Reid McAlpine

Councillor Unionville Ward 3

…for a better Markham!

Dear Neighbour,

This newsletter is coming a bit early as I will be in Ottawa for the conference of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities from Thursday through Friday (though joining a couple of Markham meetings via Zoom while away).

Perhaps the most impactful decision at the city in May was the approval of 16 automated speed enforcement cameras (ASEs) on city roads. There are of course ASEs already on some York Region roads and more coming. This new initiative brings ASEs to city-controlled roads. The exact choice of locations has yet to be determined, though they are limited to community safety zones, typically near schools. Final choices will also depend on data related primarily to speed and traffic volume. I made the point to staff, and they agreed, that ASEs should be a last resort and that other traffic calming methods should be considered first, in keeping with the city’s Vision Zero road safety plan. Here is a link to the staff report on the topic, along with the meeting presentation.

Council also provided a response to Bill 5 (the Unleashing Our Economy Act 2025). The response generally supports upholding current environmental standards, particularly as they relate to endangered species.

Finally, as you are no doubt aware, Ward 7 councillor, Juanita Nathan has resigned  to take up her new role as an MP in Ottawa. Council has two options to fill the seat, a by-election or an appointment. At the May 27 council meeting staff were directed to return in June with costing for a by-election (perhaps as much as $300,000 !!!). The month will also give councillors time to consider their options and it seems that a decision as to how to proceed will be taken at the next council meeting on June 24.

Trusting that you and yours are enjoying the arrival of spring.

Reid