Ward 9 Councillor's December 2013 Report - Vol 6 Dear Neighbour: As we are drawing to the end of 2013, I want to thank all of those who have dedicated their time and energy towards making our community a better place for all. It is remarkable how many residents volunteer their time and skills. Your contributions are invaluable and your work is appreciated very much. As we move through this very busy season, with all of the stress and pressure that celebrations like Christmas bring, I hope you will be able to spend some time with family and friends. If you can assist those in need during this season, please do so. Our local food bank, Eden Community Foodbank www.edenfoodbank.org always needs donations of food and you can also help our young moms and families by donating a gift to The Dam Youth Drop In at www.thedam.org. Our Salvation Army, located at Vanderbilt and Winston Churchill continues their annual support for families in need. Please support the kettle campaign and the Toy Mountain. From my family to yours, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. Click on links to go directly to the article Upcoming Events:
|
Free FAMILY Skate
Please join me for my annual Free Family Skate with MPP Bob Delaney on Sunday December 15th, from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm at Meadowvale Four Rinks.
Please bring non-perishable food donations for our local Eden Community Food Bank. There will be free coffee, hot chocolate and popcorn. Click here for information.
|
Youth Ugly Sweater Skate
A Holiday "Ugly Sweater" Youth Skate is being held on Monday December 23rd from
12:45 pm - 3:15 pm for youths aged 10 - 18 at Meadowvale Four Rinks.
Hosted by the Meadowvale Youth Freeway, our community centre youth advisory team, the event is free with a non-perishable food item donation. More information can be found here.
|
New Year's Levee
This New Year's Levee is a special one as it is the last one Hazel will attend as our Mayor.
Please stop in and wish the Mayor well on New Year's Day 2014. Details can be found here.
|
Family Fun Day at Meadowvale Theatre
On Thursday January 2nd from
12 noon - 4:00 pm watch classic Mickey Mouse movies, draw on real film, dance to music and much more.
More information can be found here.
|
Ward Meetings - Update
Islamic Centre proposal
On November 25th, I held a meeting to show the proposal for the Meadowvale Islamic Centre at 6496 and 6508 Winston Churchill Boulevard. The applicant presented the proposal and City staff were there to hear comments and answer questions on process. Concerns centred around traffic, parking and size and height of the building. Residents wishing to make formal comments to be received by Council should email them to me at [email protected].
Tenth Line Park
On November 27th, I held a meeting to show the proposed plans and have further discussion on the design of our new park at Tenth Line and Aquitaine. We have been able to incorporate almost all of the community suggestions and many residents attended to view the plans and ask questions. I was also very pleased to see many local youth attend the meeting and give feedback regarding a skate board park on this site. Design and tendering will be in 2014 with construction set for 2015. We hope to be able to have the ice rinks available for Winter 2014.
| With local youth interested in the proposed skate board park which will be part of the new park at Tenth Line and Aquitaine |
Return to top
|
|
City Budget Update
Council approved the 2014 City budget on December 11th. After reviewing all the department submissions, we are looking at a 1.8 per cent increase to the City portion of your residential tax bill.
We are still deliberating the Region's 2014 budget but if we approve a proposed increase in the region portion of 0.6 per cent, the overall impact on your tax bill will be a total increase of 2.4%.
This increase is mainly to cover increased costs especially in fuel and hydro at both levels of government. It also includes special annual levies for infrastructure as well as a new levy for dealing with the Emerald Ash Borer. Council also approved a small levy to support University of Toronto Mississauga's new Management and Innovation building/program. After much deliberation I voted against this levy. Although I do see the value of the investment in the future and the importance to our economy in the end I felt that the timing is wrong with so many local pressures on our budget.
Council has looked carefully at all costs at both levels of government and we have not reduced any service levels and in fact have improved the snow maintenance for this year and added additional Sunday library hours to all branches.
Return to top
|
New Roundabout at Plantation and Hazelton
You may have noticed that we have replaced the all way stop controls at Hazelton and Plantation with a roundabout. City Traffic technicians determined that we needed more control than an all way stop and finding that this intersection fit the criteria for a roundabout decided to use this method of traffic control instead of traffic signals.
