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Welcome
This web site provides a forum where I can bring you up to date on issues and events at the Town of Markham that affect the quality of living in our Ward.
To contact me regarding any issue please click here for the contact page.
Please visit this page to see what some residents of East Markham have to say about John. i
What's New?
Please click here for the latest Road Maintenance Report
Work Plan for the period November 10 to November 14, 2008.
Live Audio Broadcast of the Transportation Master Plan
November 20 2008
York Region is pleased to offer a Live Audio Presentation of tonight’s (Thursday November 20th, 2008) Public Consultation Centre in the Town of Markham. The presentation will begin at 7:00 p.m. followed by a question and answer period.
Please Click here for more information on how to listen in
Top of Page
Lights Left on in the Parks
November 8, 2008
There has been an on-going problem with the lighting being left on at our Sports Fields.
Please click here to see how you can help
Markham Centre Information Open House
November 8, 2008
Markham Centre is the area between Highway 7 and Highway 407, Warden and Kennedy Road.
The plans have been updated since its inception in 1994 and will dramatically change the way we think of the Town of Markham.
For more information, Please Click Here
Free Compost Giveaway
The back parking lot at the Civic Centre will be used for a Compost Giveaway event on Saturday, October 18. Please bring you own containers and come early as the supply is usually gone by noon.
Federal Election, October 14, 2008
Please click here for information
Home Energy Conservation - Grants for You.
September 23, 2008
Home energy costs are affecting everyone!
By making your home more energy efficient, you reduce your greenhouse gas emissions and actually save on the high costs of home heating and hydro.
Now is the time speak to an energy advisor about assessing your home's energy efficiency. The federal and provincial governments are offering up to $10,000 in energy grants and incentives.
Help is available through the York Region based, not for profit organization, Windfall Ecology Centre. Windfall's certified auditors offer unbiased information and home energy solutions.
Windfall applies, on your behalf, for all government grants.
Knowledgeable staff are on hand to answer questions.
For more information, please call 1-866-280-4431 or e-mail doug@windfallcentre.ca
Train Whistle - When will it Stop?
September 5, 2008
I have good news. We are getting closer to the GO Trains running silently through Markham.
Please click here for the story.
Parking Problems at Parks
September 4 2008
It has come to my attention that the Town of Markham By-law officers are enforcing the NO Parking areas more this year.
Please be considerate to the neighbourhood in which you play and park accordingly as to not get a ticket.
Public Meeting - Markham Stouffville Hospital Lands
August 30, 2008
A public meeting will be held on September 16, 2008 in the Council Chambers at the Civic Centre at 7:00 pm.
The applicant and the Town is proposing to amend the development standards of the Town's Zoning By-law and to re-zone a portion of Hospital lands and adjoining Town owned lands to permit the expansion of Markham Stouffville Hospital and the construction of the future Community Centre.
The purpose and effect of the proposed by-law amendment is to amend the institutional development standards and to re-zone a portion of the hospital lands form Agricultural to Institutional. In addition the Town owned lands east of the hospital will also be re-zoned from Agricultural to Institutional. The effect of the amendment would be to permit the expansion of Markham Stouffville Hospital and the construction of the future community centre, and bring the by-law into conformity with the Town's Official Plan as amended.
The actual official notice and more information is available from Doris Cheng of the Town's Planning Department, 905-477-7000 extension 2331 quoting file number ZA 08 111302. Written submissions may be mailed or personally delivered to the Clerk's Department at the Civic Centre or e-mail to judycarrol@markham.ca not later than 4:30 pm on Friday September 12, 2008, and I'd appreciate a copy as well.
Oil Spill on Wootten Way South
August 27, 2008
Last evening there was an hydraulic oil spill on Wootten Way South, which was tracked along a number of the streets in the area.
Town staff attended to the site from approximately 8:30 until mid-night, placing sand throughout the area to aid traction. No hydraulic material entered the catch basins; it was restricted to the road surface.
The road surface is presently being cleaned and there may be repairs needed.
The Town has documented who was responsible and will be pursuing cost recovery with the help of By-laws. Ministry of the Environment was notified, Markham Fire attended as did York Regional Police.
Jerman Street Closed to Traffic
August 22, 2008
In order to permit the safe installation of the sanitary and storm sewer, and watermain connections on Jerman Road to service 6050 Highway 7, it will be necessary to close Jerman Road at Highway 7 for the period Monday August 25, 2008 to Friday August 29, 2008.
As Jerman Road has a smaller right of way, there is no alternative to installing the services safely while maintaining one lane of traffic. Vehicle access will be available via local streets from the north.
