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The Whitby PERSPECTIVE
Newsletter Spring 2018_ Published by the Town of Whitby _
In This Edition:• 2018 Budget (page 2)
• Innovation Accelerator (page 3)
• Downtown Revitalization (page 3)
• Exploring the Trails (page 8)
eNews Alerts Now Available
From construction updates to events and important notices, staying informed on what’s happening in Whitby is now easier than ever. The Town has launched a new email notification system for all Town news, notices and publications. whitby.ca/subscribe
Planning for Whitby’s FutureWhitby is home to more than 128,000 residents and more than 2,000 businesses. By 2031, the Town’s population is expected to increase to nearly 200,000. In anticipation of this growth, the Town is busy planning to ensure the community is prepared – that it won’t just get bigger, but better.To that end, the Town recently achieved three major planning milestones: the updated Port Whitby Community Secondary Plan, the Official Plan Review and a new Secondary Plan for Brooklin. Each of these major undertakings included extensive public and agency consultation to ensure the Town continues to meet the needs and aspirations of the community well into the future. For Port Whitby, the 2018 update to the Community Secondary Plan builds on the vision of the 2011 Port Whitby Sustainable Community Plan to transform the area into a complete, sustainable and connected community. It is these plans that will help prepare this area for the future growth. In fact, Port Whitby’s population and job count is projected to rise from 2,000 people and 500 jobs to more than 12,500 people and 3,790 jobs by 2031. The concept plan (shown above) is an example of what the future Port Whitby Transit Village and Community Hub could look like. The plan capitalizes on the community’s existing assets, including the waterfront, Iroquois Park Sports Centre, the Abilities Centre, Victoria Fields and the existing GO Transit station.
Current Port Whitby Community Concept of future Port Whitby Transit Village and Community Hub
whitby.ca
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BUDGETHIGHLIGHTS
2018 Budget HighlightsWant a simple way to learn more about the 2018 Budget priorities that impact you? Check out the 2018 Budget Highlights at whitby.ca/budget
2018 Budget Approved Town Council approved the 2018 Budget on February 22. More than 85 per cent of the budget is dedicated to the continued delivery of programs and services – including fire and emergency services, road and winter maintenance, libraries, recreation programs and parks – as well as supporting the ongoing maintenance of the Town’s infrastructure and facilities.The Town’s portion of the overall property tax bill increase is 0.98 per cent, or $48 for the average household, based on the average residential assessment value of $401,000. The Town is responsible for collecting property taxes on behalf of the Region of Durham and the School Board. The overall tax increase when combined with the regional and educational portions is 1.98 per cent, or $98 for the average household.For more information, visit whitby.ca/budget
2018 Capital Investments
$2.1MFire and Emergency
Services$20.9M
Roads andStormwater
$1.0MLibraries
$1.5MCommunicationsand Technology
$3.3MActive Transportation$3.6M
Recreation
$3.2MParks
RECREATION CENTRE
$1.6MFacilities
Municipal Property TaxThe Town collects property taxes on behalf of the Region of Durham and the School Boards.
Federal
Provincial
Municipal
Region of Durham
Town of Whitby
School Board
47%
53%
33%
44%
9%
GovernmentTax Dollars*
Property Tax
14%
Government Tax Dollars %
Federal 47%
Provincial 44%
Municipal 9%
Total 100%
Property Tax % $
Region of Durham 53% $2,667
Town of Whitby 33% $1,680
School Board 14% $718
Total 100% $5,065
*Source: AMO
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Land Registry Office, 400 Centre Street South, Downtown Whitby
Renovations to Begin on Innovation Accelerator Downtown Whitby is a thriving ecosystem made up of more than a dozen existing tech and innovation companies that employ more than 700 people. Adding to that, the Town is investing in an Innovation Accelerator that will create more local jobs and help start-up companies secure funding and become market ready. The Accelerator will be housed in the former provincial land registry office – a 9,000 square foot heritage building located in Downtown Whitby. With interior layout and design work now complete for the building, interior renovations on the Land Registry Office (shown above) will begin. The Accelerator is expected to open this fall.
Brooklin Cenotaph to be Relocated The Brooklin cenotaph currently located at the Luther Vipond Memorial Arena will be getting a new home. Ahead of this year’s Remembrance Day ceremony, at the request of the Brooklin Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, the cenotaph will be relocated to the Brooklin Community Centre and Library. In addition to making the cenotaph more central and more visible, the relocation will provide more space for the Brooklin Legion’s growing community events.
