Markham Stouffville Review, February 2024

STOUFFVILLE
Vol.13 Issue 2 February 2024
WWW.STOUFFVILLEREVIEW.COM
SEE PAGE 7
Celebrate the York Regional Forest’s 100th anniversary
The York Regional Forest you know and love has flourished for 100 years. This milestone demonstrates York Region’s
strong commitment to protecting and restoring the natural environment and providing access to greenspace for residents.
WWW.MARKHAMREVIEW.COM
WHAT’S INSIDE
Telmax announces new CEO
Leading the charge locally in providing unparalleled
internet services, Telmax has named
Michael Strople as the company’s new chief
executive officer.
Markham Theatre will have you
jumping this leap year
With one extra day this February, there’s one
more night to enjoy a night at the Flato Markham
Theatre. General Manager Eric Lariviere was
excited to tell the community all about it.
SEE PAGE 5
New YRT tapping program
replaces monthly passes
York Region Transit is replacing monthly passes
with a fare capping program that allows travellers
to earn free rides by paying with their PRESTO
card or PRESTO mobile wallet.
SEE PAGE 6
Feds support expansion
of services at ventureLAB
Main streets get a boost
SEE PAGE 3
Southern Ontario is home to some of the most
dynamic and diverse technology hubs in North
America. Our tech sector plays an important role in
the success of our country’s economy.
SEE PAGE 10
Southern Ontario’s main streets are lined with small
businesses that bring tourists and locals together to
enjoy the best our communities have to offer.
SEE PAGE 10
COMMUNITY
Markham Little Theatre brings a
thriller with Night Watch
Markham Little Theatre is back at the
Markham Theatre this month for its third
show of the 2023/24 season with Night
Watch.
Local food banks receive
much-needed support
Markham Ward 8 Councillor Isa Lee
recently delivered a $10,000 cheque to the
Markham Food Bank and another one for the
same amount to 105 Gibson Food Bank.
Keeping a closer eye on patients
to reduce the risk of fall injuries
Falls are one of the top patient safety
incidents across many health care
organizations.
You don’t have to miss out on local news and
information. Just check out markhamreview.com
and stouffvillereview.com for fresh, original articles,
updated daily. Did you miss a print edition?
Catch up with our replica e-paper, available
anytime on our website.
SEE PAGE 2 SEE PAGE 6
SEE PAGE 11
DARCY OAKE ILLUSIONIST
Thursday, February 29 // 8pm
Friday, March 1 // 8pm
Saturday, March 2 // 2pm & 7pm
Sunday, March 3 // 11am & 3pm
...WE ARE WITNESSING
THE BIRTH OF A STAR...
Simon Cowell
flatomarkhamtheatre.ca
905.305.7469
230110 FMT_Markham Review - 23.24 Season - Darcy Oake January 17 - NEW SIZE 10x1.75.indd 1 2024-01-17 10:03 AM

2 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2024
Markham Little Theatre brings a thriller with Night Watch
BY JEFF JONES
Markham Little Theatre is back at the
Markham Theatre this month for its third
show of the 2023/24 season with Night
Watch.
This suspenseful thriller was penned
in the mid-20th century by Twilight Zone
writer Lucille Fletcher and it runs from Feb.
14 to 17 at 8 pm with a matinee on the 17th.
“As director, I like to take creative
risks,” says the show’s director, Carl
Gambcort. “We’re doing a few different
things with this production. Images play
an important part of the action, specifically
with Elaine, the central character.”
Night Watch features a classic setup;
an insomniac, the aforementioned Elaine,
peeks out the window of her New York City
apartment and in the building next door she
witnesses a murder. The police can’t find
any evidence though so nobody believes her
despite what she knows she saw.
If this brings to mind an Agatha Christie
novel, you are getting the idea. Especially
once you meet the enigmatic supporting
cast of characters; an overly kind best
friend, the gossip-in-waiting housekeeper,
an unfeeling husband, and the ever-imposing
neighbour. A bit like Hitchcock’s Rear
Window, but with more folks involved.
“Rehearsals are going extremely well,
says Gambacort. “We have a wonderful cast
of experienced MLT stalwarts and some
wonderful newcomers.”
Among the newcomers is Julie Condon,
who is playing the title role of Elaine
The cast of Night Watch sits in a Manhattan drawing room.
Wheeler.
“She is a psychology professor at
York,” explains Gambcort, “which really
assists in tackling a very demanding role.”
Other faces new to the company are Elliot
Atherton as Officer Vanelli, Jack Burrill
as Lieutenant Walker and Yannis Kassios,
who is playing Sam Hoke, the neighbourhood
deli owner. They are joined by MLT
veterans John Fetherston as John Wheeler,
Elaine’s husband; Julia Guthrie as Blanche
Cooke, Elaine’s best friend; John Sellens as
Curtis Appleby, their eccentric and intensely
curious neighbour; Sue Pybus as Helga the
maid and Jaime Oren as Dr. Tracy Lake, a
psychologist.
“Lucille Fletcher has written a very
clever script,” Gambcort says. “There are
numerous twists and turns as the action progresses,
all of it leading to the final climax
of the play.”
These twists and turns are bolstered by
an ambitious design concept.
“As this is a psychological thriller,
there is always something missing or ‘not
quite right’. To that end we are being quite
overt about that visually,” says Gambcort.
“Certain things are stripped down to their
essential elements. We have incorporated
psychology into colour choices, particularly
with costumes. The colours worn by the
characters represent certain qualities associated
with them: power, loyalty, etc.”
