June 13 2021
The Deputy Mayor's Exchange
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We won the battle. Will we win the war?
Last week a motion was brought to the Development Services Meeting as a part of the ongoing effort by Thornhill Councillor Keith Irish so that the subway extension doesn't go under an existing residential area. In a surprise move, Mayor Frank Scarpitti attempted to defer any action on Councillor Irish's motion for a month. At first the vote to defer appeared to have passed by 7-6 but on a subsequent review of the video taped session, it was obvious that the vote to defer had failed and that Councillor Irish's motion should have gone forward. At next day's Council Meeting the wrong was corrected and by a vote of 11-2, Markham Council voted to NOT support Option 3. This vote is symbolic as final decisions on routing of the YNSE rest with the Province through GO-Metrolinx. As an aside, Vaughan's Council has also voted not to support Option 3. Would you want a subway under your home?
Thornhill is slated for two new parks. See below if you'd like to offer input into bringing those parks to fruition.
If you live almost anywhere in York Region the Gypsy Moth caterpillars are hanging, walking, munching almost everywhere. See details below and perhaps carry an umbrella!
June is Italian Heritage Month. I recall as a kid the immigration of Italians to Canada. We taught them how to play ball hockey! Be proud of where you came from and remember why you're here.
The Terry Fox Run will take place in September. More on this as we get closer to the date.
Have a pleasant week!
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In this issue
- Welcome!
- COVID-19 Vaccinations
- Reopening Step One
- A Step in the Right Direction
- LDD Outbreak in York Region
- Terry Fox Run 2021
- A Gem in Our Backyard
- Keep Cool
- Keep Your Pets at Home
- June is Recreation and Parks Month
- Vintages at the Varley
- Water Open House
- Summer Fun ☀️
- Day of Apology
- Eat, Play, Stay and Save
- Other Items
- Markham COVID-19 Report
- YR COVID-19 Dashboard
- Upcoming Meetings
- York Region Update
- Community Meetings and Events
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Click here to read the previous edition of The Deputy Mayor's Exchange.
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Welcome!
Just a quick note to welcome a number of new subscribers to the Deputy Mayor's Exchange over the last couple of weeks.
The DME continues to be my weekly effort to update the residents of Markham on various topics in the City and across York Region. I hope that all readers find something of interest each week.
Please feel free to forward the DME to other Markham residents that you think may find it of interest. New readers can sign up here.
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Vaccines continue to be administered by appointment and anyone age 12+ living, working or going to school in York Region is now eligible - details. The most current information can be found at york.ca/covid19vaccine.
On Monday June 14 at 8 am, individuals who live, work or attend school in York Region that received their first dose on or before May 9 are now able to receive their second dose. Appointments can be booked online or by phone by visiting york.ca/COVID19Vaccine. Those who received a mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) will receive the same vaccine as their first dose.
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If you received AstraZeneca, you will have the option to receive an mRNA vaccine or a second dose of AstraZeneca - details.
All previously booked second dose appointments will be honoured and will not be cancelled unless a new and earlier appointment is confirmed. More information can be found here.
There are a variety of clinics where you can go and should you need help booking an appointment, please call the number listed under the clinic location.
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- If you are looking to book an appointment check york.ca/covid19vaccine often as new appointments can appear on short notice and sometimes even on the same day.
- You can see currently available vaccines in real time at vaccine-gta.ca to assist in booking an appointment. Learn how two Markham students developed this tool - read more.
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Vaccine Hunters have also been very active in tracking down vaccine availability on short notice.
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PinkCars is available to help any seniors that are struggling to get appointments or may have a language barrier. They also offer free rides to and from the vaccination centres should you need one. More information is available on their website, by calling 905.479.8880 or emailing info@pinkcars.ca.
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We have finally made it to Step One on the Province's three-step Roadmap to Reopen and we actually made it a few days earlier than anticipated! As it currently stands, t he Province will remain in each step for at least 21 days and move forward only if vaccination rates meet targets and key public health indicators improve. Public health and workplace safety measures will continue to apply, including maintaining physical distance, capacity limits and wearing face coverings in indoor spaces and whenever physical distancing is a challenge. Here are some of the new Step One guidelines:
- outdoor gatherings with up to 10 people
- outdoor patio dining with 4 people
- non-essential retail 15% capacity - stores in malls remain closed unless they have an exterior entrance
- day camps and campsites
- religious services with 15% capacity or outdoors with physical distancing
As always should you require any assistance, please reach out to the City's Contact Centre. Please also remember that your local Ward Councillor is also available to assist if you don't know where to turn.
