February 21 2021
The Deputy Mayor's Exchange
Red Alert!
Red Alert!

There are two distinct COVID camps: those who feel it's well past the time to move out of lockdown and those who feel that because of the new COVID variants, York Region (YR) should remain in lockdown. In spite of attempts to dissuade Dr. Karim Kirji, the YR Medical Officer of Health, YR moves into the Red Zone tomorrow. I still remain baffled that hundreds of people can intermingle in large box stores but small independent businesses will be restricted to just a few patrons at a time within a controlled environment. Check the article below for further details.

YR Council spent a lot of time last week discussing the roll out of the COVID vaccination plan. The Feds order the vaccine, the Province distributes it and the Region puts the shot in your arm. I was very impressed by how much work Dr. Kirji, Chairman Emmerson and their teams have done to insure a smooth and orderly vaccation process. See below for more information.

It's almost tax time and if you're working from home you may be entitled to some tax relief. See below.

Pink Shirt Day is this Wednesday. Wear pink to support anti-bullying!

Thank you to Shanta Sundarason, Matt Rock and Alexis Whalen for their comments on MZO's in this week's Economist & Sun front page article.

Yes Virginia, there really is a Swan Lake and the City of Markham staff continue to work with the Swan Lake community to bring the lake back to a quality standard. Feel free to participate in the Swan Lake survey. See details below.

Stay positive - test negative.
In this issue
- RED Zone Starts Monday
- Getting Ready for Vaccinations
- New CPR Steps Save Lives
- Swan Lake Park
- Newcomers to York Region
- Celebrating Black History Month
- Building Better Public Spaces
- MPL Update
- Pink Shirt Day
- YorkU Markham Open House
- RNUP Updates
- Clear Your Sewer Grate
- Be Flood Ready
- Caution Thin Ice
- Home Office Expense Claims
- Emergency Kits
- Tree Survey Results
- Other Items
- Markham C19 Report
- YR C19 Dashboard
- Upcoming Meetings
- York Region Update
- Community Meetings and Events
Please forward this update to anyone that may find it of interest.
Looking for more information?

Any of the blue text, blue buttons and most of the graphics have links to further detail.
Click here to read the previous edition of The Deputy Mayor's Exchange.

At 12:01am on Monday February 22, the City of Markham will enter the RED-CONTROL Zone. More specific Markham based information can be found at Markham.ca/covid19. 
  • Wear a mask
  • Wash your hands
  • Keep a safe distance
  • Limit travel outside your home
  • Support local

While the Stay-at-Home Order and State of Emergency will no longer be in effect in Markham on Monday, residents are asked to continue to limit travel outside of your home to essential trips for groceries, medicine, to access healthcare services, for essential work or to exercise. Residents are urged not to travel between regions as several new and infectious strains of COVID-19 have been detected in Ontario.

Specific details on RED-CONTROL Zone can be found here and include:
  • Indoor: 5 people maximum
  • Outdoor: 25 people maximum (while keeping a safe distance)
  • Weddings, funerals, religious services: 30% capacity of the room indoors or 100 people outdoors (while keeping a safe distance)
  • An individual who lives alone (household of one) may also gather solely with one other household
  • Opening of businesses under strict conditions including policies and procedures to prevent the transmission of COVID-19. Sector-specific guidelines are available at markham.ca/CovidEnforcement.

The City of Markham’s COVID-19 affected services are as follows:
  • City-owned community centres, arenas, pools, fitness centres, the Markham Museum, the Flato Markham Theatre and the Varley Art Gallery will remain closed until further notice
  • Virtual recreation and fitness programs continue to be offered - details
  • Skating at the Markham Civic Centre Outdoor Ice Rink - details
  • Markham Public Library will continue to offer select online services. They will also continue to offer curbside pick up of holds and returns at the Markham Village, Thornhill Village and Unionville locations
  • The City continues to provide critical services to residents and businesses virtually and in-person (services requiring in-person assistance require an appointment)
  • Markham Recycling Depots will remain open
If you feel sick, stay home. It is important to monitor yourself for symptoms of COVID-19 and seek assessment and testing if you have COVID-19 symptoms, or if you've been advised of exposure.

As always should you require any assistance, please reach out to the City's Contact Centre at 905.477.5530 or email at customerservice@markham.ca. Please also remember that your local Ward Councillor is also available to assist if you don't know where to turn.

It is critically important that we each continue to do our part to keep one another safe. It is not the time to let your guard down. Every action counts. More information is available at markham.ca/covid19 and york.ca/covid19.


York Region has been busy preparing to ensure the swift and coordinated vaccination of communities from COVID-19. York Region will use multiple fixed vaccine clinic sites, drive-thru and mobile clinics in combination with an outreach program for congregate settings and areas disproportionally impacted by COVID-19.

