admin – Cabbagetown Residents Association

CITY INVITES RESIDENTS TO BECOME CLIMATE ACTION CHAMPIONS

Participants in this new City program will receive virtual training and support to empower them to support residents in developing innovative climate action projects that reflect the needs and values of their communities.

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ONTARIO SLASHES SOCIAL GATHERING LIMITS

Ontario rolls back social gathering limits in Toronto, Peel Region and Ottawa to 10 people indoors and 25 outdoors as of Friday, September 18, says Katherine DeClerq at CTV News.

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TELEMEDECINE IS HERE TO STAY

COVID-19 has taken the concept of telemedicine from pipe dream to fixture across Ontario and many doctors the hope the change is here to stay, says Michelle McQuigge at The Canadian Press.

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BigArtTO LAUNCHES ACROSS THE CITY

BigArtTO is a City-led ShowLoveTO initiative that turns local landmarks and buildings in each of the City of Toronto’s 25 wards into art canvases using large-scale projections. Runs thru Dec. 5.

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US-CANADA BORDER CLOSURE EXTENDED

The federal government will extend the Canada-U.S. land border closure for another 30 days until Oct. 21, CBC News has learned. Source says Canadians should expect the possibility the border will remain closed for longer, says Katie Simpson, CBC News.

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STAFF RECOMMEND PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON DUNDAS ST. RENAMING

City staff are recommending that some action needs to be taken in response to a petition calling for the renaming of Dundas Street but they say that further public consultation will be needed to determine next steps., says Chris Fox at CP24.

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CITY TRIES TO CREATE 3000 AFFORDABLE NEW HOMES

The City of Toronto is calling for a multi-level government partnership, with the goal of creating 3,000 permanent, affordable homes over the next 24 months, says Kayla Gladysz at TorontoStoreys.

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ActiveTO EXPANDS TO INCLUDE YONGE STREET

ActiveTO major weekend road closures will include full closure of Yonge Street, between Davenport Road and Queen’s Quay, on the final two Sundays in September.

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DIXON HALL PUBLISHES 2019-2020 IMPACT REPORT

Dixon Hall provides social services to the street-involved and homeless in our neighbourhood. They area also the lead service provider working on the revitalization of the four big rooming houses at 502-508 Parliament St, just S of the LCBO. Read their 2019-202 Impact report.

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MAYOR LAUNCHES ShowLoveTO

ShowLoveTO is a City initiative to encourage residents to support local businesses and artists to help rebuild the social and economic fabric of Toronto.

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CORMORANT HUNTING A NO-GO IN TORONTO

Surprised to see this news release from the City announcing that hunting season for double-crested cormorants is now underway in Ontario. The colonies at Tommy Thompson Park remain safe, due to Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 463 (Firearms).

W/E UPDATE ON CITY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

Update from the City on things that are open this weekend.

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WATCHING TIFF MOVIES

TIFF has found a way to safely scale back by offering options for both virtual and big screen experiences. Here’s a guide how to watch movies at TIFF 2020, from our friends at BlogTO.

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CITY ALLOWS PORTABLE HEATERS TO EXTEND PATIO SEASON

With cooler fall weather approaching, the City has announced plans to allow portable heaters on outdoor patios, including CaféTO curb lane closures, to help keep outdoor dining spaces open longer, providing additional support for local restaurants.

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TTC COVID-19 RESPONSE UPDATE

Check out how the TTC continues to take measures to keep its customers safe and well informed.

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TRICK-OR-TREATING MIGHT BE CANCELLED?!

As if pretty much every other event we know and love hasn’t already been cancelled due to COVID-19, the virus may also put a dumper on trick-or-treating on Halloween, says Mira Miller at BlogTO.

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CITY OPENS REGISTRATION FOR FALL RECREATION PROGRAMS

Registration for City fall recreation programs as well as December holiday camps starts Saturday, September 12 and continues next week. The City is Toronto’s largest provider of safe, fun and high-quality recreation programs for people of all ages, skill levels and interests.

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ONTARIO PAUSES REOPENING PLAN AS CASES SPIKE

Health Minister Christine Elliott made the announcement on Tuesday, saying that the “latest trend in numbers have raised some concern, especially as we begin to reopen schools and post-secondary institutions.”

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A CLOSER LOOK AT DOVA

What’s on the menu at Dova, Cabbagetown’s new Sicilian restaurant from the owners of Ardo? Toronto Life provides a glimpse.

