All Posts By

Stephen Dasko

Peel Regional Police Update: Launch of Centralized Bureau to Respond to Online Reporting

By Announcement, Resources

Peel Regional Police is changing the platform for online reporting to make it more accessible and user friendly for the public, and to better respond to our community’s needs.

A new centralized Online Community Response Bureau (OCRB) has been launched to respond to incident reports submitted online by members of the public.

This dedicated bureau aims to improve response times and streamline our online reporting process. In addition to launching the Bureau, we have upgraded our software to enhance the quality of reports received, expanded the types of incidents that can be reported and centralized the reporting process.

As part of the expanded incident types, PRP will now accept and respond to hate crime reports submitted online. This addition is crucial in addressing the number of underreported incidents within our community, ensuring that all voices are heard, and all incidents are appropriately addressed.

Incidents that can be reported online include:

  • Theft under $10,000
  • Commercial Theft/Retail Theft/Theft of Gas under $10,000
  • Theft from Vehicle under $10,000
  • Damage/Mischief to Property under $10,000
  • Damage/Mischief to Vehicle under $10,000
  • Driving Complaint/Road Watch
  • Lost Property under $10,000
  • Hate Motivated Crime/Incident

Reports can be submitted online by visiting the ‘Report It’ section on peelpolice.ca or by clicking here.

Mississauga’s blueprint for tomorrow: breaking barriers and advancing the City’s Multi-Year Accessibility Plan

By Announcement, Resources

The City is pleased to share its progress on the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan: 2023-2028 as it celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Accessibility Advisory Committee.

May 30, 2024

This National AccessAbility Week (NAAW), the City of Mississauga is pleased to share its progress on the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan: 2023-2028 as it celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Accessibility Advisory Committee.

“More than 201,000 Mississauga residents have a disability – which is more than a quarter of our population. As a City, we are dedicated to creating an inclusive community where everyone has equal access to services, programs and facilities,” said Acting Mayor and Ward 8 Councillor Matt Mahoney. “Our goal is to make all spaces, programs and services easily accessible for all, regardless of ability and I want to thank the Accessibility Advisory Committee who are helping us do just that. On behalf of Councillor Martin Reid who joins me as a Council representative on the committee and all Members of Council, I want to congratulation the Accessibility Advisory Committee on the occasion of their 20th anniversary and thank them for all their advice and input over the years.”

Under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), the City is required to develop a multi-year accessibility plan that outlines how Mississauga will meet its obligations under the legislation and remove barriers for people with disabilities. Last year, the City launched its third plan, which builds upon what has been accomplished since introducing its first multi-year plan in 2012.

The 2023 annual status update includes the following highlights:

  • Improved accessibility at a number of City facilities and public spaces through targeted improvements, such as adding universal/all-season washrooms, adding accessible entrances/ramps, improved paths and walkways.
  • Establishing a more inclusive employment culture by implementing policies and practices that ensure future and current employees with disabilities have the support to work effectively, experience career growth and have opportunities for learning, development and progression.
  • Conducting site inspections to assess compliance with a number of AODA requirements and completed the biennial filing of the City’s accessibility compliance report.

“We’re proud to share that Mississauga has gone above and beyond AODA standards to create an accessible city for everyone,” said Raj Sheth, Commissioner of Corporate Services. “Our current Multi-Year Accessibility Plan showcases our dedication to removing barriers, promoting inclusion and our commitment to ensuring barrier-free spaces for all. We continue to work with our allies on the Accessibility Advisory Committee to seek their expertise and understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities to make sure our City programs and services are accessible to all and to help promote awareness in the community.”

To learn more about the City’s commitments to advancing accessibility and to read the 2023 annual status update, visit the webpage.

About the Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Accessibility Advisory Committee reviews municipal policies, programs and services to make the City more accessible to all citizens. The committee provides advice and suggests actions to help support the City’s accessibility goals. This year, marks the committee’s 20th anniversary.

