Neighbourly News, Fall 2008 – front page
Bonnie Littley
Regional Councillor, Ward 1
announcing . . .
Bonnie’s 2nd Annual
Community Idea Exchange on Smart Growth & Sustainability
Thursday October16th, 2008, 6:30pm - 9:30pm
O’Brien Room, Pickering Recreation Centre
ALL WARDS WELCOME!
How do taxes, a lack of sidewalks and climate change relate to each other?
Come to my Community Idea Exchange and find out.
think global, act local
preliminary program
6:30 pm - Registration & browse community displays
7:00 pm - Welcoming Remarks - Bonnie Littley, Regional Councillor, Ward 1
Keynote Speaker: Burkhard Mausberg, President, Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation
. Challenges & Opportunities - Local Food & Sustainability
. The benefits of Our Greenbelt - ecologically, economically and socially.
“What’s Up Neighbour?”
Think Global, Act Local
Participants give overviews of projects happening in our community
and opportunities to volunteer in a segment we call “ YOUR 2 minutes of fame”.
Students have a great chance to source out volunteer opportunities!
Participants this year include:
City of Pickering
- Interactive model of Downtown
- Environmental Programs displays
Community Care Durham
Dunbarton High School
Durham Region Food Charter display
Durham SustainAbility
Durham West Arts Centre
Environmental Stewardship Pickering
(City, OPG, TRCA & Community partnership)
Friends of the Rouge Watershed
The Greenbelt Foundation
Heritage Pickering
Landoverlandings
Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust
Ontario Farmland Trust
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School
Toronto & Region Conservation Authority
United Way of Ajax/Pickering/Uxbridge
Valley Plentiful Community Garden, Pickering
Whitby/Ajax Community Garden and The Communal Garden Project
. . . . and more to come!
participate & get smart about smart growth!
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
2008 The Other Side of the Podium
Greetings Ward 1!
The Other Side of the Podium, 2008Personal reflection by Bonnie Littley
Coming from the “other side of the podium” as a volunteer in the NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) sector, I believe it gives me a different perspective on politics and government – a more “down to earth” kind of perspective.
Margaret Mead’s very popular quote; “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” I’ve seen first hand how true that statement is. In my work with the Rouge Duffins Greenspace Coalition as well as within my network of many other not-for-profit organizations or advocacy groups, are all basically run by “thoughtful, committed citizens” thinking beyond just themselves.
Whether it’s about moving mental health beds from Ajax/Pickering Hospital, Urban Sprawl, Climate Change, even traffic calming in your neighbourhood to Waste Management, it’s “the people” that have the power to make change happen. That’s why in my newsletters I’ll continue to advocate, call people to action on various issues by way of letter writing or appearing before Councils and Committees as delegates.
This time in my personal reflection I’d like to highlight WASTE and the citizen action needed to combat the issue.
One of the most obvious positive changes in social behaviour is indicated through the success of the Blue Box program. We’ve all learned to recycle – and our kids are too! But what about the other “R’s”? The first one being – REDUCE, second one REUSE – then Recycle. Now, with the Green Bin organics program, we’re reducing too - but is it enough? When we shop, are we considering the 3 R’s? Does it annoy you that there is still so much packaging and disposable products that simply go in the garbage? And as individuals trying to do our part, are there not others missing that should also take responsibility? As municipal taxpayers, do you think we should be paying the brunt of all that waste management?
Waste is an expensive business, and here in Durham we’re pretty much on the way to building an incinerator to deal with it. Whether you support incineration or stabilized landfill like Nova Scotia has – it’s all costly and doesn’t get to the root of the issue – to REDUCE from the source. I was glad I went on the whirlwind tour of waste management in Nova Scotia.
There the provincial government has taken the lead. They have banned certain items from the waste stream and everyone must recycle and organically compost – all business and industry – it’s legislated. Something Municipal Councils can’t do, but are stuck with the bill. It’s referred to as Extended Producer Responsibility.
The majority of materials, which find their way to landfill, are various types of packaging and plastics that are not recyclable. Companies that produce consumer goods—and whose products are collected in Ontario’s recycling program—are required, by law, to contribute financially to the Blue Box recycling program through Stewardship Ontario. Each year, they provide funding to the municipalities to help with the costs incurred by its taxpayers for the Blue Box program. However, the money obtained does not nearly cover all the costs incurred for managing this program, and many products are still not recyclable.
We need to develop an extended producer responsibility program, in which all industry would be mandated to participate. Extended producer responsibility is the transfer of costs and/or physical responsibility of waste management from local government authorities, and the general taxpayer, to the producer.
Under such a program, all producers (without exception) would contribute to the Blue Box & organics programs; sharing the true costs for municipal waste programs. This creates the opportunity for an emerging market that truly reflects the environmental impacts of the product, and in which, consumers could make their selection accordingly.
With the Michigan border closing to our waste by December 2010, we need our provincial government to take action before all municipalities in Ontario are wallowing in mountains of waste, expensive waste management solutions that no municipalities alone can afford and the forever increase in environmental concerns as well.
Contact the Minister about this issue at:
John Gerretsen, Minister of the Environment
Tel 416-314-6790, Fax 416-314-6748
jgerretsen.mpp@liberal.ola.org
Want to learn more?