Staff will be monitoring the closure and construction closely and will address any issues that may arise. In the event that the works are completed sooner, then the road shall be reopened at that time.
Three Streets Missed for Waste Pick-Up
July 18, 2008
Shayne has reported that:
- Pamgrey Rd
- Stalmaster Rd and
- Neeley Rd
will not have their waste collected today as the roads have been freshly paved. The garbage trucks would cause considerable damage to the new pavement, so a decision was made not to send them in.
These areas will be collected first thing on Monday morning.
Top of Page
Extreme Heat Alert
July 18, 2008
In consideration of the current weather conditions and the upcoming weather forecast over the next few days a subgroup of members of the Markham Control Group (Deputy Fire Chief Shayne Mintz, P. Loukes, M. Rebane/J. Carnegie and B. Roth) have conferred and decided that the Town's Extreme Heat Alert Plan will be put in effect immediately and continue until Sunday July 20 at 6:00PM.
For you information I have attached an excerpt from the Town's Emergency Procedures Manual on what facilities will be open to accommodate residents who may need to take advantage of our cooling centres, outdoor pools and water play areas.
Please click here for the information
Upgrading 19th Avenue Bridge for your Safety
July 12, 2008
The 19th Avenue Bridge between Hwy 48 and 9th Line will be closed as of July 14, 2008. This is to permit it's reconstruction as part of the Town's on-going bridge inspection and updating program.
Please click here more details.
New Bike Paths and Trails
July 11, 2008
We've completed the Pathways and Trails Master Plan and yes we are moving ahead with the implementation of trails in Milne Park connecting the existing trails to Main St Markham or Markham Rd. This was made possible through funding from the Province as part of the Municipal Infrastructure Improvement Fund. The proposed trail connection will be a huge benefit to the community. The design process for the Milne trail just began and Renee Chong and Lorenzo Mele are heading the project. We will be holding public meetings in the fall once we have the design options and alignments available. In the meantime, if you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to contact me. For a copy of the Master Plan, please click here
New Bus Shelters
July 10, 2008
In the ongoing commitment to make our Transit system as convenient and comfortable as possible, there are new bus shelters being constructed this summer at Church Street and Country Glen Road. They are on the north-west and south west corners.
What Happened to the Splash Pad at Swan Lake Park?
July 7, 2008
When we did the initial start up in mid-June, we discovered that there was a substantial leak in the water main that services the park. This may have occurred over the winter, but it is not typical and is a bit hard to say why it happened with any certainty.
We immediately hired a contractor on the spot to do the repair, but because they have to dig a big hole in the boulevard to get access to the pipe, they are required to obtain utility locates and all the other 'red tape' that happens when we cross jurisdictions of responsibility.
I believe that all the permits have been issued and I anticipate that the pipe will be hooked up and running in the next week or so.
Update August 6, 2008 It is my understanding that there have been complications and the implementation date has been delayed. i will update this section as I find more information.
Help for Highway 7 and Main Street
July 7, 2008
The intersection of Highway 7 and Main Street (Formerly Highway 48) has been a bottle neck for years. With a lot of work, I'm please to announce that steps have been taken to help.
Traffic Gridlock is an on-going concern, but this is a step in the right direction, and I thank all those from the Town of Markham and the Region of York who have worked with me on this.
Please click here for the full story.
Elgin Mills Road Closed
July 7, 2008
Elgin Mills Road will be closed to traffic between Highway 48 and 9th Line from Wednesday July 9th at 7:00 am to Friday July 11th at 6:00 pm.
The Road is closed due to Railway Track Improvements and there will be no through access.
If you have any questions please call 905-475-4714
York Region Transit and VIVA have Improved the Routes
June 20, 2008
York Region Transit and VIVA have made changes and improvements to the schedules and routes in the East End of Markham to improve service.
Please click here to see the changes.
2008 Residential Markham Property Tax Bills
The 2008 Residential Property Tax Bills will be in the mail between June 11, 2008 and June 24, 2008.
For more information, Please click here.
Markham Recognizes 2008 Seniors Hall of Fame Winners
June 10, 2008
Mayor Frank Scarpitti and Markham Council recognized the winners of the Mayor’s Seniors Hall of Fame awards, now in its eleventh year, at the June 10 Markham Council meeting.
Please click here for full details
Will there be a Catholic School built in Cornell?
May 29 2008
This is a question that I've been asked time and time again.
I attended a Public Meeting with the York Catholic District School Board and the Cornell Ratepayers Association to shed some light on the subject.
Please click here for my notes of the meeting.
