Council News – February 2011
February 23rd, 2011Salary freeze for Mayor and Councillors
Council decided to cancel a scheduled salary increase to the Mayor and Councillors for 2011. A motion to use the $110,000 saved from the pay increase cancellation for the City’s student nutrition program was referred to the Budget Committee for consideration.
Improving Customer Service
Council moved in the right direction by adopting the City Ombudsman’s annual report for 2010 and directed the City Manager to implement six recommendations for the Toronto Public Service. These recommendations include ensuring that all City divisions have complaint systems and post them on their websites by March 1.
Preparing to host the Pan Am Games
Council is continuing the City’s efforts to prepare for the Pan American Games and Parapan American Games that Toronto and surrounding municipalities will be hosting in 2015. Council approved using the City-operated track at York University for the games as well as creating a bicycle motocross/BMX course in Etobicoke Centennial Park, which will require local community consultation. The City will also be moving forward with the University of Toronto to build a new aquatic centre in Scarborough. The new facility will be used for the games and will go on to serve Toronto for years to come.
Extension of stimulus projects
Council authorized the extension of work on stimulus projects that have encountered delays to take advantage of new later deadlines for federal and provincial support. Funding will now remain available for qualified projects until October 31, 2011.
Green roofs for industrial buildings
Council authorized extending the City’s requirement for industrial buildings to meet new green roof standards until April 30, 2012 to allow for further consultation.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety
Council asked the police chief to create an enforcement strategy to crack down on prohibited cycling on local sidewalks. The police chief will also be asked to review efforts to discourage drivers from blocking cyclists by stopping or parking their vehicles in bike lanes.