LATEST NEWS 

Let’s get together on Mon. Sept. 23 from 9 am – 12 pm at Meadowvale Community Centre for an informal one on one conversation during W9 Community Hours. Book your 15-minute time slot by emailing me at: martin.reid@mississauga.ca
9 – 9:15, 9:15 – 9:30, 9:30 – 9:45, 9:45 – 10 am
10 – 10:15, 10:15 – 10:30, 10:30 – 10:45, 10:45 – 11
11 – 11:15, 11:15 – 11:30, 11:30 – 11:145, 11:45 – noon
My staff will contact you with your confirmed time-slot.

From August 17 to 18, our city saw varying amounts of rainfall from 6.2 mm up to as much as 170 mm in some areas – leading to high water levels and major disruptions on roads, creeks, and highways. This only serves to show the unpredictability of these types of storms and range of impacts our city can see.

This is what’s called a “100-year storm”. Unfortunately, we had another 100-year storm on July 16th and many will recall the storm in July 2013, as well.

We are taking stormwater management seriously. In 2024, we have allocated $33.7 million for stormwater improvements, focusing on projects along Cooksville Creek, Etobicoke Creek, and erosion control initiatives. Since 2016, we have invested over $231.5 million in stormwater infrastructure. Our 10-year plan includes an additional $340 million for ongoing upgrades and maintenance to enhance our resilience against future storms. And, we remain committed to continued investments in further enhancing our stormwater infrastructure to withstand future weather events like this one. These investments include stormwater ponds, new pipes in the ground, and repairs to creek and river banks to prevent erosion.

As your Councillor, I am working closely with my colleagues to urge the province to activate the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) program.

We are asking those whose property was impacted by the recent rain event this weekend, to please contact 311 to provide your name and address. This information will be shared with the Government of Ontario to support our efforts in urging them to activate their DRAO program for Mississauga.

Additionally, please be sure to document any damage with photos or videos and inform your insurance provider as soon as possible.

Flooding on your property
If your home or basement has flooded and you’re in immediate danger or require assistance, call 911.
• If you’ve suffered damages due to a basement flood, call 311. The City creates a record documenting these type of calls.
• If you think there’s a problem with your sanitary sewer pipe, you can request emergency help with a sewer backup.
• Call 311 if your property was impacted by the rain event that occurred over the weekend. The data collected aims to help the Government of Ontario decide on the activation of their Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) program.
• Record the details of the flood damage by taking photos or videos. Register the amount of damage to your home with your insurance provider immediately.
• Don’t attempt to shut off electricity if any water is present. Leave your home immediately and don’t return until authorities confirm it’s safe to do so.
• After you have evacuated your home or if water has risen above your electrical outlets, baseboards or furnace, call Alectra at 1-833-253-2872 to report it.

You may have noticed construction activity commenced on July 23, 2024 at Lake Aquitaine Park. Please be advised Park signage is expected to arrive onsite shortly. In the meantime, I provide the following information.

The City of Mississauga received funding from the Government of Canada through the Canada Community-Building Fund for various park improvements. Funding for these projects has been allocated for the Lake Aquitaine Park Adventure Playground Expansion.

The Lake Aquitaine playground will be expanded to improve accessibility, increase play opportunities, and provide additional seating and shade. New custom adventure focused play equipment, made of Robinia wood, will be integrated with the existing play equipment, on rubber safety surfacing, to create a unique and adventurous play space for children of all ages and abilities.

The construction of the playground will be in 2 phases.

Phase 1 of the playground construction is anticipated to be completed by September 2024.

Phase 1 work includes:
– Replacement of the existing playground surface with rubber safety surfacing
– Site preparation for Phase 2 playground expansion
– Existing play equipment to remain

Phase 2 of the playground is anticipated to be completed in May 2025, weather permitting.

Phase 2 work includes:
– Expansion of the existing playground area
– Installation of adventure playground equipment, sand play area, shade structure
– Addition of paved trail connections and seating area

As the project moves along, I will continue to provide you with updates. Please visit Ward9.ca and register to receive my e-newsletter, where updates will be posted.

I am excited to see these improvements come to the Lake. I hope you and your family will enjoy the new space. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at: martin.reid@mississauga.ca.

For additional project questions or concerns, please contact:
Jordan Wu, Project Manager, Park Development
T 905-615-3200 ext.3168
jordan.wu@mississauga.ca

Last updated: July 24, 2024.