Power Cable Locate Service Delayed
May 16, 2008
PowerStream as announced that due to a late spring, their power cable locate service is running behind.
Please click here for the full story.
Mayor and Council offer Support and Condolences
May 12, 2008
“Markham offers its deepest condolences to the citizens of China who have been affected by this terrible tragedy. Earthquakes of this nature have a devastating impact, and Markham will provide the support we can to help these communities,” said Mayor Frank Scarpitti.
“I just returned from China with Regional Councillor Tony C. Wong, as part of a Markham business delegation, and was in some of the areas affected. We will contact some of our new friends there and officials from our sister city Wuhan, in the next few days to see if there is specific support we can offer. Markham Council will discuss this at its meeting tomorrow evening, May 13, and in a meeting later today we will discuss the measures that can be taken immediately to provide assistance.”
“A large number of Markham’s residents have friends, relatives or colleagues in China and we will do our utmost to help where possible with fundraising or communications with China.”
Informal Recreational Trails in the Rouge Valley Closed
May 5, 2008
The 407 ETR Concession Company (407 ETR), SNC-Lavalin Inc. is providing notification to key stakeholders that 407 ETR intends to close the informal recreational trails in the Rouge River valley located east of Markham Road, and the Little Rouge Creek valley west of Regional Road 30, within the designated right-of-way for Highway 407. The purpose of these closures is to protect public and worker safety during 407 ETR's construction of the widening of the existing highway bridges over the subject watercourses. Signage will be posted by 407 ETR where the trails cross Highway 407 lands to provide public user with notice of the closures.
For your information, the duration of the trail closures are as follows:
Rouge River at Highway 407 - trail located west of the river in the flood plain. Closed from May 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009.
Little Rouge Creek at Highway 407 - trail located east of the creek in the flood plain. Closed from May 1, 2008 to November 30, 2008.
Please note that 407 ETR will make all efforts to accelerate their construction schedule, where possible, in order to re-open the trails as soon as possible and minimize disruption to recreational users.
Should you have any questions regarding the trail closures, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Craig Wallace, BES
Environmental Specialist
Environment Division
SNC-Lavalin Inc.
2200 Lake Shore Blvd. West
Toronto, Ontario
M8V 1A4
Tel.: 416.252.5311 Ext. 5637
Fax: 416.231.5356
E-mail: craig.wallace@snclavalin.com
Preliminary Progress on Upgrading our Snow Clearing
April 26, 2008
We have been meeting with staff to improve next winter's snow removal plans.
Please click here to read some of the areas we are working towards.
How to Contact By-Law Enforcement
April 26, 2008
If you have a problem where you think a By-Law is being broken, you can contact the Town by calling 905-477-7000.
During business hours that number is answered and you can always leave message after hours and on weekends.You can also e-mail the Town at customerservice@markham.ca
The Town will be assigning By-law Staff to weekend shifts over the summer. We do not have a number yet to contact them; however, i will post it here as soon as it is operational.
By-law staff are discreet in their investigations of complaints and the complainant’s information is never disclosed. If you provide an address, staff will speak to the person. Often residents are unaware that their activities are contrary to by-laws and will quite happily comply.
Markham District School Site Plan is Ready
April 19, 2008
The York Region District School board is planning to start this June to build the new school, and then when it is finished, to move the students in and demolish the current school.
The Board has had many meetings with the public and they have brought the final site plan to Markham Council for approval.
Before the site plan is signed, I want to make sure that all your concerns about he site plan have been addressed.
Please click here to see the PDF files of the plans.
If you have any questions or comments about he site, please call or e-mail
Missing Person
April 17 2008
Please help in finding a person who went missing from Markham Stouffville Hospital. I don't have much of a description so far, but please be aware of people who appear out of place.
The protocols required for missing patient search are being followed by staff and the hospital is working collaboratively with the York Region Police Department.
I will update you on further developments as I receive them.
Update from the Hospital:
"I am pleased to inform you that the missing patient has been found. He has been returned to MSH in good condition and is currently being assessed by his physician.
During this situation, the family was present in the Hospital and has been very appreciative of the Hospital's effort to find their loved one.
We appreciate the support of York Regional Police, and the efforts of all staff.
Traffic Lights at Steeles and 9th Line
April 14 2008
I have been working with the Town Staff, the Region of York and The City of Toronto to get a solution to the traffic problems at Steels and 9th Line.
Regional Councillor Jim Jones made the Quote of the Day when he said, "We can widen and complete the Don Cousens Parkway from 407 all we want. Without solving the Steels intersection, we are just getting people to a traffic jam faster!"
