I've been hearing from many small businesses about problems with the CaféTO program including delayed responses to applications and appeals along with a number of other issues.
I've been hearing from many small businesses about problems with the CaféTO program including delayed responses to applications and appeals along with a number of other issues.
I'm an enthusiastic supporter of the CaféTO program. It has helped transform the public realm and made our main streets more vibrant. It's also a critical source of revenue for businesses and restaurants, many who are still feeling the crushing impacts of the pandemic. Securing a CaféTO patio is crucial for many local businesses in Toronto-Danforth to continue operating successfully.
That's why the issues many have faced since the program became permanent this year are unacceptable. In addition, the lack of communication from the city has compounded the frustration and worry of small business owners who are relying on their CaféTO patio to be up and running now.
I've met with senior city staff to ensure patio installations are expedited and city staff proactively communicate with impacted business owners. While I'm glad to hear most of the patios in Ward 14 will be installed over the next few weeks, I will continue to monitor for issues with the roll out of CaféTO program and ensure city staff respond accordingly.
We considered luxury home tax rates, priority signalling for LRTs and streetcars, a maximum heat bylaw along with our next five-year climate plan and the Portlands Energy Centre.
Major items included snow clearing, Ontario Line truck safety, blue bin collection, removal of provincial tenant protections, zoning changes to allow for more residential retail and more.
We considered issues such as speed cameras, expanding the Toronto Community Crisis Service to the TTC and more, as well as several of my motions.