FYI: Peel’s garbage exemption coming soon

To find your garbage exemption day:

• Check your collection calendar.
• Sign up to receive free weekly collection reminders by email, text message, or phone call.

During a garbage exemption pickup:

• You can put any amount of acceptable garbage on the curb.
• Garbage tags are not needed.
• Extra garbage is collected only on your garbage collection day, not on your recycling collection day.

To be picked up, an extra garbage bag cannot:

• Weigh more than 20 kg (44 lbs).
• Be larger than 66 cm (26 in) wide and 90 cm (35 in) high.
• Be smaller than 30 cm (12 in) wide and 30 cm (12 in) high.

Driveway windrow snow clearing program applications open now!
The City offers a driveway windrow clearing program for residents 65 years and older, and for residents with physical disabilities. A windrow is the pile of snow left at the bottom of a driveway after a plow clears the road. The program runs from November 22, 2024 until March 24, 2025 and is available to 750 participants on a first come, first served basis.

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has developed a draft Cumulative Effects Assessment Framework for the Highway 413 Project. The Cumulative Effects Assessment is being carried out as part of the provincial Environmental Assessment (EA) process. To take part in a short survey, click below. Survey is open until Oct. 3. 2024.

Reminder: Be safe out there on our shared trails and park paths

Head outside and enjoy Mississauga’s 500-kilometre network of multi-use trails, park pathways, bike lanes and signed bike routes. The City’s system of shared paths and trails is expansive and allows you to see Mississauga landmarks and more of the city.

Before heading out for a ride, don’t forget to brush up on safety, rules and etiquette.

For safety, rules and etiquette before you ride, visit link below.

The cost to deliver water and wastewater services to businesses and homes is rising.

The cost of energy, labour, and insurance is rising, and our infrastructure is aging. To provide our customers and communities with safe, quality, reliable service, Peel Region must keep investing in the maintenance of our treatment plants and thousands of kilometers of pipes.

The changes to your water bill are the result of a detailed, multi-year financial planning process.

Peel Region reviewed the costs of delivering water and wastewater services to three different customer types: single-unit residential, multi-unit residential and businesses. The goal was to ensure rates are fair and customers are billed based on the cost of providing services to them.

Whether you’re at home or away, the system is always ready and in place for when you need it.

Tips for using less water outdoors:

• Water less frequently: Most lawns and gardens do not require daily watering. Watering less often, but more deeply, promotes strong root growth, making plants more drought resistant.

• Monitor the forecast: Adjust watering schedules based on the weather forecast to avoid overwatering and unnecessary irrigation.

• Optimize watering times: Water before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m. to reduce water evaporation.
• Check for leaks: Regularly inspect outdoor taps, hoses, faucets, and sprinklers for leaks to prevent water waste.

• Raise mower height: Set your lawn mower to a higher level. Longer grass shades the roots and helps keep moisture in the soil.

• Sweep, don’t spray: Use a broom rather than a hose to clear driveways, sidewalks, and patios.

• Add mulch to your garden: Mulching helps prevent moisture loss and controls weeds.

• Collect rainwater: Install a rain barrel to store rainwater for future watering needs.

• Consider Fusion Landscaping: Create a beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor space that needs less watering.

Residents can now rent electric pedal-assist bicycles (e-bikes) and kick-style scooters (e-scooters) in Mississauga for a fee. The City has partnered with Lime Technology, Inc. and Bird Canada to launch its first system of shared e-bikes and e-scooters. The City is offering this new service as an alternative mode of transportation, whether you’re getting to school, work or to run errands. Up to 300 e-bikes and 900 e-scooters will be made available throughout Mississauga at more than 600 locations including near community centres, libraries, bus stops and park entrances. This program allows users to travel throughout Mississauga using another mode of transportation that’s sustainable, convenient and accessible.

All devices are programmed with:

No-ride zones on sidewalks and other restricted areas.
Slow-ride zones on busy shared trails and areas with high foot traffic.
No-parking zones to ensure trips can only end in areas approved for parking.
All e-bikes have a bell, front and rear lights, reflectors, a height adjustable seat, a step-through frame, a lock, a front basket and a helmet.

All e-scooters have a bell, front and rear lights, turn signals, a lock and a helmet.