Please click here to read the latest we've received from Toronto. Unbelievable!
Major Mackenzie Closure Notice Sunday April 13, 2008.
I have received information from the Region of York that Major Mackenzie will be temporally closed on April 13, 2008. This may change your route that you usually use to come home.
For More Information, Please Click Here
Our Fire Department has a new Fire Safety House
April 7, 2008
By the time the community festival season arrives we will have a new Fire Safety House to help educate and inform residents of Markham in fire awareness, safety and survival.
This $50,000.00 project was completed entirely through charitable fund raising with many special thanks to Councilor Alex Chiu who raised almost the entire amount on his own.
For more information about the Fire Safety House, Please Click Here.
Summer's Coming, and the Youth are becoming visible again.
April 7, 2008
I have been troubled for a long time that the average youth in Markham is getting the short end of the stick. There are lots of programs for youth that are advantaged. There are programs from arts to sports teams that are available. For the disadvantage there are also a lot of programs geared to an individuals ability. But I've found that for the youth that is cursed with being average, there were not a lot of opportunities. The result is idle minds and idle young people, which manifests itself into mischief.
It was for that reason that in 1984 I became a Charter Member of the Optimist Club of Markham. The goal of the Optimist Club is to become a friend of youth by bringing out the best in them. If you click here, you will be taken to the website of Optimist International which will give you more information. The link will take you to another site, so please use the "Back" arrow on your browser to return to the Ward 5 page. (The Optimist Club of Markham is currently looking for active participants who want to make a difference in the lives of our Youth. If you want more information, please contact me.)
I am proud that Council has recognized this need and through the Youth Services section, the gap is being filled.
Engaging youth is the best method of building a Character Community.
It's Pot Hole Season Again.
April 7, 2008
The frost is coming out the ground and the pot holes are appearing. Our Operations Department is on to it and you will be seeing them repairing them as fast as they can.
In the meantime, take care. Some of them are huge and if you hit them they will jar your car and rattle your freckles.
I have included a PDF of a presentation from Peter Loukes which talks about Environmental Paving Techniques and how they are adapted in the Urban Environment. Before you click on it, I should warn you that it is a 8.3 mb download, so if you are on a dial-up internet provider, it may take some time. Please click here for the PDF on Paving Techniques
if the PDF presentation is too large, please contact me and I'll mail a disk to you by Canada Post
Recreation Services Update, Winter 2008
April 7, 2008
Recreation Services have been busy this past winter. The staff have trained over 500 part-timers in mandatory Health and Safety training and provided a host of activities and events.
Please click here for details
The Cost of Winter is Calculated
April 7 2008
You have already guessed it, we overspent our budget for snow removal last winter. According to the report to General Committee, the budget was overspent by $1.4 million, but some of that will be offset by a favourable variance in the 2007 Operating Budget.
Please click here for more details.
It's the Litter Season again
April 1, 2008
As the snow disappears, all the litter that has accumulated over the winter begins to appear.
Please click here to see what the Town of Markham is doing about it
East Markham Library and Community Centre is a Go!
March 29, 2008
East Markham Community Centre & Library schematic designs requested
Council approved recommended programs and associated space requirements for the East Markham Community Centre & Library, directing staff to report back with schematic design options for a facility with up to 130,000 square feet.
That includes the extra square feet to make the Library the full size and includes a music/performance mulit use room.
Please watch this space and I'll have a link to all the details shortly.
The new Community Centre & Library will include aquatics facilities; three gymnasiums; fitness space; a multi-use rehearsal space for music and theatre groups; a dedicated indoor playground for children; spaces for older adults, youth and those with special needs and; a library including a medical library.
Tragedy Averted by Town Staff at Centennial Arena
March 29, 2008
On Wednesday March 26, 2008, Susan Iemma (Pool Supervisor) and David Storie (PT Shift Supervisor) responded to an AED incident in the arena. A 48 year old man collapsed on the ice during Shinny. He had a history of cardiac conditions. Susan administered a shock and performed CPR. Dave performed the rescue breathing. Together, they saved his life. Early defibrillation really does work! The update from the hospital indicates that the man is doing well and is in the ICU.
Susan and David will be recognized at the Life Saving Society’s Annual General meeting taking place this evening in Mississauga.
Please click here for a letter from Pat Esaw
Markham Receives $4.5 Million Grant from the Province
March 28, 2008
The Liberal Government of Ontario set money aside to be granted to Municipalities for specific purposes. The criteria for the proposal was very specific, and Markham Council submitted a bid to pay for Bicycle Paths and Walking Trails along the Donald Cousens By-Pass.