There are many benefits to a roundabout. Traffic in all directions can flow more smoothly, pedestrians have a much shorter distance to cross the road and still have the right of way. There is also less chance of vehicles running red lights which can result in higher fatalities. The first roundabout in the downtown has been operating for some time and has been very successful.
Once you get used to them roundabouts are easy to use. Motorists in the roundabout have the right of way so as you enter you must yield to traffic already in it similar to making a right hand turn. You then proceed around the circle and exit onto the street you want to travel along. Please indicate when you are exiting the roundabout so that the vehicles entering know that you are leaving and it is safe for them to enter.
Motorists MUST YIELD to pedestrians crossing at the roundabout. Pedestrians should make eye contact with motorists as you would at a signal or stop sign before crossing.
Click here to learn how to use a roundabout.
|
Hopefully we will not need this information in the coming weeks but when we do get snow, make sure you check the City website by clicking here for information about clearing services.
You can also follow @MississaugaSnow on Twitter for updates.
|
Municipal Christmas Shutdown
For City holiday hours please visit www.mississauga.ca.
For Meadowvale Library please click here.
For Meadowvale Community Centre please click here.
For Erin Meadows Library please click here.
For Erin Meadows Community Centre please click here.
I will be posting updates on my website at www.ward9.ca for other city facilities as the information becomes available.
Return to top
|
If you are concerned about speeding in your neighbourhood, you can request temporary Vehicle Activated Speed Warning (VASW) signs to be erected in an effort to slow traffic in your neighbourhood. These signs stay up for a few weeks and will hopefully change driving behaviour in our community. Please contact me at [email protected] if you would like a VASW sign on your street.
|
Many of us have visitors during the Christmas season. Did you know that if you have guests that visit for longer than the 3 hour parking limit, you can request a parking consideration? You can request up to 14 temporary parking considerations in a year, with a 5 day maximum per permit, per municipal address. This can be done by calling 3-1-1 Monday to Friday 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. For weekend and after-hours requests, call Transportation and Works After-Hours Dispatch at 905-615-3000. For full details on how to request parking considerations please click here. Return to top
|
Make sure you are on the Voters' List for the 2014 Municipal Election
Election Day is Monday, October 27, 2014 and the City of Mississauga wants to ensure every eligible elector is able to vote. To be eligible to vote in the 2014 Municipal Elections, voters' names must be on the voters' list. Not sure your name is on the voters' list? Contact the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) at 1-866-296-MPAC (6722) or at www.mpac.ca. Nominations for Mayor, Council and School Board Trustee will begin on Thursday, January 2, 2014. For more information on candidate eligibility, how to register and key dates, visit www.mississaugavotes.ca.
|
Winter Changes in Parks
I have been asked why some of our park parking lots have been fenced off and why we remove garbage cans in some areas.
During winter months, park staffing is significantly reduced and services are adjusted to meet the needs of winter users. This involves the removal of some garbage and recycling receptacles and the closure of some park parking lots.
Waste receptacles adjacent to sports facilities, splash pads, tennis courts, picnic shelters and other summer facilities are removed as well as along those trails and pathways that do not receive winter maintenance and hence are not accessible to garbage vehicles.
Receptacles continue to be at playgrounds, park access points, pedestrian intersections, and natural and artificial rink sites.
Another part of winter operations is the closure of selected parking lots throughout the City. The lots that are closed are those adjacent to sports fields or other facilities that are not in use during the winter, and those lots that have surfacing not conducive to snow removal such as gravel. These lots are identified by barriers and signs indicating that they are closed.
These closures ensure that Parks can direct our snow clearing resources to those areas that are a priority such as community centres, arenas, libraries and paths and trails that are key pedestrian routes to schools and facilities.
It is important to note that although the parking lots may be closed, the adjacent parks and trails remain open for the use and enjoyment of all residents and visitors.
If you have any concerns or questions about waste collection or snow clearing in parks, please call 311.
Return to top
|
Holiday Garbage Collection
There is no change to the Ward 9 garbage collection schedule during the Christmas holiday period.
If you live outside of Ward 9 please click here for information about holiday garbage collection dates.
Return to top
|
Christmas Tree Collection
Please place your Christmas tree at the curb on your scheduled collection day during the week of January 13, 2013
Return to top
|
Red Light Camera Sites
in Ward 9
The Region of Peel is planning to install two new red light cameras in Ward 9 on Erin Mills Parkway at Thomas St. and at Eglinton Ave.