Thank you to those who joined us on May 30 for the public information session on the Aquitaine Avenue Road Safety Improvement Pilot Project. I want to continue to dialogue with the community as staff continues to monitor the project. If you have questions, comments or concerns, please email me at martin.reid@mississauga.ca or contact project lead:
Fred Sandoval
905-615-3200 ext. 8299
fred.sandoval@mississauga.ca

For those asking, what is the status of the project? The installation of the pilot road reconfiguration is complete. The City will be monitoring road operations throughout 2024 to inform a permanent future road reconstruction. We will host an in-person public information session in fall 2024 to update you on the status of this project and future permanent alternatives.
If you were unable to join us on May 30, 2024, please visit the link below to access the slide presentation.

The success of crime prevention initiatives depends on your support and involvement. For just $25, your much needed contribution will help sustain the crime prevention programs provided by Safe City Mississauga. Join me in supporting our community. Donate today!

Its construction season which might have you considering widening your driveway.

While you don’t require a building permit to widen a driveway, you do need to follow regulations. 

The City is working to improve timelines, address the backlog of Forestry work orders and enhance the quality of forestry service delivery. You can now track and monitor the status and completion of service requests and work orders online in real-time through a new interactive tree map. 

DYK: Parks and Forestry staff maintains over 4,200 acres of turf within their 500+ parks, 370 sports fields, 11 cemeteries, 393 km of park trails and 300 hectares of roadside boulevard turf areas in Mississauga.

DYK: During months with peak park usage, Parks provides peak service for waste containers at all parks, along trails, and park amenities such as spray pads, playgrounds, and sports fields. All parks are serviced at minimum once per week. 

Did you know, low-income seniors (65+ years) or low-income persons with disabilities can apply for a subsidy to help cover the cost of maintaining the outside of their property, including maintaining their yard, trees, garden and snow removal? For eligibility and application, click link below.

Did you know Alectra offers Payment Assistance programs and support if your payments are overdue? To learn about or apply for their Flexible Payment Arrangements, Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) or Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP), visit the link below.

I join the Ward 9 Senior’s community in their concerns in the rise in scams, fraud and personal safety. Please visit Ward9.ca to collect important tips to keep you and our community safe.

Introducing Mississauga Arts Council’s new Sauga Neighbourhood Arts Program (SNAP!)

Want to do something special for your neighbourhood to celebrate the City’s 50th birthday? How about participating in a beautiful mural, concert, art fair, or a theatre in the park production?

SNAP! Is a co-funding initiative of the Mississauga Arts Council (MAC) that provides financial support to community-led arts programs in celebration of Mississauga’s 50th Anniversary in 2024.

Arts Groups/Organizations, Festivals, Service/Community Groups, and Neighbourhood Associations based in Mississauga can apply anytime before November 1, 2024 for co-funding support of projects that serve their neighbourhood. SNAP! will support projects throughout 2024 that enable residents and artists to meet through beautifications, activations, and creative experiences across Mississauga and bring local residents into greater awareness, connection, and enjoyment of local professional artists.

The Wellness Response and Assistance Program (WRAP) offers mental health and addiction support to individuals and families, in-person or virtually. The support includes but are not limited to:

– Offer mental health and addiction counseling and programs.
– Help reduce health risks with harm reduction supplies, health education, and needle exchange.
– Help with completing Ontario Disability Support (ODSP) applications, if eligible.

Several community-based non-profit organizations offer free mental health and addiction support. You can call or email any of the agencies listed here if you’re an Ontario Works client seeking help.

If you need help with transportation or child care costs, please ask your Ontario Works Caseworker to request financial support.

Become part of the Meadowvale Business Community today! MBA opens the door to a wealth of opportunities designed to elevate your business to new heights. Through dynamic networking events, you’ll forge meaningful connections with fellow entrepreneurs and professionals, fostering collaborations that can lead to mutual success. Fore more, visit link below.

In 1974, the Towns of Streetsville, Port Credit and the Township of Mississauga amalgamated to form the vibrant and diverse City of Mississauga. 2024 marks the City’s 50th anniversary and provides an opportunity for all to celebrate this great City. A City-wide Steering Committee and Working Team have been established to plan and execute anniversary events and activities all year! Visit the Anniversary website Mississauga.ca/50 for event listings, interactive timeline, past and present photos and a digital celebration kit where you can learn how to host your very own celebration.

Residents who wish to host a street party or community event, are required to apply for a street party permit or obtain approval to host a community event at a public space.