Additionally, the design features projections
and strong symbolic choices. It’s a
very modern and arguably uniquely Canadian
approach to this 50-year-old American
piece.
“To create something, one needs only
a space and imagination,” says Gambcort.
“We leave it to the audience to use their
imaginations to fill in the blanks.”
The production team features, in addition
to Gambcort, MLT vet Annie Clark as
stage manager. They are joined by Nicky C.
Marsh and Judy Atherton who are producing.
Markham Little Theatre has a long
history, since 1967 to be exact, of producing
murder mysteries. They’re an absolute
staple of community theatre. It’s refreshing
to see this company trying to push at
its limits and expectations in service of an
otherwise traditional script.
“One can guess at the final outcome,
but the brilliance of it is that you really
don’t know the whole story until the very
end,” says Gambcort. “Expect the unexpected.”
Visit markhamtheatre.ca for more information
and to purchase tickets.
’s dinner
5402 Main St., Stouffville 905 642 5557
Open 7 days a week from 11am
www.stakeoutdining.com

FEBRUARY 2024
COMMUNITY 3 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW
York Region passes $4.2-billion budget
The regional portion of your property
tax bill will increase by 3.75 per cent this
year after council approved a $4.2-billion
budget. That increase includes a one per
cent rapid transit/infrastructure levy.
“Approving a budget is not only a
fiscal decision, but also reinforces our commitment
to investing in our shared vision
for a strong and sustainable future,” says
York Region Chairman and CEO Wayne
Emmerson.
“As we look forward, our focus remains
on ensuring cost-effective regional
infrastructure, programs and services are
accessible today and positioned to meet the
evolving needs of our residents tomorrow.
This is especially important as we continue
to understand the significant financial shortand
long-term impacts of the More Homes
Built Faster Act, 2022 (Bill 23), as well as
post-pandemic economic conditions and
other world events,” he adds.
The $4.2-billion budget is comprised
of $3.2 billion in operating costs and $1
billion in capital expenditures. The operating
budget focuses on day-to-day expenses,
with 82 cents of each tax dollar funding
frontline programs and services. That
includes 33 cents for Public Works Environmental
Services and Transportation, 29
cents for York Regional Police, and 20 cents
for Community and Health Services.
The $1-billion capital budget, meanwhile,
is part of a “record-high” 10-year
capital plan of $11.6 billion designed to address
long-term infrastructure needs while
maintaining existing assets. The multi-year
budget aligns with the York’s four Strategic
Plan priorities of fostering economic prosperity,
supporting community well-being,
driving environmental stewardship and
effectively delivering trusted services, the
region reports.
regional portion of your
property tax bill will
increase by 3.75%
“Housing is top of mind, and we are
moving forward with accelerating construction
of infrastructure to give our cities
and towns the best chance to meet new
provincially-mandated housing targets,”
says Steve Pellegrini, Chair of Finance and
Administration.
Budget highlights include investing
$368 million in roads and transit infrastructure,
building an additional 269 kilometres
of fibre (including 1,980 new connections
and facilitating high-speed internet access
in rural and underserved areas), and continuing
to plan for the region’s $1.12-billion
capital contribution to the Yonge North
Subway Extension.
Paramedic Services will receive 14
new, 28 replacement and one electric
vehicle and two new paramedic response
stations will be completed to ensure the
Region continues to meet response time
targets. The Region is also investing in
streetscaping and green infrastructure,
including planting 70,000 trees and shrubs
to prevent and reduce the impacts of climate
change and maintain and enhance green
spaces.
Regional council also endorsed the
outlook for the remaining two years of the
current multi-year budget, which will pass
on a 3.6 per cent tax hike in both 2025 and
2026.
Telmax announces new CEO
Leading the charge locally in providing
unparalleled internet services, Telmax has
named Michael Strople as the company’s
new chief executive officer.
Strople brings a wealth of experience
to his new role, having previously served as
president of Allstream and managing director
of Zayo Canada.
As a member of the Telmax board
of directors since July 2022, Strople has
played a role in contributing to the expansive
growth of the company. He has over
two decades of leadership, coupled with
extensive experience in technology, IT, operations,
customer service and sales, which
positions him as an ideal leader to steer
Telmax into its next phase of significant
growth.
“As Telmax continues its substantial
growth and expansion, it is a privilege to
lead the company into 2024 and beyond,
bringing limitless possibilities and lightning
connections to the communities that we
serve today and in the future,” Strople said.
“I am confident that Telmax’s dedication
to innovation, community engagement and
unparalleled customer service sets us apart
as a provider unlike any other in Canada.”
In 2023, Telmax expanded its pure
fibre network from Brooklin and Stouffville
to Newmarket and has just broken ground
in Aurora. They are in the process of planning
and approvals for two additional towns
which will see construction begin in 2024.
MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT
PAUL CHIANG
MARKHAM-UNIONVILLE
“Together We Achieve”
paul.chiang@parl.gc.ca 905-470-2509
@PaulChiangMU

4 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2024
York Region’s battle against homelessness unveiled
BY CONNOR SIMONDS
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Homelessness has become a critical
issue in York Region, which is one of
Ontario’s 47 Service Managers responsible
for housing and homelessness services, as
required by the Housing Services Act, 2011.
This article explores the complexities of
the situation, shedding light on the region’s
efforts, the challenges faced, and the urgent
need for collaboration and strategic planning.
In Ontario, service managers plan and
deliver housing and homelessness services
for their local service area. York Region
plays a pivotal role in planning, developing,
and delivering housing and homelessness
services, aligning with the Housing
Services Act, 2011. This encompasses
homelessness prevention, housing stability
support, emergency and transitional housing
management, and fostering partnerships
with non-profit agencies.
