All Posts By

Stephen Dasko

HAIG BOULEVARD AT RAILWAY CROSSING BETWEEN LAKESHORE ROAD EAST AND CARNEGIE DRIVE —ROAD CLOSURE NOTICE—

By Issues

Please be advised that Haig Boulevard at railway between Lakeshore Road East and Carnegie Drive will be closed.

When:  Starting Monday, July 13th, 2020 until Monday, August 31st, 2020.

Where:  Haig Boulevard at rail way crossing between Lakeshore Road East and Carnegie Drive.

 Why:  A temporary road closure is required for the purpose of replacing all overhead conductors crossing the railway to be installed under the rail, and existing overhead conductors to be removed.

Advance road closure signs will be installed to advise motorists of this closure.

July 7, 2020
Love0

Asian Longhorned Beetle No Longer Threatens Mississauga’s Trees

By Issues, Resources

July 7, 2020

The Government of Canada’s Canadian Food and Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced that the invasive species, the Asian longhorned beetle, has been eliminated in Mississauga. After five years of CFIA surveys with no detection of this tree pest, the Asian longhorned beetle quarantine area has been removed in Mississauga.

“Today marks a major victory in a long fought battle,” said Mayor Crombie. “This invasive beetle devastated our tree canopy in Mississauga, but we took action to stop its spread. I’m pleased that this insect is no longer a threat to our trees or our budget. It’s a good reminder that we must remain vigilant against invasive species by protecting existing trees and planting new ones.”

The Asian longhorned beetle was brought to Canada unintentionally in infested wood crates, pallets and packing material. First identified in 2013, the beetle was found in Malton, near the Toronto Pearson International Airport. Infected trees were removed, chipped up and processed to eliminate the ability of the beetle to destroy other healthy trees.

“For almost a decade, the Asian longhorned beetle has attacked and killed healthy hardwood trees in Mississauga, including maple, willow, birch and poplar,” said Jodi Robillos, Director, Parks, Forestry and Environment. “Posing a substantial risk to our parks, green spaces and wildlife habitats, thousands of infected and susceptible trees were removed to control the spread of the Asian longhorned beetle.”

To prevent the spread, residents and businesses were restricted from moving any tree material out of the regulated area of Mississauga. Movement of infected wood material could have accidentally spread the beetle to unaffected areas.

“Invasive species have put a lot of strain on our tree canopy including the Asian longhorned beetle, which have destroyed many healthy trees,” said Brent Reid, Acting Manager, Forestry. “Since the Asian longhorned beetle is not native to Canada, it has no natural predators. Early detection was important so that action could be taken swiftly to eliminate the pest. Another key factor in mitigating the impacts of the Asian longhorned beetle and other invasive species is keeping our urban forest diverse and healthy.”

The beetle’s larvae fed on the trunk and branches of trees, and eventually filled the trees with holes causing the trees to die. Adult beetles fed on the leaves, bark and branch tips.

Reid added, “Mississauga’s tree canopy is diverse, however it is still vulnerable to pests like the Asian longhorned beetle. The City’s Forestry Section is dedicated to monitoring and managing invasive species in Mississauga. We’re committed to continue growing and protecting our urban tree canopy.”

Mississauga is home to over two million trees that provide an enormous range of benefits to human health, the environment and the economy.

For more information about other invasive species like gypsy moths or the Emerald Ash Borer in Mississauga, visit mississauga.ca/portal/residents/parks-invasive-species. To learn more the City’s tree planting program, visit onemilliontrees.ca.

BACKGROUND:

 In 2013, the CFIA found evidence of the Asian longhorned beetle near Toronto Pearson International Airport. As a result, CFIA established a regulated area in parts of Mississauga. The CFIA is responsible for the control and eradication of invasive insects such as the Asian longhorned beetle.

PHOTO:

CAPTION: Asian longhorn beetle in the wood of a maple tree

[Download hi-res photo]

 

July 7, 2020
Love0

Asian Longhorned Beetle No Longer Threatens Mississauga’s Trees

By Issues, Resources

The Government of Canada’s Canadian Food and Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced that the invasive species, the Asian longhorned beetle, has been eliminated in Mississauga. After five years of CFIA surveys with no detection of this tree pest, the Asian longhorned beetle quarantine area has been removed in Mississauga.

“Today marks a major victory in a long fought battle,” said Mayor Crombie. “This invasive beetle devastated our tree canopy in Mississauga, but we took action to stop its spread. I’m pleased that this insect is no longer a threat to our trees or our budget. It’s a good reminder that we must remain vigilant against invasive species by protecting existing trees and planting new ones.” Read More

July 4, 2020
Love0

Heat Warning Issued

By Covid-19

Based on Environment and Climate Change Canada’s data, the Region of Peel’s Medical Officer of Health has issued a Heat Warning* for Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga on Thursday July 2, 2020. The warning will be in effect until further notice.

