Weekly Update - April 15th, 2022

Another exciting week draws to a close! Here is a quick snapshot of some of the work we did at Council and Committee.

❗Problem properties - Staff presented a report about a range of initiatives underway to tackle problem properties, which have a significant impact on neighbourhoods across the ward. I was pleased to support a motion to provide additional resources to fund and expand this work and am grateful for Councillor Ashley Salvador's leadership on this issue - check out her blog about problem properties and learn more about what the City is doing to address them.

🌅 Zoning Bylaw Renewal - This is one of the single most important initiatives in realizing our City Plan vision. I'm excited to see that there is a proposed decrease from 46 to 20 zones. This is a good first step in providing a simpler bylaw that will support more housing choices, vibrant main streets, and walkable communities. I look forward to the next iteration of the bylaw which will be coming back to Committee in October. If you haven't yet, sign up to get involved!

❤️ High Level Bridge - This iconic structure is up for renewal and I'm thrilled that the conceptual designs will include the construction of a multi-use space on the upper deck. Inspired by the great work of the High Level Line Society, this project has the opportunity to transform the way we walk, bike, and roll across the river. The next step will be to review the proposed budget, which will highlight the cost for the upper deck work in relation to the overall renewal project. It's looking likely that the cost won't be too significant, so I'm hopeful it will move forward as part of the capital budget we approve in the fall. I am so excited about the potential of this project for O’day-min and for the city as a whole!

Lastly, to anyone celebrating Good Friday and Easter or Passover this weekend, I wish you peaceful celebrations with loved ones. To those that continue to celebrate Ramadan this month, Ramadan Mubarak!