Nova Scotia, Solid Waste-Resource Management Strategy
See: www.gov.ns.ca/nse/waste/swrmstrategy.asp
York/Durham Energy from Waste Facility
www.durhamyorkwaste.ca, also see
Clarington Watchdog, claringtonwatchdog.blogspot.com
Nova Scotia, Ministry of the Environment
www.gov.ns.ca/nse/waste/
Central Pickering Development Plan
www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page329.aspx
Places to Grow, Growth Plan for the Golden Horseshoe
www.pir.gov.on.ca/english/growth/index.html
The Greenbelt
www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page187.aspx
Sustainable Neighbourhood Design Guidelines
www.cityofpickering.com, 905-420-4617
The Other Side of the Podium, 2008Personal reflection by Bonnie Littley
Coming from the “other side of the podium” as a volunteer in the NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) sector, I believe it gives me a different perspective on politics and government – a more “down to earth” kind of perspective.
Margaret Mead’s very popular quote; “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” I’ve seen first hand how true that statement is. In my work with the Rouge Duffins Greenspace Coalition as well as within my network of many other not-for-profit organizations or advocacy groups, are all basically run by “thoughtful, committed citizens” thinking beyond just themselves.
Whether it’s about moving mental health beds from Ajax/Pickering Hospital, Urban Sprawl, Climate Change, even traffic calming in your neighbourhood to Waste Management, it’s “the people” that have the power to make change happen. That’s why in my newsletters I’ll continue to advocate, call people to action on various issues by way of letter writing or appearing before Councils and Committees as delegates.
This time in my personal reflection I’d like to highlight WASTE and the citizen action needed to combat the issue.
One of the most obvious positive changes in social behaviour is indicated through the success of the Blue Box program. We’ve all learned to recycle – and our kids are too! But what about the other “R’s”? The first one being – REDUCE, second one REUSE – then Recycle. Now, with the Green Bin organics program, we’re reducing too - but is it enough? When we shop, are we considering the 3 R’s? Does it annoy you that there is still so much packaging and disposable products that simply go in the garbage? And as individuals trying to do our part, are there not others missing that should also take responsibility? As municipal taxpayers, do you think we should be paying the brunt of all that waste management?
Waste is an expensive business, and here in Durham we’re pretty much on the way to building an incinerator to deal with it. Whether you support incineration or stabilized landfill like Nova Scotia has – it’s all costly and doesn’t get to the root of the issue – to REDUCE from the source. I was glad I went on the whirlwind tour of waste management in Nova Scotia.
There the provincial government has taken the lead. They have banned certain items from the waste stream and everyone must recycle and organically compost – all business and industry – it’s legislated. Something Municipal Councils can’t do, but are stuck with the bill. It’s referred to as Extended Producer Responsibility.
The majority of materials, which find their way to landfill, are various types of packaging and plastics that are not recyclable. Companies that produce consumer goods—and whose products are collected in Ontario’s recycling program—are required, by law, to contribute financially to the Blue Box recycling program through Stewardship Ontario. Each year, they provide funding to the municipalities to help with the costs incurred by its taxpayers for the Blue Box program. However, the money obtained does not nearly cover all the costs incurred for managing this program, and many products are still not recyclable.
We need to develop an extended producer responsibility program, in which all industry would be mandated to participate. Extended producer responsibility is the transfer of costs and/or physical responsibility of waste management from local government authorities, and the general taxpayer, to the producer.
Under such a program, all producers (without exception) would contribute to the Blue Box & organics programs; sharing the true costs for municipal waste programs. This creates the opportunity for an emerging market that truly reflects the environmental impacts of the product, and in which, consumers could make their selection accordingly.
With the Michigan border closing to our waste by December 2010, we need our provincial government to take action before all municipalities in Ontario are wallowing in mountains of waste, expensive waste management solutions that no municipalities alone can afford and the forever increase in environmental concerns as well.
Contact the Minister about this issue at:
John Gerretsen, Minister of the Environment
Tel 416-314-6790, Fax 416-314-6748
jgerretsen.mpp@liberal.ola.org
Want to learn more?
Nova Scotia, Solid Waste-Resource Management Strategy
See: www.gov.ns.ca/nse/waste/swrmstrategy.asp
York/Durham Energy from Waste Facility
www.durhamyorkwaste.ca, also see
Clarington Watchdog, claringtonwatchdog.blogspot.com
Nova Scotia, Ministry of the Environment
www.gov.ns.ca/nse/waste/
Central Pickering Development Plan
www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page329.aspx
Places to Grow, Growth Plan for the Golden Horseshoe
www.pir.gov.on.ca/english/growth/index.html
The Greenbelt
www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page187.aspx
Sustainable Neighbourhood Design Guidelines
www.cityofpickering.com, 905-420-4617
2008 Highlights & Hot Topics
Page 2
Highlights & Hot Topics – 2008
Deciding on Growth Plans to 2031
Conforming to the Provincial Growth Plan –“Places to Grow – A growth plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe”
In my mind, we need to be accountable not only to the positive actions that move “sustainability” in Pickering forward, but also to actions that may not be viewed as “sustainable”. As much as the City of Pickering promotes and has moved the principles of “sustainability” into operations, efforts are not translating into sustainable land-use policies designed to curb urban sprawl. In this case, committing to firm urban boundaries.