In response to the escalating crisis, a
Homelessness Service System Plan is set to
be developed in 2024. This plan, informed
by stakeholder consultations, aims to address
current challenges and long-term
needs, focusing on areas such as homelessness
prevention, early intervention,
housing stability, and a coordinated system
response.
Understanding the underlying causes
and implications of homelessness is crucial,
given rising housing costs, a scarcity of
affordable options, and the lingering effects
of the COVID-19 pandemic, reaching a
critical level of need for immediate attention.
Kevin Pal, York Region’s General
Manager of Social Services, states, “The
Regional Municipality of York and community
partners recognize homelessness
is a growing challenge requiring a system
response.”
He continues, “As part of the development
of the Homelessness Service System
Plan, York Region engaged in preliminary
discussions with key partners in the
homelessness sector and conducted research
on trends and best practices which helped
identify two aspirational goals and three
priority areas for the Homelessness Service.
Goal one: End chronic homelessness in
York Region. Goal two: Use a Human
Rights approach to guide decision-making
and service provisions.”
The lack of affordable housing remains
a key issue, with supply not keeping pace
with population growth. Reports highlight
the in-affordability of rents, with average
costs soaring and vacancy rates falling
below healthy benchmarks. The housing
crisis was officially declared in 2021, and
the cost of housing was a top concern for
York Region residents in the Spring 2023
Community Opinion Report.
The continuously rising cost of living,
indicated by inflation rates and the living
wage, has led to a surge in residents relying
on financial assistance and social supports.
The number of individuals receiving
Ontario Works benefits has increased, and
more people are accessing food banks due
to financial constraints.
“The response to homelessness requires
collective planning, ongoing public
education, and community partnerships,”
Pal says. “The whole-of-community approach
requires collaboration with all levels
of government, service delivery partners,
local businesses, and residents who each
have a role to play in responding to homelessness
holistically.”
The 2021 Point-in-Time Count revealed
key trends, including the impact of
insufficient income on housing, a rise in
mental health issues among those experiencing
homelessness, and an increase in
chronic homelessness. Despite pandemic
challenges, this count emphasized the need
for comprehensive solutions.
Data from York Region’s ‘By Name
List’ and ‘Emergency Housing Central
Intake Line’ show consistent challenges in
accessing emergency housing. An increase
in unsheltered individuals and outreach services
indicates a pressing need for suitable
housing options.
The caseload for homelessness programs
has increased, reflecting a growing
demand for services. The average length
of stay in emergency housing has nearly
doubled between 2018 and 2022, highlighting
the need for more long-term housing
solutions.
To address the crisis, York Region
Council has allocated significant funding to
homelessness programs and critical social
infrastructure. Additionally, York Region
has seen substantial funding increases in
2023.
When asked about the collaborative
strategies used to face homelessness in York
Region, Pal states, “Many municipalities
and regions have either developed or are
developing and/or implementing strategies
to address homelessness and housing
in-affordability.” He speaks about three key
pillars the region will lean on while combating
homelessness.
“Coordinated Access,” he says, “which
helps individuals experiencing homelessness
access housing resources through
a coordinated approach,” he continues,
“Housing First, which focuses on rapid
rehousing as the primary goal, making the
experience of homelessness as short as possible,
while providing additional supports to
help people remain housed long term (and)
Human Rights-Based Approaches, which
helps to ensure York Region’s actions to
address homelessness are rights-based and
person-centred and services are delivered
with dignity and respect.”
Recognizing the regional nature of
homelessness, York Region acknowledges
the importance of partnership and collaboration.
Similar initiatives are being
undertaken in other regions, emphasizing
the need for a collective, evidence-based
approach.
In conclusion, homelessness in York
Region demands urgent attention, strategic
planning, and collaborative efforts. The
development of a comprehensive Homelessness
Service System Plan, increased funding,
and ongoing partnerships are crucial
elements in addressing the multifaceted
challenges posed by homelessness. The
commitment to evidence-based decisionmaking
and learning from other jurisdictions
is key to creating lasting solutions and
ensuring a better future for the residents of
York Region.

FEBRUARY 2024
COMMUNITY 5 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW
Markham Theatre will have you jumping this leap year
Jazz Divas (Laila Biali, Dominique Fils-Aimé and Sammy Jackson) perform on Feb.8 at the
Markham Theatre.
BY JEFF JONES
With one extra day this February, there’s
a chance to enjoy an additional night at
the Markham Theatre this month. General
Manager Eric Lariviere was excited to tell the
community all about it.
“This month has a great mix of Diamond
Series shows alongside some of our beloved
community producers,” says Lariviere.
First, The Kindred Spirits Orchestra
returns to the theatre on Feb. 3 for its Around
the World concert. The journey will feature
Stravinsky’s Scènes de ballet. Sumi Kim,
Grand Prize winner of the 2022 International
Music Festival and Competition, performs
Camille Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No. 2;
and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 8 rounds
out the program.
The Diamond Series returns on Feb. 8,
with Jazz Divas. “It’s going to be awesome,“
says Lariviere.
Headlining the show is multi-awardwinning
pianist and CBC Music National
radio host Laila Biali, with a masterful mix of
eclectic jazz and pop. The show also features
Juno Award winners Sammy Jackson and
Dominique Fils-Aimé. Jackson blends jazz,
pop, and R&B while Fils-Aimé explores the
more emotional palette of African American
music.
