Toronto city council

Vehicles driving down Pape Avenue

York Region may shame drunk drivers

With an increasing trend in the number of drunk drivers York Regional Police are considering implementing a “name and shame” program. Those convicted of a driving under the influence could have their name shared on social media.



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Police association head warns against TPS budget cut

The union representing Toronto’s front line police officers says reductions to the police budget will have a noticeable impact on public safety.

On Tuesday, the City released its preliminary 2017 budget, which proposes a $4.4 million cut to annual police spending. Also included in the report are increases to property taxes and investment in public transit.

Mike McCormack, the president of the Toronto Police Association (TPA) warned that crime will rise as Toronto’s population increases.

“We have huge sporting events, (and Toronto is) a destination city,” McCormack said. “That’s a huge demand on police resources. There is clear evidence that properly deployed police officers have an impact on crime prevention.”



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East Yorkers remember personal gifts in Ford’s legacy

Grace Guarnieri never really knew Rob Ford, but she says he still left a lasting impression on her. In a phone conversation, some time ago, the owner of Second Elegance on Pape Avenue mentioned to the then mayor that her father was ill. Subsequently, Ford phoned back to ask if there was anything he could do.

“That’s epic. Who remembers that?” Guarnieri said. “I mean, just that act was consolation enough,” she said. “It was just him doing what he loved to do.”




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Councillor Davis worries about tax increase, seeks provincial help

City Council approved the 2016-2024 Recommended Capital Plan for Toronto Water. It totalled up to $7.275 billion in project estimates, including $149 million in 2016. Realistically, Davis said, the ambitious work plan for Toronto’s waterworks is going to require an infusion of provincial money.


Randy Bucao

Toronto’s new council: white, again

First-time candidate Randy Bucao never thought the colour of his olive skin was going to be a problem in his campaign during the recent 2014 Toronto municipal election. A mechanical engineer who moved to Canada in 1994, he’s been heavily involved with the city’s Catholic school board, and his Filipino-Canadian organizations in Toronto. Bucao knew he would face a challenge campaigning for a council seat in a heavily ethnic area, Ward 10, York-Centre, but not blatant racism from some residents.


Canvassing gets candidates up close to Toronto electorate

He has been knocking on doors for years. He knows his pitch very well by now. As he approaches one of the doorsteps at Roxton Road, in Little Italy, he gently knocks on a door and patiently waits for someone to open the door. “Hi there, I’m sorry to bother you,” he said. “My name is Mike Layton, I’m running to be your city councillor. I’m just coming by to say hello and see if there are any issues on your mind.”