The previous Council in June of 2006 endorsed expanding the urban boundary into North-East Pickering lands, and removing the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve from the Greenbelt, but were not able to move forward because at the same time the Province passed by legislation the Provincial Growth Plan – Places to Grow – A growth plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe. The Plan requires the municipalities to complete comprehensive growth analysis as part of the legislated conformity exercise prior to expanding any urban boundaries into what are now referred to as the “whitebelt lands”.
The Region of Durham is currently working with consultants, Urban Strategies Inc. to complete the “Growing Durham – Places to Grow Implementation Study” but to date is in conflict with the Province on how density calculations are determined creating a difference of opinion on how much urban land will be needed across the Region to accommodate anticipated population growth to the planning horizon and target of 2031.
In this years’ Annual Report from the Environmental Commissioner of Ontario, Gord Miller stated that he “strongly advocates for change in the way planning is done in Ontario.” The board of the Toronto & Region Conservation Authority of which I’ve been appointed, overwhelmingly supported the Commissioners statements. The Board also supported mine and Ajax Councillor Jordan’s resolution to conduct a watershed study BEFORE any urban land designation of the Carruthers Creek Headwater area - Pickering’s “whitebelt lands”. The TRCA also endorsed a statement that they believe that any designation of urban land is premature until all aspects of the Growth Plan have been addressed including environmental analysis – the Region’s plan has been silent on this point to date.
Designation of too much urban land is a disincentive to smart growth/sustainable development. We should be focusing on Downtown Pickering & Seaton - urban lands already designated. Despite all of this, in July, the majority of Council again supported urban expansion into the Carruthers Creek headwater area in North East Pickering BEFORE a watershed study would determine its sensitivity!
Some key policies to watch for in the Region’s final recommendations would be: Requiring watershed plan updates, achieving target densities in existing designated urban areas, and phasing policies before any new urban designations are allowed.
This is an on-going issue. I encourage residents to lobby against “business as usual” urban sprawl in Pickering and the entire Region and ask elected representatives to support eco-based urban planning and stay within current designated urban boundaries.
To send correspondence, register as a delegate & to be notified of upcoming meetings contact: Planning Committee Clerk, Region of Durham Debbie.Brideau@region.durham.on.ca, 1.888.372.1102
Links to see:
Region of Durham
www.region.durham.on.ca/growthplan/consultantreports.htm
Provincial Places to Grow
www.placestogrow.ca/index.php?lang=eng,
Seaton Update...
“the greenest community in Canada??”
In my last newsletter, I gave a brief history of Seaton and the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve (DRAP) lands and how Pickering lost it’s planning rights to the province when the previous Council supported developing both Seaton and more than 1000 acres of the DRAP in the City’s Growth Management Study. With the guidence of award-winning urban planner, John vanNostrand, and the Planning Alliance Inc. they created and the Province legislated the current Provincial Central Pickering Development Plan (CPDP). Currently the City is obligated by legislation to implement the plan.
The Plan contains land-use designations, and detailed goals, objectives, policies and implementation strategies for Seaton. Most importantly, the Plan contains a clear vision for a sustainable urban community.
Recently staff prepard a Draft Terms of Reference for the Seaton Neighbourhood Planning Program and recommended a collaborative management approach between the City and the Seaton Landowners. An RFP will be going out shortly to hire a Consultant that must demonstrate a commitment to implementing the model of sustainable development set out in the CPDP as well as outline their specific approach to public stakeholder and First Nations consultation among other requirements.
Acquiring the appropriate Consultant is crucial to the success of Seaton to avoid “business as usual” cookie cutter sub-divisions and Big Box stores. We need innovative ideas to create attractive built environments that support a mix of uses, are transit-supportive, and are pedestrian- and bicycle friendly, interface seamlessly with the large Natural Heritage System and be financially sustainable as well.
To make Seaton the greenest urban community possible everyone needs to participate proactively to make sure it is. Report back at Council Oct 20!
To view the Terms of Reference, comment or participate contact: Pickering Planning Dept. 905.420.4617, plan&devl@city.pickering.on.ca Visit www.sustainablepickering.com/seaton/
Also see: Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing, www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page329.aspx
Highlights & Hot Topics – 2008
Deciding on Growth Plans to 2031
Conforming to the Provincial Growth Plan –“Places to Grow – A growth plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe”
In my mind, we need to be accountable not only to the positive actions that move “sustainability” in Pickering forward, but also to actions that may not be viewed as “sustainable”. As much as the City of Pickering promotes and has moved the principles of “sustainability” into operations, efforts are not translating into sustainable land-use policies designed to curb urban sprawl. In this case, committing to firm urban boundaries.
The previous Council in June of 2006 endorsed expanding the urban boundary into North-East Pickering lands, and removing the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve from the Greenbelt, but were not able to move forward because at the same time the Province passed by legislation the Provincial Growth Plan – Places to Grow – A growth plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe. The Plan requires the municipalities to complete comprehensive growth analysis as part of the legislated conformity exercise prior to expanding any urban boundaries into what are now referred to as the “whitebelt lands”.
The Region of Durham is currently working with consultants, Urban Strategies Inc. to complete the “Growing Durham – Places to Grow Implementation Study” but to date is in conflict with the Province on how density calculations are determined creating a difference of opinion on how much urban land will be needed across the Region to accommodate anticipated population growth to the planning horizon and target of 2031.