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This week there was some good news on the battle to keep the Yonge Street Subway Extension on Yonge Street. The initial plans were to run the YNSE extension straight up Yonge Street however the preferred plan by Metrolinx, known as Option 3, is now to veer off Yonge Street to then run along the existing railway corridor.
On Tuesday, Markham Council voted 11-2 to reject Metrolinx Option 3 alignment that proposes tunnelling the YNSE under homes in Thornhill's Royal Orchard neighbourhood. Discussion with Metrolinx about other options are apparently ongoing.
While you may not live in the Royal Orchard neighbourhood in Thornhill, would you want a subway running under your home? The community is stronger if everyone works together so learn more and get involved.
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This has been the topic of many calls and emails this week as the caterpillars have emerged. They are everywhere which I'm sure you know if you have been walking in the community. York Region is experiencing outbreak levels of Lymantria Dispar Dispar (LDD) or Gypsy moths which will likely last through July and can lead to severe tree defoliation. Most trees will put out new leaves in a matter of weeks when the weather is favourable with a bit of rain. Although caterpillars are a pest for us, they are an important food source for wildlife. In fact, squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, skunks, over 15 species of birds and several native insects will all help reduce LDD numbers.
While there has been information in recent issues of the DME, I thought I would also include the details from a Q&A sheet the City has recently released.
Q – What is the City of Markham doing to City-owned trees?
A – The City of Markham has deployed staff to manually remove and destroy LDD egg masses from affected street trees. Egg mass surveys conducted in partnership with the Region of York, as well as data collected from resident feedback and street patrols has informed a priority rating system for Markham neighbourhoods. City staff continue to focus on the worst areas first by using small extendable vacuums to remove egg masses that be reached from the ground.
Q – What can I do to my tree?
A – At this stage, you may wish to remove and bag the caterpillars or egg masses. This can be achieved by scraping them into a container, then soaking them in soapy water for 48 hours prior to disposing of them in the garbage. Once the caterpillars emerge in late April to early May, control measures will have to change to match the lifecycle of the pest. The City of Markham recommends burlap banding to trap and destroy LDD caterpillars: Learn how to install burlap banding on your tree.
Q – I have caterpillars on my tree what is happening?
A – The caterpillars are part of the growth cycle of the LDD. During this stage of growth, the caterpillars feed on the leaves of many different trees and plants.
Q – The leaves are gone from my tree, is the tree dead?
A – During severe outbreaks, trees can be completely defoliated. The tree may produce a new set of leaves but may also store the energy to set buds for next year’s leaves. It is unlikely that the tree is dead.
Q – Why is this happening this year?
A – LDD outbreaks typically occur every seven to 10 years. Markham realized large population numbers of LDD in 2020 and infestation levels are expected to be high again in 2021. LDD outbreaks tend to last anywhere between one to four years before naturally collapsing.
Q – What is the City doing to stop this or control it?
A – In addition to egg mass removal, the City is working with the York Region to monitor the activity so we can track the size of the spread. This pest is not isolated to Markham and an effective solution requires coordination with neighbouring municipalities.
Q – What is the City going to do next year?
A – Natural control factors such as disease, parasites and predators eventually combine to cause a collapse of these outbreaks. City of Markham Operations Forestry staff will continue to work in partnership with York Region invasive species specialists on monitoring efforts to determine what, if any, intervention is required.
Q – What is the City’s approach?
A – The City’s response is a calculated Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach. IPM is a sustainable approach to managing pests that combines biological, cultural and physical factors to control in a way that minimizes impacts. At this time spraying is not an approved method of prevention by the City of Markham.
Q – If I want to spray my trees can I do that?
A – Yes. We would recommend hiring a certified arborist who can safely provide this service. Treatments should be applied in early spring to be effective.
Q – Where is Markham monitoring activity?
A – While we have seen small pockets of activity in all wards within the City, the largest concentration of activity is in Wards 1, 3 and 4.
Q – I have more questions. Who can I ask?
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Thank you to everyone who participated in the 2020 Terry Fox Run both in Markham-Unionville and Thornhill. Together, the sites raised $120,144 for cancer research. Markham-Unionville was amongst the top 25 teams for funds raised in Ontario.
For 2021, the Terry Fox Run will once again be a virtual run and will take place on Sunday September 19. Registration is now open for both Markham-Unionville and Thornhill sites. If you have participated in past years, please consider doing so again this year and if you have never done a Terry Fox Run why not this year? Register here for the Markham-Unionville and Thornhill locations. As always v olunteers are needed to help spread the word to get people to register and fundraise.