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TDSB PUSHES BACK SCHOOL START DATE

The Toronto District School Board has pushed back its start date for most high schools to Sept. 17, citing the “complexities of the secondary staffing and timetable process.”

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ENSURING A SAFE RETURN TO SCHOOL

Over the summer, Toronto Public Health has been working closely with local school boards to help them develop plans for a safer reopening. These plans include best practices on public health measures that are effective to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

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CABBAGETOWN FESTIVAL STREET SALE?

The BIA has had inquiries from a number of folks asking if yard sales are happening this weekend. The BIA does not actually organize the annual street sale, as it’s an organic community event that happens in conjunction with the festival.

So…… if you do plan to sell stuff on the street this weekend please ensure that your stand complies with all sanitization, disinfection, masking and distancing guidelines. Here is the City’s official word relating to garage/yard sales in times of COVID-19.

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NEW MURALS ACROSS CITY HONOUR FRONT-LINE WORKERS

When Covid-19 hit, StreetARToronto asked local artists to submit ideas for murals honouring front-line workers. Here’s what’s been completed so far, reports Jean Grant in Toronto Life (photography by Katherine Fleitas)

LABOUR DAY W/E UPDATE ON CITY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

Update from the City on things that are open this weekend.

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CITY HIGHLIGHTS KEY ‘SUMMER OF COVID” ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Over the last six months, the City says it has made significant strides to contain the spread of the virus and support the recovery and rebuild of the city.

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51 STYLISH MASKS FROM TORONTO DESIGNERS

Designers around the city have turned their attention toward crafting facial protection in funky prints and in comfortable and luxurious materials, says Jean Grant at Toronto Life.

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YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO JETTING OFF

Canadians consumed by wanderlust can choose from nearly 50 international destinations that aren’t requiring travellers from this country to quarantine on arrival, says Meredith MacLeod at CTV News.

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TORONTO’S TOP DOCTOR ANSWERS COVID-19 QUESTIONS

As many parents in the city decide whether to allow their children back to school next month amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Toronto’s top public health official says she will be sending her kids to school.

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WEEK LONG TRIPLE DIGIT STRETCH IN ONTARIO

Majority of the cases concentrated in Toronto and Peel, with 43 and 34, respectively.

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FORD AND EDUCATION MINISTER TOUR SCHOOL

Tour provided a first-hand look at the health and safety measures being encouraged by Canada’s largest education board.

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CITY PRESENTS COVID-19 RESURGENCE PLAN

Plan outlines priorities and associated actions that the City will implement in the event of a resurgence of COVID-19.

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DOVA OPENS TO RAVE REVIEWS

….at least from my good friends three doors up on Metcalfe Street! They know their restaurants, so this is solid thumbs-up. Dova serves upscale Sicilian and Mediterranean food and deserve some Cabbagetown support after the pandemic delayed their opening for so long.

BlogTO and PostCity’s TRNTO have weighted in too.

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GREEN THUMBS GROWING KIDS – LATEST NEWSLETTER

We introduced local not-for-profit, GTGK in our last weekly update. Here’s a link to their September newsletter.

CITY UPDATE ON SERVICES AND ActiveTO THIS W/E

Update from the City on things that are open this weekend.

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NO SURGE – SO FAR – FOLLOWING STAGE 3 REOPENING

Fears of a resurgence in COVID-19 cases in Ontario after bars and other indoor spaces were reopened have not panned out — at least so far, reports Mike Crawley, at CBC News

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CABBAGETOWN BIA LAUNCHES CafeTO WALKING ART TOUR

Rick Matthews, the excellent new Executive Director at the BIA, has done a wonderful job with the local CafeTO patios. He’s now launched the Cabbagetown Walking Art Tour, adding the work of seven notable Toronto-based artists to the patio fences. Enjoy their art while having a relaxing meal on one of the patios or shopping at our unique local businesses!

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UPDATE ON CITY CHALLENGE TO SACKVILLE DAYCARE

Councillor Wong Tam has shared a letter with residents that explains her position and the actions the City Solicitor is taking regarding the daycare planned at 461 Sackville Avenue.

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CITY STARTS REGISTRATION OF SHORT TERM RENTALS

This September, the City of Toronto will launch a new online registration system for short-term rental operators who are renting their homes on a short-term basis for a period of less than 28 consecutive days.

Read the City of Toronto news release

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CITY REPORTS FIRST CASE OF WEST NILE VIRUS IN 2020

Health authorities in Toronto have recorded the first case of the West Nile virus in a resident so far this year, reports CBC News. There were 9 confirmed cases in 2019.