“We built this program to help grow artists
in and for our jazz series,” Lariviere says.
“These three voices are going to blow you
away.”
The very next night, Feb. 9, is the return
of Classic Albums Live with their performance
of the landmark album by Queen,
News of the World. CAL brings note-fornote
readings of each album it tackles so the
legendarily intricate studio work of Queen
will all be featured here. To top it off, after
the album performance, the band will return
to the stage and offer Queen’s biggest hits
from their other albums as a second set.
“This album is a new one for the theatre,”
says Lariviere, “but we love Classic
Albums Live. They are always putting on a
great, great show.”
Again, keeping this particularly stacked
weekend going, the next night, Feb. 10, sees
the debut of LOL Markham.
“We need more laughter!” says Lariviere.
With the continued success of its
comedy programming, Markham Theatre
has decided to curate its own evening of
Canadian laughs. National headliner and
actor, Ali Hassan, hosts the evening featuring
three great comedians that he himself
helped select. Juno nominee Derek Seguin,
one of Canada’s hottest comedians, is on the
bill with Just for Laughs Toronto headliner
Hisham Kelati, and the hilarious Courtney
Gilmour.
“We wanted to build a theatre show for
up-and-coming Canadian comedians. We’re
lucky to have Ali Hassan help us out,” continues
Lariviere.
The Diamond Season then takes a
well-earned break as community favourite,
Markham Little Theatre returns with Night
Watch by Lucille Fletcher from Feb. 14 to
17, with shows at 8 pm throughout, plus a
matinee at 2 pm on the 17th.
Following MLT is an annual favourite
as Unionville Theatre Company returns with
its annual musical presentation featuring
cast and crew both young and old from the
communities surrounding the theatre. This
year’s production is the Webber and Rice
classic, Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor
Dreamcoat with performances from Feb.
22 to 25 (Thursday to Saturday at 8 pm with
1 pm matinees on the Saturday and Sunday).
Then, on Feb. 27 at 7 pm, Markham
at the Movies is back with a screening of
Anatomy of a Fall, the Palme d’Or winner at
the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.
“Our work in the community is always
a priority,” Lariviere says. “Mixing community
and professional work makes us who
we are.”
Taking advantage of the leap year, acclaimed
illusionist Darcey Oake arrives on
Feb. 29 for a run of shows. Known for his
high production values and thought-provoking
illusions, this British magician promises
to keep you on the edge of your seat. Audiences
can expect everything from sleight-ofhand
to death-defying escapades during his
run of shows from the 29th through March
3rd (with additional matinees on the weekend
dates, call the box office for times).
“He’s easily the hottest illusionist in
Canada right now, and we’ve got him for
six shows in four days,” explains Lariviere.
“We’re excited to host this GTA-exclusive
performance.”
Visit markhamtheatre.ca for more information
and to purchase tickets.

6 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2024
New YRT tapping program
replaces monthly passes
Local food banks receive
much-needed support
Markham Ward 8 Councillor Isa Lee,
a dedicated advocate for local causes,
recently delivered a $10,000 cheque to the
Markham Food Bank and another one for
the same amount to 105 Gibson Food Bank,
as well as food donations totalling nearly
1,000 lbs. collected from a Mon Sheong
Court food drive.
This generous contribution stems
from the proceeds gathered through Lee’s
monthly food drives, an initiative in which
she collaborated with a different organization
each month.
The monthly food drives spearheaded
by Lee bring together various organizations
and the community at large to address the
critical issue of food insecurity. By partner-
ing with different groups, ranging from
local businesses to non-profit organizations,
Lee aims to foster a sense of collective
responsibility towards tackling hunger.
Lee is grateful for the community’s
unwavering support throughout the monthly
food drives.
She emphasized the importance of
collaboration and shared responsibility in
addressing local challenges, stating that it is
through such collective efforts that meaningful
change can be realized.
She looks forward to continuing this
initiative in 2024, and welcomes any organizations
interested in participating in these
monthly food drives to contact her at ilee@
markham.ca
York Region Transit (YRT) is replacing
monthly passes with a fare capping program
that allows travellers to earn free rides by
paying with their PRESTO card or PRESTO
mobile wallet.
Travellers can now ride YRT
for free after 40 trips for adults, 39 trips for
youth or 28 trips for seniors and children
every calendar month through the new
program.
Tap your PRESTO card on a YRT bus
or PRESTO machine at the vivastation or
terminal before boarding a Viva bus. Your
PRESTO card will track the number of trips
each time you pay your fare and will automatically
stop charging you after reaching
your monthly trip cap. You must continue to
tap your PRESTO card even after reaching
your monthly trip cap so you can provide
proof of payment in the event YRT Enforcement
conducts an inspection.
You’ll know when you’ve reached your
monthly trip cap because the screen will
display a $0 fare and remaining balance
on the card when you tap your PRESTO
card on a PRESTO device. Fare capping
allows larger e-purse PRESTO loads for
travellers who want to load the maximum
dollar amount for the month or the option of
loading smaller amounts to meet budget and
travel needs.
PRESTO fare payment on any YRT,
Mobility On-Request or TTC route in York
Region will count towards your monthly
trip cap. Transfers from other transit agencies
and Ride to GO do not count toward
your monthly trip cap, except for TTC
routes in York Region. For more information
and frequently asked questions, visit
yrt.ca/farecapping.
You can continue to purchase discounted
single ride fares on the YRT Pay App,
but monthly passes are no longer available.
Because you must use a PRESTO card to
take advantage of the fare capping program,
fare purchases through the YRT Pay App
won’t count towards your monthly trip cap.