In this years’ Annual Report from the Environmental Commissioner of Ontario, Gord Miller stated that he “strongly advocates for change in the way planning is done in Ontario.” The board of the Toronto & Region Conservation Authority of which I’ve been appointed, overwhelmingly supported the Commissioners statements. The Board also supported mine and Ajax Councillor Jordan’s resolution to conduct a watershed study BEFORE any urban land designation of the Carruthers Creek Headwater area - Pickering’s “whitebelt lands”. The TRCA also endorsed a statement that they believe that any designation of urban land is premature until all aspects of the Growth Plan have been addressed including environmental analysis – the Region’s plan has been silent on this point to date.
Designation of too much urban land is a disincentive to smart growth/sustainable development. We should be focusing on Downtown Pickering & Seaton - urban lands already designated. Despite all of this, in July, the majority of Council again supported urban expansion into the Carruthers Creek headwater area in North East Pickering BEFORE a watershed study would determine its sensitivity!
Some key policies to watch for in the Region’s final recommendations would be: Requiring watershed plan updates, achieving target densities in existing designated urban areas, and phasing policies before any new urban designations are allowed.
This is an on-going issue. I encourage residents to lobby against “business as usual” urban sprawl in Pickering and the entire Region and ask elected representatives to support eco-based urban planning and stay within current designated urban boundaries.
To send correspondence, register as a delegate & to be notified of upcoming meetings contact: Planning Committee Clerk, Region of Durham Debbie.Brideau@region.durham.on.ca, 1.888.372.1102
Links to see:
Region of Durham
www.region.durham.on.ca/growthplan/consultantreports.htm
Provincial Places to Grow
www.placestogrow.ca/index.php?lang=eng,
Seaton Update...
“the greenest community in Canada??”
In my last newsletter, I gave a brief history of Seaton and the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve (DRAP) lands and how Pickering lost it’s planning rights to the province when the previous Council supported developing both Seaton and more than 1000 acres of the DRAP in the City’s Growth Management Study. With the guidence of award-winning urban planner, John vanNostrand, and the Planning Alliance Inc. they created and the Province legislated the current Provincial Central Pickering Development Plan (CPDP). Currently the City is obligated by legislation to implement the plan.
The Plan contains land-use designations, and detailed goals, objectives, policies and implementation strategies for Seaton. Most importantly, the Plan contains a clear vision for a sustainable urban community.
Recently staff prepard a Draft Terms of Reference for the Seaton Neighbourhood Planning Program and recommended a collaborative management approach between the City and the Seaton Landowners. An RFP will be going out shortly to hire a Consultant that must demonstrate a commitment to implementing the model of sustainable development set out in the CPDP as well as outline their specific approach to public stakeholder and First Nations consultation among other requirements.
Acquiring the appropriate Consultant is crucial to the success of Seaton to avoid “business as usual” cookie cutter sub-divisions and Big Box stores. We need innovative ideas to create attractive built environments that support a mix of uses, are transit-supportive, and are pedestrian- and bicycle friendly, interface seamlessly with the large Natural Heritage System and be financially sustainable as well.
To make Seaton the greenest urban community possible everyone needs to participate proactively to make sure it is. Report back at Council Oct 20!
To view the Terms of Reference, comment or participate contact: Pickering Planning Dept. 905.420.4617, plan&devl@city.pickering.on.ca Visit www.sustainablepickering.com/seaton/
Also see: Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing, www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page329.aspx
2008 FYI Tidbits
FYI Tidbits – 2008
NEW- Durham Region Roundtable on Climate Change (DRRCC)
Councillor Littley is pleased to announce her appointment as one of five Regional Councillor’s on the DRRCC. The goal of the DRRCC is to position the Region of Durham as a leader in addressing climate change issues by preparing and recommending a comprehensive strategy with detailed actions that can be undertaken across the Region to address climate change. Our task is to develop a Community Climate Change Action Plan. The process of identifying the seven citizen members for appointment to DRRCC is underway.
Initially, the DRRCC will join the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Partners for Climate Protection (FCM – PCP) program.
Municipalities have an important role to play in the mitigation of and adaptation to the climate change phenomenon and enable the sharing of an accumulated body of knowledge and best practices.
CITY PROJECTS
Dunbarton Indoor Pool
This 36 year old facility is undergoing major retrofit work to ensure it continues to be an integral City facility that provides year round aquatic programs to residents.
The project includes exterior brick wall repairs, re-roofing, mechanical equipment replacement and upgrade, replacing pool filtration systems and underwater lighting. Renovations to also accommodate a small family changeroom. Since the existing facility is so poorly insulated the immediate effect on the building will be substantial and provide as much as a 50% reduction in heating cost. Along with these architectural improvements there will be energy efficient mechanical upgrades.
Don Beer Arena
The original 35 year old ice rink concrete pad will be replaced with a new concrete floor and dasher board system.
Artificial Turf – Kinsmen Park
In partnership with the Pickering Soccer Club, artificial turf will be installed to replace the existing outdoor soccer pitch which will facilitate the Club to train longer in the season, providing a high quality pitch and providing more field hours, as well as lower maintenance costs.
Pickering Recreation Complex Expansion
$1 million dollar provincial Infrastructure grant received.