Mississauga Library launches exciting new mobile app with enhanced catalogue

By Announcement, Resources

The Mississauga Library launched a new app and updated catalogue, significantly enhancing user experience.

May 30, 2024

Mississauga Library recently launched its upgraded catalogue and new mobile app, taking a significant step forward in improving the user experience. This move signals a new chapter in the library’s dedication to integrating technology for better service delivery.

Upgraded catalogue

The updated catalogue comes with a variety of new features and enhancements designed to meet the changing needs of library users. Central to these improvements is the introduction of smarter search capabilities. Thanks to improved filters and advanced search help, users can effortlessly sift through the library’s extensive collection to find precisely what they need, hassle-free.

Enhanced browsing experience

The system upgrade also enhances the browsing experience by allowing users to view all formats of a title in a single record. Whether it’s an audiobook, an e-book, or a traditional print version, all available formats are displayed together, simplifying the selection process. Furthermore, the catalogue now offers new ways for users to discover books, including the ability to explore new titles, award winners, and bestsellers and receive personalized recommendations for related titles and similar reads.

The innovation extends to community features in the catalogue, adding a social dimension to the library experience. Users can now rate and review titles, add custom tags for easier discovery, and create and share lists of book recommendations. These interactive features not only enhance the user experience but also help to build a vibrant community of readers and learners.

New mobile app

Another key highlight is the introduction of a new mobile app, available on Google Play and the Apple App Store, designed to bring the library’s resources directly to users’ fingertips. The app mirrors the new features of the catalogue and introduces additional functionalities tailored for today’s library users. With the app, users can manage multiple library accounts with ease, use a digital library barcode for convenience, and utilize ISBN barcode searching for quick finds. An upcoming feature for item checkout is expected to streamline the borrowing process even further.

A digital transformation

The launch of the upgraded catalogue and mobile app marks a significant milestone in the Mississauga Library’s journey towards digital transformation. By using technology to improve accessibility, convenience, and user engagement, the library is not only keeping pace with the digital age but also setting new benchmarks for what a library can achieve. As users start to explore all the features the new system offers, Mississauga Library is ready to transform the library experience for its community.

For further information about Mississauga Library or to discover the closest location to you, please visit mississaugalibrary.ca.

Bus Stop Impact – Lakeshore Road (Stop #0356)

By Resources, Ward 1

Please be advised that stop #0356 on EB Lakeshore Road at Wenonah Drive will be out of service beginning at 8:00am Thursday May 30 for approximately 4 weeks for crosswalk modification works.

Patrons will be directed to the previous stop #0355 at Hiawatha Parkway (SW Corner) which is approximately 220 metres west.

Stop #0356 is serviced by Route 23E with continued accessible bus service at stop #0355.

Dust off your cowboy boots and hats – Sauga Sunday is headed to Celebration Square

By Announcement, Events

Mississauga’s first outdoor country concert featuring an all-women artist line-up on the Celebration Square main stage on Sunday, June 2.

May 29, 2024

Calling all country music fans! In celebration of the City of Mississauga’s 50th anniversary, the City is pleased to announce that it will be hosting Sauga Sunday – Mississauga’s first outdoor country concert featuring an all-women artist line-up on the Celebration Square main stage this Sunday, June 2.

Featuring Mississauga’s very own top country talent and Country Music Association of Ontario award recipients, this free, family-friendly concert runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will showcase why Mississauga was named Canadian Music City of the Year.

What:

Sauga Sunday – Mississauga’s first outdoor country concert

When:

Sunday, June 2, 2024
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where:

Mississauga Celebration Square
300 City Centre Dr. [Map]

Who:

Six of Mississauga’s top country artists

Performance schedule:

  • 11:10 a.m. – Jade Hilton: talented singer/songwriter who tells stories through her music.
  • 11:50 a.m. – Kendra Gabrielle: country/pop artist known for making her audience feel like her best friends.
  • 12:30 p.m. – Alessia Cohle: award-winning country artist that brings catchy melodies and a dynamic performance to the stage.
  • 1:10 p.m. – Bree Taylor: rising star in the country music scene known for her distinctive blend of country and rock.
  • 1:50 p.m. – Nicole Rayy: five-time CMAOntario nominee, named Best Country Songs of 2021, including Amazon Music’s Breakthrough Country and Fresh Country Artist.
  • 2:30 p.m. – Elyse Saunders: 2023 CMAOntario award-winning artist, vocal powerhouse and songwriter.