Read the City of Toronto news release

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SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL NOT-FOR-PROFIT – GREEN THUMBS GROWING KIDS

GTGK supports school gardens at Rose Avenue, Spruce Court and Winchester Park Schools. In Cabbagetown for over 15 years it is somewhat unknown, except to families that attend these schools. Check out their website to find out more about the great things they are doing. And while you’re there why not donate?

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SPRUCECOURT HOSTS SCHOOLYARD MEET-UPS

For the next 3 Mondays (August 24th, 31st, September 7th) between 5PM-6PM please stop by the school yard at Sprucecourt to meet other families, check out the playground and say a socially distant hello to new and old friends.

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HELP DIXON HALL PROVIDE MEALS TO THOSE IN NEED

For the past 5 years, the Dixonlicious fundraising auction has been a cornerstone of support for vital food programs in Toronto’s
downtown east and Regent Park. This year it’s gone virtual. Check it out and place some bids!

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MANY MORE CANADIANS EYEING THE SUBURBS

A recent survey found that 32 per cent of Canadians no longer want to live in urban centres and instead would like to relocate to the suburbs or small towns, says Pat Foran, CTV News.

The Youth Advisory Council at Emily’s House is an incredible group of kids who plan events to support local community programs.

They had to cancel their 2020 annual fundraiser due to COVID. So instead they are hosting a food drive to support clients of both Emily’s House and the Philip Aziz Centre who are facing food security issues.

If you are able to help, please drop off a food donation on the Emily’s House front lawn (45 Jack Layton Way) on:

Wednesday, August 26, 5pm – 7pm
Friday, August 28, 5pm – 7pm or
Saturday, August 29, 11am – 1pm.

They will be following infection prevention protocols closely during this drive.

Alternatively, you can drop donations off with Sean O’Donovan from the CRA, at 20 Metcalfe Street Cabbagetown, from 9am -5pm on Wednesday August 26 and he will deliver them for you.

They are accepting non-perishable items only, please see the list below for suggestions.

The kids thank you in advance for your generous support.

The Toronto Local Appeal Body (TLAB) has ruled that a developer can proceed with establishing a daycare in Cabbagetown, a plan which has been in the offing for several years.

The building in question is located at 459 and 461 Sackville St., on the South East corner of Sackville and Amelia Streets. The original application for variances was rejected by a City Committee of Adjustment in April 2018, as committee members were concerned that the lack of parking spaces for child drop-off /pick-up at the daycare would lead to traffic and safety problems in the immediate neighbourhood.

The interim decision and order from TLAB Member Stanley Makuch, in allowing the zoning variances stated that, “This proposal provides an opportunity for a reuse that benefits and supports heritage conservation. ” However, it also said that, “Having made a finding that the variances should be granted there are nevertheless issues of implementation.”

While the development has now successfully passed the appeal related to its initial variances, this remains an interim decision conditional upon the owner getting the required approvals from the city and the province. Another TLAB hearing has been scheduled for December 3, 2021, so that the applicant can report back to TLAB to confirm they have successfully obtained the requisite approvals, including, among others, that:

Street parking is approved by City council for 4 or 6 dedicated on street (permit) parking spaces in the morning and afternoon for drop-off/ pick-up.
A provincial license is obtained demonstrating that such matters as street parking, play areas, garbage and stroller storage, and access and egress have been properly addressed.
A site plan is approved by the Chief Planner, including such matters as a landscaping plan addressing conversion of green space to hardscape paving and City approval and lease to use the boulevard/right of way.

Assuming the TLAB determines that the above conditions have been satisfied by the December 3, 2021 hearing date, TLAB’s interim approval will be final and in force on December 10, 2021. However, one of the involved parties may still request a TLAB Review of Decision, and after that proceeding, a party may also seek leave for a Judicial Review in Ontario Divisional Court. So, the ongoing efforts to establish a daycare in Cabbagetown could continue for some time.

Update from Doug Fisher at the Cabbagetown Neighbourhood review:
Ward 13 Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam wants more daycare in her Ward but says “The problem with the application is that it doesn’t address how day to day operations of a daycare of the size being proposed could safely function given existing conditions.” The City Solicitor is now reviewing the decision with the possibility of pursuing more legal appeals – an approach that the Councillor supports.

CITY UPDATE ON SERVICES AND ActiveTO THIS W/E

Update from the City on things that are open this weekend.