The Complex opened its doors 25 years ago in 1983. We are excited to announce the addition of aerobic studios and a doubles squash court. This expansion will enhance and continue to encourage the development of active, healthy lifestyles. The City has decided to take this opportunity to improve the overall efficiency of the centre with the conversion of the HVAC system to a high energy efficient unit.
A “Green Roof” over the new roof area will serve to improve our carbon balance, insulation and act as prototype for future City projects.
Frenchman’s Bay Stormwater Management Plan
A meeting was held in January 2008 with the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) and Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) to discuss the proposed plan.Adjustments to the Draft Plan have occured due to concerns for the Provincially Significant Wetlands and Environmentally Significant Areas. Completion of the plan anticipated late 2008. To Council early 2009.
Frenchman’s Bay Harbour Entrance
July 2008 the Toronto & Region Conservation Authority completed a proposal outlining the Frenchman’s Bay Harbour Entrance Project, which also included a preliminary project work plan and schedule. Currently, the TRCA has completed Terms of Reference for the Community Liaison Committee and will be inviting interested stakeholders to participate. Initial meeting anticipated Oct/Nov 2008.
Need Assistance or Have Questions?
Did you know that the Customer Care Centre offers centralized customer service? It is dedicated to ensuring the timely delivery of quality services to the City of Pickering residents and provides an important link between members of the public, the Mayor, Members of Council and City of Pickering municipal departments. They ensure that matters are thoroughly investigated in collaboration with the various municipal departments. Please feel free to contact them for assistance with any concerns you may have.
Contact Customer Care by phone at 905.683.7575 or 1.877.420.4666 or email them at customercare@city.pickering.on.ca.
WASTE MANAGEMENT
• Green Bin Kitchen Food waste: Weekly
• Blue Box recycling: Weekly
• Garbage: Bi-weekly
• NEW - 2 bulk & metal items bi-weekly till Dec 1
• NEW - Townhouse Yard Waste Pick-up REINSTATED!
Visit www.region.durham.on.ca/waste, for updates
Contact Information:
Durham Region 905.579.5264 or 1.800.667.5671
Email: waste@region.durham.on.ca
TRANSIT INFORMATION
www.durhamregiontransit.com
1-866-247-0055
Email: drtwest@region.durham.on.ca
NEW- Durham Region Roundtable on Climate Change (DRRCC)
Councillor Littley is pleased to announce her appointment as one of five Regional Councillor’s on the DRRCC. The goal of the DRRCC is to position the Region of Durham as a leader in addressing climate change issues by preparing and recommending a comprehensive strategy with detailed actions that can be undertaken across the Region to address climate change. Our task is to develop a Community Climate Change Action Plan. The process of identifying the seven citizen members for appointment to DRRCC is underway.
Initially, the DRRCC will join the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Partners for Climate Protection (FCM – PCP) program.
Municipalities have an important role to play in the mitigation of and adaptation to the climate change phenomenon and enable the sharing of an accumulated body of knowledge and best practices.
CITY PROJECTS
Dunbarton Indoor Pool
This 36 year old facility is undergoing major retrofit work to ensure it continues to be an integral City facility that provides year round aquatic programs to residents.
The project includes exterior brick wall repairs, re-roofing, mechanical equipment replacement and upgrade, replacing pool filtration systems and underwater lighting. Renovations to also accommodate a small family changeroom. Since the existing facility is so poorly insulated the immediate effect on the building will be substantial and provide as much as a 50% reduction in heating cost. Along with these architectural improvements there will be energy efficient mechanical upgrades.
Don Beer Arena
The original 35 year old ice rink concrete pad will be replaced with a new concrete floor and dasher board system.
Artificial Turf – Kinsmen Park
In partnership with the Pickering Soccer Club, artificial turf will be installed to replace the existing outdoor soccer pitch which will facilitate the Club to train longer in the season, providing a high quality pitch and providing more field hours, as well as lower maintenance costs.
Pickering Recreation Complex Expansion
$1 million dollar provincial Infrastructure grant received.
The Complex opened its doors 25 years ago in 1983. We are excited to announce the addition of aerobic studios and a doubles squash court. This expansion will enhance and continue to encourage the development of active, healthy lifestyles. The City has decided to take this opportunity to improve the overall efficiency of the centre with the conversion of the HVAC system to a high energy efficient unit.
A “Green Roof” over the new roof area will serve to improve our carbon balance, insulation and act as prototype for future City projects.
Frenchman’s Bay Stormwater Management Plan
A meeting was held in January 2008 with the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) and Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) to discuss the proposed plan.Adjustments to the Draft Plan have occured due to concerns for the Provincially Significant Wetlands and Environmentally Significant Areas. Completion of the plan anticipated late 2008. To Council early 2009.
Frenchman’s Bay Harbour Entrance
July 2008 the Toronto & Region Conservation Authority completed a proposal outlining the Frenchman’s Bay Harbour Entrance Project, which also included a preliminary project work plan and schedule. Currently, the TRCA has completed Terms of Reference for the Community Liaison Committee and will be inviting interested stakeholders to participate. Initial meeting anticipated Oct/Nov 2008.
Need Assistance or Have Questions?
Did you know that the Customer Care Centre offers centralized customer service? It is dedicated to ensuring the timely delivery of quality services to the City of Pickering residents and provides an important link between members of the public, the Mayor, Members of Council and City of Pickering municipal departments. They ensure that matters are thoroughly investigated in collaboration with the various municipal departments. Please feel free to contact them for assistance with any concerns you may have.