 

COVID-19 in Peel

With community spread, treat every interaction like you could be exposed.

 

Symptoms of heat-related illness include rapid breathing, dizziness or fainting, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, extreme thirst, decreased urination and unusually dark yellow urine.

 

During heat events, remember to check-in with family, friends and neighbours, especially seniors who live on their own. It’s best to call or video-conference – if that is not possible, practice physical distancing. Many of the locations that provided relief from heat such as shopping malls and community centres are not available due to COVID-19. If you experience any of the symptoms above, cool off as soon as possible by taking a cool bath or shower, move to a shaded area and practice physical distancing and increase your fluid intake and rest. If the symptoms persist, contact your doctor or call 911.

 

For more information on how to protect your health during the heat, visit the Heat web site or review the various Guidelines which outline steps to help prevent heat-related illnesses.

 

Learn how to protect yourself and others, and stay up-to-date on COVID-19 in Peel. Some Regional services and facilities are affected or closed until further notice. Check full listing.

July 2, 2020
Love0

Mississauga Rows its Way to the 2023 World Rowing Indoor Championships

By Events, Issues

June 30, 2020

Today, the World Rowing Federation (FISA – from the French, Fédération Internationale des Sociétés d’Aviron), announced that the City of Mississauga will host the World Rowing Indoor Championships in 2023. The Championship will be held on February 25 and 26, 2023 at the Paramount Fine Foods Centre.

“Mississauga is thrilled to be selected to host the 2023 World Rowing Indoor Championships. Our successful bid reflects our ability to manage internationally-known sporting events at a premiere sports venue like the Paramount Fine Food Centre,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “Mississauga is a diverse, welcoming and energetic city. We can’t wait to welcome the world’s top indoor rowing competitors, their coaches, families and fans to our great city in 2023.”

This is the first time Mississauga has hosted the World Championships but we have been host to the Canadian Indoor Rowing Championships (CIRC) for the past 11 years.

“Tourism Mississauga championed this bid which will bring visitors from across the world to Mississauga,” said Toni Frankfurter, Chair, Tourism Mississauga. “With an excellent transportation system, great amenities and exceptional restaurants, coupled with a vibrant downtown that boasts arts and culture, and a plethora of tourist attractions and activities, Mississauga has something for every athlete, spectator and attendee to enjoy.”

The Championships are a partnership with Rowing Canada Aviron and the Canadian Indoor Rowing Championships. The event will be two full days of race events combining the Canadian Indoor Rowing (CIRC) program alongside World Rowing Indoor events. The event will welcome between 2,500 to 3,500 participants.

“Athletes from as far as Asia, Europe and North America will compete in this international championship,” said Shari Lichterman, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Mississauga and Commissioner, Community Services, City of Mississauga. “Tourism Mississauga has a focused approach and vision for the future of competitive sport guided by the Tourism Master Plan and Sport Tourism Strategy. As a sport-oriented and youth-friendly city, we’re excited to showcase our outstanding sport facilities and welcome thousands of athletes and visitors to Mississauga.”

Mississauga was among other national cities to compete for the bid to host the Championship including Lima, Peru; Beijing, China; Cairo, Egypt; Hamburg, Germany; Prague, Czech Republic and London, England.

For more information about the World Indoor Rowing Championships or for other events in Mississauga, visit Tourism Mississauga at visitmississauga.ca.

BACKGROUND:

Indoor rowing, otherwise known as Ergometer rowing, has been widely used in training and preparation of athletes for many years. More recently, indoor rowing has grown into a serious sport of its own.

The World Indoor Rowing Championships is an open and accessible event with a mission is to broaden the participation of indoor rowing racing. For more information, visit worldrowing.com.

2023 marks the 40th year the indoor rowing championships have been held in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

 

June 30, 2020
Love0

City of Mississauga Moves to Stage 2 of Province’s Recovery Plan

By Covid-19, Events, Issues, Resources

COVID-19 | June 23, 2020

The Government of Ontario announced yesterday that the Region of Peel, including Mississauga, will be entering Stage 2 of Ontario’s Framework for Reopening Our Province as of Wednesday, June 24, 2020.

“Moving into Stage 2 is an important milestone and symbolizes the efforts and sacrifices made by residents and businesses to stop this virus in its tracks and get Mississauga on the road to recovery. This is great news, especially for our small businesses, including cafes, restaurants and bars who can now open up their patios and welcome customers once again,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “It’s also exciting for our residents as it means they can once again enjoy many of our City amenities that make summers memorable such as our spray pads and outdoor pools, beach volleyball and basketball courts. While we’re all excited to see more of our city opening up, I want to remind residents that this is not a return to life as we once knew it. We must continue to follow the advice of public health and take personal ownership and responsibility for stopping the spread.”