This is in addition to the existing locations at Erin Mills and Britannia, Derry and Winston Churchill, Erin Mills Parkway and Erin Centre Boulevard and Mississauga Road and Meadowvale Blvd.
For information about red light cameras please click here.
Return to top
|
Enjoy a Happy and Healthy Christmas Season
Trillium Health Partners share some tips on how to stay well during this busy season.
- Remember to get the flu shot.
- If you are feeling sick stay home so that you don't infect your co-workers and friends.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly; this will help prevent the spread of illness, such as the flu virus.
- Make sure to get all your prescriptions filled before the holidays.
If you or a loved one happen to get sick or injured over the holiday season please visit www.feelbetterfaster.ca to find out what health care options are available to you.
The site has valuable listings from walk-in clinics, pharmacies, labs and many other community services, identifying health care programs and services that are open during the holiday season in your local communities.
Return to top
|
Clothing Donation Scams
Just a warning to double check before donating to unknown "charities" asking residents to either leave clothing, etc. at the door or to donate to illegal donation boxes.
In Mississauga, only registered charities can install donation boxes on locations like plazas or other private lands. All others are illegal and the donations do not go to local charities.
If you get a flyer in the mail asking you to leave material at the door, check the charity out and if you can't find information, think twice about making a donation.
Return to top
|
Input Required on Accessible Taxi Services in Mississauga
Are you using accessible taxis in Mississauga?
The City of Mississauga's Enforcement Division, Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) and Public Vehicle Advisory Committee (PVAC) need to hear from you about this service to determine if legislative requirements and the needs of citizens are being met in Mississauga.
Accessible taxis are part of the range of our accessible transportation options and your input will help support the AAC's and PVAC's recommendations to Council on accessible taxis.
To provide your input on experiences with accessible taxi services contact the City of Mississauga's Citizen Contact Centre to provide information on specific customer service incidents including date, time, location, vehicle number and taxi service provider:
Voice: Call 3-1-1 or if outside city limits 905-615-4311 TTY: 905-896-5151 (teletypewriter for people who are deaf) Fax: 905-615-4081 Email: [email protected]
Return to top
|
Anniversary/Birthday Congratulations
If you know someone who is celebrating a milestone birthday or wedding anniversary please contact me at 905-896-5900 or email me at
[email protected] and I would be pleased to send a letter of recognition and a small gift to commemorate the special occasion.
As well, if you would like a city plaque from the Mayor to commemorate the special occasion, please click here for information on how to arrange for one.
Return to top
|
If you see a crime please report it. Use the following numbers:
Report graffiti, vandalism, litter or off-leash dogs
in Mississauga parks or city facilities
24 Hour Facility Watch Hot Line 906-615-4060
____________________
Report activities such as alcohol consumption,
property destruction and suspicious behaviour Peel Regional Police 905-453-3311
____________________
Emergencies 911
Return to top
|
Council and Committee Meetings Live Streamed
If you are interested in what goes on at our Committee and Council meetings, you can watch them live streamed on your computer. Click here for information on how to watch live stream as well as archived videos of past meetings. Return to Top
|
During the Christmas season, some of our local agencies are asking for help in the form of donations and support. There are many ways you can help make Christmas a little brighter for a needy family. Below are a few suggestions on how you can help.
|
Eden Community Food Bank
The Eden Food Bank is always in need of food donations especially at Christmas time. Donations can be made at one of the food drives or to the food bank directly. For a full list of their "Needs List" please click here and scroll to the bottom.
|
Toys For Tots Toys for Tots is a charitable endeavour initiated by Peel Regional Police, in partnership with Canadian Tire and the Salvation Army. During the months of November and December, Police Officers and civilian staff volunteer their time to collect cash, Canadian Tire money and new, unwrapped toys for children in need. For information about this toy drive please click here. Return to top
|
|
Opening C Banquets at City Hall
| With fellow Councillors and members of the City's leadership team |
On November 7th I represented Mayor McCallion, in my role as Acting Mayor, at the opening/open house for our new banquet facility on the 12th Floor of City Hall. C Banquets is part of the new food service in the downtown. Return to top
|
Remembrance Day
On November 10th I joined our local armed forces reserve, the 75th Toronto Scottish Regiment, at Celebration Square as they held a special Remembrance Day service.