2018 Grants Available to Downtown Businesses Interested business owners in Downtown Whitby and Downtown Brooklin are encouraged to apply to this year’s Façade Improvement Grant Program. The annual program began in 2005 to help business owners develop the architectural and curb appeal of commercial properties by providing matching grants of up to $5,000. In 2017, more than $75,000 was delivered to 14 grant recipient businesses in both downtowns resulting in approximately $200,000 in investments. To apply for a grant under the 2018 program, visit whitby.ca/facadegrant
In 2017, Brooklin Mill Montessori School was one of 14 grant recipients
Brooklin Transportation Master Plan Receives ApprovalThe Brooklin Transportation Master Plan – prepared in conjunction with the Brooklin Community Secondary Plan approved this past October – was initiated in 2014 to create a new, long-term plan for how people and goods will move within and around Brooklin. The Plan, now approved by Council, will provide an integrated framework to support the development of efficient, safe and connected use of all modes of transportation – including active transportation and transit – throughout Brooklin.
Aerial view of Brooklin
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Whitby’s WaterfrontFrom the Waterfront Trail to the Port Whitby Marina to Heydenshore Kiwanis Park, Whitby’s waterfront is a much-loved, local destination for residents and families – a destination with potential that is just beginning to be realized.In addition to the 2018 update to the Port Whitby Community Secondary Plan that builds on the vision of Port Whitby as a complete, sustainable and connected community, there are a number of initiatives in the works that will impact Whitby’s waterfront.
Port Whitby Marina to Receive UpgradesWhitby Harbour is a unique destination and a tremendous local asset that is home to the 5th largest marina on Lake Ontario. To support the growing needs, the Town-owned and operated Port Whitby Marina will see a number of upgrades in 2018 including a new 64-slip floating pier (to replace the existing pier installed in 1978), improved Wi-Fi and clubhouse upgrades.
Did-You-Know: For the fifth year in a row, the Port Whitby Marina earned a Five Green Anchor Diamond rating from the Ontario Marine Operators’ Association – one of the highest rankings a marina can attain for following environmental best practices.
Redevelopment of the Pumphouse A new destination is coming to Whitby’s waterfront next year! Council has endorsed the redevelopment of the former Whitby pumphouse (built in 1904) on Water Street into a public restaurant. Construction is anticipated to start in 2018, with the opening to occur in 2019.
Whitby Water Supply Plant ExpansionAn expansion to the Whitby Water Supply Plant on Water Street is being planned and undertaken by the Region of Durham. The Town will continue to work with the Region to ensure Whitby’s waterfront is protected and the design of the expansion is optimized, while balancing the water supply capacity needs as the Town continues to grow.
Did-You-Know: Whitby Fire and Emergency Services personnel go through specialized ice water rescue training each year to help ensure the safety of Whitby residents. Ice can be dangerous, especially this time of year. To help ensure your safety, stay away from bodies of water and ice. If you must go onto ice, always wear a thermal protection buoyant suit, lifejacket or personal flotation device to increase your chances of survival if you fall through.
Sign Up Now to Receive the Latest Whitby NewsThe Town Page is a weekly publication to help you stay informed on what’s happening in Whitby. whitby.ca/subscribe
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2018 Road Construction ProjectsLocation Project Description Expected Completion DateAshburn Road – Robmar Street to Spencers Road Rural Road Surface Treatment May 2018Columbus Road East – Garrard Road to Oshawa Rural Road Surface Treatment May 2018Coronation Road – Hwy #7 to Columbus Road Rural Road Surface Treatment May 2018Mud Lake Road – 60m west of Baldwin Street to Townline Road Rural Road Surface Treatment May 2018Byron Street South – St John Street to Arthur Street Asphalt Overlay July 2018Dufferin Street – Front Street to Watson Street Asphalt Overlay July 2018Keith Street – Brock Street to Centre Street Asphalt Overlay July 2018Trent Street – Brock Street to Henry Street Asphalt Overlay July 2018Watson Street – Brock Street to Dufferin Street Asphalt Overlay July 2018Bassett Boulevard – Rossland Road to Stargell Drive Road Resurfacing July 2018Bluebell Crescent Road Resurfacing July 2018Butterfield Crescent Road Resurfacing July 2018Champlain Court – Hopkins Street to end of court Road Resurfacing July 2018Evergreen Drive – Gadsby Drive to Gadsby Drive Road Resurfacing July 2018Fothergill Court – Dundas Street to end of court Road Resurfacing July 2018Frances Street – Dundas Street to Dunlop Street Road Resurfacing July 2018Front Street East – Brock Street to Dufferin Street Road Resurfacing July 2018Guthrie Crescent – McQuay Boulevard to Somerset Street Road Resurfacing July 2018Holliday Drive – Frost Drive to Habitant Crescent Road Resurfacing July 2018Nijinsky Court – Hialeah Crescent to end of court Road Resurfacing July 2018O’Connor Drive – Bassett Boulevard to Stargell Drive Road Resurfacing July 2018Palmerston Avenue – Brock Street to Centre Street Road Resurfacing July 2018Pritchard Court – O’Connor Drive to end of court Road Resurfacing July 2018Rutledge Street Road Resurfacing July 2018Stargell Drive – O’Connor Drive to Bassett Boulevard Road Resurfacing July 2018Whitney Court – McQuay Boulevard to end of court Road Resurfacing July 2018Parking Lot #3 – Byron Street and Elm Street Parking Lot Resurfacing July 2018