Additional businesses, services, as well as community, recreational and outdoor spaces are permitted to reopen in Stage 2 with proper health and safety measures in place.

“The commitment and sacrifices of residents and businesses to reduce the spread of COVID-19 has paved the path for Peel to move into Phase 2,” said Dr. Lawrence Loh, Interim Medical Officer of Health for the Region of Peel. “As we reopen more of our community, we need to remain vigilant and continue to practice the four core behaviours that will help keep us safer: stay two metres apart when out and about; wear a non-medical mask when physical distancing is challenging; wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face; and if you’re sick, get tested and then stay home. I also call on local businesses and venues to also implement preventive measures as they reopen to ensure that staff and visitors to their premises can practice these core four behaviours.”

All local businesses will need to adhere to guidelines from the Province of Ontario and the Region of Peel. New resources available to support businesses reopen and recover at mississauga.ca/business-covid-19.

“The Mississauga Board of Trade wants to thank Mayor Crombie and Council along with Dr. Lawrence Loh for the diligent path they have taken to protect the citizens of Mississauga. We also want to commend the Premier for the support he has provided for business and his commitment to stand by business,” said David Wojcik, President and CEO of Mississauga Board of Trade.

With guidance from Region of Peel Public Health, the City of Mississauga will gradually reopen facilities and resume services in a new or modified way to prioritize resident safety.

“We are working to reopen more of our facilities and amenities safely in accordance with the guidelines and regulations put out by the Province and Peel Public Health,” said Paul Mitcham, City Manager and Chief Administrative Officer. “Our top priority continues to be the health and safety of our residents, customers and staff. As City programs and services slowly begin to reopen, we are asking the community to be patient as we thoughtfully work through provincial regulations.”

City Facility Reopenings 

Outdoor Pools

Starting Saturday, July 4, all of the City’s seven outdoor pools will open for lane and fun swims for pre-registration only. 

Park and Recreation Amenities
In addition to several park amenities that were reopened as part of Stage 1, bocce courts, beach volleyball courts and joint City and school board track facilities opened last weekend.

Additional park and recreation amenities will open on the following dates:   

Friday, June 26

  • Basketball courts
  • Casual use of sports fields
  • All remaining park parking lots

Saturday, July 4

  • Artificial turf fields
  • Select ball diamond permits
  • Cricket field permits
  • Picnic areas
  • Photography permits available
  • Celebration Square wading pool
  • Spray pads (with the exception of Huron Park, which is currently under construction)

Monday, July 13

  • Soccer field permits

The City encourages residents to take personal responsibility when visiting parks and is using its Park Ambassador program to educate residents on physical distancing requirements and remaining park playground and amenity closures.

Closures that Remain in Effect

Arenas
City arenas are not open for full public use. The City is currently working on a summer ice plan with hockey and skating clubs.

Community Centres
Community centres will only be opening for summer camp participants and staff with exclusive use on weekdays. At this time, community centres are not open for full public use.

Culture Facilities
All of the City’s Culture facilities are currently closed. The City is reviewing when they can open based on staffing and demand.

Libraries
Returns are accepted at all locations except Mississauga Valley Library. Starting today, curbside pickup will be available at the Burnhamthorpe, Central, Lorne Park, Malton and Meadowvale libraries. Additional locations will be phased in when it is considered safe to do so.

Playgrounds and outdoor fitness equipment
Playgrounds and outdoor fitness equipment remain closed under the provincial order.

Find the full list of City reopenings and closures. To stay informed on COVID-19 impacts on City services, please visit: Mississauga.ca/recovery.

 

June 29, 2020
Love0

Temporary Outdoor Restaurant Patios Permitted to Open

By Covid-19, Events, Resources

June 24, 2020

Today, restaurants and bars with a valid 2020 business license are permitted to temporarily expand outdoor seating and dining areas, provided they comply with City requirements and meet COVID-19 safety guidelines for patrons and staff.

“I am excited to help kick start recovery for our restaurants and bars with the introduction of temporary patios. We have waived several application fees and are fast-tracking the process to get restaurants back in business as soon as possible while keeping everyone safe and healthy,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “I’m looking forward to soaking in summer and showing support for our local businesses and hope residents do the same as we begin the road to recovery together. I also encourage landlords to work with tenants to find solutions that work for both parties. Without customers, businesses can’t afford to pay rent, so let’s make this a win-win for everyone.”

 Temporary Patios on Public Lands

Temporary patios proposed on the City’s municipal road right-of-way or a municipal parking lot, will require a Temporary Patio Permit. Restaurants can apply online starting today. A dedicated staff team is in place to review applications as soon as they are received.