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Nature is so close to home. Would you like to camp close to home or go for a hike? Find out all about Canada's first and only National Urban Park - register here. |
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Summer is here and while it’s great to get outside and enjoy the warm weather, York Region Public Health is reminding residents to take extra precautions to stay safe in the heat. High temperatures, high humidity, lack of shade and minimal air movement can cause heat-related illnesses ranging from minor heat rashes and muscle cramps, to hot weather emergencies like heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
Everyone is at risk from extreme heat, especially older adults, infants and young children, people who work or exercise outdoors and those with certain medical conditions. Warning signs of heat-related illness include dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, weakness and confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Also remember to check on friends, family and neighbours who may be at risk. Make sure you also are taking precautions to stay safe from COVID-19.
Find ways to stay cool
- stay indoors in cool, well-ventilated areas
- wear loose-fitting, light coloured clothing made of breathable fabric
- when using fans, keep a window or door open to bring in cooler air from outside
- never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight
Drink extra fluids
- increase your fluid intake regardless of your activity level
- drink plenty of water before feeling thirsty
Reduce physical activity, especially in the full sun
- reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day
- reduce sun exposure between 11am and 4pm and when the UV Index is reported to reach three (moderate) or higher
- if you must be outdoors in the heat, rest frequently to allow your body temperature to cool down
- avoid sun exposure by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or use an umbrella
- Wear sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher
For more information on heat warnings, visit the Extreme Heat page, follow York Region on Twitter and Facebook or contact York Region Health Connection at 1.800.361.5653.
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If you see an animal unattended in a hot vehicle, act fast and report it!
You could save its life. Call 911.
You can also report animal related concerns to the City’s Animal Care team at 905.415.7531
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The City is celebrating Recreation and Parks Month to promote the positive impact physical activity has on health and well-being. Hike, bike or walk on trails, visit parks or join outdoor and virtual fitness programs.
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On June 23, enjoy an evening of wine tasting delivered right to your door in support of the Varley Art Gallery of Markham. More information about the event can be found here. |
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York Region is updating its Water and Wastewater Master Plan which will identify long-term infrastructure projects for future water and wastewater servicing needs to 2051. Feedback gathered through this online Open House will help shape the final report to York Regional Council.
From the comfort of your own home, you can participate in the online Open House from June 24 to July 8 at york.ca/waterplan. Learn more about York Region’s plans to continue providing safe, cost-efficient and reliable water and wastewater services to residents, businesses and communities. More information about this project including the details from the prior Open Houses can be found here.
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The City is offering programs to help keep you and your family active and engaged this summer. Learn more about:
- Outdoor and Virtual Fitness
- Rec Programs
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Outdoor public swimming, lessons, aquafit and private rentals at Morgan Pool - markham.ca/swimming
- Pop-Up Park Program
- Culture Camps
- Virtual Library Programs and Camps
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The City of Markham on June 11 commemorated the anniversary of the Government of Canada’s Statement of Apology to former students of Indian Residential Schools by lighting 215 candles in memory of the children in Kamloops and one additional candle for the children who are yet to be found.
Together we must commit to learning more about the diversity and history of Indigenous peoples so that we recognize past mistakes, raise awareness, increase knowledge, continue to build respect and trust and take action - learn more.
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Discover all that Markham has to offer with your My Markham Savings Pass. As businesses start to reopen, it is a great time to get out and support our local Markham businesses. They've had a tough time over the last year with all of the COVID-19 restrictions and are waiting to welcome you back. Take this Savings Pass with you to enjoy discounts at hotels, restaurants, attractions, retailers, spas and more. You will also have a chance to win - learn more.
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Other items
In case you missed it last week, did you know that Markham is ranked as the 2nd safest city in Canada? - read more
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After you call for service, you may receive text messages with helpful information, status updates on your call or a request for your feedback.
Learn more about this new SPIDR Tech initiative here.
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Ward 3 Councillor Reid McAlpine and I attended the opening of the Main Street Unionville Market last Sunday. The Market will be open every Sunday until September 19 from 9am to 2pm. The Market is organized by the Unionville BIA and you can find it by the Stiver Mill and Unionville Train Station.
The Main Street Markham Farmers' Market is now running on Saturday mornings from 9am to 1pm until October 9th. The vendor line up switches from week to week but will include local farmers, producers, entrepreneurs and chefs. Swing by and shop local. The market is centrally located near Markham Main Street on Robinson Street. |
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Have you been out biking? Do you know all the rules of the road when you're on your bike? As a part of Bike Month, why not join the Road Rules webinar on June 16 at 1pm.
Learn about your rights and responsibilities when interacting with others on the road in this interactive quiz-style workshop. Topics include: laws and fines that apply to both cyclists and drivers, sharing space with pedestrians and other road users, common misconceptions about turns, parking, passing, right of way and more. More information and registration details - here.
