As Brian has canvassed the ward, he’s been listening to what the residents have had to say and incorporated their views into his key platform points:

Transportation:

Subway Infrastructure
As Executive Director of Smart Commute NTV, Brian understands Toronto’s need for an integrated transportation plan. One of his key initiatives is to ‘close the loop’ by connecting the Yonge and University-Spadina subway lines in North York. This will create a much needed east-west corridor, maximizing transit efficiencies for commuters and better connecting Ward 10 residents.

Allen Rd. Ramps at Risk
The Wilson Heights on/off ramps at Allen Road may be eliminated due to proposed development. Brian opposes this. It will increase traffic in communities nearby, diverting commuters to Faywood and Wilmington where many homes and schools are located.

Reiner Road Traffic
Residents of the Reiner Road area are frustrated with current traffic restrictions, speeding, long wait times at intersections and high traffic volumes. A review must be conducted to make the necessary changes, which will lead to increased community safety. 

City Spending:

Taxes
Push to eliminate Toronto’s Personal Vehicle Tax ($60/vehicle). In a city with a $9.2 billion operating budget, this tax contributes less than half of one per cent of Toronto’s total revenues.

Control City Spending
Toronto is nearly $4 billion in debt. This year, Toronto taxpayers will spend $450 million to service that debt. This is not sustainable. Social services, social housing and the TTC need to be shared costs among every level of government.

Transparency & Accountability
Support a more open budget process that holds our government accountable and encourages efficient spending. Residents and businesses need to be informed about how their hard-earned tax dollars are spent.

Infrastructure:

Pipes and Sewers
Aging infrastructure continues to contribute to basement flooding and inconsistent water pressure. Areas such as Bathurst Manor have pipes and sewers that are over 50 years old. While replacing them is costly, this process must be prioritized in Ward 10, York Centre.

Worst Roads – CAA Report
As Finch, Dufferin and Steeles were all highlighted in the latest CAA ‘Worst Roads’ report, this reinforces the need for more infrastructure dollars to land in Ward 10 York Centre.

City Services
Potholes and garbage/snow removal issues must be addressed.

In Our Community:

Community Involvement
Host quarterly town hall forums to proactively engage residents on important issues.

Bathurst Manor Plaza
The proposed condo development and loss of retail will change the face of the Bathurst Manor community. Let’s ensure the plan includes vital retail options. This is the only walkable shopping hub for many residents, especially seniors, who rely on this plaza for basic needs.

Proposed Sanofi Pasteur expansion
Residents have reasonable concerns about their industrial neighbour’s expansion plans. The Ridgegate community needs to be assured that their health, safety and quality of life will be maintained.  Brian will ensure an ongoing dialogue to address issues, including building height, noise level, increased traffic and environmental impact.

Notice of Local Developments
The City is obliged to notify property owners within 120 meters of a subject property for rezoning and Official Plan amendment applications. However, quite often no notice is required to residents if the proposed development does not involve rezoning. Residents need to be kept better informed about major developments planned for their community.

Community Safety:

Community Cohesion
Ward 10 has a disproportionately high incidence rate of hate-related crimes and has also experienced a number of recent burglaries. We need to work together with Toronto Police 32 Division and the community to foster a greater sense of cultural understanding and community cohesion to combat these issues.

Safer Streets
Enhance police patrols of stop signs and speeding throughout Ward 10 to ensure safe streets for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

Safety/Livability
Investigate the need for additional crosswalks and bigger traffic signs on key streets, such as on Wilmington and Sheppard near Bathurst. This would enhance walk-ability and safety in our community.

Neighbourhood Watch
Re-engage Neighbourhood Watch to help make streets safer and bring our community together.

Family Friendly:

Community Programs
As a former employee of the City of Toronto, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, Brian understands the need to improve our community centres and programs to provide more amenities appropriate for all ages, like splash pads.

Greener Parks
Residents deserve safe, clean parks and more shared green spaces.