ca and I would be pleased to send a letter of congratulations and a small gift to commemorate the special event.
PAT IN THE COMMUNITY
With Councillor Ron Starr
Bollywood Monster Mashup

I was pleased to speak at the Bollywood Monster Mashup Reception on July 21st.
 
Now in its 6th year at Celebration Square, Bollywood Monster Mashup is the  largest South Asian festival in Canada and brings together the best of South Asian Bollywood culture with music, dance and more from many other cultures.  Click here for more info.
With Ribfest organizer
Natalie Hart
Rotary Ribfest

Ron and I had a wonderful time at the annual Rotary Ribfest at Celebration Square on July 14 - 17.
 
There was great entertainment and an excellent variety of rib vendors with award winning ribs. Proceeds from the event go to support many worthwhile organizations and charities in the community.  Congratulations Rotary for another successful year.
Works Gourmet Burger Grand Opening

I was pleased to attend the official opening of Works Gourmet Burger Bistro on July 15th in Port Credit. 
 
I joined  Councillor  Jim Tovey , Ontario Finance Minister and MPP for Mississauga Lakeshore  Charles Sousa , MP Sven Spengemann and Councillor Nando Iannica to celebrate. 
 
Many thanks to the Eden Seniors' Village for inviting me to your summer barbecue on July 13.
 
We had a great meal and conversation about many issues including regional services, transit and the new Meadowvale Community Centre. 
MP Iqra Khalid's BBQ
With Rogue and Irfan Malik

I was pleased to join Iqra Khalid MP for Mississauga- Erin Mills at her first community BBQ on July 10th.  

I took along my new puppy Rogue who was a big hit!  Everyone was eager to meet him and take photos with him!
With Rogue and MP Khalid
With Rogue and Public School Trustee Nokha Dakroub
Leading Eden United Church Service

I was honoured to lead the Sunday service at Eden United Church on Sunday July 10th.  
 
I have been a Parishioner of Eden United Church since 1979 and was very pleased to have been asked to lead the service.  
Exceptional Accessible Customer Service Awards 

As a member of the Accessibility Advisory Committee I was proud to join my colleague Councillor Matt Mahoney to present the Exceptional Accessible Customer Service Award to three exceptional city employees:  Fitness Instructor Nelly YoukakinAquatics Supervisor Linda Northcott and Recreation Program Leader Emily Pattenick.  
 
These three city employees have gone above and beyond to deliver accessible customer service to customers with disabilities.   
ICNA Sisters Pot Luck Dinner

I had a wonderful time on July 5th with some lovely ladies at the Islamic Circle of North America Sisters potluck Iftar dinner.  
 
It was a pleasure to break Ramadan fasting with the ICNA sisters and eat all the wonderful dishes brought by everyone.
 
I also met with Afia Baig of ICNA Sisters a few days later to discuss the possibility of us joining together to host a Canada Day celebration in 2017 to celebrate Canadas 150th birthday at Lake Aquitaine and the Meadowvale Community Centre. 

I have invited the Meadowvale Residents Association to join us and we will start planning very soon.  If you would like to get involved or know of an local businesses who would like to sponsor the event please email me at pat.saito@mississauga.ca
    
Canada Day at Celebration Square

Although the day started off with rain, that did not dampen the spirit of Canada Day celebrations throughout the city.  

My first stop was the ICNA Sisters event in Churchill Meadows.  I then joined my colleagues at Celebration Square to kick off Canada's 149th birthday!  I hope everyone had a safe and happy Canada Day!
  

With Yoshinori Takenaka, Mayor of Kariya, Japan

 

Kariya City 35th Anniversary - Mayors' Gift Exchange

I joined the Mayor and my Council colleagues as we marked the 35th anniversary of Mississauga's sister city relationship with Kariya on June 30th,  

We hosted Kariya's Mayor Takenaka as well as a number of Japanese companies, many of which are located in Ward 9.
Councillor Pat Saito | 905-896-5900 | pat.saito@mississauga.ca | http://www.ward9.ca
Mississauga Civic Centre
300 City Centre Drive
3rd Floor
Mississauga, L5B 3C1