Today we received word that we were successful. Please click here to read Mayor Frank Scarpitti's remarks.
Earth Hour is This Saturday
March 28, 2008
If you plan to enjoy candlelight during Earth Hour, please remember to extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed. Markham Fire & Emergency Services reminds us to enjoy Earth Hour safely and ensure working smoke alarms are on every level of your home and outside all sleeping areas.
Plan to participate in Earth Hour: Join the Town of Markham and communities around the world as we turn out the lights for one hour between 8-9 p.m. on Saturday, March 29 to raise awareness about global warming through the Earth Hour campaign.
Permanent Money from the Conservative Government for Markham's Roads and Infrastructure.
February 27, 2008
The Federal Budget, announced by Conservative Jim Flaherty, includes a commitment to make the federal gas tax permanent.
Please click here for more information.
Update of the Emerald Ash Borer
February 26, 2008
Please click here for the UpdateGarbage and Family Day
February 22, 2008
Rant of the Week - by John webster
Family day, while a good idea in principle, was implemented by the Provincial Government in an amateurish way. (Please click here to read my thoughts on the matter.) The result is that our municipality took the holiday, but Miller Waste, who picks up our garbage did not.
Therefore, if you are logical and think that garbage pickup will be one day later than usual, as is the customary practice when a Monday is a holiday, you will be angry. Miller worked on Monday, the holiday, and so we were supposed to somehow know that garbage will be picked up on the regular day. I found this out after lugging all three streams back in last night and watching the truck wiz by this morning.
I hope next time the Provincial Government decides to make sweeping changes, they will put some thought behind the implementation first.
There. I've said it, and now I'll cool off by shoveling some snow. John.
Main Street Markham - What's Happening?
February 21, 2008
For the past decade, there have been many committee meetings about the future look and use of Main Street Markham. As the beginning of the next step draws near, there have been a tremendous number of rumors and "The Sky Is Falling" type statements. My answer to these is "Don't Panic".
For a full report please click here, and click here for an Up Date as of February 21, 2008
Snow Plow and Road Report
February 18, 2008
The cold weather has passed and that has allowed the road crews to be able to attack the ice ruts that have formed on some roads.
When the snow arrived is such quantities and over a long snow storm, the plows could not get to all streets for the second pass before the temperature dropped dramatically. At low temperatures, salt is not effective and the equipment can't pick up the ice.
All our equipment is out working and the conditions of the roads are improving.
Thank you for your patience.
All our equipment is out working and the conditions of the roads are improving.
Thank you for your patience.
The Tax Rate for 2008
February 12, 2008
I am proud to have been a part of the Budget Subcommittee and to be able to announce that we've held the Tax Rate for 2008 to a 3.7% increase, one of the lowest in the Greater Toronto Area. The increase represents an increase on the Markham's share of the tax bill to an average homeowner of $39.20.
Please click here for the full story.
Snow Removal. What's it all about?
February 12, 2008
I have received a lot of calls about the level of service that has been given during these last snow storms. The storms have been longer and more intense than in previous years. I have brought this forward along with the concerns of other Councillors to Senior Staff and at the Budget Committee.
An interim step has been taken to increase the winter maintenance level of service, and a task force has been set up to address the issues further.
Please click here for more information.
7050 Native Trees to be planted in Ward 5
February 7, 2008
Please click here for more information
2008 Interim Property Tax Bills - Markham Property Owners
January 11, 2008
The 2008 Interim Pre-Authorized Payment property tax bills will be in the mail on January 11, 2008. The balance of the bills will be mailed the week of January 21, 2008. Please click here for more details.
Markham Provides New Holiday in February
December 23, 2007
Family Day is scheduled in the Town of Markham for the third Monday of each February. This year it will be February 18 2008.
Please click here for more details.
We Finally Get Viva Service - Viva grows in 2008
December 17, 2007
Beginning January 27, 2008, Viva purple
service will be extended to Markham
Stouffville Hospital, serving the
community east of McCowan Road
for the first time.
Please Click here for the full story
All Day, 2 Way Go Service Announced
December 15, 2007
We will have all day, 2 way Go Trains from the Unionville Station at 1 hour intervals starting in sometime in 2009
Please click here for more information.
Be careful what Firewood you bring home.
December 5, 2007
Please click here for information about the Emerald Ash Borer
Reesor Bridge Grand Opening
December 5, 2007
When I was asked if we should delay the opening of the Reesor Bridge in order to have a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, I said, "No. Let's open the bridge and do the ceremony later."