To date, the Region has secured four fixed clinic sites which will be ready to open in March, upon receiving vaccine supply from the Province of Ontario including:
  • Aaniin Community Centre in Markham
  • Maple Community Centre in Vaughan
  • Richmond Green Sports Centre in Richmond Hill
  • Georgina Ice Palace in Georgina
Please note these sites are not currently open and are subject to change.

Details are also being finalized for two additional drive-thru vaccine clinics to be located at:
  • Canada’s Wonderland, 1 Canada's Wonderland Drive in the City of Vaughan
  • Markham Fairgrounds, 10801 McCowan Road in the City of Markham

Partner-led immunization clinics continue to operate at:
  • Ray Twinney Recreation Complex in Newmarket
  • Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital in Vaughan

Future options for delivery of the vaccine through additional York Region led clinics and by community partners are also being explored. Opening of the mass immunization clinics will be staggered and dependent on identified priority groups and vaccine availability. Vaccine clinic sites are subject to change based on capacity and operational needs; additional sites may be added or may replace a pre-identified site.

We are currently in Phase One of the Government of Ontario’s COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan. The opening of the mass immunization clinics will support the Region as we move into Phase Two of the Government of Ontario’s roll-out plan. Populations eligible for vaccination in Phase Two include all those from Phase One plus:
  • Adults 80 years of age and then decreasing in five-year increments over the course of the vaccine roll-out
  • Those living and working in other high-risk congregate settings, for example shelters and community living
  • Essential workers, beginning with front-line essential workers, including first responders, teachers and other education staff and the food processing industry
  • Individuals with high-risk chronic conditions and their caregivers
  • Other populations and communities facing barriers related to the determinants of health across Ontario who are at greater COVID-19 risk

Vaccines will be available to the general public in Phase Three. Only those in priority groups can currently get vaccinated. The Ontario government has defined what groups of healthcare workers are defined “highest risk”.

People who are not identified in the current phase are not able to go on a wait list or pre-book vaccination. The Province of Ontario is responsible for identifying the eligible priority groups.

While the COVID-19 vaccinations rollout in Ontario and York Region, it’s important everyone continues to follow public health advice to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Details on the roll out York Region COVID-19 Vaccination Plan were shared with York Regional Council on this week.

Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine roll-out at york.ca/COVID19Vaccine.

During a suspected cardiopulmonary resuscitation, doing hands-only CPR can have a significant effect on a person’s chance of survival.

Even during a pandemic, you can reduce the risk of a COVID-19 transmission and still save a life. More information about CPR can be found at york.ca/CPR.
If you encounter a person who may be in cardiac arrest, you should follow these modified CPR steps:


Over the next few months, City of Markham Council will establish long term goals for Swan Lake and Swan Lake Park. Council asked staff to report back in 2021 addressing ideas for a park improvement program, the establishment of long term water quality guidelines and a long term Fish Management program for Swan Lake.

During 2020, Markham Council recognized the need to address some critical issues in Swan Lake Park and authorized four programs:
  • a chemical treatment in Spring of 2021, to provide some immediate improvement in water quality in Swan Lake
  • a stronger geese management program to reduce the number of Canada Geese
  • a park refresh program that will address some of the invasive plant species in the Park
  • improved pedestrian safety by adding sidewalks around the Swan Lake Boulevard traffic circle.

More information on these programs and the issues facing Swan Lake and Swan Lake Park is available at friendsofswanlakepark.ca.

Critical to defining a park improvement program or setting water quality goals is to first clarify what is the community role for the Park and Lake. You can help by completing the Park Improvement Survey. The results from this survey will be shared with Council. This is your opportunity to help shape the future of both Swan Lake and Swan Lake Park.

Have you ever wondered where to start when trying to locate and access services and supports to help newcomers settle in York Region? Curious about what programs are available? York Region is holding a virtual event on March 4 at 10am to provide more information. Learn about this event here including how to register.

You can also access York Region’s recent Newcomer Guide which is a resource for residents who are new to or are considering a move to the area.
In partnership with the Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA), the City of Markham is proud to release the ‘Words of Wisdom’ video in virtual celebration of Black History Month. This video features knowledge and insight shared by Black Elders in our community, shares musical and choir performances, spoken word poetry, photos and recognizes the contributions of a selection of Black leaders in our community.
The City of Markham extends recognition and appreciation to this year’s Black History Month Award Winners who actively enrich the Markham community: Kearie Daniel, Inspector Maurice James, Audrey Hayle, Ivy Matthews, Julius Nuako K. Adu and Sergeant Shane Spina.

Through their actions and dedication to championing diversity, especially through these challenging times, these individuals actively contribute to building a warm, welcoming and inclusive community in Markham.
 