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Markham's Advisory Committee on Accessibility - volunteers needed - minimum of 2 spots available - apply now. The Advisory Committee on Accessibility assists Markham Council in improving opportunities for persons with disabilities by promoting the implementation of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
The Committee is seeking new committee members from from Markham’s diverse community and encourage persons with disabilities and persons with an interest in disability and accessibility issues to apply - learn more.
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As a reminder there will be a Statutory Public Meeting on June 15 at 7:00pm regarding redevelopment of Thornhill’s Shouldice Hospital land on Bayview Avenue north of John Street.
Details about the meeting can be found here including how to speak at the meeting.
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The Markham Board of Trade with support from the City has free COVID-19 rapid antigen test kits available to Markham businesses with under 150 employees. It is not a requirement to be a MBT member to access these kits. More information about this program can be found here. |
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In partnership with York Region, the LEAF Backyard Tree Planting Program offers native trees to residential, multi-unit and commercial property owners for a subsidized price. Through the program, a certified LEAF arborist will consult with you either in-person with a physically distanced visit or through a virtual consultation to help them select the best species and most suitable planting location. Through this partnership, Markham property owners pay only $50 for each evergreen tree and $100 for each deciduous tree - learn more.
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There are 2 new parks currently being planned in Thornhill.
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Green Lane Park at 15 Harold Lawrie Lane - June 14 at 6pm - details
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Yonge and Grandview Park - June 21 at 6pm - details
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Staying on designated trails helps protect flowers, plants and trees while experiencing the Forests’ benefits. Plan your trip at york.ca/yrf.
The first phase of the Managing Dogs in the York Regional Forest Survey results are now available. See what was said at york.ca/dogsurvey.
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Don't miss this event with amazing performances, beatbox showcase, and community partners. For 44 years this festival has supported the community through music, crafts and vendors - details.
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ELLA Women at York University is now accepting applications to ELLA Altitude, a 4-month business accelerator program. If you're a woman entrepreneur looking to expand your high-potential business rapidly, visit ellawomen.com/ella-altitude for more information and to apply. Application deadline is July 11th.
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The Markham Board of Trade is celebrating it's 40th Anniversary. Join them on June 17th at 5pm for their Annual General Meeting as our Board of Directors discusses the past year and to celebrate this important milestone for the Markham Board of Trade. More information
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In case you missed it, recently the Federal Government announced details of the new Canada Recovery Hiring Program and extension of business support programs - details.
A review of other COVID-19 business support programs still in place to assist York Region business can be found here. |
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as of June 11 2021 at 3:30pm - click title or on chart for full report
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and the City of Markham Executive Leadership Team.
More information about Markham's response to COVID-19 can be found here. |
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York Region's COVID-19 dashboard includes suspect and confirmed cases in schools. The interactive dashboard has moved to a 5 day a week reporting model and provides detailed information about COVID-19 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. |
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Upcoming Meetings
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June 14 - General Committee Meeting - 9:30am - details
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June 14 - Thornhill Green Lane Park Open House - 6pm - details
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June 15 - Development Services Public Meeting - 7pm - details
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June 17 - Regional Council Special Meeting - 9am - details
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June 21 - Development Services Meeting - 9:30am - details
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June 21 - Thornhill Yonge & Grandview Park Open House - 6pm - details
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June 22 - Development Services Meeting - 9:30am - details
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June 23 - YR Accessibility Committee - 4pm - details
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June 24 - Regional Council Meeting - 9am - details
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June 28 - Development Services Public Meeting - 7pm - details
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June 29 - Council Meeting - 1pm - details
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July 12 - Development Services Meeting - 9:30am - details
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July 13 - General Committee Meeting - 9:30am - details
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July 14 - Council Meeting - 1pm - 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.
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York Region Council meetings and live streaming details can be found here. Details of upcoming YR meetings and past sessions are available here.
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Community Meetings and Events
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Unionville Main Street Market - Sundays - 9am - 2pm - details
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Unionville Villagers Association - June 14 at 7pm - email
- Rules of the Road - Wednesday June 16 at 12pm - details
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Markham Village Music Festival - June 18-19 - details
- Vintages at the Varley - June 23 at 7:30pm - details
- MBT After 4 Networking on Zoom - June 24 at 4pm - details
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Markham Flood Control Meeting - June 24 at 7pm - details
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Canada Day 2021 🍁- details
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Terry Fox Run - September 19 - Markham-Unionville - Thornhill
I'd be pleased to highlight other community meetings in future newsletters.
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Working together to make Markham better! |
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