The bridge has been open for a week now, finally.
]
The Grand Opening is on Monday December 17, 2007 at 10:00 am. Come and join the celebration.
Update December 17, 2007: Due to the snowstorm, the Official Ribbon Cutting has been postponed. Please check here for the date and time when it has been rescheduled.
Welcome Back to the Markham Village Library
November 27, 2007
The Library has been renovated, revitalized and is ready to re-open. Come. Join the celebration at 11:00 am on December 15, 2007. Activities will take place throughout the day, including contests, music, refreshments, and entertainment for the whole family and much more!.
Highlights of the bright, spacious new library include:
- Teen area
- Computer training facility
- Wireless Internet Access
- Rejuvenated collection
- Improved Children's area
- Study Rooms
- Lots of seating
- Fireside reading lounge
- Self-Service options.
Winter Storm Warning
5:32 am November 22, 2007
Our winter road equipment is out and working. A winter Storm Warning has been issued for freezing rain this morning and snow to follow. The weather office anticipates 10 to 15 centimeters of snow likely by tonight. (That's 4 to 6 inches)
Please click here for Today's Snow Plow Report
York Region Transit Route Changes
November 21, 2007
The 9th Line is open, and I have received information that the Bus Routes in the east end will be changing as of Monday, November 26, 2007.
YRT has received positive feedback regarding the temporary Route 85 routing via Bur Oak Avenue.
Effective Monday November 26, 2007, Route 2A – 14th Avenue and Route 9 – 9th Line will operate along 9th Line (back to original routing). Route 2A – 14th Avenue and Route 9 – 9th Line will no longer service Bur Oak Avenue. The following routes will continue to service Bur Oak Avenue are:
Route 1 – Hwy 7
Route 85 – 16th Avenue
Route 201 – Markham GO Shuttle
Route 303 – Cornell Express
There are future plans to extend Route 85 further east of 9th Line and service Cornell Rouge Blvd. This future Route 85 extension will service the proposed bus terminal/loop at Hwy 7. The Route 85 service along Bur Oak Avenue will be removed when Route 85 is extended to Cornell Rouge Blvd
Overnight Parking in the New Areas of Cornell
November 21, 2007
Cornell is one of the few areas in the Town of Markham where overnight parking is permitted with a permit. Part of the By-Law allows new areas of Cornell to permit parking if a majority of residents want it.
I asked our staff to mail a notice to all residents in the new areas to ask if they wanted the permit system extended to their areas. The results came back with a definite decline, so the overnight parking area will not be extended.
Please click here for more information.
Regional Open House on Transportation and Waste Water
Please click here for a PDF on the upcoming Region of York Open House and Public Consultation on Transportation and Waste Water. This may be an important meeting to attend. I am unable to be there due to a conflict in schedule, but Council is having a report at General Committee earlier. I will try to update the important points here after the meeting.
More Traffic on the 9th Line?
The Region of York has recently initiated a review of the 1999 Environmental Study Report for the Ninth Line between Major Mackenzie Drive and Main Street Stouffville. The purpose of the review is to determine if the recommendations presented in the 1999 ESR specifically the construction of the 9th Line as a two lane roadway and the elimination of intersection jogs at Major Mackenzie Drive and Elgin Mills Road, are still the preferred alternatives.
Among other things, the Region will recommend that the 9th Line be reconstructed as a four lane roadway from Major Mackenzie Drive to Stouffville rather than a two lane facility. The reason for these recommended changes is to deal with the anticipated significant increase in projected traffic volumes heading from Stouffville to Highway 407.
This will undo the work that the residents of Ward 5 did in 1999. Please read more by clicking here.
How Safe is our Playground Equipment?
November 1, 2007
For the full story, please click here.
What is Happening to Main Street Markham?
For the past decade, there have been many committee meetings about the future look and use of Main Street Markham. As the beginning of the next step draws near, there have been a tremendous number of rumors and "The Sky Is Falling" type statements. My answer to these is "Don't Panic".
Please click here for more information.
Bridge Delay on Reesor Road
I just received a notice that the bridge on Reesor Road north of 16th Avenue will remain closed until the end of November 2007
Please click here for the notice
Boil Water Advisory
Over the weekend there was a Boil Water Advisory issued for the water for some houses in Angus Glen.
Is our drinking water safe? The answer is "YES"
Please click here for more information
Garbage Not Picked Up?
What do you do if you come home and your garbage has not been picked up?
I'm pleased to announce a new pilot project to solve your problem.
Please click here for more information.