Need a Building Permit? Are you considering an addition to your home, a new shed or deck (covered/uncovered) or doing an interior renovation? You may require a building permit. Contact the Building Division to learn more: [email protected] or 905.430.4305
Online Construction Map For updates, check out the Town’s online interactive map that allows users to identify construction projects including roads, sidewalks, playgrounds and parks. whitby.ca/construction
Brock Street Bridge ReplacementThe Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is replacing the Brock Street bridge at Highway 401. Work is expected to begin this spring and take three construction seasons to complete. The MTO has advised that two lanes of traffic in each direction will be maintained during peak periods throughout the majority of the project and that the road will remain open to traffic. Questions: Amit Sharma, Senior Project Engineer, MTO, [email protected], 416.235.5349mto.gov.on.ca
A notice with further updates will be sent to residents adjacent to each project prior to the start of construction.
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In the Community
2018 Whitby Idol Finalists Presented by the Whitby Youth Council, Whitby Idol is the Town’s annual signing competition open to youth ages 12 to 18. The grand finale took place on March 1 and featured the 2018 Whitby Idol finalists: Alesha Stevenson, Angel Hope Lazaro, Breanna Ells, Campbell Ralston and Allison Beadle (duo act), Charleigh Lepp, Claire Macaulay, Janest Calubayan, Jenny Frost, Lauren Beauvais, Malaika Lorde and Amara Lorde (duo act), Naya Liviah and Riley Wheater. All finalists will receive studio time courtesy of sponsor The Music Scene. They will also perform at various Town events throughout the year.whitby.ca/youthevents
Whitby Advisory Committee Receives Champion of Diversity Award This February, in recognition of its’ ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in Whitby, the Town’s Ethno-cultural and Diversity Advisory Committee (EDAC) was presented a provincial Champion of Diversity Award. The annual awards recognize outstanding individuals, groups and employers who go above and beyond to help promote immigrant success, economic growth and inclusion in Ontario. EDAC was recognized for its’ leadership and participation in community events on diversity, the New Resident Bus Tour and ‘Whitby Passport’ program that introduces new Canadians and residents to their neighbourhood and connects them to local businesses.
Celebrating National Youth Week – May 1 to 7 National Youth Week, May 1 to 7, celebrates youth and their active participation in their community. As a Platinum Level Youth Friendly Community, the Town is proud to celebrate the week with a number of free activities, including a Youth Fair on May 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at the McKinney Centre. The fair will feature more than 40 community organizations that will provide information geared toward youth including volunteer opportunities, job prospects for summer employment and more. Other activities to celebrate Youth Week include free pizza on May 2 at all Youth Rooms and Art Attack – a partnership event with Station Gallery that will feature art created and submitted by local youth – on May 3.For more information, visit whitby.ca/youth
All Community Development Fund Applications Due March 31 Community groups in need of financial support for initiatives and projects are encouraged to apply to the Mayor’s Community Development Fund (MCDF) and the Performing Arts Community Development Fund (PACDF). All applications for 2018 community grants, including the Lead Cause for the Mayor’s Golf Tournament, are due March 31.whitby.ca/communityfunds
W H I T B Y
IDOL2018
Brooklin CommunityCentre and Library
McKinney Centre
Henry Street High SchoolNEW
NEW Youth RoomNow OpenHENRY STREET HIGH SCHOOL
whitby.ca/youthrooms
Fourteen youth were selected as this year’s Whitby Idol finalists New Youth Room at Henry Street High School
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Sustainable Whitby
Community Gardens are shared places for people to grow vegetables, herbs, fruits and flowers
Plant a Community Garden Community gardens provide places for people to come together to grow a variety of vegetables, herbs, fruits and flowers. To spur the creation of more of these gathering places in Whitby, a new Community Garden policy and procedure was introduced by the Town. This spring and summer, residents can turn to the new and easy-to-use guide to learn more about how to develop and operate a Community Garden on Town owned and leased/licensed lands. For more information, visit whitby.ca/communitygardens
Whitby Declared 10th Bee City in Canada Bee City Canada has designated the Town of Whitby as a “Bee City” – the tenth municipality in Canada and first in Durham Region to receive the designation.The Bee City designation is awarded to municipalities that make a declaration to protect pollinators and their habitat through action and education. Building on the Town’s current activities aimed at conserving and restoring pollinator habitats, new initiatives being explored for 2018 include the planting of a new pollinator garden on Whitby’s waterfront and public education workshops and initiatives around the importance of pollinators.