Contact Customer Care by phone at 905.683.7575 or 1.877.420.4666 or email them at customercare@city.pickering.on.ca.
WASTE MANAGEMENT
• Green Bin Kitchen Food waste: Weekly
• Blue Box recycling: Weekly
• Garbage: Bi-weekly
• NEW - 2 bulk & metal items bi-weekly till Dec 1
• NEW - Townhouse Yard Waste Pick-up REINSTATED!
Visit www.region.durham.on.ca/waste, for updates
Contact Information:
Durham Region 905.579.5264 or 1.800.667.5671
Email: waste@region.durham.on.ca
TRANSIT INFORMATION
www.durhamregiontransit.com
1-866-247-0055
Email: drtwest@region.durham.on.ca
2008 Ward 1 Specific Activities
Ward 1 Specific Activities, 2008
Sheppard Sidewalk
• Urbanization which includes storm sewer installation, road reconstruction which includes new granular base materials, concrete curb & gutters, concrete sidewalk on the south side and base asphalt. Along with this project the Region of Durham will be replacing the existing watermain. Completion anticipated Nov 08.
Altona Road Widening (The Region of Durham)
• The Region anticipates starting construction for the widening of Altona Road from two (2) to four (4) lanes from Kingston Road to Stroud’s Lane in 2009. (see www.region.durham.on.ca);
Twyn Rivers & Altona Road (Honeywood Properties Inc.)
• Proposal for 10 detached dwellings situated at the south west corner of Altona Road and Twyn Rivers; The Ontario Municipal Board upheld Council’s approval of this development.
364 Kingston Rd. (NW corner at Rougemount)
• Proposal to add a variety of commercial uses to the existing zoning by-law in anticipation of future redevelopment of the property.
526 & 542 Kingston Road (east of Rosebank)
• The residential development of 30 townhouses and 15 detached dwellings is being finalized and construction anticipated this fall.
875 Kingston Road (Indopak Inc.)
• Council has approved a proposal for a 10 storey mixed use development consisting of 198 residential units and approximately 3500 square metres of commercial floor area; Site Plan being finalized with the City.
Fairport Rd/Spruce Hill Rd/Welrus St. (Anthony Debruin)
• Proposal for 27 single detached dwellings fronting onto a proposed municipal road; Council approved. Owners are fulfilling conditions of approval.
Rosebank Rd/Gillmoss (W&N Trapper, B Trapper/Land Pro Engineering)
• A Statutory Public Information Meeting was held on March 4, 2008, for a proposal to rezone and subdivide for 40 detached dwelling lots with frontages ranging from 11.0 to 13.0 metres; Applications are being reviewed. Report to Council anticipated by year end.
491 Rosebank Rd (Rosebank Properties Inc.)
• A Statutory Public Information Meeting was held on February 4, 2008 for a proposal to rezone and subdivide for 23 single detached dwelling lots with frontages ranging from 13.4 to 15.0 metres; Applications are being reviewed. Report to Council anticipated by year end.
Rosebank Sanitary Sewage Pumping Station
• The existing Rosebank Sanitary Sewage Pumping Station (SPS) requires upgrading to provide additional sanitary sewage pumping capacity and to comply with current engineering standards and health and safety regulations.
The Region is in the process of hiring the design consultant and as promised, a residents meeting will follow to provide the community opportunity for input into the design of the station. Anticipated late winter or spring of next year.
Contact Councillor Littley’s office if you wish to be notified of the residents meeting and haven’t already done so.
Sheppard Sidewalk
• Urbanization which includes storm sewer installation, road reconstruction which includes new granular base materials, concrete curb & gutters, concrete sidewalk on the south side and base asphalt. Along with this project the Region of Durham will be replacing the existing watermain. Completion anticipated Nov 08.
Altona Road Widening (The Region of Durham)
• The Region anticipates starting construction for the widening of Altona Road from two (2) to four (4) lanes from Kingston Road to Stroud’s Lane in 2009. (see www.region.durham.on.ca);
Twyn Rivers & Altona Road (Honeywood Properties Inc.)
• Proposal for 10 detached dwellings situated at the south west corner of Altona Road and Twyn Rivers; The Ontario Municipal Board upheld Council’s approval of this development.
364 Kingston Rd. (NW corner at Rougemount)
• Proposal to add a variety of commercial uses to the existing zoning by-law in anticipation of future redevelopment of the property.
526 & 542 Kingston Road (east of Rosebank)
• The residential development of 30 townhouses and 15 detached dwellings is being finalized and construction anticipated this fall.
875 Kingston Road (Indopak Inc.)
• Council has approved a proposal for a 10 storey mixed use development consisting of 198 residential units and approximately 3500 square metres of commercial floor area; Site Plan being finalized with the City.
Fairport Rd/Spruce Hill Rd/Welrus St. (Anthony Debruin)
• Proposal for 27 single detached dwellings fronting onto a proposed municipal road; Council approved. Owners are fulfilling conditions of approval.
Rosebank Rd/Gillmoss (W&N Trapper, B Trapper/Land Pro Engineering)
• A Statutory Public Information Meeting was held on March 4, 2008, for a proposal to rezone and subdivide for 40 detached dwelling lots with frontages ranging from 11.0 to 13.0 metres; Applications are being reviewed. Report to Council anticipated by year end.