On Thurs. Dec. 7 at Regional Council, staff brings forward a report: Phase 2 of the Peel 2051 Municipal Comprehensive Review: Consideration of Potential Employment Area Conversions Results. 

RECOMMENDATION
1. That the findings outlined in the report from the Commissioner of Public Works,
listed on the December 7, 2023 Regional Council agenda titled “Phase 2 of the
Peel 2051 Municipal Comprehensive Review: Consideration of Potential
Employment Area Conversions Results”, be endorsed; and

2. That staff be directed to undertake the next steps outlined in the subject report
and report back to Regional Council with a recommendation on a Regional Official
Plan Amendment to consider removing Site 1 and the western portion of Site 2 in
the City of Mississauga, as well as the Dry Industrial lands in the Bolton GO
Station Area of the Town of Caledon, from the “Employment Area” designation on
Schedule E-4 of the Region of Peel Official Plan; and

3. That a copy of the subject report be forwarded to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs
and Housing, City of Brampton, Town of Caledon and City of Mississauga for
information.

As I watch a number of residents gather on various social media applications to form independent community forums and groups, I am hopeful there is community interest in officially forming a Ward 9 Residents Association group. Ward 9 has not had an official Residents Association group for a number of years and is the only Ward in the City of Mississauga without a registered group.

Did you know non-profit, volunteer-run groups can register with the City to access benefits and resources? Neighbourhood associations strengthen and support resident engagement and provide opportunities for greater active participation in the local community. I encourage you to take advantage of City services and staff support by registering your community today!

Why register:
Discounts to rent space at community centres and City facilities
Permission to place promotional mobile signs next to City roads
General liability insurance through the City’s affiliate insurance program, if eligible
Community grants and funding

Residency and membership requirements:
All group members and registered participants must be residents of Mississauga
Must have a clearly defined membership with geographic boundaries
Must have one or more neighbourhood based activity, program, or event that supports the City’s strategic master plans

Benefits:
Discounted affiliate group rental rate for facilities and equipment
One free room rental per month for executive meetings
One free room rental per year for your annual general meeting
Permission to place a promotional mobile sign next to a City road
Access to a City liaison
Discounted community rate for Special Event Vendor Licences
Use of the Registered Group Civic Mark on your group’s promotional materials like your website, posters or flyers
Priority booking for City facilities and parks

How to apply:
After you’ve determined your group’s category, and you meet the residency requirements, review the policy requirements in the Community Group Registry Program Policy. If your group meets all the requirements, complete the Statement of Interest Form online. We’ll contact you within four to six weeks to discuss next steps.

Have questions, email: community.group@mississauga.ca or call 905-615-3200 ext. 5054.

Learn about registering a community group, hosting an outdoor event or applying for a grant. Visit:

Many of you have been asking me, what is the City of Mississauga doing to address the affordable housing crisis? Mississauga adopted its affordable housing strategy – Making Room for the Middle – in 2017 to help provide housing that is affordable for all. At the time, the City was one of the first municipalities in Canada to develop a housing strategy focused on middle-income earners. As of 2023, almost 90% of the strategy’s 40 actions have been completed, are ongoing or underway. 

In 2022, the Province of Ontario passed two major housing bills that have implications for the City’s efforts to deliver affordable housing. While the new legislation aims to increase housing supply, neither bill guarantees that housing will become more affordable. The City is committed to helping the Province increase supply while continuing to focus on – and advocate for – ways to make housing more affordable. 

In recent weeks, many of you have approached me to ask, “How can I help?” Write, call or visit your MPP today to lend your voice to this crisis. To find out who your MPP is, click on the link below.

To learn about the city’s Affordable Housing Strategy, click below.

Next-Steps Employment Centre – Meadowvale

Free employment support and resource centre in Greater Toronto Area

If you are a job seeker in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan or surrounding cities, Next-Steps Employment Centres can help you secure employment – for free.

Please view our Job Listings for current career and employment opportunities through our employer partners.

Take advantage of our free services or to fill out our contact form and someone from our team will get in touch with you.

We help Ontario residents, including newcomers, with:

• Job matching with reputable employers
• Job search support
• Help develop your resume and cover letter
• Improving your interview skills
• Career exploration
• Job placement supports
• Skills development and training
• Applying to Better Jobs Ontario

Registration is required to access our services. Individuals must meet eligibility criteria, including unemployment or underemployment, to register.