The YRT Pay App remains an “excellent
option for less frequent travellers,” YRT
notes.
For major service alerts, news, travel
tips and other relevant transit information,
call 1-866-MOVE-YRT (668-3978),
visit yrt.ca or follow YRT on social media.
You can also check out yrt.ca/livechat to
chat live with a YRT customer service representative.

FEBRUARY 2024
COMMUNITY 7 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW
Celebrate the York Regional
Forest’s 100th anniversary
The York Regional Forest has flourished for 100 years and York Region has organized a yearlong
celebration packed with activities and events for people of all backgrounds and ages.
The York Regional Forest you know
and love has flourished for 100 years. This
milestone demonstrates York Region’s
strong commitment to protecting and restoring
the natural environment and providing
access to greenspace for residents.
The York Regional Forest was established
in 1924 with the purchase and
reforestation of the Hollidge Tract. At the
time, there was growing concern over widescale
deforestation across Southern Ontario,
which resulted in sandy wastelands unsuitable
for farming.
By the late 1940s, the benefits of reforestation
efforts could be seen. The barren
lands once again became healthy forests
providing homes for wildlife and wood for
the forest industry. Reforestation prevented
soil erosion, conserved water resources and
provided opportunities for recreational use
by the public.
After a century of restoration efforts,
and now guided by the Our Nature:
Management Plan for the York Regional
Forest, today’s forest is over 2,500 hectares
and is made up of 24 forest tracts located in
different parts of the region. It is increasingly
biodiverse with a rich mix of over 50
different tree species and is home to a wide
variety of native wildlife.
With more than 150 kilometres of scenic
trails in 22 public forest tracts, including
almost seven kilometres accessible to
wheelchairs, strollers and other assistive
devices, there’s something for everyone to
enjoy.
Popular activities include hiking, dog
walking, mountain biking, horseback riding,
nature appreciation and educational programming.
From the tranquil Hollidge tract
to the vibrant North, Hall and Nobleton
tracts, visitors are welcome, free of charge,
every day of the year.
To commemorate this centennial anniversary,
York Region has organized a
year-long celebration packed with activities
and events for people of all backgrounds
and ages. Together, we can honour the
splendour of nature and celebrate a legacy
of conservation and our shared commitment
to preserving the forest for generations to
come.
“The 100-year celebration of the York
Regional Forest is more than just marking
the starting point; it’s a reflection of York
Region’s century-long journey of collaborative
environmental stewardship,” said
James Lane, manager of Natural Heritage
and Forestry, York Region. “We look forward
to sharing nature’s splendour with you
and celebrating the great benefits the forest
has to offer.”
Free activities and events to celebrate
the 100th-anniversary milestone and raise
awareness of the history and ecological
significance of the York Regional Forest
include:
• Guided Forest walks and events every
month with forestry experts.
• Historical exhibits and displays at the
Whitchurch-Stouffville Museum, Bill
Fisch Forest Stewardship and Education
Centre and York Region Administrative
Centre.
• An Adventure Challenge to visit and
learn about York Regional Forest
tracts.
• A photo contest where you can snap
and share your favourite photos taken
at any York Regional Forest tract and
also participate for a chance to win
monthly prizes.
• Community tree planting to help increase
forest cover and combat climate
change.
Indigenous history, culture and language
have been integrated into elements
of the celebration with support and input
from Indigenous partners and community
members.
Learn more about the York Regional
Forest’s 100th anniversary at york.ca/Forest100.
LJI funding
from the
Government
of Canada
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8 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW COMMUNITY
FEBRUARY 2024
Stouffville unveils 2024-2026 budgets
BY CONNOR SIMONDS
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Stouffville’s dynamic financial landscape,
unveiling the town’s 2024-2026
operating and capital budgets go beyond
routine fiscal exercises; it’s a strategic declaration
guiding the town through ambitious
goals while ensuring financial stability and
community well-being.
These budgets integrate the town’s
strategic plan, master plans, and statutory
obligations—a deliberate fusion of vision
and responsibility in a highly regulated
environment. The latter part of this article
includes insight from Mayor Iain Lovatt to
provide deeper insight into the decisionmaking
processes, risk management, and
community input considerations shaping
the budget. He sheds some light on how
this new budget will affect residents of
Stouffville.
The town’s strategic plan, comprised
of seven pillars, forms the essence of its
vision. From supporting complete communities
and improving local infrastructure
to fostering community engagement and
ensuring good governance, these pillars encapsulate
the town’s aspirations for growth,
safety, and organizational effectiveness.
To begin, the 2024 gross operating
expenditures of $76.4 million include a
Library Grant of $2.9 million. The expenditures
consist of a net levy increase of
$612,014 (1.47 per cent), an additional 2
per cent allocated to current capital assets,
and an additional 1 per cent directly fueling
the Main Street reconstruction project.
Combining the town’s 2024 tax levy
increase with Region and Education portions
results in an estimated 3.03 per cent
Markham Vets Club celebrates
OTF Grant achievements
Every year, hundreds of community
organizations apply to the Ontario Trillium
Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government
of Ontario, and one of Canada’s
leading granting foundations. The foundation’s
mission is to help worthy community
organizations around the province complete
projects that build healthy and vibrant communities
with the help of these grants.
The Markham and District Veterans
Association (MDVA) received two such
grants in late 2022, consisting of a $41,700
Resilient Communities Fund grant given in
late 2022 to purchase equipment and appliances
for MDVA’s Hall and kitchen facilities,
and a $100,000 Capital grant awarded
to make accessibility and storage upgrades
to the building.