Cost:

Free

This event was made possible by the City’s Music Office in partnership with the Country Music Association of Ontario, with support from Visit Mississauga. For more information, visit the event webpage.

Dixie Outlet Mall Policy Review – What We Heard

By Planning & Development, Ward 1

A report on “What We Heard” during the Dixie Outlet Mall Policy Review community meeting on January 29, 2024 is available online. The report provides an overview of what we have heard on the draft policies at the meeting, during the Q&A session and through written comments. To view the report, please click here.

Please be advised that an Information Report outlining refinements on the draft policies will be presented to the Planning and Development Committee in the near future. You will receive an email when the meeting date has been confirmed.

Thank you for participating throughout this study and for helping to guide future growth and development of the Dixie Outlet Mall site.

Best Regards,

The Dixie Outlet Mall Policy Review Team

Mississauga digs into another busy construction season

By Hurontario LRT, Resources, Ward 1

Crews are hard at work maintaining, repairing and expanding the city’s transportation and stormwater infrastructure.

May 28, 2024

The City of Mississauga’s construction season is well underway with an estimated investment of more than $116 million* in projects to repair, maintain and expand the City’s transportation infrastructure and stormwater system, such as roads, sidewalks, bridges, bike lanes, trails, stormwater drains and streetlights. This year, there are 19 new projects and eight projects continuing from 2023. Construction projects include road resurfacing, sidewalk and multi-use trail construction and bridge repairs. Construction projects also include erosion control work along creeks and dredging and maintenance of stormwater management ponds and infrastructure.

“The construction work we do in Mississauga isn’t just about fixing roads, it’s about building and maintaining a great city. It’s vital to Mississauga’s growth and development. While construction season may cause temporary inconvenience on our roads, keeping our infrastructure in a state of good repair through regular maintenance helps ensure everyone’s safety, allows us to deliver the City services you rely on, and reduces the need for emergency replacements and repairs which can be more expensive,” said Geoff Wright, Commissioner, Transportation & Works. “I want to thank Mississauga residents for their patience and co-operation as we head into this busy season, as well as the crews and City staff who work hard to complete this critical work with as minimal disruption as possible.”

Road resurfacing

The City’s Road Resurfacing Program involves replacing asphalt on the road and repairing curbs and sidewalks when needed. This year, 51 streets are scheduled to be resurfaced. When a street is being resurfaced, work can also take place on boulevards, sidewalks and the City’s portion of driveways. It is recommended that residents delay any renovations to their lawn or driveway, including repaving, until the work is complete. Personal items located close to the sidewalk or boulevard, such as lights, sprinklers, décor and temporary fencing, should also be removed to avoid damage. Residents will receive a pre-construction notice in the mail if their street is scheduled for resurfacing this year.

 

Hazel McCallion Line update

Progress is happening on Metrolinx’s Hazel McCallion Line. Track construction will continue south of Highway 403 and then south of the QEW. The southern terminus at Port Credit GO Station will continue to take shape, while construction of other platforms will continue as well. For the latest updates, follow the Hazel McCallion Line on X.

Online construction map

Residents interested in learning more about the City’s construction projects can use the construction map to view all projects and who to contact if there are any questions. The construction map also provides information about projects in City parks and projects from the Peel Region, Ministry of Transportation and Alectra.