Consumer Information Announcement:
PowerStream, the local utility which provides electricity distribution services to homes and businesses in Aurora, Markham, Richmond Hill and Vaughan, is reminding customers that agents who sell contracts on behalf of electricity retailers do not represent PowerStream. Please click here for more details.
Have You Seen This Man?
Are Those Tent Caterpillars?
I asked our Supervisor of Forestry, Jeffrey McMann. Here is his answer.
What effect has the Summer Drought had on our Trees?
I have received a number of questions over the last few weeks about the general condition of Town trees and the effect of this summer’s prolonged drought on our urban forest. Please click here for the answer
York Region Transit Route Change for the Fall.
Starting September 2, York Region Transit and Viva routes will change to serve the public better. I've listed some of the changes to the Routes in the East End of Markham. Please click here for the information.
How do students get from Cornell to Bur Oak High School? Please click here
How can I help the Environment Without Major Change?
I think we are all aware of the need to change our ways to make the environment better and reduce our footprint. But, change is difficult, and changing our lifestyle is often though of as doing without.
Here are 9 easy to do things that will make a difference, yet not feel like you're being punished. Let me know what you think, or better yet, send my some of your ideas and the best of the bunch will be added to the page. Please click here for the list.
Markham Village Basketball
Youth age 10 to 15 years old can play pick up basketball on the indoor ice pad at Markham Village Community centre.
Drop by Monday to Friday from 1 pm to 3 pm with a ball.
Markham Village Community centre is at 6041 Highway 7. The south east corner of Markham Road and Highway 7, right next door to the Markham Village Library which will be opening in the fall.
Bit by Bit the Roads in the Ward are Getting Better
For the past 3 years, I have been working hard with Council, the Developers, and the Region to get the Box Grove By-Pass open. It is finally being done.
The barriers will be removed and opened to traffic on Saturday August 18th at 6:00 a.m.
Finally some relief for southbound traffic. Now if we can just get The City of Toronto to co-operate with Steeles Ave ..........
Raccoons a Problem?
I've had calls about Raccoons doing damage to homes and gardens, so I've checked what can be done. Unfortunately from the Municipality's point of view, there's not much. Raccoons are a protected species, and if they are trapped by a company, they must release the Raccoon within one kilometer from the trap site. It's my experience that the Raccoon will find it's way back so it's money wasted.
The Town has no facilities to handle Raccoons.
If you have a favourite method of discouraging Raccoons, please let me know and I'll pass on the suggestions. Send your ideas and suggestions to me at JohnWebster@JohnWebster.com
Outdoor Water Use
There has been a lot of confusion over the use of lawn and garden water use. The Region of York has had various announcements, but they don't affect the rules in Markham. Please click for more information.
Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project
Sanitary Sewer rehabilitation starts July 16, 2007 and will continue most of the summer. For more information, please click here.
Markham Soccer Club Needs More Fields
The sport of Soccer is expanding dramatically and that compounds the fact that there is a shortage of good Soccer Fields in the East End.
I met with the Board of Directors of the Markham Soccer Club along with
Regional Councillor Jack Heath and Ward Councillor Carolina Moretti, on May
22, 2007, to find a solution, and to find a solution to the loss of the Soccer Fields at Markham
District High School.
For an update on our progress as of July 9 2007, please click here
Bur Oak Open from Church to Highway 7
May 28 2007, 5:45 pm
At the last Council meeting, I made another plea to cut the red tape and get
Bur Oak Open. My motion was not only passed, but heartily endorsed. With thanks to the Regional Councillors and the Town and Regional Staff, as well as the developers, the road will be open by the time you come home from work tomorrow afternoon on May 29.
Hallelujah.
Were you delayed on 14th Avenue Today?
June 28 2007
At approximately 3:00 pm this afternoon the contractor installing the Town’s new trunk watermain on 14th Avenue damaged a gasmain which has resulting in the closure of 14th Avenue from east of McCowan Road to east of Featherstone Avenue. It is expected that the closure will be in effect until approximately 7:00 pm tonight. All necessary emergency services personnel are on site as are repair crews from the gas company and Markham Engineering Department staff. There have been no damages reported other than the damage to the gasmain and although the risk is considered to be low, residents in the area have been advised of the situation and instructed as to precautions which should be taken until the break is repaired.
Update June 29 2009
Temporary repairs of the gasmain break on 14th Ave were completed without incident and 14th Ave was reopened to traffic at 6:55 pm. Permanent repairs are commencing and should be completed over the weekend
Severe Thunderstorm watch for Vaughan - Richmond Hill - Markham
June 8, 2007
Persons in or near this area should be on the lookout for adverse weather conditions and take necessary safety precautions. Watch for updated statements.