The Resilient Communities Fund grant
was provided to bring in structure and
program consultants to look at MDVA’s
century-old building’s existing upper hall
facilities and see how the space could be
better used. Funds from the grant were also
earmarked to purchase PPE, new kitchen
appliances, and make any needed electrical
and plumbing upgrades, as well as help
with the construction of counters meant for
part of a new lunch cafe being setup to run
out of the MDVA.
The second grant, a $100,000 Capital
grant, was to enable the MDVA to make
needed renovations to provide visitors
with an accessible washroom facility in the
upper level of the Hall. The grant was also
used for buying a portable lift and making
minor renovations to accommodate the lift.
The Hall is used by a variety of community
groups for meetings, celebrations and fundraisers
and allow people of all abilities to be
able to access both levels of the hall.
Markham-Stouffville MPP Paul
Calandra was on hand recently, at a project
recognition event, along with MDVA members,
media and OTF representative Yash
Kapur, to celebrate the completion of the
work enabled by the grants.
“The transformative impact of the
Ontario Trillium Foundation grants on the
Markham District Veterans Association
showcases the power of community investment,”
said Calandra. “These grants have
not only revitalized historical spaces but
have also reinforced the MDVA’s commitment
to inclusivity and service to the community.”
“The impact of this Ontario Trillium
Foundation grant cannot be overstated,”
added David Smith, President of the
Markham District Veterans Association.
“This grant has allowed needed renovations
to be made. Our hall is now completely
accessible and we can now accommodate
everyone with mobility issues and serve our
community better.”
These additions make the MDVA more
useable to members and busy people needing
a quick bite on the go at lunch, but also
ensure the halls in the building are more
viable choices for community group rentals.
For more information on the MDVA or
hall rental, visit www.mdva.ca.
blended property tax increase for residents.
“The 2024 approved budget entails a
$189 rise in property taxes for an average
resident with an $800,000 assessed house,”
Lovatt says. “This is the estimated blended
tax increase, considering the tabled Region
of York tax levy and the province’s Education
taxes. The increased operating tax
levy aims to sustain and enhance services,
including additional town events and a new
Skating Trail.”
Budget drivers include staffing additions,
inflation, and other pressures to maintain
service levels. Salaries and benefits are
the most significant operating investment,
representing about 48 per cent of gross
expenditures.
“The budget also approves three fulltime
positions—Skating Trail Operator, Fire
Prevention Inspector, and Utility Locate
Operator,” Lovatt says. “Approved capital
projects include a focus on downtown
revitalization including $3.6 million for
the reconstruction of Commercial Street,
Library Lane and Mill Street; $2,264,000
for O’Brien Avenue road and water-main
reconstruction and $1 million for Main
Street reconstruction (design portion). The
town is also investing $1,550,000 for the
resurfacing of Bethesda Side Road.”
The budget anticipates inflation across
various expenditure categories from 2024
to 2026. Notable areas include salaries and
wages, group health benefits, and utility expenses.
The assumed inflation rates contribute
to the overall fiscal planning, ensuring a
proactive approach to financial challenges.
Detailed inflation assumptions for
specific services underscore the town’s
commitment to various aspects, such as fire
response, road maintenance, parks, trails,
and open spaces. These detailed allocations
signify a strategic investment in key areas
to meet the diverse needs of the community.
“The town is directing investments
into its Downtown Core during this council
term, with planned projects for the expanding
and enhancing the community,” Lovatt
says. “Some of these long-term plans
include a new fire station, a flagship leisure
Job Description and Requirements
We are an established high rise construction company seeking
two full-time permanent General Labourers for our yard in Stouffville.
• Must have the ability to perform physically challenging work
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Load and unload trucks
• Pack orders
• Upkeep of yard maintenance
• Work is performed mostly outdoors all year round. Minimal work indoors
• Able to withstand walking and standing approximately 9 hours per day
• Ability to complete tasks according to timelines
• Able to take direction from colleagues and manager
• Grade 12 education
• Excellent verbal communication skills
• Good organization skills
• Responsible
• Valid G license is a must with a clean abstract
• Must have transportation to and from yard (no bus route)
• Hours are 6:00am to 3:00pm Monday to Friday
• Must be available to work overtime hours on weekdays and weekends when required
• Must comply with the company’s policies and procedures and health and safety standards at all times
Assets (nice to have)
• AZ or DZ license
• Telehandler license
• Bobcat license
• Training related to construction
Benefits
and community centre, and park enhancements,
such as the ongoing construction of
the Skating Trail project at Memorial Park.
These investments aim to provide residents
with enhanced living experiences while also
creating tourism opportunities. The town
is actively considering additional plans,
and residents are encouraged to explore the
town’s website for insights into the short to
mid-term visions of council.”
The budget includes initiatives aimed
at improving operational efficiency.
“Investments in Information Technology,
including CityView (permitting software),
Customer Relationship Management
software, a Human Resources Information
System, and cloud-based technologies,
coupled with talent retention and recruitment,
are crucial for achieving operational
efficiencies in the town,” Lovatt says.
These investments contribute to efficiency
in various ways. Lovatt mentions the
following items that town staff are working
on: process automation (automating repetitive
tasks); data management and analysis;
workflow streamlining (software solutions);
cost reduction (long-term technology investments
result in cost savings by reducing
manual labour); and increased resident
channels (options for residents to interact
with the town).
The town considered inflation assumptions
across various expenditure categories
and their impact on the overall budget.