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FOOD DRIVE FOR LOCAL HOSPICES NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT

The Youth Advisory Council at Emily’s House is hosting a food drive to support clients of both Emily’s House and the Philip Aziz Centre that are facing food security issues.

Please lend your support to this local community initiative.

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TLAB APPROVES SACKVILLE DAYCARE

Last week the Toronto Local Appeal Body (TLAB) ruled that a developer can proceed with establishing a daycare in Cabbagetown, a plan which has been in the offing for several years. But there are (potentially big) strings attached.

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HOW TORONTO COULD CHANGE FOR THE BETTER AFTER COVID

Great article from Toronto Life, who asked the city’s smartest thinkers to predict the post-pandemic future of everything.

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DOCTORS BRACE FOR VIRAL OVERLOAD FROM COLDS + FLU + COVID

Doctors are anticipating that the collision of COVID-19 and cold and flu season could bring a new host of health-care challenges when the cold weather sets in.

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50 ESSENTIAL SUMMER DAY TRIPS FROM TORONTO

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by exploring the wealth of towns and attractions that are just a short drive, bus, or train ride away – Curated by BlogTO

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THE LANEWAY PROJECT

Not yet active in Cabbagetown , this is a really interesting initiative to leverage Toronto’s laneways to help small businesses, improve walkability and better integrate laneways into everyday life.

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BIKE SHARE FREE RIDE WEDNESDAYS RETURNS

Through the new Bike Share Toronto – CAA South Central Ontario partnership, Bike Share riders can ride for free every Wednesday in the month of September.

Bike Share has also launched a pedal assist electric-bike (e-bike) pilot program as a new feature of Bike Share Toronto’s 2020 expansion.

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CITY OF TORONTO PREPARES FOR BACK TO SCHOOL

The City of Toronto prepares for back to school with public health resources, fall recreation programs and after-school care

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SPEED CAMERA LOCATIONS

Check out this handy map to show you where speed cameras are located in TO. In CTown there is one at Spruce and Gifford and one at Dundas St E and River.

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29TH ANNUAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL GOES ONLINE

Gina Dineen has put the beloved annual short film festival online so everyone can still get that festival feeling this September! One ticket, still $15, gets you 12 outstanding international shorts, lots of comedy as well as drama and doc, from 3:00-20:00, available for streaming over three days. You can binge all at once or spread it out over three days.

CITY UPDATE ON SERVICES AND ActiveTO THIS W/E

Update from the City on things that are open this weekend.

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INCREASES IN GYM CAPACITIES ALLOWED

Ontario is allowing gyms and recreation centres to increase their capacity limits as of tomorrow at 12:01 a.m. with additional public health restrictions.

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STAGGERED START TO FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL

The Ontario government will be allowing boards to adopt a “staggered start” to the first week of school in September.

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CORONAVIRUS UPDATE

Here’s a handy CV update from our friends at CTV News.

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ON-STREET PARKING ENFORCEMENT RESTARTS

The City of Toronto reminds residents that starting Friday, August 14 at midnight, permit parking enforcement on residential streets in the city will resume.

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BACK TO SCHOOL PLANS REMAIN UNCLEAR

School starts in a month, but Canada’s most populous province still doesn’t know what that will look like, says Jessica Wong, CBC

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MORE RECREATION OPTIONS OPEN UP IN PHASE 3

City of Toronto staff have been developing new ways to deliver and improve service. This week, the City is introducing an online reservation option for its indoor drop-in lane swim program as well as weight rooms and fitness centres.

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DVP CLOSED THIS WEEKEND

Annual maintenance is scheduled on the Don Valley Parkway this weekend from Friday, August 14 at 11 p.m. until Monday, August 17 at 5 a.m. Closure extends the from Highway 401 to the Gardiner. Rain date Friday, August 21 to Monday, August 24.

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VIRUS EXPERTS CONCERNED ABOUT FALL/WINTER

Summer has been the easy part of the pandemic. It’s what comes next that worries experts, says Miriam Katawazi at CTV News.

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ONTARIO REPORTS LOWEST CASES IN A DAY

Ontario just experienced one of its best days ever in the fight against COVID-19, with zero deaths and only 33 new cases of the deadly viral illness reported across the province.

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WHAT REOPENING LOOKS LIKE AT CITY GYMS

Isabelle Sloane of Toronto Life spoke with five gyms about the precautions they’re taking—including outdoor workouts, shower disinfection and hospital-grade air filters—to ensure their clients are safe.