Emerald Ash Borer Tree Replacement Did-You-Know: The Town has now removed more than 90 per cent of ash trees located on Town property that were affected by the Emerald Ash Borer? With more than 3,000 trees now replaced, additional new trees will be planted until the end of 2019.
New electric ice resurfacer (or Zamboni)
Going Green in our Arenas Skated or played hockey at the McKinney Centre this year? You may have seen the Town’s new electric ice resurfacer (or Zamboni), which was purchased to replace one of the natural gas powered machines that had reached the end of its lifecycle. The switch to an electric machine will not only result in a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, but is also expected to generate an average annual cost savings of up to $7,000 over the machine’s lifetime.Additionally, in December 2017, the Town partnered with Whitby Hydro to install two Combined Heat and Power Micro Turbine units at the Whitby Civic Recreation Complex. The energy generated by the turbines is used to offset the electricity demand of the building. The project is expected to result in nearly $70,000 in annual savings. The Town also replaced inefficient lighting systems with LEDs at arenas in the McKinney Centre and Iroquios Park Sports Centre.
March 24, 2018 | 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Join in Whitby!Switch off for Earth Hour and shine a light
on the need for action on climate change.
EARTHHOUR
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Enjoying Our Open SpacesBuilding our Outdoor Play Spaces With spring just around the corner, it’s time to emerge from hibernation and get outside to enjoy some of the Town’s more than 120 parks.Last year, replacements and retrofits were completed for playgrounds at Glen Hill Park, Portage Park, Watson Park and Calais Park as well as several other parks. The new Promenade Park was also completed. This year, Jeffrey Park will be redeveloped to include a new playground, splash pad area, pathway connections and seating areas. Carson Park and Country Lane Park will also receive playground equipment replacements. A new Upperview Park parkette will also be constructed. Work at Cullen Central Park will also continue in order to complete the Log Cabin and adjoining patio, as well as the bocce and pickleball courts.
What are “Multi-Use Paths”? Some residents have asked why there are so many “paved sidewalks” springing up around town – and it’s great that people are noticing. The paved paths, known as “multi-use paths”, are an alternative to sidewalks and provide a number of advantages including:• a wider than normal sidewalk, allowing multiple
walkers to travel beside each other; and, • a smoother than normal sidewalk, making them more
comfortable for wheelchairs, rollerblades, skateboards, bikes and all modes of active transportation.
A new three-kilometre multi-use path was constructed last year to connect Cullen Central Park to the Ashburn Road cycling route through Heber Down Conservation Area. This year, a new trail within the Hydro Electric Power Corridor to connect Nichol Avenue and Dundas Street will be constructed. Construction on a trail to connect St. Thomas Street under the 407 overpass will also begin.
Exlporing the TrailsGet outdoors and experience Whitby’s active green spaces by hiking or cycling one of the many trails.Learn more at whitby.ca/trails
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A More Connected CommunityIncreasing, improving and creating safer active transportation opportunities, such as walking and cycling, is a priority for the Town. The Town’s Active Transportation Plan is expected to be brought forward to Council this spring.
In addition, in 2017, the Town received $424,000 in provincial funding through the Ontario Municipal Commuter Cycling Program for six new projects that will help build a better and safer commuter cycling network within Whitby. The new projects will be undertaken over the next two years.
For more information on walking, cycling and multi-use paths in Whitby, visit whitby.ca/activetransportation
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Get Active This Spring
Become a Fitness Club MemberAre you getting enough physical activity? Daily exercise can help reduce stress and keep your body healthy. Join a class or become a member at one of Whitby’s recreational facilities today and take that first step toward achieving your fitness goals.whitby.ca/fitness
Register Now for Spring/Summer ProgramsGetting active in Whitby is affordable and fun! Sign up for one of the more than 2,200 recreational programs and classes offered by the Town. Browse the 2018 Spring/Summer Activity Guide and register today at whitby.ca/getactive
Rediscover the Past Through the Archives and Local History Gallery The Whitby Public Library’s Archives and Local History Gallery has a wide range of vintage items just waiting to be explored and rediscovered.