“While inflation creates budgetary
shocks, town staff monitor the key inflation
indicators and adjust within the budget for
the expected pressures,” Lovatt says. “The
town is experiencing ongoing pressures
in fuel, materials, utilities, supplies, and
contracted services. In response, funds are
being allocated to reserves to minimize the
impact of these shocks to the greatest extent
possible.”
As Stouffville forges ahead, the
budgets lay the groundwork for a prosperous
and sustainable future, embodying the
town’s dedication to responsible financial
management and community well-being.
• Health and dental coverage
Email resume to: loum@strawcg.com

FEBRUARY 2024
COMMUNITY 9 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW

10 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 2024
Feds support expansion of services at ventureLAB
Southern Ontario is home to some of
the most dynamic and diverse technology
hubs in North America. Our tech sector
plays an important role in the success of our
country’s economy.
The federal government is investing
in tech companies so they can continue to
push boundaries and expand to new markets,
creating skilled jobs and strengthening the
economy.
Over the past five years, FedDev Ontario
has supported ventureLAB to establish
the Hardware Catalyst Initiative (HCI), a
state-of-the-art lab and accelerator that is
helping Canadian hardware and semiconductor-focused
companies grow and scale
up to become globally competitive. The lab
offers innovative companies resources to get
their products to market faster, retain talent,
raise capital and attract more customers. The
HCI lab is Canada’s only semiconductor
and hardware lab and accelerator, supporting
companies that produce the technology
that is key to high-growth areas like artificial
intelligence (AI), medtech and automobility.
To date, HCI has supported over 65 businesses,
created and maintained 400 jobs,
and created or licensed 80 new intellectual
property.
Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible
for the Federal Economic Development
Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev
Ontario), joined by the MP Mary Ng, announced
an investment of $4.5 million for
ventureLAB. This support will accelerate the
pool of investment-ready semiconductor and
hardware technology companies via access
to specialized equipment and services, to
reduce the cost and time associated with getting
Canadian-made products to market.
“Today’s investment is helping innovators
in the technology sector build on their
Main streets get a boost
“With the expansion of the Hardware
Catalyst Initiative (HCI), VentureLAB will
continue to help more businesses scale
up and bring their innovations around the
world while creating good jobs here in
Ontario,” said MP Mary Ng.
potential, bring their products to market
faster and scale up their operations,” Tassi
said. “Our government is pleased to support
tech companies and the organizations that
support them, like ventureLAB, as they find
modern solutions to modern problems while
creating a more connected and globally
competitive Canada.”
This project will be an extension and
expansion of the activities developed since
the creation of the HCI. It is expected to
build on past success and support 30 more
companies, create and maintain over 170
high-quality jobs, and lead to the commercialization
of 25 new products. Organizations
like ventureLAB enable local
semiconductor companies to create new,
innovative solutions and a more globally
competitive Canada.
“Our government is investing in a
robust innovation coordinator right here in
Markham, helping hardware technology
companies grow to become global,” Ng
said. “With the expansion of the Hardware
Catalyst Initiative (HCI), VentureLAB will
continue to help more businesses scale
up and bring their innovations around the
world while creating good jobs here in
Ontario.”
Established in 2011, ventureLAB has
worked with over 3,500 tech ventures, providing
support and direct connections for
founders to raise capital, attract and retain
talent, commercialize technology and Intellectual
Property, and acquire customers.
“At ventureLAB we focus on advancing
Canadian hardware and semiconductorfocused
companies to compete at the
forefront of the global economy,” said Hug
Chow, chief executive officer, ventureLAB.
“This new investment in our Hardware
Catalyst Initiative by FedDev Ontario will
have a tremendous impact on our ability
to continue to grow and scale these great
hardtech companies from Canada, while
also building a stronger knowledge-based
economy.”
Recently, ventureLAB launched the
HardTech Investor Network, a deep-techfocused
investor network backing Canadian
pre-seed and seed-stage startups with over
30 investor members.
Since 2015, the Government of Canada,
through FedDev Ontario, has invested
over $35 million in more than 70 projects in
Markham.
MPs Paul Chiang and Filomena Tassi at a recent funding announcement which will support
main streets.
Southern Ontario’s main streets are
lined with small businesses that bring tourists
and locals together to enjoy the best our
communities have to offer.
Small businesses are a vital part of
Canada’s culture and economic prosperity
and the federal government is making investments
to help locally-owned businesses and
communities small and large thrive.
Filomena Tassi, minister responsible for
the Federal Economic Development Agency
for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario),
along with other local dignitaries, announced
a $15-million investment for the Canadian
Urban Institute (CUI) to continue the recovery
and revitalization of main streets across
southern Ontario through My Main Street
(MMS).
With this investment, the organization
will launch two new programs through MMS
to provide funding and support for businesses
and community organizations across
southern Ontario.
The new programs will support up to
325 businesses on main streets across 100
communities, along with 75 community
projects promoting high-impact placemaking
activities. These activities will help draw
people to the main streets and encourage
locals and visitors to support an estimated
2,500 community businesses and organizations.
This investment into southern Ontario’s
main street businesses will support up to
5,750 direct and indirect jobs across southern
Ontario.
“Small businesses are at the heart of our
cities,” said Paul Chiang, Member of Parliament
for Markham–Unionville. “They bring
us together, support our communities and
contribute to the vibrancy of our neighbourhoods.
This investment in My Main Street
will work to continue to stabilize and revitalize
our main streets and neighbourhoods in
Unionville and Markahm and across southern
Ontario.”