The City of Markham is committed to being a diverse and inclusive City. The City leads these efforts through commitment to learning and sharing both the history and accomplishments of Black communities as well as the impact of anti-Black racism in Canada. To date, the City of Markham has taken intentional steps to develop and move forward with a strategy to combat anti-Black racism. The City's progress over the last few months includes:
  • Monthly meetings with the York Region District School Board and other stakeholders to discuss opportunities for collaboration
  • Regular check-ins with the City’s Special Advisor Mary Anne Chambers
  • Development and roll-out of mandatory anti-Black racism staff eLearning (97% completion rate)
  • Sharing the eLearning with external stakeholders in the community and beyond
  • Preparation of a Request for Proposal (RFP) to engage a consultant to update the City’s Diversity Action Plan, including consultations with Black community members
  • Update the status of recommendations identified in the City’s Diversity Action Plan (2010 – 2019)
  • Identifying consultants to undertake an Equity Audit
  • Interviewing and appointing new members of the Race Relations Committee
  • Developing Terms of Reference for the Mayor’s Black Youth Liaison Committee
  • Later this month, the City will undertake a series of Let’s Talk about Racism: Continuing the Conversation workshops with staff

The Healthy Communities Initiative is a $31 million investment from the Government of Canada to transform public spaces in response to COVID-19.

If your organization has ideas that will prepare communities for the future, apply by March 9. Learn more

For now, at least, the Markham Public Library will only offer select online services. They will also continue to offer curbside pick up of holds and returns at the Markham Village, Thornhill Village and Unionville branches. The physical MPL locations will remain closed. Here are some of their upcoming events:
  • Join the virtual book club where they will discuss the book His Only Wife by Peace Adzo Medie. Sign up for one of the book club meetings and borrow the book.
  • Chair Yoga - February 23 at 7pm - details
  • Proactive Parenting Practices - February 24 at 7pm - details

The original Pink Shirt Day was organized in 2007 by David Shepherd and Travis Price of Berwick, Nova Scotia. After a grade 9 student was bullied for wearing a pink shirt on the first day of school, David and Travis distributed pink shirts to all of the boys in their school to take a stand against harassment.
 
Since then, Pink Shirt Day has become a day that is committed to raising awareness and ending bullying and harassment. One in five kids are affected by bullying. On February 24, help end the stigma and start a conversation with others about bullying.

Show empathy, compassion, kindness and celebrate diversity by wearing pink and challenging stereotypes. Don’t forget to share your photos on social media using #PinkShirtDay and #MarkhamWearsPink. More information on Pink Shirt Day can be found here.

Join York University for a virtual open house on March 4th at 7pm to discover more about the new York Markham campus, construction plans and future opportunities. RSVP and submit your questions - here.

  • There have been reported sightings of a coyote with mange in the Rouge Park area. If you spot it, please give it space and don't approach. Please take pictures from a distance and report it here.

  • Calling all students. Work for RNUP this summer - details

  • While they haven't set dates yet for their learn-to-camp program which will likely be virtual this year, there are a number of online resources that you can view in the meantime - details.
It is supposed to warm up this week and our snow is going to melt. If you have a sewer grate in front of your house, please help keep it clear of snow, ice and debris, so water can drain and avoid flooding.
2020 was a record-breaking year for water levels on each of the five Great Lakes.
It appears that 2021 isn't going to be much different.

Is your property FloodReady? Check out the toolkit here.

The weather is expected to change and the temperature will rise which mean that ice will slowly begin to melt and thin out with the potential for some break-up. While the ice may appear thick, it is unpredictable and some areas may have little to no ice.

As a reminder to please stay off Markham’s ponds, stormwater ponds and waterways as the ice can be unsafe. Learn more

As many continue to work remotely, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) announced a simplified process for claiming home office expenses for those working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Employees who worked from home more than 50% of the time over a period of a least four consecutive weeks in 2020 due to COVID-19 will now be eligible to claim the home office expenses deduction on their personal income tax return for 2020.

Additional information on the simplified process to claim home office expenses can be found here and information on the two claim methods can be found here.

Please note that the eligibility to deduct employment expenses is a personal income tax matter between an individual employee and the CRA. Anyone wishing to deduct employment expenses are advised to review CRA publications and seek the advice of their tax consultant.
Life can be unpredictable.
Are you ready?
You should have an Emergency Car Kit (flashlight, booster cables, vehicle fluids, non-perishable food, bottled water, shovel and more) in your vehicle so you are prepared for the unexpected. Learn more
Recently York Region conducted an online survey to understand what street trees and plants mean to residents and businesses.
Input was received from respondents on various topics as street trees help shape the character of our cities and towns and contribute to a sense of place.
Other items

  • Rapid Antigen testing for the agri-food sector - The Province will be providing tests to essential workplaces and settings to help stop the spread of COVID-19 - Learn more

  • FREE promotion for Markham businesses - get your business listed on Destination Markham's website. It only takes 5 minutes to complete. Click here to get started.