Did-You-Know: In 1967, the fifth Whitby Venturer Scouts embarked on an extraordinary journey canoeing from Whitby to Montreal for Canada’s 100th birthday. They paddled the routes of Canada’s Indigenous people and early fur traders and camped beneath the stars — all while keeping a very detailed diary of the trip. That diary is now on display in the Archives and Local History Gallery, along with a number of vintage scouting items. You can read the fully transcribed diaries online at whitbylibrary.ca/thecanoediaries
The Whitby Civic Recreation Complex at sunset 2018 Spring/Summer
Activity Guide
whitby.ca/getactive
Yoga family fun!
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2018 Spring/Summer
Activity Guide
whitby.ca/getactive
Yoga family fun!
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Ready to get active?All programs are now open for registration
For more information call 905.655.2010 whitby.ca/getactive
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!
TREAT YOUR PET!Purchase or renew your pet license and learn how you can get a $25 VOUCHER from REN'S PETS DEPOTin Whitby.
whitby.ca/doglicence
Call forPerformersThe Town is looking for interested bands and musical performers to play at events and festivals this year.
Apply online by March 20, 2018 at 4 p.m.
whitby.ca/callforperformers
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Events2018 Special Event CalendarEach year, residents and visitors can enjoy more than 200 community events in Whitby. Events play an important role in enhancing quality of life, as well as tourism, recreation and cultural experiences. The 2018 calendar of special events is now available. For a complete listing, visit whitby.ca/events
SATURDAY, MAY 510 a.m. to 4 p.m.
whitby.ca/doorsopen
Discover the history, culture and architecture of unique buildings, private homes, and local
businesses in Whitby.
12 SITES • 2 WALKING TOURS
Help Keep Our Town CleanDid-You-Know: Once a year, residents can schedule a free curbside pick
up (or special collection) of up to twelve large, bulky items – such as mattresses, couches and appliances – that are too big to be included with their regular garbage. Additional special collections can be scheduled at a cost of $25 each. To book a date for your special collection or for more information, visit whitby.ca/specialcollectionReminder: Residents setting out more than four bags of garbage on their regular garbage collection day need to purchase bag tags and place a tag on each bag over the four-bag limit. Bag tags cost $1.50 each and are sold in sheets of five. For a list of Town facilities where bag tags can be purchased, visit whitby.ca/bagtag
Learn more and reserve your spot today!
MARCH 28 APRIL 25 MAY 23 7:30 p.m. Brooklin United Church,
19 Cassels Road East
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Community Snapshot
128,000+Residents
3Public Libraries
15Town facilities with free Wi-Fi available
2,200Recreation Programs
1,235Building Permits
10,000LED Street Lights
90+Playgrounds
120+Parks
42Stormwater Ponds
1,000+Lane km of road
5 Fire Halls
200+Community Events
2,048Businesses
45,184Households
146.53Sq. km of land
677,318 annual library visits299,688 library items available
3 youth rooms 356 arts programs offered through Station Gallery4,000 children enrolled in Town summer camps
698 fire safety inspections5,606 responses to emergency calls
2 conservation areas50,000 trees maintained 2 community gardens1200+ acres of open space
420 marina slips4 recreation centres4 indoor pools 15 splash pads10 ice pads79 sports fields
70+ km of trails50 winter maintenance vehicles
2nd largest municipality in Durham Region
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The next municipal election in Whitby will be held on October 22, 2018.
Thinking of running for office? Nominations for elected offices in the Town may be submitted starting on May 1. For key dates and information on the offices available for nomination, visit whitby.ca/vote
Council Highlights Now AvailableCouncil Highlights provides a snapshot of Town pro-grams, projects and initiatives addressed at Council meetings. Sign up to receive email notifications at whitby.ca/subscribe
Stay ConnectedHave you noticed something in your neighbourhood you’d like to tell us about? We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected] or go to whitby.ca/contacts
DON MITCHELL Mayor905.430.4300 [email protected]
RHONDA MULCAHYCouncillorNorth Ward (1) [email protected]
DERRICK GLEED Regional Councillor [email protected]
CHRIS LEAHYCouncillorWest Ward (2) [email protected]
JOE DRUMMRegional [email protected]
MICHAEL G. EMM Councillor Centre Ward (3) 289.388.8461 [email protected]
ELIZABETH ROY Regional Councillor [email protected]
STEVE YAMADACouncillorEast Ward (4) [email protected]
Updates from Town Hall
Phone: 905.430.4300Email: [email protected]
@TownofWhitby
whitby.ca