This announcement builds on a 2021
Government of Canada investment, through
FedDev Ontario, of $23.25 million to support
the recovery and revitalization of main
streets across southern Ontario through the
launch of the My Main Street initiative. To
date, this investment has supported nearly
4,000 businesses and organizations.
Since 1990, the Candian Urban Insititute
(CUI) has been working with city-building
professionals to create programs and
initiatives, and research and develop policies
to promote best practices in urban development.
The organization has become a place
to learn, share, and collaborate to promote
thoughtful urban planning initiatives across
the country, including finding ways to make
communities more resilient and inclusive.
Through MMS, CUI will also create
and provide Main Street Community Profiles
that businesses and organizations in the local
community can use to understand the social,
economic and demographic makeup of consumers
in the region. This will enable small
business owners to ensure their business and
growth plans are well-informed and tailored
to their local community.

FEBRUARY 2024
11 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW
Keeping a closer eye on patients to reduce the risk of fall injuries
BY MICHELLE LEE HOY
Falls are one of the top patient safety
incidents across many health care organizations.
At Oak Valley Health, overall falls
account for over 500 falls per year of varying
levels of severity, or 23 per cent of all
patient safety incidents.
As a result, fall prevention continues to
be the top quality and safety priority at Oak
Valley Health.
As part of the organization’s quality
improvement plan (QIP), Oak Valley Health
has committed to designing and implementing
interventions to reduce falls with injury.
One such intervention that is being
trialled at Oak Valley Health’s Markham
Stouffville Hospital is continuous video
monitoring, which is an innovative solution
that helps to reduce harmful falls and
enhance and optimize care through ongoing,
real-time observation dedicated to patients
most at risk of falls.
On Nov. 21, in partnership with Toronto’s
University Health Network (UHN), Oak
Valley Health implemented a one-year pilot
Oak Valley Health and University Health Network teams with Halo Remote Video monitoring unit.
of Halo Remote Monitoring on units 2C
(transitional care inpatient unit), 2E (medicine/AAU
inpatient unit), and 3C (medicine/
cardiology unit).
The Halo Remote Monitoring Program
is an innovative technology launched
through UHN that uses the assistance of
artificial intelligence and provides continuous
remote observation of patients in order
to keep them safe in the hospital. This program,
which launched at UHN in 2016 and
has since been implemented at other hospitals
across Canada, and has shown great
improvements in reducing serious safety
events related to falls as well as increased
patient, family, and staff satisfaction.
Utilizing the Halo Remote Monitoring
will strategically augment Oak Valley
Health’s fall prevention bundle, which will
include: patient and family education tools,
and early risk screening for adult inpatient,
outpatient, emergency, and obstetrics.
“We are excited to have this innovative
technology to remotely monitor medically
appropriate patients who are at risk for
falls. This technology enhances patient
safety, using the process of monitoring,
identifying and responding quickly to prevent
injuries related to falls,” says Carnett
Howell-Belle, Patient Care Director, Acute
Medicine and Critical Care Program, Oak
Valley Health. “Since our launch, we have
avoided over 100 patient safety concerns –
such as high-risk falls, inability to call for
assistance, and pulling of attached lines.
The Halo Remote Monitoring technology
has supported optimization of our health
care resources by providing a safe option
for remotely monitoring these patients.”
UHN’s Halo service is delivered from
a command centre in downtown Toronto by
staff who are trained and enabled to each
keep an eye on eight patients simultaneously,
replacing the need for one-on-one
bed sitters.
This program aligns with Oak Valley
Health’s strategic plan by advancing
technology and reinvesting in patient care,
providing integrated seamless care and enhancing
the patient and family experience.
Luxury senior facility
completes expansion
Amica Senior Lifestyles recently
completed the expansion of its Markham
retirement residence, Amica Unionville.
The luxury facility in Markham has
added another building with exciting new
amenities and new suites to empower more
seniors in Markham with excellent activities,
dining, amenities and personalized
care. Amenities include three unique dining
options, new patios and terraces, a new
activity room and a new fitness room with
an indoor pool and salon to support health
and well-being.
Investing in these upgrades has allowed
Amica Unionville to expand the
outstanding lifestyle, hospitality, care and
safety measures that set Amica apart.
These additions add to Amica’s full
continuum of care, including an independent
living neighbourhood, assisted living
neighbourhood, respite care or a short stay,
and memory care neighbourhood plus the
addition of Premium independent living
(which is full kitchens, in-suite laundry, and
balcony/terrace).
You can also experience everything
Amica Unionville has to offer with a short
stay, trial stay or respite stay. Every stay
includes a fully furnished private suite, flexible
dining, weekly housekeeping services
and linen laundry, social events and activities,
scheduled transportation for shopping
and outings, entertainment and more.
If you’re considering senior living,
a trial stay at Amica Unionville offers a
chance to experience the Amica lifestyle —
including residence amenities, activities and
professional service — to decide if it fits
your wishes and priorities.
If you are interested in seeing for yourself
the exceptional offerings Amica Unionville
has to offer for the senior community
in Markham, visit amica.ca/unionville.

12 MARKHAM STOUFFVILLE REVIEW FEBRUARY 2024
The York Regional Forest is turning 100!
Learn more at
york.ca/Forest100
THE YORK REGIONAL FOREST
A GROWING LEGACY
EST. 1924
Celebrate this growing legacy and discover
what the Forest has to offer with exciting,
free activities and events for people of all
backgrounds, ages and abilities.
FORESTRY
1-877-464-9675
TTY 1-866-512-6228
york.ca/Forest100