491 Rosebank Rd (Rosebank Properties Inc.)
• A Statutory Public Information Meeting was held on February 4, 2008 for a proposal to rezone and subdivide for 23 single detached dwelling lots with frontages ranging from 13.4 to 15.0 metres; Applications are being reviewed. Report to Council anticipated by year end.
Rosebank Sanitary Sewage Pumping Station
• The existing Rosebank Sanitary Sewage Pumping Station (SPS) requires upgrading to provide additional sanitary sewage pumping capacity and to comply with current engineering standards and health and safety regulations.
The Region is in the process of hiring the design consultant and as promised, a residents meeting will follow to provide the community opportunity for input into the design of the station. Anticipated late winter or spring of next year.
Contact Councillor Littley’s office if you wish to be notified of the residents meeting and haven’t already done so.
2008 FEATURE TOPIC
FEATURE TOPIC – 2008
Think Global - Act Local
Community driven projects and the fulfilling spirit of volunteerism are the heart of our community
** STUDENTS **
WOULD YOU LIKE TO EARN EXTRA MONEY?
DO YOU NEED YOUR HIGH SCHOOL HOURS?
Community Care Durham Ajax-Pickering needs reliable helpers to rake leaves, cut grass and shovel walkways and driveways for clients in the Pickering area. The rate of pay is $8 - $10 an hour which is paid to the helper. These tasks can be performed for community service hours needed for graduation.
We are also looking for people to volunteer to help with the many services available to our clients. Some of these service include: Friendly Visiting, Meals-on-Wheels, Luncheon Out, Office Administration and transportation to medical appointments or grocery shopping. If you have a few hours to spare, you can help improve the quality of life for others.
Call our office at: 905-837-0017
Valley Plentiful Community Garden
Our first year has been an incredible success!! We’ve gone from 8 gardeners to 28 for next year at our HWY 2 location next to Pickering Produce in Princess Diana Park.
Come Grow with Us & Become a Gardener!
If you are a resident of Pickering you too can rent a garden bed. Members of community groups and schools are welcome. There are also communal beds for those who want to share with the community through various social agencies. You can also join our committee, join in work days, or become a donor.
Please contact the coordinator at 905.420.9843, valleyplentiful@gmail.com or Councillor Littley at 905.420.4608
Friends of the Rouge Watershed
Enjoy the great outdoors, just
around the corner in the Rouge Park!
Planting volunteers are needed weekdays to assist with school group plantings.
In the early evening and on weekends volunteers needed to help collect wild tree and flower seeds throughout the Rouge Park.
No experience necessary - On-site Instruction.
Great activity for friends and family.
Call us and we’ll find the perfect event for you!
Contact 416.208.0252, www.frw.ca
Environmental Stewardship Pickering
& Pickering’s Urban Forest Strategy
Environmental Stewardship Pickering (ESP) is an initiative to expand the work of the successful Frenchman’s Bay Watershed Rehabilitation Project to cover the entire City of Pickering. In June 2008, the City of Pickering, Ontario Power Generation and Toronto and Region Conservation invited a wide range of environmental and other community organizations together to see if there was an interest in joining forces under the heading of Environmental Stewardship Pickering (ESP). The response was a resounding YES.
For many years, residents have been active in environmental projects in Pickering. We can all connect through our common interest in the environment. We want to share knowledge, volunteers and financial resources. To show that many small community efforts add up to big changes for the environment in Pickering.
We look forward to building upon our past success and future endeavours such as Councillor Littley’s motion introducing an Urban Forest Strategy to Pickering. A core group of Pickering representatives interested in fostering a sense of ownership, pride and knowledge about the natural environment in Pickering is a great way to think global - act local. Groups and individuals welcome!
Send your events or get involved by contacting stewardship@city.pickering.on.ca or Councillor Littley at blittley@city.pickering.on.ca, 905.420.4608
The United Way of Ajax-Pickering-Uxbridge has started their 2008 fundraising campaign. The campaign runs till the end of the year. Money raised funds more than 50 program offered by 29 agencies.
Some of the issues the United Way take on include: poverty, abuse, homelessness, violence, emotional and physical health, child, seniors, youth, unemployment and many more.
“We know these are uncertain economic times. The programs funded by the United Way are more vital than ever. The services protect the most vulnerable” says Edna Klazek, Chief Executive Director.
To donate or volunteer contact: 905-686-0606, office@uwayapu.org, www.uwayapu.org
Celebrating Local Food
The Human Dinner Plate Project
We hope to bring approximately one thousand people to a farmer's field in Pickering next autumn to form an image of a dinner plate filled with vegetables and fruits. At this event an aerial photograph will be taken and this image will be circulated worldwide.
"Celebrating Local Food : The Dinner Plate Project" will be an amazing opportunity to bring together, farmers, artists, food activists , climate activists and the people of the GTA to celebrate our farmers , farmland and harvest time.
This event will draw needed attention to our rapidly diminishing farm communities and farmlands around the GTA and to encourage us all to reduce our carbon footprint by supporting locally grown food and the development of sustainable land-use policies.