Ongoing maintenance

This time of year, residents can also expect to see City crews completing annual maintenance and cleanup work to tidy up Mississauga’s shared spaces and keep everyone moving safely. This work includes filling potholes, sweeping of collector, arterial and industrial roadways, repairing sidewalks, clearing litter and debris, and getting parks, greenspaces and trails ready for the busy season.

“With the milder winter we had, we were given a great head start on this year’s construction season. For example, construction work was able to continue throughout the winter on the Burnhamthorpe Road bridge. Crews were able to finish building the working platforms, remove deteriorated concrete and reconstruct a retaining wall beside the Culham Trail,” said Sam Rogers, Director, Infrastructure Planning and Engineering Services. “Several large road projects are also anticipated to be completed this year, which residents will be excited about. These include the Goreway Drive overpass bridge in Malton, the rehabilitation of The Collegeway, and the Rathburn Road and Ponytrail Drive Integrated Road Project.”

With all of this ongoing work on the City’s roads, residents are reminded to be cautious when traveling near construction or maintenance work sites, adhere to all site signs and barricades and to be respectful. Please give crews and equipment space as they work.

For more information:

*Budget is subject to change based on tender schedule and prices.

PRP Update: Project Odyssey – Significant Auto Theft Investigation Resulting in the Recovery of Stolen Vehicles and Charges Laid

By Announcement, Resources

Today, May 27, 2024, Peel Regional Police announced the results of Project Odyssey, an investigation into an organized crime group responsible for the theft and transport of stolen vehicles through intermodal hubs across the Greater Toronto Area to the Port of Montreal. Investigators have identified a Peel based company that was facilitating the transport of stolen vehicles out of a trucking yard in Brampton, Ontario.

The seven-month long investigation has resulted in:

  • 16 arrests and 322 Criminal Code charges laid
    • Ages of individuals arrested range from 17-years old to 57-years old
  • 10 additional arrest warrants issued
  • 369 stolen vehicles recovered with a value of $33,200,000.00
    • 255 vehicles recovered in Peel Region and 114 vehicles recovered at the Port of Montreal.
  • 3 transport trucks and 2 bobcats were seized under the forfeiture of offence-related property, valued at $150,000 each

Project Odyssey is another example of the incredible investigative work by PRP’s Commercial Auto Crime Bureau. In 2023, we doubled the size of the Unit making it one of the largest in Canada, and over the last 18 months, we have arrested close to 200 individuals, laid approximately 1,600 auto theft related offence charges, and recovered close to $100,000,000 in stolen vehicles.

For further information on Project Odyssey, please see the news release here.

 

Peel Regional Police Launch Project E.R.A.S.E. to Combat Street Racing

By Announcement, Resources

This morning (May 23, 2024), Peel Regional Police, in collaboration with policing partners from across the Greater Toronto Area, officially launched Project E.R.A.S.E. (Eliminating Racing Activities on Streets Everywhere) aimed at addressing poor and aggressive driver behaviour through education, strategic enforcement, and modifying social behaviour. Street racing is an illegal and dangerous activity that risks the lives of our community members.

This project will target street racing throughout Southwestern Ontario. Peel Regional Police and partners will have zero tolerance for dangerous driving behaviours and street racing activities.

Since the beginning of 2024, Project E.R.A.S.E has issued over 850 Provincial Offences Notices; 170 of those charges were for stunt driving, leading to 49 arrests and 45 vehicle seizures.

In 2023, Peel Regional Police issued 38,274 Highway Traffic Act offences, 8,229 charges were for speeding. Through Project E.R.A.S.E, 941 vehicles were investigated, and a total of 1,230 driving related charges were laid during 2023.

Ensuring road safety is a vital aspect of policing, and one which all members of Peel Regional Police are committed to around the clock. Officers diligently enforce speed limits, tackle aggressive and impaired driving, and implement other road safety measures.

Anyone with information concerning aggressive driving or street racing activities in the Region of Peel are urged to contact 905-453-3311. Driving complaints can also be filed through the Road Watch Portal on our website or by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or peelcrimestoppers.ca.