I placed a wreath on behalf of the City and the residents of Ward 9 at the Memorial on the Square.
On November 11th, I helped lay the wreath for the City of Mississauga with Mayor McCallion at the Streetsville Cenotaph. Seeing the reducing number of veterans at the service is sad but it was good to see so many residents of all ages come out to pay their respects.
Return to top
|
Canadian Coptic Centre Visit
I had the pleasure of visiting the Canadian Coptic Centre on Mississauga Road on November 19th and touring Philopateer Christian College and the Mississauga Training Centre with staff and Father Saad. What a wonderful facility. I even had a sneak peek at some of the wonderful art soon to be displayed in their new Egyptian museum...looking forward to the opening in the New Year.
|
Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan
My husband Ron and I joined the Consul General of Japan to celebrate the Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan on November 22nd.
|
Mississauga Kerala Association Children's Day Painting Competition
On November 23rd I joined the Mississauga Kerala Association at an exciting and fun filled Children's Painting Competition.
|
Tree Lighting Celebration
I had the pleasure of attending the Tree Lighting Celebration
on November 23rd at Celebration Square with the Mayor and
our special guest, Santa Claus.
|
Japanese Businesses Appreciation Event
On November 26th, as a Council representative on the City's Economic Development Advisory Board, I attended a dinner hosted by the Economic Development Office for the Japanese business community.
Mayor McCallion and I as well as other Members of Council met with over 40 of our Japanese businesses in Mississauga to discuss how we can attract more business to our city and create more jobs.
|
Chanukah Menorah Kindling Ceremony
With Rabbi Slavin at lighting of Menorah at City Hall
I had the pleasure of representing the Mayor and joined the Chabad Jewish Discovery Centre at City Hall on November 28th for the lighting of the Menorah.
This year was the 10th year that they have held the Menorah Kindling Ceremony in Mississauga.
Return to top
|
Meadowvale Jamatkhana Open House
A warm welcome to the Meadowvale Jamatkhana, a new centre on Financial Drive that will provide services to the growing Ismaili community and congratulations on a very successful Open House on December 4..
|
Salvation Army Santa Shuffle Walk
On Saturday December 7th I had the pleasure of attending the Salvation Army Cornerstone Community Church "Santa Shuffle" which is a 1 km walk or 5 km run. This merry event helps the Salvation Army assist families and individuals in need during the Christmas season and throughout the year. Many thanks to all who participated in this worthwhile cause.
|
Cram-A-Cruiser Food Drive
Many thanks to the Peel Regional Police 11 Division Community Liaison Committee and 11 Division officers for holding a successful Cram-A-Cruiser food drive on December 7. Over 2,671 pounds of food was donated by shoppers at the Real Canadian Superstore at Argentia and Winston Churchill. Many thanks for your generous donations.
|
Rotary Club of Mississauga-Meadowvale Luncheon
I had the pleasure of joining members of the Mississauga-Meadowvale Rotary Club
on December 7th for their annual Christmas luncheon for seniors at Heritage Glen.
I had a great time working with them to serve lunch to about 120 of our seniors. Thank you to all the seniors who brought an unwrapped toy for the Christmas toy drive. You will make some child very happy on Christmas Day.
| Displaying the toys donated |
| Seniors enjoying their Christmas lunch |
|
Canadian Association of Muslims with Disabilities Brunch
On Sunday December 8th I was pleased to attend a brunch hosted by the Canadian Association of Muslims with Disabilities and present certificates to some of the wonderful volunteers. The brunch which was held at the C-Banquet facility at City Hall was in commemoration of the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
|
Meadowvale Seniors' Social Club Christmas Luncheon
| With Wanda Unger |
|
With Marie and William Wolfs, Lucy Redman and
Lois and Bernard Jordaan
|
On Wednesday December 11th I joined the Meadowvale Seniors' Social Club at their annual Christmas luncheon.
The club is very active and over 100 seniors attended the luncheon.
|
Contact Councillor Patricia (Pat) Saito
300 City Centre Drive, 3rd Floor, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C1
*You are receiving this email because you contacted
the Ward 9 office at some point.
|
|
STAY CONNECTED |
|
|
|
|