To volunteer or information contact:
Melissa Morgan 416-878-5287 /905-649-2763
celebratinglocalfood@rogers.com www.celebratinglocalfood.ca
Durham Sustain Ability develops sustainability programs and supports actions by municipalities,
businesses, community groups and individuals - practical actions that help us all learn how to achieve the balance required to move toward a sustainable future.
As we learn to balance environmental, economic and social objectives, our journey - like riding a bicycle - can be simple, joyous, and efficient.
Find out how to reduce your personal ecological footprint today!
Sign up for our e-list Newsletter, contact: 905.427.0061, info@sustain-ability.ca, Visit, www.sustain-ability.ca
Think Global - Act Local
Community driven projects and the fulfilling spirit of volunteerism are the heart of our community
** STUDENTS **
WOULD YOU LIKE TO EARN EXTRA MONEY?
DO YOU NEED YOUR HIGH SCHOOL HOURS?
Community Care Durham Ajax-Pickering needs reliable helpers to rake leaves, cut grass and shovel walkways and driveways for clients in the Pickering area. The rate of pay is $8 - $10 an hour which is paid to the helper. These tasks can be performed for community service hours needed for graduation.
We are also looking for people to volunteer to help with the many services available to our clients. Some of these service include: Friendly Visiting, Meals-on-Wheels, Luncheon Out, Office Administration and transportation to medical appointments or grocery shopping. If you have a few hours to spare, you can help improve the quality of life for others.
Call our office at: 905-837-0017
Valley Plentiful Community Garden
Our first year has been an incredible success!! We’ve gone from 8 gardeners to 28 for next year at our HWY 2 location next to Pickering Produce in Princess Diana Park.
Come Grow with Us & Become a Gardener!
If you are a resident of Pickering you too can rent a garden bed. Members of community groups and schools are welcome. There are also communal beds for those who want to share with the community through various social agencies. You can also join our committee, join in work days, or become a donor.
Please contact the coordinator at 905.420.9843, valleyplentiful@gmail.com or Councillor Littley at 905.420.4608
Friends of the Rouge Watershed
Enjoy the great outdoors, just
around the corner in the Rouge Park!
Planting volunteers are needed weekdays to assist with school group plantings.
In the early evening and on weekends volunteers needed to help collect wild tree and flower seeds throughout the Rouge Park.
No experience necessary - On-site Instruction.
Great activity for friends and family.
Call us and we’ll find the perfect event for you!
Contact 416.208.0252, www.frw.ca
Environmental Stewardship Pickering
& Pickering’s Urban Forest Strategy
Environmental Stewardship Pickering (ESP) is an initiative to expand the work of the successful Frenchman’s Bay Watershed Rehabilitation Project to cover the entire City of Pickering. In June 2008, the City of Pickering, Ontario Power Generation and Toronto and Region Conservation invited a wide range of environmental and other community organizations together to see if there was an interest in joining forces under the heading of Environmental Stewardship Pickering (ESP). The response was a resounding YES.
For many years, residents have been active in environmental projects in Pickering. We can all connect through our common interest in the environment. We want to share knowledge, volunteers and financial resources. To show that many small community efforts add up to big changes for the environment in Pickering.
We look forward to building upon our past success and future endeavours such as Councillor Littley’s motion introducing an Urban Forest Strategy to Pickering. A core group of Pickering representatives interested in fostering a sense of ownership, pride and knowledge about the natural environment in Pickering is a great way to think global - act local. Groups and individuals welcome!
Send your events or get involved by contacting stewardship@city.pickering.on.ca or Councillor Littley at blittley@city.pickering.on.ca, 905.420.4608
The United Way of Ajax-Pickering-Uxbridge has started their 2008 fundraising campaign. The campaign runs till the end of the year. Money raised funds more than 50 program offered by 29 agencies.
Some of the issues the United Way take on include: poverty, abuse, homelessness, violence, emotional and physical health, child, seniors, youth, unemployment and many more.
“We know these are uncertain economic times. The programs funded by the United Way are more vital than ever. The services protect the most vulnerable” says Edna Klazek, Chief Executive Director.
To donate or volunteer contact: 905-686-0606, office@uwayapu.org, www.uwayapu.org
Celebrating Local Food
The Human Dinner Plate Project
We hope to bring approximately one thousand people to a farmer's field in Pickering next autumn to form an image of a dinner plate filled with vegetables and fruits. At this event an aerial photograph will be taken and this image will be circulated worldwide.
"Celebrating Local Food : The Dinner Plate Project" will be an amazing opportunity to bring together, farmers, artists, food activists , climate activists and the people of the GTA to celebrate our farmers , farmland and harvest time.
This event will draw needed attention to our rapidly diminishing farm communities and farmlands around the GTA and to encourage us all to reduce our carbon footprint by supporting locally grown food and the development of sustainable land-use policies.
To volunteer or information contact:
Melissa Morgan 416-878-5287 /905-649-2763
celebratinglocalfood@rogers.com www.celebratinglocalfood.ca
Durham Sustain Ability develops sustainability programs and supports actions by municipalities,
businesses, community groups and individuals - practical actions that help us all learn how to achieve the balance required to move toward a sustainable future.
As we learn to balance environmental, economic and social objectives, our journey - like riding a bicycle - can be simple, joyous, and efficient.
Find out how to reduce your personal ecological footprint today!
Sign up for our e-list Newsletter, contact: 905.427.0061, info@sustain-ability.ca, Visit, www.sustain-ability.ca
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