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TIFF ANNOUNCES VENUES AND PRICING

TIFF shares details of the 2020 hybrid festival that will largely feature digital screenings for home viewers but will also offer in-person screenings at various indoor and outdoor venues.

CITY UPDATE ON SERVICES AND ActiveTO THIS W/E

Update from the City on things that are open this weekend.

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UPDATE ON CANNABIS STORE AT 307 WELLESLEY

Several residents lodged submissions in objection to the location of a Cannabis store on a residential street. The AGCO has confirmed that the Registrar is reviewing these submissions but they cannot provide a date by which this will be completed. However the AGCO did confirm that:

“Individuals that filed written submissions before the public notice deadline, will receive a letter from us. It will either state that the Registrar has deemed the issuance of the licence at the location to not be contrary to the public interest, or contrary to the public interest.”

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MAX 10 PERSON SOCIAL CIRCLES HERE FOR A WHILE

Premier Doug Ford says 10 person limit will likely last until at least January — unless a vaccine emerges first.

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PERMIT PARKING ENFORCEMENT RESUMES

Enforcement of City of Toronto Residential On-Street Permit Parking program to resume August 14 at midnight.

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS ~ JUL 28-29

Check out the highlights of the latest Toronto City Council meeting from the end of July.

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CITY ANNOUNCES FAMILY WELL-BEING PLAN

The Mayor announced the Family Well-Being Plan developed in partnership with community agencies and social service providers, to highlight the supports available to those who may be experiencing family violence during the pandemic.

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TTC SAFETY UPDATE

The TTC has shared an overview of measures it continues to take to provide safe and accessible transit for our customers, along with additional safety and COVID-19 related information.

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502-508 PARLIAMENT STREET TO BE RENOVATED

The City has announced progress on the partnership between the City of Toronto, Dixon Hall and Toronto Community Housing to renovate and revitalize affordable, supportive, multi-tenant (rooming house) units at 502-508 Parliament St. (next to the LCBO). Revitalization to proceed this fall and be ready for occupancy in spring 2021.

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COVID-19 CONTACT TRACING APP. NOW AVAILABLE

If you haven’t heard via your cell phone, the Govt. has launched a safe and secure contact tracing app.

DINE-IN RESTAURANTS/BARS PERMITTED TO OPEN FRIDAY

Under the Province of Ontario’s Stage 3 order, which takes effect Friday July 31, restaurants and bars will be permitted to offer indoor dine-in service.

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CITY UPDATE ON SERVICES AND ActiveTO THIS W/E

Update from the City on things that are open this weekend.

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ONTARIO COVID19 CASES DIPS BELOW 100

For the first time since March 24 Ontario has reported fewer than 100 new cases of COVID-19.

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MASKS NOW MANDATORY IN APARTMENTS AND CONDOMINIUMS

City Council has voted in favour of a temporary bylaw requiring masks or face coverings in common areas in apartments and condominiums to protect the health and safety of our communities.

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HOW THE CITY PLANS TO MANAGE COVID19 DEBT

City Council voted to adopt the recommendations of a report to address the experienced and anticipated financial impacts of the pandemic and proposed options for mitigation.

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WHAT CAN REOPEN IN STAGE 3?

Here’s the official list of businesses that can reopen in Stage 3, care of BlogTO.

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TORONTO MOVES TO STAGE 3

Toronto and Peel Region will move into Stage 3 of Ontario’s COVID-19 recovery plan this Friday, as the province reported its fewest number of new cases since March 23.

Read A framework for reopening our Province – Phase 3 for details on what this means and the restrictions that will remain in place.

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DON’T RETIRE THOSE SWEAT PANTS JUST YET!

Working from home in Ontario will be recommended for the ‘foreseeable future’ after Health Minister Christine Elliott said that Ontario will remain in Stage 3 until there is a vaccine or treatment for COVID-19.

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SWIMMING WARNINGS AT SOME CITY BEACHES

Unfortunately for anyone looking to cool of at a local beach, officials are warning about high levels of E. coli at some of the most popular ones.

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RIVERDALE FARM GETS $200,000 DONATION

The animals at Cabbagetown’s Riverdale Farm should be getting some new digs and more, thanks to a surprise $200,000 gift from a long-time admirer who died last year.

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Q&A WITH CITY’S CHIEF CONTACT TRACER

Omar Ozaldin leads a team of disease detectives, dedicated to stopping the spread of Covid-19. He talks to Toronto Life about the challenges of the job, how helpful Torontonians can be, and what will happen if we get a dreaded second wave.

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