  • Updates from LEAF
  • DIY Tree Planting - Looking to try something new this year? Plant a tree yourself through LEAF's DIY Tree Planting Program and receive the benefits of personalized advice from a certified arborist. Learn more
  • Perennials and Pawpaws - The 2021 native garden kits and pawpaw pairs are on sale. Order now and LEAF will deliver them by the end of June. Sold on a first-come-first-served basis. Details here

  • Evergreen Hospice events
  • Pass the Care Forward Memorial Walk 2021 - this year their annual event will be virtual starting with a scavenger hunt on March 21 and will run until April 24 concluding with a virtual memorial. More information about the event can be found here.
  • Virtual Connection Café takes place on the 1st Monday of every month at 1:30pm to explore activities and resources being offered in to the community. These events will take place on March 1, April 5 and May 3. Email tstanton@evgcares.org for a Zoom link.

  • Community Volunteer Income Tax Program - For the 2021 tax season, Markham Public Library is taking part in the CVITP. The program is a collaborative partnership between the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), community organizations such as MPL and their volunteers. The library is hosting virtual free tax clinics where community volunteers (who may or may not be tax professionals) complete and file taxes for free by phone. More information is available here.


  • YSpace is excited to present an exclusive fireside chat and LIVE venture pitch with Vincenzo Guzzo aka Mr. Sunshine from CBC's Dragons Den! Join YSpace on February 22, 2021 at 5:30pm - register here. Other upcoming YSpace events can be found here.

  • Applications are open for York Region Arts Council's Artrepreneur 8-week program. It will provide discipline-specific (digital media and visual arts) entrepreneurial training for artists in an online classroom. To learn more and apply here
as of February 20, 2021 at 1pm - click title or on chart for full report
These Markham specific COVID-19 details are provided by MFES
and the City of Markham Executive Leadership Team.
More information about Markham's response to COVID-19 can be found here.

York Region's COVID-19 dashboard now includes suspect and confirmed cases in schools. The interactive dashboard is updated seven days a week at 5pm and provides detailed information about C19 in York Region including a breakdown of specific Markham data. Details can be found at york.ca/covid19data.

More information about Markham's response to COVID-19 can be found here.
Upcoming Meetings

  • February 22 - Development Services Meeting - 9:30am - details
  • February 23 - Council Meeting - 1pm - details
  • February 24 - YR Accessibility Advisory Committee - 4pm - details
  • February 25 - York Region Council Meeting - 9am - details
  • March 1 - General Committee Meeting - 9:30am - details
  • March 3 - Housing York - 9am - details
  • March 3 - Development Services Public Meeting - 7pm - details
  • March 4 - Committee of the Whole - Budget Presentations - 9am - details
  • March 8 - Development Services Committee - 9:30am - details
  • March 9 - Council Meeting - 1pm - details
  • March 11 - Committee of the Whole - Budget Presentations - 9am - details

  • Upcoming Markham Committee Meetings - details

All meetings are now being conducted electronically and Council members along with staff are participating remotely. All facilities remain closed. As always, members of the public are encouraged to participate in these meetings. Written deputations can be sent by email to clerkspublic@markham.ca. If you would like to make a virtual deputation you can register here or phone the Clerk's office at 905-477-7000 x3638. All meetings can be viewed online by clicking the details noted above.

York Region Council meetings and live streaming details can be found here. Details of upcoming YR meetings and past sessions are available here. 

Community Meetings and Events


  • How to Grow and Maintain a Digital Community - February 22 - details
  • Markham Arts Council Healing Dance - February 23 at 10:30am - details
  • Social Media Strategy Mapping - February 23 - details
  • YRFN Food for the Future - February 23 at 1pm - details
  • YRFN Lunch Table - One Pot Meals - February 24 at 11am - details
  • MBT After 4 Networking - February 25 at 4pm - details
  • Unionville Residents Association Zoom meeting - March 1 at 7pm - details
  • At-Home 360°Experience - March 4 - details
  • York University Markham Campus Open House - March 4 at 7pm - details
  • Building Brand Awareness - SEO training for beginners - March 8 - details
  • Join York University for a virtual open house on March 4th at 7pm to
  • Unionville Villagers Association Zoom meeting - March 8 at 7pm
  • Building Brand Awareness - Intro to Google Ads - March 22 - details
  • MBT Women's Networking Luncheon - March 23 - details


I'd be pleased to highlight other community meetings in future newsletters.
Please forward the details to dhamilton@markham.ca
Working together to make Markham better!
Don Hamilton - City of Markham
Deputy Mayor and Regional Councillor
905-415-7549
Connect with me