Restaurants with questions regarding the application process, can contact the City at temporarypatio@mississauga.ca or can call 905-615-3200 ext. 5593 or ext. 8581. For public safety, temporary patios will not be considered on municipal road right-of-ways with posted speed limits over 50 km/h.

Temporary Patios on Private Lands

For temporary patios on private lands, no permit is required. However, patios must adhere to design requirements. Restaurants should seek the permission of the owner or property manager prior to installation.

Temporary restaurant patios are permitted with Mississauga’s move into Stage 2 of Ontario’s Framework for Reopening Our Province provided proper health and safety measures are in place. All local businesses must adhere to guidelines from the Province of Ontario and the Region of Peel. New resources available to support businesses reopen and recover at mississauga.ca/business-covid-19.

Background

Last week, the City introduced a Temporary Use By-law, to be approved by Council, to permit temporary outdoor restaurant patios. In the meantime, Council suspended the enforcement of existing zoning by-laws in order to permit temporary outdoor patios when Mississauga was allowed to move into Stage 2.

Council will consider approval of the Temporary Use By-law following a virtual public meeting scheduled for Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at 9 a.m. during Planning and Development Committee. Anyone is welcome to watch the live stream, listen via phone or submit comments in advance. More information on how to participate can be found here.

 

June 29, 2020
Love0

Mississauga City Council Stands Against Anti-Black Racism, Systemic Racism and Discrimination

By Events, Issues, Resources

June 24, 2020

Today, Mississauga City Council took a strong stand against anti-Black racism, systemic racism and discrimination in all forms.

“We are in a pivotal moment right now and it is incumbent on all institutions, including the City of Mississauga, that we take action to address racism and discrimination,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “To be good on the outside, we must be good on the inside. It is important that our institutions are representative of the people they serve and that everyone is treated fairly and with respect, free from bias and discrimination. Today’s motion commits the City as a corporation and a community to confronting racism and discrimination, and in particular anti-Black racism and discrimination, and take meaningful action. Our work to confront these challenges is never done, but I am confident that by working with Council, city staff, and the broader community, we can take significant steps forward.”

The City recognizes that racism and in particular, anti-Black racism and discrimination is a crisis that requires immediate action. The City reaffirmed its strong commitment to addressing systemic racism and discrimination by supporting policies and programs that address the inequities that racialized groups, Indigenous Peoples, and in particular Black communities continue to experience in Mississauga and committing to the safety and livelihood of its Black residents naming anti-Black racism as a pervasive threat to the safety and enjoyment of life in the city.

The Mayor’s Office in consultation with the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee will:

  • Convene a series of community-led consultations on systemic racism, anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism and discrimination using an intersectional lens, and identify areas for systemic change in the community;
  • Convene a Black Caucus to advise on the equity issues and priorities identified by Black communities in Mississauga, and report back to Council publicly in six months;
  • Review the terms of reference for the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee to ensure it is fulfilling its mandate and that it focuses in part on anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism; and
  • Review the  City and Region of Peel’s consultation and communications strategy with respect to racism and discrimination and the reform of our institutions; and
  • Work with the Region of Peel carry out the Region’s anti-racism public education/awareness campaigns at the City level.

The City Manager and Chief Administrative Officer will:

  • Name, condemn and stand against anti-Black racism in all its forms;
  • Review on an ongoing basis, internal policies and programs to ensure all are free from racial bias and do not negatively impact racialized groups;
  • Ensure continued implementation and progress of the recommendations from the City’s Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, including proceeding with the planned Workforce Diversity and Inclusion Survey when business returns to normal and build public accountability and commitment to bring to life recommendations from the Strategy;
  • Engage our Black employees and their allies in a series of conversations on anti-Black racism to understand their experiences in the workplace and build a plan to address systemic inequities; and
  • Continue to educate all new and existing employees on the City’s Respectful Workplace Policy and Respectful Workplace Statement of Commitment, as well as staff’s daily commitment to the compliance with the Respectful Workplace Policy. 

“We are listening and learning. There is work to be done and we must do better. We must ensure that our organization’s values, programs and policies are free from systemic racism and discrimination of any kind. I want our Black employees to know that I am committed and our Leadership Team is committed to addressing racism in the workplace and that racist and anti-Black sentiments have no place at the City of Mississauga. I want all employees to know and understand they have a shared responsibility in preventing and addressing anti-Black racism and discrimination in all its forms,” said Paul Mitcham City Manager and Chief Administrative Officer. “We must continue with the implementation of our Workforce and Diversity Inclusion Strategy which will help ensure we are creating an equitable work environment that values and respects individuals for their talents, skills and ability. One that recognizes the uniqueness of all employees and is accessible, equitable and fair for all.”

Resolution 0207-2020 – Anti-Black and Indigenous Racism

 

 

 

June 29, 2020
Love0