Please refer to the latest public forecasts for further details and continue to monitor the situation through your local radio and television stations or Weatheradio.
For definitions please click here
Pathways, Trails and Bicycle Network Master Plans
Find out about Markham's plans to build a connected system of pathways, trails and bike lanes across our community. Review the selected routes and share your thoughts.
Attend an Open House in your neighbourhood to learn more. Meet and speak with members of Council, project coordinators (Shirley Marsh and Lorenzo Mele of the Town of Markham) and members of the Cycling and Pedestrian Advisory Committee
Please click here for times and locations, or click here for the PDF flyer
Draft Pesticide By-Law for January 1 2008
The Draft Pesticide By-Law is proposed to come into effect January 1 2008 allowing time for lawn and garden care industry, residents and others to adjust their practices, This date also will allow for the community education program to be implemented.
For more information please click here.
9th Line / Box Grove By-Pass Open by the End of July
The Box Grove Developers Group have advised that the 9th Line By-Pass will be open to traffic (one lane in each direction) on or about the 3rd week of July including the extension of Rouge Bank Drive and traffic signalization at Rouge Bank Drive and at 14th Avenue.
For the full story, please click 9th Line Box Grove By-Pass Open by the End of July
Markham Village Mini Library Closed of One Day
We have been advised that Powerstream is working on the connection to permanent power at Markham Village Library for Sunday, May 20. This closure is temporary so that the permanent power can be connected to the new building.
Because the building will not be accessible by the general public or library staff the book return (drop box) at Markham Village Library will also be inaccessible. Library materials may be returned to any other MPL location
I've been involved with the inspection tours of the new library and it's going to be impressive. The Official opening is currently aimed for late fall.
If you have any questions regarding the closure please contact the Director of Service Excellence, Moe Hosseini-Ara 905-305-5997 or e-mail at mhosse@markham.library.on.ca
Slum Landlord Destroys Three Heritage Buildings
After three years of negotiations, three of our Heritage Buildings have been leveled. Please click here for the full story.
Have your clocks needed re-setting?
There have been several outages recently in the Raymerville area of Markham. This spate of outages has been the result of transformer failure or failure of associated connection devices to the transformer. The equipment affected are of similar vintage and installation dates.
PowerStream has flagged this area for investigation commencing Monday April 23. In addition, PowerStream is reviewing its protective relay settings at the supply station to eliminate the associated auto-re-close (momentary interruption) experienced by all other customers on the same circuit.
Good News: 9th Line Construction Commencement
The Contract has been signed to start the work on the Ninth Line. York Region has awarded the contract for the reconstruction of the Ninth Line form Rose Way to Bur Oak Avenue.
A reconstruction meeting has been conducted with the contractor. Preparatory works will commence in March 2007. Full fledged construction activity will commence in late April. Completion is forecasted by the end of November of this year.
Click here for more details.
Winter Operations Update
Safety on our roads, sidewalks and pathways is of great importance to all of us as residents, and is taken very seriously by our Operations Department.
I will keep you updated on bulletins as soon as I receive them.
April 5, 2007. Oh boy! We're back at it again, but at least snow in April won't last long. Our night service has been out to make sure the roads are safe.
Please click here to review the Snow Plow Schedule.
PowerStream Was Busy
PowerStream, the electrical company that we as residents of Markham own, was busy during the March 1, 2007 storm. Please click here for details.
Protecting our Environment is More than a Promise
The Environment is an easy word to say, and to promise to protect it can be a hollow statement. But we are making more than promises. As we plan the budget for this year, we also plan the work that will be done. Please click here for the details that we are working on.
Did you wonder why your lights flashed January 30 in the morning?
For the answer, click here.
Traffic Light at Swan Lake/Amica and Mint Leaf Gate
There have been problems for pedestrians and cars to cross 16th Avenue, especially during rush hours. The lights are being extended and measures are being taken for pedestrians. Please click here for more information.
The Winter Warmth Fund
The struggle to meet all of your financial commitments can sometimes mean that you find yourself a little short when the time comes to pay your natural gas bill.
Enbridge Gas and the United Way can help pay the gas bill during times of financial stress. Please click here.
2007 Interim Markham Property Tax Bills
The 2007 interim property tax bills will be in the mail starting the week of January 8th. For more information, Please click here.
Holiday Light Festival
The Residents of Daniel Court hosted the Senior's Bus Tour and even had a visit from the dignitaries of the Town and from Santa Claus.
To contact me regarding any issue please click here for the contact page.